Geography

Iceland truly feels like heaven on Earth. Despite its modest size, this extraordinary island is blessed with an astonishing diversity of landscapes. From towering volcanoes, bubbling hot springs, and erupting geysers to snow-capped mountains, massive glaciers, and floating icebergs, every corner of the country offers something spectacular. Add to that its lush botanical gardens, winding rivers, majestic waterfalls, dramatic canyons, mysterious caves, serene lakes, and breathtaking ocean views, and Iceland becomes a destination unlike any other.

Home to a population of just around 400,000 people, Iceland is one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world. Yet, what stands out is how exceptionally well-maintained and efficiently managed the entire country is, making travel seamless and enjoyable.

If you’re short on time, the good news is that Iceland’s famous Ring Road allows you to explore much of the country by road in about a week, offering an unforgettable journey through some of the planet’s most awe-inspiring landscapes.

Pre trip Packing

Packing wisely can make all the difference when traveling in Iceland. Even if you’re visiting during the summer months, don’t underestimate the weather. Temperatures typically hover between 50–60°F (10–15°C), and conditions can change in an instant. Be sure to pack plenty of warm layers, waterproof jackets, gloves, warm hats, sturdy hiking boots, and even an eye mask—especially if you’re traveling during the season of the Midnight Sun, when daylight can last almost around the clock.

While Iceland is famously one of the few mosquito-free countries in the world, you’ll still encounter swarms of tiny flying insects, particularly around lakes, wetlands, and many popular outdoor attractions. A mosquito face net can be a lifesaver and is definitely worth adding to your packing list. Link: https://a.co/d/06uCLCsV

If you’re planning a road trip—especially with kids—it’s a good idea to bring plenty of snacks and some ready-to-cook meals. Food in Iceland can be quite expensive, and dining options are often limited in remote areas along the route. To put things into perspective, a simple medium-sized pizza can easily cost around USD 30.

Another budget-friendly option is to stock up on groceries once you arrive. Grocery prices in Iceland are generally reasonable and are typically only about 20% higher than what you might pay back home, making self-catering a great way to save money while exploring this incredible country.

Arrivals

Our Iceland adventure began in Reykjavik, the country’s vibrant capital and home to its main international airport. Fortunately, the airport is relatively small and easy to navigate. Depending on the arrival traffic, you can usually clear immigration and be on your way within 30 to 45 minutes.

One pleasant surprise was the smooth arrival process—there are no lengthy customs or agricultural inspections for luggage, which helps you get out of the airport much faster.

As soon as you enter the arrivals hall, you’ll find plenty of transportation options, including airport buses, on-site car rental agencies, and representatives from off-site rental companies holding signs for arriving customers. If you’ve booked a rental car with an off-airport company, simply wait for their representative inside the arrivals area rather than heading outside.

Another useful tip: Iceland is largely a cashless society. Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, from restaurants and gas stations to public restrooms in most locations. As long as you have a credit card—preferably one with no foreign transaction fees—there’s little need to exchange money at the airport and pay unnecessary exchange fees.

Car Rentals and Driving Tips

For our Iceland road trip, we rented a car from ACE Car Rental. Although the rental office is located off-airport, it was only about a five-minute shuttle ride from the terminal. One thing to keep in mind is that the wait time at the rental office can sometimes be long, especially during peak travel season. Be sure to grab a token number as soon as you arrive, then sit back, relax, and enjoy a complimentary cup of hot coffee while you wait.

Most rental companies in Iceland also charge an additional road tax based on the duration of your rental, so don’t be surprised to see this fee added to your final bill.

Driving in Iceland is an absolute pleasure. The country follows left-hand drive vehicles, similar to the United States, and outside of Reykjavik, traffic is almost non-existent. With reliable mobile network coverage across most of the country and Google Maps working seamlessly, navigation is generally straightforward and stress-free.

One unique aspect of driving in Iceland is parking at tourist attractions. Many attractions have unattended parking lots that are monitored by cameras, with payments made either through an app, online, or at self-service kiosks. Be sure to pay for parking within 24 hours to avoid receiving fines later. The Parka app is widely used and makes the process quick and easy. https://parka.app.

If your itinerary takes you through North Iceland, remember that the Vaðlaheiði Tunnel near Akureyri requires a separate toll payment. There are no toll booths, so payment must be made online after passing through the tunnel. http://www.tunnel.is

Fuel planning is another important part of an Iceland road trip. Gas stations can be few and far between, especially in remote regions, so it’s wise to keep your fuel range comfortably above 200 miles. Whenever you come across a gas station in sparsely populated areas, consider topping up your tank. Also, if your rental company provides a fuel discount or loyalty fob, don’t forget to use it—it can save you a fair amount over the course of a long road trip.

Interestingly, you won’t encounter many police cars or traffic lights while driving around Iceland. Traffic regulations are primarily enforced through speed cameras and roundabouts. Fortunately, Google Maps often alerts drivers when approaching speed camera zones, making it easier to stay within the speed limits and enjoy the journey safely.

Kicking Off Our Icelandic Adventure (Land of Ice and Fire) !!!

Day 1: Exploring Downtown Reykjavik – Churches, Volcanoes, and Rainbow Streets

After finally getting our rental car (and surviving the rental office queue), we headed straight to our Airbnb to drop off our luggage, freshen up, and convince ourselves that jet lag wasn’t real. With energy levels artificially boosted by excitement—and coffee—we set off to explore downtown Reykjavik.

The first thing you’ll probably notice in Iceland, even before the stunning scenery, is the unmistakable sulfur smell coming from the hot tap water. Yes, your bathroom may occasionally smell like someone hid a boiled egg in the plumbing. Don’t panic! This is completely normal and simply means the water is heated using Iceland’s abundant geothermal energy. The hot water is perfectly safe for bathing, but for drinking, it’s best to use cold water after letting the tap run for a few seconds. Icelandic tap water is among the purest in the world—and thankfully, it doesn’t smell like eggs.

Hallgrímskirkja Church

Our first stop was the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church, Reykjavik’s most recognizable landmark. The church itself is stunning and can easily be explored in about 30 minutes. However, the real highlight is taking the elevator to the top of the tower, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Reykjavik’s colorful rooftops, surrounding mountains, and endless skies. It almost feels like someone spilled a giant box of crayons across the city. Best of all, parking here is free—something you’ll quickly learn to appreciate in Iceland.

Harpa Concert Hall

Just a five-minute drive away is the spectacular Harpa Concert Hall, a masterpiece of glass architecture that sparkles differently depending on the weather—which, in Iceland, changes approximately every seven minutes.

There is a paid public parking lot across the street. While the building itself is impressive, don’t miss the Volcanic Express exhibition and its nine-minute immersive simulation ride. At over $30 per ticket, it may seem pricey at first, but considering that a medium pizza in Iceland costs about the same, this experience is absolutely worth it. You’ll learn about Iceland’s volcanic history and get a surprisingly realistic taste of what an eruption feels like—minus the actual lava and evacuation orders.

Other Attractions Nearby

Downtown Reykjavik is extremely walkable, so take some time to wander around and visit:

• Skólavörðustígur Rainbow Street – probably the happiest street in Iceland and one of the city’s most photographed spots.
• Sun Voyager Sculpture – a beautiful seaside sculpture that looks even better during sunset.
• Old Harbour – perfect for a leisurely stroll, whale-watching tours, or simply soaking in the harbor atmosphere.
• Maritime Museum – ideal if you’re interested in Iceland’s rich seafaring history.

By this point, hunger had inevitably struck, and we found ourselves at Himalayan Spice near the Old Harbour. Yes, we traveled all the way to Iceland and ended up eating Nepalese food—and we have zero regrets. The vegetarian momos were delicious and provided a much-needed break from our snack stash.

A lesson from Day 1: in Iceland, expect breathtaking views, surprise sulfur aromas, and food bills that may briefly make you question your life choices.

Day 2: Into the Heart of a Volcano and Then Straight to Paradise!

If Day 1 was all about colorful streets and city vibes, Day 2 was when Iceland decided to show off its wild side. We spent the day exploring an ancient lava tunnel deep beneath the earth before rewarding ourselves with a soak in one of the world’s most famous geothermal spas. Not a bad way to spend a day!

Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel – Walking Through the Belly of a Volcano

Our morning began with a scenic 30-minute drive from Reykjavik to the fascinating Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel. If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to walk inside a volcano without risking becoming lava yourself, this is your chance!

Advance reservations are highly recommended because tours can sell out quickly, especially during the summer months. The experience is a guided, one-hour moderate walk through one of Iceland’s longest lava tubes, created by a volcanic eruption more than 5,000 years ago.

As soon as you step inside, it feels as if you’ve entered another planet. Massive rock formations, colorful mineral deposits, and dramatic caverns tell the story of Iceland’s fiery past. The temperature inside remains cool year-round, so don’t forget to bring a warm jacket—even in summer.

Location: N 63° 56.407 / W 21° 23.742

One thing is certain: walking through an underground lava tunnel was definitely not on our everyday bucket list, but Iceland somehow makes experiences like this feel completely normal!

Blue Lagoon – Soaking in One of the Wonders of the World

After exploring the underground world, it was time for some well-deserved relaxation.

About an hour’s drive from the lava tunnel lies the legendary Blue Lagoon, often listed among the 25 Wonders of the World—and honestly, it lives up to the hype. https://www.bluelagoon.com

Imagine soaking in warm, milky-blue geothermal waters while surrounded by black lava fields and clouds of steam rising into the Icelandic sky. It feels less like a spa and more like stepping into a luxurious fantasy movie set.

The resort offers everything needed for the ultimate relaxation experience, including steam rooms, saunas, in-water bars, and the famous complimentary silica mud mask that you can apply while floating in the lagoon. Yes, there’s something wonderfully surreal about standing waist-deep in a geothermal pool, covered in white mud, sipping a drink, and pretending you’ve got your life completely figured out.

The Blue Lagoon is easily one of those experiences that deserves all the praise it gets. Relaxing in naturally heated waters after spending the morning underground in a lava cave felt like the perfect Icelandic combination—fire and ice, adventure and relaxation, all in a single unforgettable day.

Travel Tip: Book your Blue Lagoon entry well in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak season, as time slots often sell out weeks ahead.

Day 3: Chasing Waterfalls and Wonders on Iceland’s Golden Circle

After two incredible days in Iceland, it was time to embark on one of the country’s most iconic road trips—the legendary Golden Circle. Packed with dramatic landscapes, erupting geysers, and roaring waterfalls, this day was nothing short of magical!

Stop 1: Þingvellir National Park – Where Continents Meet

Our day began with a scenic 30-minute drive from Reykjavík to the breathtaking Þingvellir National Park. Walking through Almannagjá Gorge felt surreal—this is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates slowly drift apart, creating a landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth.

From the gorge, it’s an easy 15–20 minute walk to the charming Öxarárfoss Waterfall. Though small in size, this picturesque waterfall surrounded by rugged lava rocks is absolutely worth the walk. Plan to spend around 2 hours here to fully enjoy the trails and scenery.

Travel Tip: Don’t forget to pay for parking at the kiosk near the parking lot or at the visitor center before starting your adventure.

Stop 2: Strokkur Geyser – Nature’s Spectacular Show

Continuing along the Golden Circle, we drove for about 35 minutes to reach the famous Strokkur Geyser. Watching the geyser bubble, build anticipation, and then suddenly erupt high into the sky every 15–20 minutes was thrilling—and no matter how many times it erupted, the excitement never faded!

The area also has a lovely visitor plaza featuring a well-stocked souvenir shop and food options, making it a perfect place for a quick break.

Travel Tip: Parking here is monitored by cameras, so make sure to pay for parking to avoid any surprises later.

Stop 3: Gullfoss – Feeling the Raw Power of Nature

Just a short 10-minute drive from Strokkur brought us to one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls—Gullfoss.

The waterfall is absolutely stunning, with powerful glacial water crashing dramatically into a deep canyon below. The walk around the viewing areas takes about 15–20 minutes, and visitors can either admire the falls from the upper viewpoint or descend the stairs for a much closer experience.

My recommendation? Definitely take the lower path. Standing close to Gullfoss, feeling the spray on your face, and hearing the thunderous roar of the water is an unforgettable experience.

Travel Tips:

• Carry a waterproof jacket—you’ll likely get misted by the waterfall.
• Bring a face mosquito net, especially during summer, as flying insects can be quite persistent around the area.

Stop 4: Kerið Crater – A Volcanic Gem

Our final sightseeing stop of the day was Kerið Crater, located about 40 minutes from Gullfoss.

This striking volcanic crater, filled with vivid blue water and surrounded by red volcanic rock, offers some of the most unique scenery in Iceland. A short hike around the rim provides spectacular panoramic views and plenty of photo opportunities. It has paid parking lot.

Overnight Stay: Black Beach Guesthouse

After an unforgettable day exploring Iceland’s natural wonders, it was time to call it a night. We drove about 30 minutes to the Black Beach Guesthouse in Þorlákshöfn.

Located at 4 Unubakki, Þorlákshöfn, South Iceland, this moderate self-check-in guesthouse offers everything you need for a comfortable overnight stay. It’s a convenient and practical stopover before continuing further along Iceland’s stunning South Coast.

Another day, another collection of unforgettable Icelandic memories!

Day 4: South Coast Wonders – Waterfalls, Glaciers & Black Sand Beaches

Day 4 was all about discovering the breathtaking beauty of Iceland’s famous South Coast—a day packed with majestic waterfalls, glaciers, dramatic cliffs, and iconic black sand beaches. Every stop felt like stepping into a postcard!

Stop 1: Seljalandsfoss – Walk Behind a Waterfall

We started the day with a scenic 1 hour and 15-minute drive through Southern Iceland to one of the country’s most famous waterfalls—Seljalandsfoss.

What makes this waterfall truly special is that you can actually walk behind the cascading water for a completely unique perspective. Standing behind the waterfall while water thundered down just inches away was an unforgettable experience!

Travel Tip: Bring your poncho or waterproof jacket because you will definitely get wet. There is also a paid parking lot at the site.

Bonus Stop: The Famous DC-3 Airplane Wreck

Although we unfortunately missed it on our itinerary, the famous DC-3 Airplane Wreck is a popular South Coast attraction and has been featured in several movies and travel documentaries.

Located at Markarvegur 248, Eyvindarholt, 861 Hvolsvöllur, this abandoned aircraft resting on a vast black sand plain creates an eerie yet fascinating sight. If time permits, it’s definitely worth adding to your itinerary.

Stop 2: Skógafoss – A Giant Among Waterfalls

Just 30 minutes from Seljalandsfoss lies another Icelandic icon—Skógafoss Waterfall.

This massive waterfall is famous for its powerful curtain of water and the long staircase leading to a spectacular viewpoint at the top. Visitors willing to climb the stairs are rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

With a long day still ahead, we decided to admire Skógafoss from afar and continue our journey. Sometimes road trips are all about making choices!

Stop 3: Sólheimajökull Glacier – Up Close with Ice

Our next adventure took us on a short 15-minute drive to Sólheimajökull Glacier.

This beautiful glacier offers visitors the chance to walk surprisingly close to the ice without joining a guided tour. For those seeking even more adventure, guided glacier hikes are also available.

We spent about an hour exploring the area and enjoying the easy hike toward the glacier, taking in the surreal landscape of ice, volcanic ash, and rugged terrain.

Travel Tips:

• Allow around one hour for the visit.
• Parking is paid.
• Restrooms (WC) are also paid, so keep some payment options handy.

Stop 4: Dyrhólaey – Clifftop Views for Days

Continuing along the coast, we drove another 25 minutes to the spectacular Dyrhólaey Viewpoint and Lighthouse.

Perched high above the coastline, Dyrhólaey offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in all of Iceland. The dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, endless ocean, and sweeping views of the black sand beaches below are simply mesmerizing.

While the historic lighthouse can only be viewed from the outside, the incredible scenery alone makes this stop absolutely worthwhile.

Travel Tip: The site also has a paid parking lot.

Stop 5: Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – Iceland’s Most Iconic Shoreline

Our final stop of the day was just a 20-minute drive away—Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach.

With its striking black volcanic sand, towering basalt columns, and powerful Atlantic waves, Reynisfjara is one of Iceland’s most iconic and dramatic landscapes. Even a quick 30-minute visit is enough to appreciate the raw beauty of this place.

Watching the waves crash against the shore while standing beneath the magnificent basalt cliffs was the perfect way to end an incredible day.

Important: The waves here can be extremely dangerous and unpredictable. Always keep a safe distance from the shoreline and follow all warning signs.

Stop 6: Dinner/ Snacks Stop at Vik village

As we drove through the charming village of Vík, we couldn’t resist making a sweet pit stop at Crepes.is (Austurvegur 7, 870 Vík, Iceland) to try their famous Nutella crepe. And wow—it absolutely lived up to the hype! Freshly made, generously filled, and irresistibly delicious, it’s a must-try for every crepe lover visiting Iceland.

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091927406979&mibextid=wwXIfr

With our sweet cravings satisfied, it was time for something savory. Our next stop was the famous Black Crust Pizzeria, known for its one-of-a-kind black charcoal pizza crust. Even better, they happily customized a vegetarian pizza for us! The unique black crust not only looks incredible but also tastes amazing, making it a truly memorable dining experience.

If you’re passing through Vík, make sure you don’t miss these two foodie gems. Trust us—your taste buds will thank you!

Black Crust Pizzeria – unconventional pizza in Vik, Iceland

Overnight Stay: Jorvik Cottage 2

After an action-packed day exploring Iceland’s South Coast, we drove about 30 minutes to our accommodation for the night—Jorvik Cottage 2.

Nestled on a remote farm in the middle of nowhere, this cozy Airbnb offered the perfect peaceful retreat surrounded by Iceland’s untouched countryside. The solitude, silence, and endless landscapes made it feel like we had the entire country to ourselves.

One important tip: Make sure to carefully follow the directions provided by the host, as finding the cottage can be a bit tricky.

Location: Álftaver, Iceland
Coordinates: 63.546810, -18.387243

Another unforgettable day in Iceland had come to an end, but the South Coast had already stolen our hearts.

Day 5: Southeast Iceland – Glaciers, Icebergs & Endless Adventures

Day 5 took us deeper into Southeast Iceland, where every mile brought a new adventure. From dramatic canyons and massive glaciers to floating icebergs and winding fjord roads, this day truly felt like stepping into another world.

1. First stop: Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

We began our journey with a 35-minute drive to the breathtaking Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon. This spectacular canyon is famous for its dramatic cliffs, winding river, and stunning viewpoints. Reaching the best viewpoint requires about a 20-minute uphill hike, and although it rained nonstop during our visit, nothing was going to stop us! Armed with our ponchos, we embraced the Icelandic weather and continued exploring.

The rain only added to the adventure, making the canyon look even more mystical. Plan to spend about 30–45 minutes here, and don’t forget to pay for parking before continuing your journey.

2. Through the landscapes of Skaftafell

Next, we drove for about an hour through the breathtaking landscapes of Skaftafell, part of Vatnajökull National Park. Visitors can choose between a short hike to a glacier viewpoint or a similar hike to Svartifoss, the famous waterfall framed by striking basalt columns.

With a long day still ahead, we decided to admire the scenery from the parking area, capture some beautiful photos, and save the hikes for another visit. Even without hiking, the surrounding landscapes were absolutely stunning.

3. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – A must-do Iceland experience

After another 45-minute drive, we arrived at one of Iceland’s most iconic attractions: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. This was easily one of the highlights of our entire trip.

Instead of the faster Zodiac ride, we opted for the more relaxed 45-minute amphibian boat tour, and it turned out to be an incredible experience. Floating among giant icebergs while learning about the lagoon was simply unforgettable. Even steady rain couldn’t dampen anyone’s excitement—the atmosphere on the boat was full of energy and wonder.

Advance reservations are highly recommended, as tours often sell out. If you don’t find availability online, keep checking or call directly, as additional seats may sometimes be available.

One important tip: dress warmly! Temperatures out on the lagoon can feel extremely cold, especially in rainy or windy conditions.

4. Strolling along Diamond Beach

Just across the road from the glacier lagoon lies the magical Diamond Beach. Watching sparkling ice chunks wash ashore on the black sand beach felt surreal. The contrast between the crystal-clear ice and volcanic sand creates one of Iceland’s most unique and photogenic landscapes.

5. The unforgettable drive through the Eastfjords

As the day wound down, we embarked on a 3.5-hour drive toward East Iceland through the spectacular Eastfjords. Without a doubt, this was the most challenging drive of our trip.

The route features winding mountain roads, sharp curves, steep climbs, and plenty of potholes. At times, it felt like driving through an endless series of spirals carved into the mountains. Despite the challenging roads, the views were absolutely jaw-dropping and made every mile worthwhile.

If you’re nervous about this drive, don’t be. The roads are very safe, but having an SUV definitely makes the journey more comfortable compared to a sedan.

6. Ending the day with a lakeside retreat

After a long day filled with adventures, we finally arrived at Hotel Hallormsstaður near Egilsstaðir. Nestled beside a beautiful lake, the hotel offered stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere—the perfect place to recharge.

And the breakfast buffet? Easily the best breakfast we had during our entire Iceland trip!

Day 5 was a perfect reminder of why Iceland is so magical: glaciers, icebergs, dramatic landscapes, unpredictable weather, and adventures around every corner.

Day 6: Egilsstaðir to North Iceland – Waterfalls, Lava Caves, and the Road to the North

After waking up to breathtaking views of Lake Lagarfljót from the patio of our hotel, we indulged in what was easily one of the best breakfast buffets of the trip. With a warm cup of coffee in hand and the legendary lake—said to be home to Iceland’s own mythical sea serpent—stretching out before us, it was hard to say goodbye.

Before hitting the road, we topped up the fuel just outside the hotel. Conveniently, the station also had a self-service car wash, and our trusty rental definitely deserved a bath after days of driving through Iceland’s ever-changing landscapes!

Although East Iceland has plenty to offer, we decided to skip a few optional stops to keep our long journey manageable. Among the places we passed on were Hallormsstaðaskógur, Iceland’s largest forest, the towering Hengifoss Waterfall with its striking red-striped cliffs, the charming village of Seyðisfjörður, the famous Stuðlagil Canyon, and even more time around Lake Lagarfljót. Sometimes, road trips are all about choosing your adventures!

Stop 1: Our first major stop of the day came after a scenic two-hour drive: Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. From the parking lot, it’s about a 20–25 minute walk to the falls. You can choose either the easier trail or the more rugged path—we opted for the tougher route, which honestly wasn’t too bad and rewarded us with spectacular viewpoints.

There are two main viewing areas at Dettifoss. One lets you admire the falls from a relatively dry spot, while the other places you right in the path of the roaring mist. Standing there, completely drenched yet mesmerized by the sheer force of the waterfall, was an unforgettable experience. One thing to note: the tiny insects here are relentless, so don’t forget to pack a mosquito net! The panoramic view from the highest viewpoint is absolutely breathtaking and worth every step.

Stop 2: Our next stop, just 35 minutes away, was Grjótagjá Lava Cave, a hidden geothermal cave made famous by Game of Thrones. While it was interesting to see such a unique place, we found it to be more of a quick photo stop than a major attraction.

Stop 3: A short 15-minute drive later brought us to Lake Mývatn, where we paused briefly to soak in the serene volcanic landscape and snap a few photos before continuing our northern adventure.

Stop 4: Another 35 minutes on the road led us to one of Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls—Goðafoss, the magnificent “Waterfall of the Gods.” This stunning crescent-shaped waterfall offers incredible views from multiple angles, and you can even walk down close to the base for an entirely different perspective. After taking in the views, we stopped at the small souvenir shop across the road, perfect for picking up a keepsake or using the paid restroom facilities.

Stop 5: As the day drew to a close, we drove through a long tunnel and arrived in Akureyri, North Iceland’s vibrant capital. If you’re driving this route, remember to make the tunnel payment online within 24 hours. We spent some time strolling through Akureyri’s beautiful botanical garden, a peaceful way to end another adventure-filled day.

Our final drive of the evening took us about 25 minutes to The Viking Country Club guesthouse in Hjalteyri. This beautiful, ocean-facing, family-owned guesthouse instantly felt like home. With cozy rooms, a shared kitchen, and some of the sweetest hosts we met during our trip, it was the perfect place to relax and recharge before the next day’s adventures.

Distance covered: Approximately 4.5–5 hours of driving (excluding stops)
Highlights: Dettifoss, Goðafoss, Akureyri, and endless scenic drives through North Iceland.

Day 7: Whale Watching in Akureyri & Journey to West Iceland

After several action-packed days exploring Iceland, Day 7 was intentionally planned as a lighter and more relaxing day. Our main adventure for the day was a whale watching tour in Akureyri, often called the capital of North Iceland.

We enjoyed a leisurely morning at our guesthouse before setting off on the short 25-minute drive to Akureyri. Our whale watching tour departed at 1:00 PM from Oddeyrarbót Pier, located next to the Hof Cultural Center (Hof, Strandgata 12, 600 Akureyri, Iceland).

The experience was absolutely thrilling! Watching whales gracefully surface in their natural habitat was truly unforgettable and easily one of the highlights of our Iceland road trip. Seeing these magnificent creatures up close in the wild was both humbling and exciting.

A quick tip for future travelers: even during summer, it gets surprisingly cold out on the water. Make sure to dress in warm layers, wear a windproof jacket, and don’t forget a hat and gloves if you’re sensitive to the cold.

We used GetYourGuide to book the tour. https://www.getyourguide.com/akureyri-l2028/akureyri-3-hour-classic-whale-watching-tour-by-ship-t69424/?utm_source=getyourguide&utm_medium=sharing&utm_campaign=activity_detail

After an incredible afternoon at sea, we began our long drive westward. The journey to Hotel Bifröst in Borgarbyggð took approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes, offering yet another scenic drive through Iceland’s stunning landscapes. We arrived in the evening, ready to rest and prepare for the adventures awaiting us on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Day 8: Exploring the Magical Snæfellsnes Peninsula 🌋🏔️

As the saying goes, all good things must come to an end—and so came the final day of our unforgettable Iceland adventure. Although it was our last day on the road, the breathtaking landscapes ensured we would finish the trip on a high note, creating memories that will stay with us forever.

Journey to Snæfellsnes National Park

After breakfast, we set off on a scenic 2-hour drive toward Snæfellsnes National Park, often called “Iceland in Miniature” because it showcases so many of the country’s diverse landscapes in one region.

Stop 1: Djúpalónssandur Black Pebble Beach & Lóndrangar Sea Stacks

Our first stop was the dramatic Djúpalónssandur Black Pebble Beach. Walking across the smooth black pebbles with the powerful Atlantic waves crashing nearby felt almost otherworldly. The beach is scattered with remnants of old shipwrecks, adding a sense of history and mystery to the rugged coastline.

Just a short distance away, we admired the towering volcanic sea stacks of Lóndrangar. Rising dramatically from the coastline, these basalt formations are among the most iconic sights within the national park and provide spectacular photo opportunities.

Stop 2: Snæfellsjökull Glacier Volcano

Next, we drove about 10 minutes toward the legendary Snæfellsjökull Glacier Volcano, the famous ice-capped volcano that inspired Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth. However, after assessing the road conditions, we decided to skip the final approach since it required driving on an unpaved, rocky road where a 4×4 vehicle is strongly recommended. Sometimes the safest decision is the best one when exploring Iceland!

Stop 3: Kirkjufell – The Perfect Grand Finale

The highlight of our final day—and a fitting finale to our Iceland journey—was the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain. After a 50-minute drive, we arrived at one of Iceland’s most photographed landmarks.

With its distinctive arrowhead shape and the picturesque Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall in the foreground, it’s easy to see why this location became world-famous after appearing in Game of Thrones. We spent about 30 minutes soaking in the stunning scenery, taking countless photos, and reflecting on an incredible trip around Iceland.

Overnight Near Keflavík Airport

As the day came to a close, we began the final leg of our journey, driving approximately 2.5 hours toward Keflavík Airport. We had our dinner at Thai restaurant and Tea at Indian food box. https://indianfoodbox.is/english/

For our last night in Iceland, we stayed at The Fisherman Village, located at:

📍 Hlidsvegur 1, Garðabær, 225 Iceland

Nestled by the sea, it was a peaceful and cozy place to spend our final night before saying goodbye to the Land of Fire and Ice.

And just like that, our Iceland Ring Road adventure came to an end—filled with waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, whales, endless scenic drives, and memories that will last a lifetime. 🇮🇸❤️