Iceland Discovery Self Drive

This extensive tour offers the ultimate Iceland experience with plenty of time to really explore.  With awe inspiring drives through lava fields, scenic fjords and the lesser explored Westfjords, the sights and experiences you encounter along the way will be with you for a very long time.

Your journey kicks off straight way as you leave the airport and explore the Reykjanes Peninsula, a great introduction to Iceland’s unique geology and volcanoes. From the charming 'flower village' of Hveragerði, the natural wonders of the Golden Circle await along with opportunities to soak in geothermal waters. 

The spectacular south coast brings highlights such as Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls and Mýrdalsjökull glacier. Head to Vík, Iceland’s southernmost village and in this area you can view the seabird cliff of Dyrhólaey and the black sand beach of Reynisfjara with it's impressive coastal basaltic columns.  Many seabirds nest here, including puffins.  

Continue over Eldhraun, Iceland’s largest single lava flow, and 'the land of fire and ice' then becomes more apparent as you pass Vatnajokull, the largest icecap, and view some of the many glaciers that descend from it. This area is worth exploring further with some  great day walks around Skaftafell National Park. You can also get out on the water at Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon for up close views of the huge icebergs that float in its cool waters. 

From Hofn, drive through the spectacular Eastfjords region with towering mountains and charming fishing villages to the fertile Egilsstaðir area. You will then venture into the northern area of Vatnajökull National Park. This region of the park has its own distinctive character and, less visited than the southern area, it shows Iceland’s wild side to its fullest.  Your route will take you to the mighty Dettifoss waterfall and the impressive horse-shoe-shaped Ásbyrgi canyon before arriving in Husavik, known for it's outstanding whale watching opportunities. Allow time for a late afternoon or evening whale watching boat tour and a great way to end the day is with a relaxing swim in the warm sea waters of Húsavík’s GeoSea Baths.

Inland, Lake Myvatn and the active volcanic surroundings are another of Iceland's natural wonders. Waterfowl nest around the lake and there are some pleasant walks in the area, including around a nearby crater rim. Visit Godafoss, the Waterfall of the Gods and take some time to visit Akureyri, Iceland’s colourful northern “capital” before driving to Siglufjörður along one of Iceland’s most dramatic coastlines. Thread your way around the peninsula, heading into Skagafjörður Fjord and then the hauntingly beautiful, remote Westfjords with coastlines alive with seals and birds.

The drive from Isafjordur takes you take you past striking waterfalls, red sand beaches and sea cliffs teaming with birdlife at Látrabjarg and we recommend taking the ferry route across Breiðafjörður bay, with it's countless islands and rich birdlife, to the town of Stykkishólmur.  

Spend your last day on the road exploring the ever-changing beauty of Snæfellsnes Peninsula and the Snæfellsjökull National Park, taking in the sights of Kirkjufell and the magnificent columnar basalt rock formations at Arnarstapi.  Further south visit the brilliantly blue waters of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss falls and the hot spring Deildartunguhver before continuing via Hvalfjörður fjord to Reykjavík.

To round off your trip, maybe soak in the waters of Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon before heading back to the airport. 

May - September

Cost from £

Please contact us for a cost for when you wish to travel.

Our trips are almost always tailored to your requirements, we'll make small changes or alter the itinerary completely for you. For instance we get many requests to slow down the pace of a trip.

Departure Dates

Any day to your requirements.

Difficulty

An easy self-guided tour. Walks may be on rough ground.

Flights

Direct flights on Icelandair and British Airways from London Heathrow. Regional departures are possible, please enquire.

Time

GMT +0 hours, same as UK.

The mountainous West Fjords. Or hire a 4x4 and travel through the desolate interior highlands.