Iceland
Iceland - Self-drive tour: Our winter insider tip
Iceland - Self-drive tour: Our winter insider tip
Duration
13 days
Start/End
Keflavík
Tour type
Individual
Level
Easy
Accommodation
Hotel / Guesthouse
Overview
On this tour you explore Iceland in relatively short daily stages adapted to winter conditions and daylight. In the special light of the polar sun you see the finest sights along the Ring Road and relax in the evenings in typical accommodation – with a little luck under the Northern Lights.
On this tour, you'll explore the land of fire and ice in a 4x4 vehicle, with relatively short daily stages adapted to the winter conditions and limited daylight of the far north. Bathed in the unique winter light of the polar sun, you'll be captivated by Iceland's most beautiful landscapes along the famous Ring Road. After an adventure-filled day, you'll be welcomed into traditional accommodations with a warm Icelandic atmosphere. Relax in the thermal waters of a hot spring and, with a bit of luck, witness the dancing Northern Lights in the night sky. Total distance: approximately 2,000 km.
Tour Code
Tour language
GermanItinerary
Day 1
Arrival – Reykjavik
Flight to Keflavik and pick up your rental car at the airport. Even as you approach Iceland, the volcanic island reveals its winter wonderland. 1 night in Reykjavik.
Arrival – Reykjavik
Day 1
Flight to Keflavik and pick up your rental car at the airport. Even as you approach Iceland, the volcanic island reveals its winter wonderland. 1 night in Reykjavik.
Day 2
Reykjavik – Borgarfjordur
Today's route follows the Hvalfjord fjord to Hraunfossar waterfalls. Afterward, you'll visit Reykholt, a historic town that was home to the famous Icelandic poet Snorri Sturluson, author of the Edda sagas. Nearby is Deildartunguhver, the country's most productive hot spring. Overnight in the Borgarfjord fjord region.
Reykjavik – Borgarfjordur
Day 2
Today's route follows the Hvalfjord fjord to Hraunfossar waterfalls. Afterward, you'll visit Reykholt, a historic town that was home to the famous Icelandic poet Snorri Sturluson, author of the Edda sagas. Nearby is Deildartunguhver, the country's most productive hot spring. Overnight in the Borgarfjord fjord region.
Day 3
Borgarfjord – Skagafjord
In Borgarnes, you can visit the Settlement Centre, where you'll learn a great deal about the lives of Iceland's first inhabitants. Crossing the Holtavörduheidi winter plateau, you'll reach the Skagafjörður region, the heart of Icelandic horse breeding. A horseback ride in the cold season is a truly special experience. Overnight in Skagafjörður.
Borgarfjord – Skagafjord
Day 3
In Borgarnes, you can visit the Settlement Centre, where you'll learn a great deal about the lives of Iceland's first inhabitants. Crossing the Holtavörduheidi winter plateau, you'll reach the Skagafjörður region, the heart of Icelandic horse breeding. A horseback ride in the cold season is a truly special experience. Overnight in Skagafjörður.
Day 4
Skagafjordur – Akureyri
In Skagafjörður, you can visit the Glaumbær Local History Museum to learn about the lives of past generations. You can also visit Akureyri, the largest city in the north. 1 night in the Akureyri region.
Skagafjordur – Akureyri
Day 4
In Skagafjörður, you can visit the Glaumbær Local History Museum to learn about the lives of past generations. You can also visit Akureyri, the largest city in the north. 1 night in the Akureyri region.
Day 5
Akureyri – Lake Myvatn
After passing Godafoss, the "Waterfall of the Gods," the Mývatn region awaits you with its pseudocraters, steaming fissures, and snow-covered plains. The winter landscape adds a unique palette of colors to an already picturesque setting. For relaxation, a visit to the Mývatn Nature Baths is highly recommended (entrance not included, from €55). 1 night in the region.
Akureyri – Lake Myvatn
Day 5
After passing Godafoss, the "Waterfall of the Gods," the Mývatn region awaits you with its pseudocraters, steaming fissures, and snow-covered plains. The winter landscape adds a unique palette of colors to an already picturesque setting. For relaxation, a visit to the Mývatn Nature Baths is highly recommended (entrance not included, from €55). 1 night in the region.
Day 6
Myvatn Area – East Iceland – Egilsstadir
Today you'll cross the desolate Mödrudalur region to Egilsstaðir, the economic hub of eastern Iceland. Besides the north, eastern Iceland is also known as a ski resort. Near Hallormsstadur, in the East Fjords, lies Iceland's largest forested area. You'll spend the night near Egilsstaðir.
Myvatn Area – East Iceland – Egilsstadir
Day 6
Today you'll cross the desolate Mödrudalur region to Egilsstaðir, the economic hub of eastern Iceland. Besides the north, eastern Iceland is also known as a ski resort. Near Hallormsstadur, in the East Fjords, lies Iceland's largest forested area. You'll spend the night near Egilsstaðir.
Day 7
East Fjords – Höfn
The route crosses the eastern fjords, hugging the coast until reaching the town of Höfn. The varied fjord coastline is dotted with small fishing villages, ideal for a short stop. Overnight in the southeast.
East Fjords – Höfn
Day 7
The route crosses the eastern fjords, hugging the coast until reaching the town of Höfn. The varied fjord coastline is dotted with small fishing villages, ideal for a short stop. Overnight in the southeast.
Day 8
Höfn – Laguna Glaciar – Skaftafell – Kirkjubaejarklaustur
Today, the imposing Vatnajökull glacier is ever-present. A stop at the Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon is well worth it. In Skaftafell National Park, you'll find the beautiful Svartifoss waterfall, surrounded by basalt columns, ideal for a short winter hike, weather permitting. The journey continues across the snowy sand desert of Skeidararsandur to the village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur (1 night in the area).
Höfn – Laguna Glaciar – Skaftafell – Kirkjubaejarklaustur
Day 8
Today, the imposing Vatnajökull glacier is ever-present. A stop at the Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon is well worth it. In Skaftafell National Park, you'll find the beautiful Svartifoss waterfall, surrounded by basalt columns, ideal for a short winter hike, weather permitting. The journey continues across the snowy sand desert of Skeidararsandur to the village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur (1 night in the area).
Day 9
Vik – Reynisfjara – Dyrholaey – South Iceland
Accommodation in southern Iceland (2 nights)
Continue your journey through the Eldhraun lava field to the village of Vik in Myrdalur. Stunning rock formations await you at Reynisfjara, on its volcanic black sand beach. At Cape Dyrhólaey, you can witness the roaring winter waves. Admire the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. Overnight in South Iceland (2 nights).
Vik – Reynisfjara – Dyrholaey – South Iceland
Day 9
Accommodation in southern Iceland (2 nights)
Continue your journey through the Eldhraun lava field to the village of Vik in Myrdalur. Stunning rock formations await you at Reynisfjara, on its volcanic black sand beach. At Cape Dyrhólaey, you can witness the roaring winter waves. Admire the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. Overnight in South Iceland (2 nights).
Day 10
Golden Circle – Gullfoss Waterfall – Geysers
The main attractions in the south are undoubtedly the "golden" waterfall of Gullfoss, which plunges in several stages when unfrozen, forming impressive ice sculptures, and the geothermal area of the geysers. The impressive Strokkur geyser erupts regularly in this area, shooting jets of water up to 35 meters high in winter.
Golden Circle – Gullfoss Waterfall – Geysers
Day 10
The main attractions in the south are undoubtedly the "golden" waterfall of Gullfoss, which plunges in several stages when unfrozen, forming impressive ice sculptures, and the geothermal area of the geysers. The impressive Strokkur geyser erupts regularly in this area, shooting jets of water up to 35 meters high in winter.
Day 11
Parque Nacional Thingvellir – Reikiavik
In the morning, you will travel to Thingvellir National Park, an area of great geological and historical interest, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2004. A walk through the Almannagjá gorge and to the historic site of the Althing Parliament will conclude your excursion before returning to Reykjavik for two nights.
Parque Nacional Thingvellir – Reikiavik
Day 11
In the morning, you will travel to Thingvellir National Park, an area of great geological and historical interest, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2004. A walk through the Almannagjá gorge and to the historic site of the Althing Parliament will conclude your excursion before returning to Reykjavik for two nights.
Day 12
Reykjavik
A free day to enjoy. Take a stroll through the city and explore its many museums, galleries, and small shops. Especially during the winter months, the city offers a diverse cultural scene. You can also explore the Reykjanes Peninsula. In the evening, a wide selection of restaurants and a vibrant nightlife await you.
Reykjavik
Day 12
A free day to enjoy. Take a stroll through the city and explore its many museums, galleries, and small shops. Especially during the winter months, the city offers a diverse cultural scene. You can also explore the Reykjanes Peninsula. In the evening, a wide selection of restaurants and a vibrant nightlife await you.
Day 13
return trip
Depending on your flight schedule, you'll have the day free. Return your rental car at Keflavik Airport and fly back.
return trip
Day 13
Depending on your flight schedule, you'll have the day free. Return your rental car at Keflavik Airport and fly back.
Price from
€2,665.00
Services
What's included
Non-stop flight with Icelandair from several German airports to Keflavik.
Car rental for 12 days in the corresponding category with unlimited mileage and CDW insurance.
12 nights, double room with shower/WC in typical local accommodation.
12 breakfasts
1 piece of hand luggage and 1 piece of checked baggage per person.
Information about the route and atlas or audio guide of Iceland
Street map
What's not included
Travel insurance (we are happy to put together an individual offer)
personal equipment
Visa and vaccinations, if required
Advice
Additional car insurance to waive the deductible.
Optional excursions/tickets
Additional flight surcharges may apply.
Mileage tax for rental cars of approximately €0.06 per kilometer traveled.
Prices for 3 or 4 people and other vehicle categories available upon request.
Character of the trip
Fitness
Easy
Altitude
Low
Culture / nature
Nature-led
This road trip is completely self-guided: you drive, set your own pace, and choose where to stop. No special fitness level is required; you can easily incorporate short walks to waterfalls, beaches, and viewpoints whenever you like. In winter, snow, ice, storms, and short days demand careful driving, experience driving in winter conditions, and some flexibility. Check the weather forecast and road conditions daily. Pack warm clothing, non-slip winter boots (preferably with studs), and protection from wind and rain. The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed.
Dates and prices
Individual dates
Notes on the trip
Notes
Subject to change. This trip is also available as a 13-day summer tour of magical Iceland. The price is for 3 people in a double room with an extra bed (which may be a bit cramped); a supplement for a single room is available upon request. You will find important information about our winter tours in the following document.