Iceland Complete Ring Road Self-Drive – 9 Nights / 10 Days
Everything you need to know before you book your journey
Places 9 Nights 10 Days
Reykjavik
1 Nights
Selfoss
1 Nights
Vik
1 Nights
Hofn
1 Nights
Akureyri
2 Nights
Borgarnes
1 Nights
Reykjavik
2 Nights
Arrival at Keflavik International Airport, Iceland’s main gateway. After clearing immigration, pick up your rental car and begin your self-drive journey.
Continue driving to Reykjavik and check in to your hotel. In the evening, explore the charming streets of Iceland’s capital city.
Highlights
• Hallgrímskirkja
• Harpa Concert Hall
• Sun Voyager
Overnight stay in Reykjavik
Today you will explore Iceland’s famous Golden Circle, one of the country’s most iconic sightseeing routes.
Begin your journey at Þingvellir National Park, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates slowly drift apart.
Continue to the geothermal area of Geysir Geothermal Area, where the Strokkur geyser erupts every few minutes, sending hot water high into the air.
The final highlight is the majestic Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most powerful and beautiful waterfalls.
Before reaching Selfoss, you may visit Kerið, a striking volcanic crater filled with turquoise water.
Overnight stay in Selfoss.
Drive along Iceland’s spectacular South Coast, a region famous for waterfalls, glaciers and black sand beaches.
Your first stop is Seljalandsfoss, where a walking path allows visitors to pass behind the waterfall for a unique perspective.
Next visit the impressive Skógafoss, known for its powerful cascade and frequent rainbows on sunny days.
Later continue to Reynisfjara Beach, famous for its dramatic basalt columns and powerful Atlantic waves.
Arrive in the charming coastal village of Vik.
Overnight stay in Vik.
Today you will travel through the glacier region dominated by Vatnajökull National Park.
One of the highlights of the day is the breathtaking Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where large icebergs break off from the glacier and float peacefully in the lagoon.
Just across the road lies the famous Diamond Beach, where pieces of ice sparkle like diamonds against the black volcanic sand.
Continue driving along the scenic coast to the fishing town of Hofn.
Overnight stay in Hofn.
Today enjoy one of the most scenic drives in Iceland through the remote East Fjords, known for dramatic coastal landscapes and peaceful fishing villages.
The road winds along mountains and fjords, offering breathtaking ocean views and quiet countryside scenery rarely seen by large tourist groups.
Continue north toward Iceland’s second largest town, Akureyri.
Overnight stay in Akureyri.
Explore the natural wonders of North Iceland today.
Visit the spectacular Goðafoss, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland.
Continue to the volcanic region of Lake Mývatn, known for its geothermal landscapes, lava formations and bubbling mud pools.
Also explore the steaming geothermal area of Hverir.
Return to Akureyri for overnight stay.
Today drive through Iceland’s scenic north coast landscapes toward West Iceland.
Along the way enjoy views of green valleys, horse farms and coastal mountains. Small villages and panoramic viewpoints make this journey relaxing and picturesque.
Arrive in Borgarnes for overnight stay.
Today explore the spectacular Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Mini Iceland” because it features nearly every landscape Iceland is famous for.
Visit the iconic Kirkjufell, one of the most photographed mountains in the country.
Continue to Snæfellsjökull National Park, dominated by a glacier-covered volcano.
Later stop at the picturesque Búðir Black Church before returning to Reykjavik.
Overnight stay in Reykjavik.
Today is free to explore Reykjavik at your own pace.
Optional experiences include whale watching tours, Icelandic food walks, shopping along Laugavegur street or relaxing at the Sky Lagoon spa.
Overnight stay in Reykjavik.
Drive back to Keflavik International Airport.
Return your rental car and proceed for your onward flight with unforgettable memories of Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.
What's Included
- 9 Nights hotel accommodation as per itinerary
- Daily breakfast at all hotels
- 10 Days self-drive car rental – Toyota Yaris or similar category
- Rental car insurance coverage including
- Zero liability coverage for the rental vehicle
- Roadside Assistance Waiver
- GPS Navigation Device included
- Portable 4G WiFi device included
- Road tax charges included
- Car rental taxes and service charges included
- Detailed Iceland self-drive travel itinerary
- Travel Insurance
What's Not Included
- International flights
- Fuel / petrol for the rental car
- Parking charges & traffic fines
- Lunches, dinners, and beverages (unless mentioned)
- Visa charges
- GST & TCS, if payment is made in INR (as applicable under Indian law)
- Personal expenses such as tips, laundry, phone calls, shopping, etc
Experience the ultimate Iceland adventure with this 9 Nights / 10 Days self-drive journey around the famous Ring Road. This itinerary is designed for travelers who want the freedom to explore Iceland’s dramatic landscapes at their own pace while enjoying comfortable stays along the route.
Your journey begins in Reykjavik, where you will collect your rental car and start exploring the land of fire and ice. Drive through the iconic Golden Circle, featuring the historic Þingvellir National Park, erupting geysers at the Geysir Geothermal Area, and the powerful Gullfoss.
Continue along Iceland’s spectacular South Coast, where you will witness stunning waterfalls such as Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, as well as the dramatic black sand shoreline of Reynisfjara Beach.
The journey then takes you to the breathtaking glacier region around Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs drift peacefully across the lagoon before reaching the Atlantic Ocean at the nearby Diamond Beach.
As you continue the drive through the remote East Fjords, you will enjoy scenic coastal roads, charming fishing villages, and untouched Icelandic landscapes. In the north, discover the natural wonders of Lake Mývatn and the spectacular Goðafoss near Akureyri.
Before returning to Reykjavik, explore the stunning Snæfellsnes Peninsula, home to the iconic Kirkjufell and dramatic coastal cliffs.
This carefully designed self-drive itinerary offers the perfect balance of adventure, scenic drives, and unforgettable natural wonders, making it an ideal way to experience Iceland’s most famous highlights in one incredible journey.
FAQ
What is the best time to do this Iceland self-drive trip?
The best time for this itinerary is between May and September, when roads are fully accessible, weather conditions are relatively stable, and daylight hours are longer. This makes it ideal for completing the full Ring Road comfortably.
Is it easy to drive in Iceland for tourists?
Yes, driving in Iceland is generally easy and safe. Roads are well maintained and traffic is very light compared to most countries. Travelers should follow speed limits and be cautious on gravel roads and during changing weather conditions.
Do I need an International Driving Permit in Iceland?
A valid driving license from your home country is usually sufficient if it is written in English. However, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended as an additional document.
Are fuel stations easily available on the route?
Yes, fuel stations are available across Iceland, especially along the Ring Road. However, in remote areas it is recommended to refill the tank whenever possible.
Is GPS or internet required for driving in Iceland?
Navigation is very easy using Google Maps or offline maps on a smartphone. However, this package also includes a GPS device and portable 4G WiFi, making navigation even more convenient.
On which side is the steering wheel in Iceland?
In Iceland, cars have the steering wheel on the left-hand side. This is similar to most European countries and the United States. Travelers renting a car will therefore drive a left-hand steering vehicle during their trip.