Iceland's Ring Road: waterfalls, glaciers & geothermal wonders
Set off on a 7-day road trip through Iceland’s natural wonders. Begin by exploring geysers, waterfalls, and tectonic rifts in the Golden Circle before continuing along the South Coast to walk behind Seljalandsfoss, admire Skógafoss, and explore black sand beaches and sea cliffs. On your way, discover glacier lagoons, icebergs, and basalt-columned waterfalls in the southeast, and drive through the remote Eastfjords to the forested shores of Lake Lagarfljót. To get an understanding of Iceland as the so-called land of fire and ice, explore the volcanic craters, lava fields, and bubbling geothermal areas around Lake Mývatn. Finally, visit Akureyri and end with a scenic return to Reykjavik via waterfalls and hot springs.
Explore Iceland your way with this customizable itinerary from our handpicked local experts.
Services
Included:
- 6 nights accommodation in your preferred hotel category
- Meals as per the itinerary
- Arranged in-trip transportation (driver, car rental or public transport)
- Activities & admission fees to sites as per the itinerary
- English-speaking guide on excursions
- 24/7 in-destination assistance
Excluded:
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees
- Tips & gratuities
- Personal expenses
Optional:
- Speak to your local expert if there's an experience that you'd really love to include in your trip
Itinerary at a Glance
Reykjavik - Thingvellir National Park - Selfoss
Welcome to Iceland
Selfoss - Kirkjubæjarklaustur
South coast wonders
Kirkjubæjarklaustur - Skaftafell National Park - Höfn
Glaciers and ice wonders
Höfn - Egilsstaðir
Eastfjords exploration
Egilsstaðir - Mývatn
Canyons, waterfalls & volcanic wonders
Mývatn - Miðfjörður
Iceland's northern highlights
Reykjavik
Return to Reykjavik
Detailed Itinerary
Reykjavik - Thingvellir National Park - Selfoss
Day 1: Welcome to Iceland
Upon arrival in Reykjavik, pick up your rental car at Keflavík International Airport and kick off your Icelandic adventure.
Head directly to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can walk between two tectonic plates. Continue to the Geysir Geothermal Area to witness Strokkur geyser’s spectacular eruptions. Next, marvel at the mighty Gullfoss waterfall, a breathtaking two-tiered cascade.
If time and energy allow, explore hidden gems like the vibrant Kerid Crater Lake and the geothermal town of Hveragerði.
Overnight stay in the Selfoss area.
Selfoss - Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Day 2: South coast wonders
Begin your day at Seljalandsfoss, a stunning waterfall you can walk behind for a unique perspective. Continue to Skógafoss, where a staircase offers sweeping views from above.
Then, head to Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach to see its striking basalt columns and powerful waves, and consider a quick stop at Dyrhólaey for panoramic cliffside views.
If time permits, visit Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon to enjoy scenic trails and its dramatic, winding landscape.
Spend the night in the tranquil village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
Kirkjubæjarklaustur - Skaftafell National Park - Höfn
Day 3: Glaciers and ice wonders
Drive through the breathtaking landscapes of Skaftafell, part of Vatnajökull National Park, and take a short hike to Svartifoss, a waterfall framed by striking basalt columns.
Continue to the stunning Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon—during summer, opt for a boat tour among floating icebergs; in winter, consider a guided glacier hike or ice cave exploration.
Just across the road, stroll along Diamond Beach, where icebergs from the lagoon glisten on the black sand shore.
Finally, end the day in the coastal town of Höfn, renowned for its scenic harbor views and delicious Icelandic lobster.
Höfn - Egilsstaðir
Day 4: Eastfjords exploration
Enjoy a scenic drive through the Eastfjords, stopping at remote villages and dramatic coastal viewpoints. Arrive in Egilsstaðir, set by Lake Lagarfljót, said to be home to a legendary sea serpent.
Drive around the lake and through Hallormsstaðaskógur, Iceland’s largest forest. Optionally, hike to Hengifoss, one of the country’s tallest waterfalls, set against striking red-striped cliffs.
Later, visit the colorful village of Seyðisfjörður before returning for an overnight stay in Egilsstaðir.
Egilsstaðir - Mývatn
Day 5: Canyons, waterfalls & volcanic wonders
Start the day at Stuðlagil Canyon, famed for its basalt columns and vibrant blue river.
Continue to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, before heading to the Lake Mývatn region, known for its geothermal and volcanic wonders.
Explore the eerie Dimmuborgir Lava Fields, the steaming vents at Hverir, and optionally hike Hverfjall Crater for panoramic views.
Stop by Grjótagjá Lava Cave, a hidden hot spring featured in Game of Thrones, and enjoy an overnight stay in the Mývatn area.
Mývatn - Miðfjörður
Day 6: Iceland's northern highlights
Begin with a visit to Goðafoss, the stunning “Waterfall of the Gods.” Even though it is surrounded by rugged lava fields and dramatic basalt formations, it is easily accessible.
Continue to Akureyri, North Iceland’s lively capital, and stroll through its botanical gardens or along the scenic waterfront. Optionally, take a detour around the Tröllaskagi Peninsula, visiting charming fishing villages like Siglufjörður.
End the day with an overnight stay in Miðfjörður or a nearby countryside area, perfect for a peaceful night’s rest.
Reykjavik
Day 7: Return to Reykjavik
Drive back to Reykjavik, making time for short stops along the way. If your schedule allows, detour to Hraunfossar and Barnafoss—two stunning waterfalls near Borgarfjörður.
For a relaxing final experience, consider a stop at Hvammsvik lagoon to enjoy the hot springs.
Return your rental car in Reykjavik or at the airport, then bid farewell to Iceland as you board your flight home, carrying unforgettable memories of this incredible journey.
