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Glaciers Adventures and Northern Lights: 8 Day Self-drive tour in Iceland
8-day self-drive itinerary · winter
If you're looking for an adventure that's out of this world, look no further than a self-drive tour in Iceland. You'll get to explore glaciers and see the Northern Lights in all their glory. And with eight days to do it, you'll have plenty of time to take it all in.*
On this 8-day self-drive tour, you will experience two of Iceland's most popular attractions – the glaciers and the northern lights. You will start your trip in Reykjavik, Iceland's capital city, before heading out into the stunning Icelandic countryside. From here, you will journey to the south coast where you will explore the world-famous glacier lagoon, Jokulsarlon. Here you will get up close and personal with some of Iceland's giant glaciers as you cruise along the road underneath the towering glaciers! Afterward, you will continue your journey towards Vík where you will search for the northern lights which are best seen in the winter months. With clear skies and dark nights, you are sure to have an amazing experience.
Day 1: Day 1
Welcome to Iceland! Your adventure begins as soon as you land in Keflavik International Airport, located just outside of Reykjavik. From here, you'll pick up your rental car and head into the city. Reykjavik is small but mighty, and there's plenty to see and do here. Be sure to check out some of the city's famous landmarks, such as the Hallgrimskirkja church, the Harpa concert hall, and the Perlan viewing deck. You'll also want to stroll down Laugavegur, the city's main shopping street, and sample some of the delicious local cuisine. In the evening, why not hunt for the Northern Lights? Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see this natural phenomenon.
Day 2: Day 2
Today, you'll embark on the Golden Circle tour, one of Iceland's most popular sightseeing routes. The tour takes you to some of the country's most famous natural wonders, including the Thingvellir National Park, the Gullfoss waterfall, and the geothermal area of Haukadalur, where you can see the Strokkur geyser erupt. In the evening, you'll head back out in search of the Northern Lights.
Day 3: Day 3
The South Coast of Iceland is your destination today. This scenic route takes you past the town of Vik, with its black sand beaches, and onwards to the Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon and the Kirkjubæjarklaustur town. You'll also visit the Skaftafell geopark and the Vatnajökull glacier national park, home to Europe's largest glacier. Be sure to stop at the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon to see the icebergs floating in the water, and don't forget to walk on the Diamond Beach to see the icebergs that have washed ashore. In the evening, it's time to hunt for the Northern Lights once again.
Day 4: Day 4
You'll spend another day exploring the South Coast today. Highlights include the Vík í Myrdal black sand beach, the Dyrhólaey rock arch, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks. Be sure to keep your camera handy to capture the stunning views. In the evening, you'll head back to your accommodation to rest up for another day of adventure.
Day 5: Day 5
Today is all about exploring the Skaftafell geopark. This area is known for its dramatic landscapes, including glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanic mountains. There are plenty of hiking trails to choose from, so you can explore at your own pace. In the evening, you'll head back to your accommodation to relax.
Day 6: Day 6
Today, you'll return to the Vík area to explore some of the attractions you didn't have time for yesterday. Highlights include the Dyrhólaey rock arch, the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and the black sand beaches. In the evening, you'll head out in search of the Northern Lights once again.
Day 7: Day 7
Your penultimate day takes you to the Reykjanes peninsula. This area is known for its volcanic landscapes, geothermal springs, and lava fields. Be sure to stop at the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa, to relax and rejuvenate. In the evening, you'll head back to Reykjavik for your last night in Iceland.
Day 8: Day 8
Your Iceland adventure comes to an end today. If you have time before your flight, be sure to explore Reykjavik or the Reykjanes peninsula. When it's time to go, you'll return your rental car to Keflavik International Airport and board your flight home.
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