Welcome! If you’re travelling to Iceland for the first time like we were, buckle up, you’re in for one hell of an adventure. This is Transient Travellers unique experience of the ultimate Iceland road trip.
Download the route we took (for free) by clicking the map below.
**The easiest way to save the map is to download the Google Maps app on your phone, log in to your Google account, and then follow the guide. Now you’re good to go! Each time you go into the app, all the pins will appear, making it easy for you to get to each destination.
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Why Iceland?
Iceland, to us, was a dream far beyond Australia; the country’s mystery and otherworldly charms excited us. Iceland is so well known for its diverse terrains and natural wonders we had to experience it for ourselves.
Originally we envisioned going to Iceland in winter in hopes of experiencing the Northern Lights. Still, it had just worked out that we would visit in the summer. We were over from Australia in the UK visiting family for the first time in years (post-pandemic), had extra time and thought, why not go now? We had already made the 24-hour journey from Sydney to London; another 3 hours would be easy. A week later, we were on the plane from Heathrow to KeflavΓk, ready for the ultimate Iceland road trip.
Summer vs. Winter in Iceland
We arrived on the 26th of June, 2022, just after the summer solstice. At this time of the year, it doesn’t get dark in Iceland due to the country’s high latitude, so you can imagine how your sense of time can feel distorted being daylight 24/7; ours definitely did. The sunset at midnight, only to rise again a few hours later. The in-between was twilight, a blue haze but never dark.
In contrast to winter, it’s quite the opposite; Iceland experiences more darkness than light. The sun will rise just before noon and set before the evening, with only five maximum hours of sunlight in the middle of December. The darkness, however, has its own special charm; it brings the extraordinary possibility of experiencing one of the world’s seven natural wonders, the Northern Lights. The Northern Lights is a magical display of auroras that dance through the sky.
Although visiting Iceland in Winter is still on our bucket list, I’m so glad we were able to experience it first in summer. Being from Australia, we love a road trip and doing it in a van even more. This is our ultimate Iceland road trip experience, and we are so grateful we can share it with you.
Ultimate Iceland Road Trip
Summer Travel Tips
Here are our key takeaways from our trip to Iceland to know before you go.
Ultimate Iceland Road Trip – in a Van:
- Hire a van with heating – even in Summer, it still gets cold!
- Bring towels for camp showers, or check with your van hire company if you can hire a set with the van.
- Hold onto the doors when you’re opening/closing them, as the wind can be unpredictable.
- Pack a sleeping mask to block out the sun at the end of the day.
- Stay hydrated! Keep your water jug in the van topped up, and fill up a reusable drink bottle for day trips.
- Cook your own food to save money.
- Always have snacks handy, road trips can get draining, and it’s always nice to have a pick-me-up on hand (especially when out of civilisation).
General Iceland Travel Tips:
- Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world, a general piece of knowledge we didn’t know until we were there.
- Don’t buy bottled water. Drink it straight from the tap! No other tap water compares to Iceland; it’s one of the cleanest in the world.
- Bring your hiking boots for walking trails.
- Bring warm clothes and wet weather gear β even in Summer!
- Essentials we swore by – beanie, gloves, rain jacket, warm socks, scarfs, warm pants, umbrellas etc.
- Book accommodation in advance for the best rates.
- Check the weather in advance at the Icelandic Met Office, so you know what to expect for your adventure day ahead.
Day 1. Preparing for the Ultimate Iceland Road Trip
Getting your Bearings
Once arriving at the airport, it’s time to grab your luggage, pick up your van and explore your surroundings.
I highly suggest tipping out the water you have on hand immediately after landing and filling your bottle with Icelandic tap water. It’s heavenly. Iceland is so well known for having the cleanest, most delicious drinking water in the world, derived straight from the springs. I can personally confirm the taste is pure, clean, crisp, and the most mouth-watering water I have ever had the pleasure of hydrating myself with. I have no doubt if there was ever an elixir to life in water form, it would come from Iceland.
Stop 1: Reykjavik Town
There is so much to see in Reykjavik town. Take a walk around and see where it takes you. Try one of the famous Icelandic hotdogs, and don’t miss Rainbow Street and the Hallgrimskirkja Cathedral. It’s quite magnificent to witness.
Tips for your first day:
- Take it slow. There’s no need to rush this first day. Ground yourself, take a stroll, get lost, and keep your eyes open. There’s much beauty around you to be experienced.
- Organise your airport transfers in advance. The company we hired the van off picked us up and took us straight to where we picked up our van at no extra cost.
- If you’re hiring a van or car, know that Iceland drives on the right side of the road.
- Don’t forget to check the time! This is your first night without sunlight, so make sure you get an early one because tomorrow will be a big adventure day.
Suggested Camp Spot: Revkavik Campsite
Ultimate Iceland Road Trip
Day 2.
Stop 1: Sky Lagoon
The amazing journey you are about to embark on must begin at the Sky Lagoon. Spend the morning soaking in the geothermal spa recharging your mind, body and soul to cleanse and regenerate for the magical adventure that awaits you.
This was our favourite geothermal lagoon in Iceland which is actually man made and has only been around since 2021. We couldnβt recommend this luxurious lagoon enough; it was a truly trans-formative experience. As soon as you walk through the front door of the building – fast forward to when you’re walking down the steps into the mystifying cave water way, you feel a sense of calm and relaxation that overcomes your body in which you can truly feel at one with your mindfulness.
When soaking in the lagoon, time stops. You could stay there for hours enjoying a lovely wine and/or beer served at the lagoon bar by the friendly staff or just cleansing your body further with a refreshing ice cold Icelandic juice. You must partake the seven-step ritual; it was like nothing weβve ever experienced anywhere in the world. By the end of the ritual, we felt truly rejuvenated and at peace with ourselves, ready for the amazing adventure ahead.
Seven-step ritual:
- Embraced by the soothing lagoon
- Invigorated in a glacier – Fresh plunge pool
- Amazed by the endless sea and sky – Sauna by the sea
- Refreshed in an energizing mist – Fog mist space shower
- Rejuvenated with a cleansing scrub – Signature Sky Body Scrub
- Warmed in a blanket of steam – Moist warmth steam room
- Cleansed in a pure, gentle shower
Tips for your visit to the Sky Lagoon:
- We recommend going around 8am or earlier when fewer people are around.
- We booked the Pure Pass, which included admission to the Sky Lagoon and a journey through the seven-step ritual, which was an incredibly healing experience. Cost: ISK 9,990 pp (Approx, $100 AUD *as of Sept. 2022)
Stop 2: ΓxarΓ‘rfoss
You’ve officially left the main town and started your journey on the ultimate Iceland road trip. The first stop is a waterfall of course. ΓxarΓ‘rfoss is surrounded by so much beauty; the views from this spot are like no other. You can see the mountains in the distance, a vast lake and houses scattered throughout the area. It was a wonderful experience, especially after spending the morning soaking in the lagoon to then be surrounded by such natural beauty.
After visiting ΓxarΓ‘rfoss, you can walk up to the viewpoint (left of the car park) past Flekaskilin. The walk takes about 20 minutes and is a beautiful outlook of the countryside.
Stop 3: BrΓΊarfoss
The colour of this waterfall is famously blue, and like no other we saw in Iceland. A little bridge goes over the waterfall so you can look down on the swirls of bright blue water rippling down the stream.
Tips for your visit to BrΓΊarfoss:
- The official parking is just off the main road, and it takes approximately 40mins to walk up to BrΓΊarfoss. We recommend putting the car park location into Google Maps rather than BrΓΊarfoss directly as it will take you to a closed-off private property street β we learnt the hard way! The walk from the car park also goes through private property, so it goes without saying that when passing through, respect the area and leave nothing behind.
OPTIONAL ADD-ONS
We accidentally skipped the below locations because we were still zenned out from our spa experience and tired from our adventures so far that day! Nevertheless, we knew we couldnβt see everything on this journey. Still, if you have the time, these natural attractions have been raved about online and are not far from BrΓΊarfoss.
Optional Add-On:Strokkur
A geothermal geyser that erupts every 8-10minutes.
Optional Add-On: Gullfoss
Also known as the βGolden Waterfallβ.
Stop 4: KeriΓ° Crater
KeriΓ° is a volcanic crater lake believed to have formed over 6,500 years ago after an explosive eruption. It is truly wondrous to see in person. You can walk right around the top and down the bottom of the site.
Tips for your visit:
- Walking all the way around the crater takes less than an hour. Walking around the top of the crater will take around 15 minutes (if you donβt stop for photos along the way;) and is a great option if youβve had a big day!
- Have some spare change handy. There is a small fee for visiting Kerid Crater. Cost 400 ISK (Approx. $4 AUD *as of Sept. 2022)
Suggested Camp Spot: Camping Selfoss
Ultimate Iceland Road Trip
Day 3.
Stop 1: Seljalandsfoss
This waterfall is a must-see. It’s one of the most famous sights in Iceland. The walk to the waterfall takes you right behind the waterfall itself. It’s quite extraordinary. Don’t forget your raincoat if you plan on walking behind, as the wind can change directions and get you soaked quite quickly!
We have seen incredible photography from other travellers visiting Seljalandsfoss during the midnight sun. If you visit during this time, it would be a memorable experience during golden hour.
OPTIONAL ADD-ON:
Optional Add-On: GljΓΊfrabΓΊi
Another waterfall close by that looks incredible. We missed this one, but it isn’t too far from Seljalandsfoss!
Stop 2: SkΓ³gafoss
This waterfall was one of my favourite sites. The waterfall is vast and tucked into the beautiful green of the mountain.
You can walk to the waterfall’s base and hike to the top! Even though the hike to the top of the mountain is quite steep, I would highly recommend going up there to experience a different perspective of the landscape.
When we pulled up, we immediately set up our picnic chairs to enjoy the view from far next to the river while boiling our kettle for morning tea.
You can also camp at this spot! Great for those wanting to capture the waterfall during midnight sun and go to bed not long after.
OPTIONAL ADD-ON:
Optional Add-On: SΓ³lheimasandur Plane Wreck
A popular plane crash site!! We skipped this as we had some rain and were keen on getting to our next destination.
Stop 3: DyrhΓ³laey
You simply can’t miss this lookout. The drive up is quite windy but worth the view. You can see both sides of the Black Sand beach from above when you walk along the top of the mountain. This is also a great spot to spot Atlantic Puffins!
Stop 4: Black Sand Beach Vik
Black Sand Beach is well-known for the lava formations that line the beach. When you walk down, you immediately notice the black pebbles that slip under your feet, basalt columns and caves in the distance.
When we were there, it felt like we had arrived on Mars.
Tips for visiting Black Sand Beach Vik:
- Be careful/aware of sneaker waves. We were lucky not to experience any, but this can happen when several small waves join together to create one big wave. If you get caught in one, it can pull you out to sea. Stay aware, stay safe!
Suggested Camp Spot: VΓk Tjaldsvæði
Ultimate Iceland Road Trip
Day 4.
Stop 1: Black Sand Beach Vik
Drive back down to the Black Sand Beach for a morning walk. If you arrive early enough, you can beat the crowds. It is a beautiful drive from the campsite in Vik, with lush green landscapes, mountains, horses and cows. There’s always something to see along the way.
Stop 2: FjaΓ°rΓ‘rgljΓΊfur Canyon
It’s pretty amazing how a place can look like the image you took, but the experience of being there in person can make you feel so small. The FjaΓ°rΓ‘rgljΓΊfur Canyon is quite incredible to experience. When walking along the path looking into the canyon, you can see the cliffs layered in thick moss, waterfalls flowing through the mountain and a river running at the base. Walking from viewpoint to viewpoint, you can feel the energy radiating through.
Spot the mountain goat. Goats. They end up in the most bizarre places, especially in a canyon. We take joy in spotting them. See for yourself! It’s the small things.
Stop 3: FossΓ‘lar Waterfall
This waterfall we came across on our drive to Svatifoss. Iceland is quite incredible in its natural surprises. There was another mysterious site to witness every drive we took, like FossΓ‘lar. The waterfall is shaped like a curve, rippling right along the ground next to a vast mountain.
It’s a beautiful pit stop to stretch your legs, splash your face and enjoy the fresh air.
Stop 4: Svatifoss
This is another truly unique waterfall to visit on your road trip.
To visit this waterfall, you first need to enter VatnajΓΆkull National Park. The walk to Svatifoss was icy fresh as its close to the most voluminous ice cap in Iceland, VatnajΓΆkull. On the walk, you pass by Hundafoss waterfall along the way, which boasts its own natural charm, but Svartifoss is the main attraction for a reason. It’s truly one of a kind. The hexagonal columns surrounding the waterfall were formed in a lava flow cooling slowly. The water that feeds this waterfall comes directly from the Svinafellsjokull glacier.
Tips for a visit to Svatifoss, VatnajΓΆkull National Park:
- There is a small parking fee to enter VatnajΓΆkull National Park if you visit for the day.
- If you plan to camp for the night, you get a free parking pass with your camp pass.
- If you’re keen on doing a Svinafellsjokull glacier walk the following day, you can book right near the camp spot.
Suggested Camp Spot: Vatnajokulspjodgardur National Park, Skaftafell
We have had some scenic camp spots this trip, but this one, camping beneath the mountains layered in the snow in Summer, was something else.
Ultimate Iceland Road Trip
Day 5.
Stop 1: Svinafellsjokull Glacier
We booked in for a beginner glacier hike at Svinafellsjokull, which took a few hours and was a breeze. Hiking the glacier was incredibly beautiful. The tour guides are very knowledgeable, so you learn a lot about the glaciers and their movements on the journey. As we ascended the mountain, I enjoyed crunching the ice with each step on the crampons attached to my hiking boots. It felt like we were in Ice Age.
Hiking a glacier in Iceland was a major bucket list item for us and an unforgettable experience we’ll never forget. We couldn’t recommend this experience more.
Tips for your visit to Svinafellsjokull Glacier:
- Go with the first session of the day to maximise your time.
- Book online or book directly at Vatnajokulspjodgardur National Park. There are a few different companies, packages and guides to choose from.
- Bring a waterproof jacket. We did have a slight drizzle of rain while we were there, so it’s best to go prepared.
- Bring your hiking boots. Crampons and Ice picks are supplied.
Stop 2: JΓΆkulsΓ‘rlΓ³n & Diamond Beach
JΓΆkulsΓ‘rlΓ³n is a glacial lake near VatnajΓΆkull National Park. The icebergs float down from the surrounding glaciers, leaving large ice cubes on Diamond Beach.
Seeing the icebergs floating downstream onto the black beach is wondrous. The contrast between the crystal clear icebergs and the black sand is out of this world. They truly look like diamonds.
If you’re lucky, you might also see seals!
There are food trucks at JΓΆkulsΓ‘rlΓ³n. We would highly recommend purchasing a traditional Icelandic hot dog while you’re there to keep you warm!
Suggested Camp Spot: Comping HΓΆfn
Ultimate Iceland Road Trip
Day 6.
Stop 1: Folaldafoss
This waterfall was another beautiful surprise we found roadside. You can walk to the base or the top of the mountain. It’s quite special to visit when it’s a misty morning and a great spot to stop and cook breakfast on the road (weather dependant).
Stop 2: Hengifoss
Hengifoss waterfall is unique in its own right and different from any other sight we had already seen. The walk to the waterfall is about 2km from the car park and takes about 40-60minutes. On the walk, you pass Litlanesfoss Waterfall, another beautiful lava formation.
The interesting history of Hengifoss:
‘Hengifoss waterfall is characterised by the rock layers of red clay sandwiched between layers of basalt creating red strata patterns – here you can see 5-6 million-year-old basalt layers from volcanic eruptions in the Tertiary Period.’- Read more about The majestic Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss Waterfalls
Tips for your visit to Hengifoss:
- Bring your water, it’s a long walk with some steep hills!
Stop 3: StuΓ°lagil Canyon
StuΓ°lagil canyon is amazing to visit, like no other we had seen on the trip so far. There are two ways you can visit the canyon, which we’ve explained below.
StuΓ°lagil (West Side Viewpoint)
This is the main car park and the spot that google takes you to first. It’s a great spot if you’re short on time and want to see the canyon without a hike. There are some metal stairs that you can walk down into the canyon, allowing you to see it from above.
StuΓ°lagil (East side parking)
This is the best place to park to hike down to the base of the StuΓ°lagil. The hike total is roughly 4km.
Tips for your visit to StuΓ°lagil Canyon:
- For the most Instagrammable spot, you will want to go to the ‘East Side Carpark’ and hike down.
- There are toilets if you’re visiting the ‘West Side Carpark’. Just know they charge a small fee to use the facilities.
Stop 4: Dettifoss
Dettifoss is one of the most powerful waterfalls in Europe, the flow coming from the VatnajΓΆkull Glacier. The waterfall drops 44 metres down; it’s truly incredible.
Once you arrive and get close to the waterfall, you can feel the intense energy vibrating through the valley. Looking at this image we took from afar, you can see the spray layering the mountain to the right. When you’re there, you can see the spray creating other little waterfalls that trickle down that side of the mountain.
When we arrived here, I asked Jonson, how do you feel? Him to me ‘Overwhelmed. Mesmerisedβ¦ The vastness of the whole area is incomprehensible’ That should explain it.
Suggested Camp Spot: Husavik Camppground
Ultimate Iceland Road Trip
Day 7.
Stop 1: Explore HΓΊsavΓk
Take the time to explore HΓΊsavik before you get back on the road. It’s a beautiful little town on the shores of SkjΓ‘lfandi bay.
Stop 2: Myvatn Geothermal Area & Myvatn Nature Baths
Time to look around the Myvatn Geothermal Area & Myvatn Nature Bath area. The Myvatn Nature Bath was like a mini Blue Lagoon, with many people in and around soaking in the warm geothermal spring. We named the area ‘egg city’ because of the sulphur smell associated with geothermal activity. Regardless of the unique scent in the area, it’s quite an exciting part of Iceland to visit. You can see the change in terrain, boasting charcoal, red and green mountains in one.
Stop 3: Godafoss Waterfall
Godafoss, the waterfall of the Gods. It’s a magnificent waterfall that’s wide and curves around. You can see the waterfall from multiple perspectives: the left, the right, the base, and the bridge. We walked to each viewpoint taking in the surroundings as we did. Our favourite was walking down to the waterfall’s base and just sitting and being present, watching the water come down from all sides.
It can get quite busy here with tour buses, waves of people rushing in to see the sight and running out. I would still make the journey to see the waterfall regardless, as it has its own personality and charm.
Stop 4: Forest Lagoon
We visited the Forest Lagoon to see how different it was from others we had visited. It was a beautiful spot, and we would have loved to go in, but it was too busy for us to join at that time. We did stop to enjoy a drink next to the fire in reception, overlooking the stunning view.
Suggested Camp Spot: Systragil Camping Ground
Ultimate Iceland Road Trip
Day 8.
Stop 1: Eiriksstadir – Viking Longhouse
It feels like you’re stepping back in time, visiting this longhouse. Eiriksstadir longhouse is one of the most prominent historical homes in Iceland. Upon visiting, you can join the official tour of the house to learn more about the history of the Vikings and Iceland. Definitely worth a visit for history lovers.
Stop 2: Sheep’s Waterfall
This waterfall is so underrated! We found this one on the map on our drive around the area, and it ended up being one of our favourites because we had it to ourselves the whole time. It’s a hidden waterfall, only revealing itself to those who walk down past the main lookout. It was quite a surprise to us as we didn’t expect a waterfall to be there!
When we visited, we didn’t know the official waterfall name, so we called it Courage. Courage to step out of your comfort zone. It suited at the time as we reflected on the decisions that led us here at that moment.
We loved that we could stop and enjoy being here without anyone around. You could walk behind the waterfall and jump over the stream to the other side. We also had the most amazing view, lakes and mountains in the background putting on a show.
Stop 3: Kirkjufellsfoss
Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall is surrounded by such magnificent beauty. The first thing you see when you come up to this spot is the incredible Kirkjufell mountain. In summer, the mountain is coated in lush green grass. The peak was covered by a cloud when we arrived, making it look otherworldly. Walking the short stroll down to the waterfall, you never lose sight of the mountain. It’s a beautiful site to see.
Tips for your visit to Kirkjufellsfoss:
- There is a parking fee at this spot. We ended up parking down the street to avoid the extra charge.
Suggested Camp Spot: Borgarnes Camping
Ultimate Iceland Road Trip
Day 9.
Stop 1: Reykjavik Town
It’s time to head back to civilisation! As you return to Reykjavik Town, take it slow and soak it all in. Stop off at places you find on the way, and explore some more.
We spent the morning/afternoon walking around Reykjavik one more time. We had an amazing traditional Icelandic fish soup at Slippbarinn and a couple of Guinesses at the Irish pub while exploring.
There are so many other things you can do in Reykjavik town. There is an ice bar, tattoo parlours, art galleries, museums, and much more. We’d say go with the flow and see what you feel like doing on the day.
Stop 2: Blue Lagoon
Final soak! If there was any way to finish your road trip around Iceland, it’s with one last soak in a hot spring. The Blue Lagoon was named a wonder of the world in 2012 by National Geographic.
The ‘geothermal gift’ that is the Blue Lagoon:
‘Rich in microalgae, silica, and minerals, this phenomenal natural resource is found nowhere else on earth. It is a bioactive marvel possessing a formidable array of benefits for the mind, body, and skin.’ Find out the benefits here
I’m all about the experience, so the highlight for me was trying the local silica mud mask from the in-water mask bar. Jonson was so excited he rubbed the mask all over his face and right in his eyes. He spent at least five minutes trying to rinse it out after that. Don’t be a Jonson.
There is also a swim-up bar which we very much indulged in; everything you need in one hot spring. A geothermal lagoon with transformative powers, a natural silica face mask and a glass of champagne in hand. What more could a girl need?
Though it wasn’t our favourite hot spring, it was still an incredible experience.
Tips for your visit to the Blue Lagoon:
- Book in advance! Spots fill up quickly as this is Iceland’s most well-known hot spring.
- Try booking in for the earliest session of the day. We went in the evening and would have much preferred to spend the morning here instead in an attempt to beat the crowds.
Suggested Camp Spot: Reykjavik Campsite
Ultimate Iceland Road Trip
Day 10.
Final Stop: KeflavΓk International Airport
It’s your last morning – sad! Time to organise yourself, drop off the van, and head to the airport.
Until next time, Iceland.
Ultimate Iceland Road Trip
Extras
The Horses of Iceland
I just had to give a tribute to the horses of Iceland. They are such magnificent forces of nature. Here are my favourites I had the pleasure of meeting.
Thank you for making it this far. We appreciate your support.
**The easiest way to save the map is to download the Google Maps app on your phone, log in to your Google account, and then follow the guide. Now you’re good to go! Each time you go into the app, all the pins will appear, making it easy for you to get to each destination.
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Wow what an adventure π
Amazing, thank you for sharing π