Fantastic Iceland Self Drive Explorer Tour Detail Page
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Summary
Checkout
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Duration
8 DaysStarts In
ReykjavikRoute
Reykjavik, Akureyri, Hofn, Neskaupstadur, Hveragerdi, Vik
Embark on a road trip like no other, where the symphony of thundering waterfalls, the majesty of hot springs and glaciers, the mystery of black sand beaches, and the intrigue of lava fields come together on this adventurous experience. This journey forms a complete circle around the country, offering a captivating encounter with awe-inspiring landscapes, ancient Geysir’s, charming villages, and boundless opportunities for travel memories including visiting two famous national parks: Vatnajokull and Thingvellir.
SELF DRIVE JOURNEY- Select Departure Dates. 8 Day/7 Night Package includes first class hotels with breakfast daily, and an intermediate car with automatic transmission with unlimited mileage included.
Includes
- Accommodations as per itinerary
- Meals as per itinerary; breakfast (B), lunch (L), dinner (D)
- Rental vehicle with outlined inclusions
- Keytours 24-hour emergency assistance
Excludes
- Items of a personal nature
- All other items not mentioned as included
- Rental vehicle gas, parking, tolls, and all other items not listed as included
- Select local taxes where applicable
- Travel insurance; please inquire with your Keytours travel consultant
Itinerary
Day
1
1
Day 1
Reykjavik-Arrival
After your arrival at Iceland’s Keflavik Airport, retrieve your luggage and proceed through customs. Your rental car will be available at the airport. We highly recommend taking some time enroute to your hotel to explore the Reykjanes Peninsula, a UNESCO Geopark site. Reykjanes serves as a captivating introduction to Iceland’s exceptional geology and volcanic wonders. Consider taking a leisurely stroll through the surreal Gunnuhver area, where you can witness intriguing and vibrant mud pools and bubbling stem vents. Within Reykjanes, you’ll find the renowned Blue Lagoon, where you might relish the opportunity to unwind in the soothing azure waters. (Please note that admission to the Blue Lagoon requires advance booking, and we are more than happy to assist with that arrangement). Overnight in the Keflavik area.
Day
2
2
Day 2
Keflavik-Skagafjordur Fjord-Akureyri
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel this morning. Embark on a journey to North Iceland, beginning with an exploration of the enchanting Borgarfjordur region in West Iceland. Be sure to visit the stunning Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls, as well as the impressive Deildartunguhver, the most powerful hot springs in all of Europe. The landscape undergoes a captivating transformation as you venture into Skagafjordur, a region celebrated for its horse breeding traditions and exceptionally well-preserved historical structures. Your journey then takes you to Akureyri, the vibrant and welcoming capital of the northern region. Overnight in Akureyri area. (B)
Day
3
3
Day 3
Akureyri-Lake Myvatn-Neskaupsstadur
Breakfast is at the hotel. Today’s journey takes you to the renowned Lake Myvatn area, a must-visit stop is at the awe-inspiring Godafoss waterfall, often referred to as the “Waterfall of the Gods.” The Myvatn region is renowned for its hidden treasures nestled amidst lava formations. As you continue your adventure, immerse yourself in the vast expanse of the highland desert plateau known as Modrudalsoraefi, located in the heart of East Iceland. You will travel through the Eastfjords, celebrated for their ruggedly picturesque landscapes and quaint fishing villages. Overnight in Neskaupsstadur. (B)
Day
4
4
Day 4
Neskaupsstadur-Eastfjords-Hofn
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. This morning, dedicate some time to exploring the picturesque surroundings of Egilsstadir town. The road encircling Lagarfljot lake is a beloved route, boasting captivating viewpoints. Make Hengifoss your next destination, the third tallest waterfall in Iceland standing at an impressive 126 meters (413 feet). The hike to reach it is relatively easy, and the vivid layers of rock and clay enveloping the falls offer a striking spectacle. As you venture through the southern Eastfjords region, immerse yourself in the breathtaking vistas of mountains and sea. Djupivogur village serves as the gateway linking the Eastfjords region and Southeast Iceland. Be sure to stroll to the harbor area to marvel at “The Eggs of Merry Bay (Eggin I Gledvik),” an art installation featuring sculptures of 34 eggs, each representing a local bird species. From here continue your journey to Hofn, a charming town nestled in the shadow of the expansive Vatnajokull Glacier. Overnight in Hofn. (B)
Day
5
5
Day 5
Hofn-Vatnajokull National Park-Vik
After breakfast, your journey will lead you alongside the majestic Vatnajokull glacier, where you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring vistas of Europe’s largest glacier. Many travelers choose to embark on a guided amphibian boat or Zodiac boat tour across the lagoon while in the area. It’s advisable to book these tours in advance, your travel consultant will be more than happy to assist you in arranging one. Just across the road lies captivating Diamond Beach, widely recognized from social media blogs. Your next destination is the Skaftafell region within the southern Vatnajokull National Park-an enchanting emerald oasis encircled by both glaciers and volcanoes. The park offers a variety of captivating hiking trails, including one that leads to the besalt-framed wonder, Svartifoss waterfall. Continuing on your journey, you’ll pass through Kirkjubaejarklaustur, once the site of a 12th-century Catholic convent. As you traverse the surreal Eldhraun, which holds the distinction of being the largest mass of lava to have ever flowed on the Earth’s surface, reflect on the 18th-century eruption’s profound impact. Finally, make your way to Vik, Iceland’s southernmost town. Overnight in Vik (B)
Day
6
6
Day 6
Vik-Skogafoss Waterfall-Seljalandsfoss Waterfall-Hveragerdi
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before exploring the enchanting surroundings near the quaint town of Vik, an area renowned for its globally celebrated landscapes. Begin by taking a leisurely stroll along Reynisfjara black sand beach, where you can witness the mesmerizing power of the crashing waves and the striking basalt columns. Vik also serves as an ideal starting point for unique day tours, including thrilling activities such as canyon ziplining and horseback riding on the ebony sands. For those seeking something more adventurous, consider a guided Super Jeep tour into the untamed hinterlands surrounding the Katla volcano or opportunities to explore the natural ice caves. Continue your journey towards the captivating Dyrholaey promontory, where you can marvel at extraordinary rock formations and the thunderous Atlantic Ocean waves. Skogafoss, one of the country’s most photographed waterfalls, boasts a series of steps that lead to a picturesque viewpoint overlooking South Iceland. Seljalansfoss, a ribbon-like waterfall, features a walking trail that takes you behind the cascading water curtain for a unique perspective. For those intirgued by the fascinating world of volcanoes, a visit to the LAVA Centre is highly recommended. Overnight in the Hveragerdi area. (B)
Day
7
7
Day 7
Hveragerdi-The Golden Circle-Reykjavik
After breakfast it’s time to explore the renowned treasures of the Golden Circle. Your voyage will lead you through serene farmland landscapes to the geothermal wonders of Geysir. As you wander along well-marked pathways, you’ll encounter fascinating bubbling mud pools and erupting hot springs. Just a short drive away, you’ll find the awe-inspiring Gullfoss waterfall. Witness the spectacle of glacial water plunging into a vast canyon, creating a breathtaking natural wonder. While here, consider indulging in a relaxing soak at the enchanting Secret Lagoon’s geothermal pool or bask in the serene natural steam baths and pools at Laugarvatn Fontana Spa. Your final destination for the day is the UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park, a place of profound importance to Icelanders. It was at Thingvellir that Vikings established their parliament, convening annually to deliberate on matters of national significance. After a day filled with so many wonders, make your way to Reykjavik, the vibrant and colorful capital of Iceland. Overnight in Reykjavik. (B)
Day
8
8
Day 8
Reykjavik- Departure
Breakfast is at the hotel. As you prepare to conclude your Icelandic adventure, it’s time to make your way back to Keflavik International Airport. The drive to the airport typically takes about 1 Hour and it’s recommended departing from your hotel no later than 3 hours prior to your flight’s scheduled departure time. (B)
Dates & Prices
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