Highlands and Lowlands

Types of car recommended: No. 4 (4wd) and higher

DAY 1
Arrival and overnight in Reykjavik (transfer from international airport not included)

DAY 2
From Reykjavik to Þingvellir National park, ancient site of the Icelandic parliament. The park offers a stunning volcanic landscape of mountains and lava flows. Visit the geothermal area of the Geysir and the glacier waterfall of Gullfoss.

Optional: River rafting in the Geysir area, ATV-quad biking in Haukadalur, entrance to Geysir geo center.

DAY 3
The route leads over the highland track Kjölur (4WD needed, track open from mid-June), passing the colourful thermal area Hveravellir between the glacier Langjökull and Hofsjökull. Arrive in the horse-breeding valleys of Skagafjordur fjord.

Optional: Horse riding in Skagafjörður, horse show in Skagafjörður

DAY 4
Drive to Akureyri, the second largest town in Iceland outside the capital area. Onwards to the Mývatn area, first stop being the Goðafoss waterfall. The natural wonders of Lake Mývatn area include fantastic lava formations of Dimmuborgir, the volcanic area of Krafla, and the pseudocraters of Skútustaðir.

DAY 5
From Mývatn head towards the Tjörnes peninsula. Through the village Húsavík to Jökulsárgljúfur National Park, with the impressive horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi canyon and Dettifoss waterfall, the mightiest waterfall in Europe. Continue east to Egilsstadir.

Optional: Whale watching from Húsavík

DAY 6
Drive south through the spectacular coast line of the East Fjords with charming fishing villages and towering mountains that plunge vertically into the sea. Stop at Almannaskarð pass which offers a striking view of Vatnajokull glacier and the coastal area.

Optional: Boat tour to Papey island, Petra's stone collection

DAY 7
The Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon by the Vatnajökull glacier offers a beautiful view of the glacier and the floating icebergs make a deep impression on the traveller. Onwards to Skaftafell National Park a green oasis with its many hiking possibilities. Continue along the south coast for an overnight stay.

Optional: Jeep tour to Vatnajökull glacier, Boat tour on Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon, glacier hike in Skaftafell area.

DAY 8
Continue westwards to Kirkjubæjarklaustur, a former site of a 12th century Catholic convent, across the vast Eldhraun lava fields to the black sands of Vik. Drive across the fertile agricultural area of the south stopping by the beautiful waterfalls Skogarfoss and Seljalandsfoss before continuing to Reykjavik.

DAY 9
Departure (transfer not included).

Facts about Iceland, practical information, major attractions and flights to Iceland.

Driving in Iceland