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9 Day Self-drive Tour: the Ring road and Eastfjords
9-day self-drive itinerary · winter
If you're looking for an incredible self-drive tour, our 9 Day Ring road and Eastfjords tour is the perfect choice. You'll get to see some of the most stunning scenery imaginable, all while having the freedom to explore at your own pace.*
This 9-day self-drive tour takes you on a journey around the world-famous Ring Road, as well as to the Eastfjords, which are often overlooked by visitors to Iceland. The Eastfjords are a truly magical place, with their towering mountains, pristine lakes, and rugged coastline. On this tour, you will have the opportunity to experience the best of both regions, including visiting the Vatnajökull glacier, hiking to waterfalls, and exploring the east coast's many fjords. You will also get the chance to go whale watching and search for the northern lights if you visit during the darker months. This is an excellent tour for those who want to see everything that Iceland has to offer.
Day 1: Day 1
The journey begins when you pick up your rental car at Keflavik International Airport or in Reykjavik city. We recommend starting your exploration of Iceland in Reykjavik city, where you can visit iconic landmarks such as Hallgrimskirkja Church and the Perlan viewpoints. In the evening, we recommend heading to one of Reykjavik’s many great restaurants for a dinner of traditional Icelandic cuisine. Accommodation in Reykjavik.
Day 2: Day 2
Start your day by driving to the Thingvellir National Park, where you can walk between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. Then, continue on to the famous Gullfoss waterfall and the geothermal area of Geysir, where you can see the Strokkur geyser erupt. In the afternoon, we recommend driving to the Kerid crater lake for a short hike and a chance to admire the views
Overnight: Hella area
Day 3: Day 3
On day three of your Iceland self-drive tour, you will explore the south coast. Start by driving to the town of Vik, where you can admire the black sand beaches and the basalt column sea stacks. Then, continue on to the Fjadrargljufur canyon and the Skaftareldahraun lava fields. In the late afternoon, we recommend driving to the Skaftafell National Park for a hike and to enjoy the views
Overnight: Skaftafell area
Day 4: Day 4
On day four, you will explore the south coast of Iceland and the Vatnajokull National Park. Start by driving to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, where you can see icebergs floating in the water. Then, continue on to the Eastfjords of Iceland. We recommend driving to the town of Egilsstadir, where you can explore the Stuðlagil canyon and the Dettifoss waterfall
Overnight: Faskrudsfjordur area
Day 5: Day 5
On day five, you will explore the Eastfjords of Iceland. Start by driving to the town of Neskaupsstadur, where you can see the amazing views from the top of the mountain. Then, continue on to the town of Mjofjordur for a hike to the waterfalls. In the afternoon, we recommend driving to the town of Husavik, where you can see the whale museum and the Hvitserkur rock formation
Overnight: Husavik area
Day 6: Day 6
On day six, you will explore the Borgarfjordur area. Start by driving to the Grabrok volcano crater, where you can see the amazing views of the lava field. Then, continue on to the Deildartunguhver hot springs and the Hraunfossar waterfalls. In the afternoon, we recommend driving back to Reykjavik city for a night out on the town
Overnight: Reykjavik city
Day 7: Day 7
On day seven, you will explore the Mývatn area. Start by driving to the Mývatn lake, where you can see the views of the volcanic crater. Then, continue on to the Dimmuborgir lava field and the Skútustaðagígar pseudocraters. In the afternoon, we recommend driving to the Goðafoss waterfall and the Akureyri botanical gardens
Overnight: Blönduós area
Day 8: Day 8
On day eight, you will explore the Reykjanes peninsula. Start by driving to the Reykjanes lighthouse, where you can see the views of the Atlantic Ocean. Then, continue on to the Krysuvik hot springs and the Blue Lagoon. In the afternoon, we recommend driving back to Keflavik International Airport for your flight home
Overnight: Keflavik International Airport
Day 9: Day 9
Depending on your flight schedule, a part of this day can be used to explore Reykjavík city or Reykjanes peninsula, Ends at Keflavík international airport. Your Iceland adventure comes to an end.
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