Incredible 8 Day Summer Self Drive Trip on Iceland’s South Coast and the Amazing Highlands

You'll start your incredible 8 day journey in Iceland's capital city, Reykjavik. Although small, Reykjavik is full of charm and personality. Be sure to stroll down its main street, Laugavegur, and explore all the unique shops and cafes. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the city's many restaurants before heading to your accommodation for the night.

After breakfast, you'll pick up your rental car and begin your drive towards the first stop on the Golden Circle route, Thingvellir National Park. This park is not only full of natural beauty, but also has historical significance as it was the site of Iceland's first parliament. Spend some time hiking and exploring before continuing on to the next stop, Geysir. Here, you'll be able to see the famous geysers erupting. Your last stop on the Golden Circle will be Gullfoss waterfall, one of Iceland's most iconic waterfalls. In the evening, you'll head to your accommodation in Fludir.

Today, you'll explore the Hveravellir Geothermal Area. This area is full of hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles, and is truly a sight to behold. You'll also have the opportunity to hike in the Hveravellir Highlands, a landscape that is otherworldly. In the evening, you'll return to your accommodation in Fludir.

After breakfast, you'll begin your drive towards the Landmannalaugar Geothermal Area. This area is full of colorful rhyolite mountains, steaming hot springs, and bubbling mud pots. Be sure to hike to the top of Mt. Brennisteinsalda for a truly incredible view. In the evening, you'll return to your accommodation in Fludir.

Today, you'll begin your drive down Iceland's South Coast. You'll make several stops along the way, including at Seljalandsfoss, Gljufrabui, Skogafoss, and Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. Seljalandsfoss is a stunning waterfall that you can walk behind, while Gljufrabui is a hidden waterfall that is well worth the hike to find it. Skogafoss is one of Iceland's most popular waterfalls, and Reynisfjara is a black sand beach that is truly unique. Be sure to stop at the Fjadrargljufur Canyon and the Skaftareldahraun lava fields before continuing on to your accommodation for the night in the Kirkjubaejarklaustur area.

After breakfast, you'll drive to the Lakagigar Craters. These craters were formed by a massive volcanic eruption in 1783, and are now a popular hiking destination. Be sure to hike to the top of one of the craters for a stunning view. In the evening, you'll return to your accommodation in Kirkjubaejarklaustur.

Today, you'll begin the drive back to Reykjavik. However, you'll make a few stops along the way to explore the city. Be sure to visit the Hallgrimskirkja, a church with an iconic design, as well as the Harpa Concert Hall. In the evening, you'll check into your accommodation in Reykjavik for your last night.

Depending on your flight schedule, you'll either spend the morning exploring Reykjavik or Reykjanes Peninsula. Reykjanes is home to the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa that is perfect for relaxing before your flight. Once you're finished exploring, you'll return your rental car to the airport and begin your journey home.