Iceland self-drive vacation: a flexible adventure!

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Iceland is the perfect destination for a self-drive trip, allowing you to explore breathtaking landscapes at your own pace. From glaciers and volcanoes to waterfalls and hot springs, this itinerary combines must-see sights with the freedom to create your own adventure.

This is a honeymoon itinerary that some friends of mine just returned from. They had a great time!

Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik – Reykjanes Peninsula

• Pick up your rental car and explore the Reykjanes Peninsula, with its volcanic craters, lava fields, and geothermal areas like Gunnuhver.

• Optional stop at the Blue Lagoon for a relaxing dip.

• Stay: Hotel Örk, Hveragerdi

Day 2: Golden Circle

• Visit Thingvellir National Park, where you can walk between tectonic plates. Continue to Gulfoss Waterfall and the Geysir Hot Springs.

• Tip: Stop at Efstidalur dairy farm for delicious ice cream and skyr.

• Stay: Hotel Örk.

Day 3: South Coast – Waterfalls & Black Sand Beaches

• Explore Thjorsardalur Valley and visit the scenic Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls. Don’t miss the iconic black sand beaches of Vik.

• Stay: Hotel Klaustur.

Day 4: Vatnajokull National Park & Jokulsarlon Lagoon

• Discover the glaciers of Vatnajokull National Park and take in the stunning Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon with its floating icebergs.

• Stay: Lilja Guesthouse, near Vatnajokull.

Day 5: East Fjords

• Drive through the East Fjords, with its dramatic coastline and charming villages. Stop at Djupivogur to see the unique seabird egg sculptures.

• Stay: Fosshotel Eastfjords (their favorite hotel!)

Day 6: Lake Myvatn & Dettifoss

• Visit Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, and explore the geothermal wonders around Lake Myvatn, including boiling mud pools and lava fields.

• Stay: Hotel Laxa.

Day 7: Godafoss & Akureyri

• See the impressive Godafoss Waterfall before heading to Akureyri, Iceland’s northern capital. Stroll through the town’s gardens and enjoy its cultural scene.

• Stay: Hotel Kea, Akureyri.

Day 8: West Iceland – Skagafjordur to Borgarnes

• Visit the horse-breeding region of Skagafjordur, then explore the volcanic landscapes of Borgarfjordur, including Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls.

• Stay: Hotel Hamar, Borgarnes.

Day 9: Snaefellsjokull National Park

• Explore Snaefellsjokull Glacier, the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain, and the basalt rock formations at Arnarstapi.

• Stay: Reykjavik for your final night.

Day 10: Departure

• Head to the airport for your flight home, with memories of Iceland’s stunning landscapes and natural beauty.

This self-drive trip offers the best of Iceland with flexibility and freedom. You'll see iconic sites while enjoying the freedom to explore hidden gems along the way! I loved crafting this trip for Ethan & Malaiyah. Let me know if you'd like me to help you put together the perfect itinerary for you.