Iceland is an island nestled in the heart of the North Atlantic. It is a land of breathtaking beauty and rugged terrain that has captivated travelers for generations. From its stunning glaciers and cascading waterfalls to its otherworldly geysers and volcanic landscapes, this Nordic island nation is a true natural wonder. But with so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan the perfect trip. That's where a private tour comes in. By partnering with Einar, a local expert and experienced guide, you can uncover Iceland's hidden gems and experience the country in a way that few tourists ever do. From off-the-beaten-path hiking trails and secluded hot springs to charming fishing villages and local eateries, a private tour allows you to create a truly unique and unforgettable Icelandic adventure. So if you're ready to explore this captivating country in a whole new way, join me as we uncover Iceland's hidden gems on a private tour. What reasons do you have to take a private tour or a personal photo tour in Iceland? One reason is to enjoy the vast open space and visit places that few people visit. To enjoy the peace and silence. It is also an opportunity to define your small group of people to travel together with a professional local guide, someone who knows Iceland in and out, landscape, places, geology, history, folklore, and current affairs. The fact is that Iceland has a lot to offer in terms of natural wonders and places to visit that only local people know about. For someone who doesn’t know anything about Iceland, the island, and the country, a lot of research is required to set up an exciting itinerary. Find places to go to and how to get there. Both well-known sites and places that are interesting but not mainstream destinations. Avoid visiting Iceland in the wrong season By taking a private tour, you enhance your experience and save time. You also get a wealth of local knowledge about geology, history, and folklore. More importantly, you get essential information about possibilities for the season you plan to visit, the weather, the roads, how to drive, and how to prepare. In essence, you get to do more, enjoy more, and learn more with the necessary flexibility and substantially increase your options and experience. Iceland is a cold country located in the Arctic, and it is essential if you want to enjoy the best it has to offer to organize your tour. Expand the enjoyment of your Iceland tour I organize spectacular private and custom-made tours in Iceland based on my extensive knowledge and experience traveling in all regions of the island. Tours are designed for people who seek to get more from their visit, photographic tours, highland tours in summer, and excursions to many exciting places that are both mainstream destinations and destinations that few people visit. If you are interested in stunning natural wonders and breathtaking places, we take you to all the best locations. Waterfalls, canyons, basalt columns, hot springs, glaciers, icebergs, famous mountains, lava fields, colorful rhyolite mountains, volcanos, rivers, and much more. We also organize tours that take you to famous sites and popular attractions. Like our different versions of the Golden Circle, the fascinating South Coast, Jökulsárlón and other stunning glacier lagoons, the historically rich and stunning Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and the impressive geology of the Reykjanes Peninsula. We also give you a lot of background information about the history, folklore, and geology of each place and region to enhance your experience and enjoyment. Why take a private photo tour in Iceland? Iceland has an infinite number of exciting places to visit to take stunning photos. But there are many factors you need to have in mind that play an essential role when choosing a site of interest. Reasons that make any destination a bit complicated, like the weather, time of year, the sun's position in the Arctic, high and low tide, road conditions, and when the location is most interesting and accessible, to name a few. Photographers often make the mistake of coming to Iceland at the wrong time when many places they intend to visit are not accessible or not as attractive as they have seen in other photos. By taking a photo tour with a knowledgeable and experienced photo guide, you eventually save a considerable amount of time and resources. If you are interested in a photo tour with many spectacular motives for you and your camera, contact us through the form below and tell us about your interest. I also take you to unique and mindblowing places that few people visit In the summer months, we take you to locations in the Highland, like Landmannalaugar, Syðri Fjallabak, Torfajökull caldera, and Þórsmörk. Landscape gems and places that are only known to the locals and local experts are far away from the crowds of mass tourism. Sites that will most likely give you a unique experience that will last for a lifetime. It all depends on your wishes and interests. In the spring, we choose places interesting to visit for possible enjoyment in nature and photography. It is our opinion that spring, the months of April and May, are the least appealing months for a vacation or a visit to Iceland. In winter, visiting Iceland has some advantages, but the weather factor plays a much more significant role than in other seasons. There are many exciting places to visit in winter, but everything is different as the temperature and high winds often define our possibilities. We also follow the northern light forecast, but the lights do not appear in the sky as often as you might think. Autumn, the months of September and October, is, on the other hand, an exciting time to travel to Iceland. So before you decide, please consult with us to quickly help you get the most out of your plan to visit Iceland. A flexible private tour based on knowledge It is a planned but flexible private tour where everyone in your group can enjoy the scenic landscape and all the natural wonders. It is a tour with a highly experienced local tour and photo guide, Einar Páll Svavarsson, who is also a tour expert on Iceland's history and geology. Einar has written hundreds of articles about Iceland for websites and has taken thousands of photos all over Iceland. A unique journey to highly interesting places, like stunning natural wonders, and a genuine connection to Iceland's history and distinctive geology is what our customers should expect from a private tour. It is a great way to enhance your experience and get to know the ins and outs of Iceland. See more and experience more in a private tour As an experienced guide in Iceland, I will always find something interesting whether you are traveling as a family, school group, with friends, photographers, or just as a group of people interested in exploring Iceland. I always enjoy taking visitors to impressive waterfalls, stunning canyons, amazing basalt column sites, colorful rhyolite mountains, geothermal places, unique hiking paths, glacier lagoons, beautiful lakes, and all the other unique and mind-blowing places we know. It is all about your experience and what you take back as your memory. Experience the Iceland concept of nature, geology, and history My specialty is natural wonders, exciting places in Icelandic nature, and places of historical and geological importance. It's all about real and raw Icelandic nature. I connect to the sagas, the settlement, geology, eruptions, history, the people, folklore, and the development of Iceland as a country. I organize tours that give you experience and insight. Experience and knowledge come first. A different kind of day tour If you are planning a short visit, I also organize and set up an itinerary for a day tour that is different. A tour around the Reykjanes Peninsula, a trip to Landmannalaugar in the highland, or a visit to Borgarfjörður to learn about the literary giant, Snorri Sturluson, who wrote many masterpieces in medieval times. It could also be a tour to experience some of the stunning natural wonders near Reykjavík or a trip to some of the spectacular landforms in the highland, like Kerlingarfjöll or Hveravellir, in summer. It could be an intense search for the Northern Lights in winter or finding an ideal location for photography at the time of ultra-clear skies of September and October. It is always an adventure. Enjoy the natural wonders If you are interested in visiting Iceland and really enjoy the most exciting places and natural wonders that few people visit, send us an inquiry with your preference. Tell me what you are looking for and the purpose of your tour. Tell me about your interest Tell me how many you are, and I will make suggestions and organize a tour at any region in Iceland. We always include a remote location that few visit and is only revealed during the tour. I have often organized tours for friends, family members, photographers, and people with historical interests, as well as tours that focus on global warming and much more. Read the excellent reviews we got from our customers this summer on our popular Landmannalaugar summer tour. Why a private tour and a local guide? A local guide takes you to interesting sites outside the mainstream tourist places A local guide organizes a tour that is exceptional and avoids common pitfalls A local guide has a depth of knowledge about Iceland's geography and geology A local guide gives you a background understanding of Iceland's history from settlement to modern times A local guide tells you stories from the Sagas and our folklore A local guide gives you important information about the volcanic activity in Iceland and the role eruptions play in our history A local guide gives you an understanding that enhances all aspects of the tour A local guide gives you an experience that you would otherwise have missed A local guide takes high-quality photos of you during the tour and sends you at the end of the tour A local guide helps you find the best and most interesting adventure tours and activities A local guide helps you find the most interesting museums and exhibitions A local guide is your driver so everyone in your group can enjoy the spectacular scenery and landscape you are about to experience A local guide helps you make your tour to Iceland an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience A local guide is also an experienced driver in all conditions on Icelandic roads, most importantly in winter Experience the 4X4 adventure and river crossing Travel in a new modified 4x4 Toyota Lan Cruiser 2023 model, spacious and convenient for one to four passengers and luggage. A vehicle that is fit for all roads in Iceland, including the F roads or highland roads and river crossing during summer. A highly knowledgeable and experienced driver guide that will inform you about geology, entertaining stories from the history of Iceland, the Sagas, and much more as we drive between exciting places. Stop at 5 to 7 natural wonders of various kinds during the day. Stops depend on the region of Iceland traveled and the distance between sites, and also if hiking is involved.

If you're planning a trip to Iceland for the first time, you may be wondering where to go and how to make the most of your vacation. While Iceland may be small, there are abundant sights and experiences to explore, making it impossible to see everything in one visit. A great option for your first trip is to rent a car and drive the Ring Road, which is a highway that circles the entire island and connects most of the regions outside of the Highland. The total distance, including extra loops and secondary roads, is approximately 1,600 kilometers or 1,000 miles. This road trip will give you an idea of what Iceland is all about, with its extraordinary natural wonders and charming small towns and villages scattered along the coastline. The Ring Road is also easy to travel, with many hotels and guesthouses, good campsites, easy access to gas and charging stations, hundreds of restaurants, good grocery stores, museums, recreational activities, and a lot more. It is also widely used by Icelanders to drive between the different regions on the island. A Ring Road trip in a rental car is the best way to see and understand what Iceland is about, both geographically and culturally. Throughout this article, you can click on many links that will take you to more detailed articles about breathtaking natural wonders, towns and villages and more detailed information about various things connected to the Ring Road drive. These include articles about the best season, what kind of car you should choose, how to visit individual natural wonders and much more. What is the Ring Road – the Icelandic historical background For decades, Icelanders have been using the term Ring Road or Hringvegurinn. It gained popularity in the early seventies when a bridge was constructed across the river Skeiðará, near Skaftafell National Park in the southeast, and was opened to the public in 1974. This new development allowed Icelanders to travel around the island and explore places that were previously difficult to visit, such as the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. It became almost mandatory to drive the Ring Road, and the term Hringvegurinn became part of the Icelandic language and culture. Many Icelanders visited the southeast and the east fjords for the first time, as before the bridge's opening, many of today's most popular tourist destinations were isolated and difficult to reach. It is important to note that the Ring Road is exactly as shown on the map, and it does not include the Golden Circle, the Westfjords, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the Highland, the northeast Melrakkaslétta or the Reykjanes Peninsula. The Ring Road, current state I have traveled the Ring Road in every season, both alone on a photographic mission and as a guide for private tours, photographic tours, and larger groups. Consequently, I have experienced this remarkable road in various ways and conditions, visited every corner, and even discovered and named a natural wonder, Stuðlagil, which has become one of Iceland's most popular tourist destinations in recent years. Therefore, in this article, you can expect to gain insights and information from a local expert. My wife and I went on our first Ring Road tour in 1984, a few years after the bridge was constructed. It was an unforgettable experience since my wife, who was eight months pregnant at the time, and I stayed in a tent in early August. In 2015 and 2016, I drove the Ring Road multiple times, conducting research and photography for the numerous articles on this webpage. As a result, I have extensive experience driving the Ring Road and exploring all the fascinating places it has to offer. Even though I have often traveled the Ring Road, I always enjoy driving around the island. I have also visited the places I mentioned in the article many times. Recently, I went on a Ring Road tour with my wife, Gunna. This time, we decided to stay at hotels instead of camping, which we usually do. One of the many good things about growing tourism in Iceland is that there are now many magnificent accommodations available. Only about a decade ago, there were few nice hotels outside Reykjavík, and food was primarily available at roadside gas stations. However, this has changed dramatically in recent years, and the quality of accommodation and food around the shoreline by the Ring Road is now an advantage that we have in Iceland. With the increase in tourism, there is a demand for more quality, and on this tour, we decided to stay at friendly quality hotels, dine at excellent restaurants, and visit places that we seldom see or new places that my wife had never visited before. Find accommodation Put in the name of the place you plan to visit to check prices and availability The time it takes to drive the Ring Road Driving the Ring Road in just two days is possible for those only interested in driving, as it is a well-maintained asphalt road. However, it is primarily a two-lane road, so some may find it narrow. In this article, I recommend taking at least six days to complete the tour, which is a reasonable amount of time to cover most of the fascinating and easily accessible natural wonders, landscapes, towns, and villages. Additionally, I mention a few museums, exhibitions, and new geothermal baths that are constantly growing in numbers. Therefore, for the best experience, I suggest driving for six days to make the most of your vacation and see and enjoy as many fascinating places as possible. When to drive the Ring Road If you plan to visit Iceland, the best time for the Ring Road trip is from the beginning of May to the end of October. During this time, you can enjoy the blooming and colorful vegetation and have daylight from early morning until late evening. Every day, you can easily be on the road from 7 AM to 9 PM, giving you ample time to stop and admire each place you visit without being in a hurry. However, things are much more difficult during winter, as the most fascinating natural wonders are covered with snow, and the roads are more challenging to drive. The weather can be harsh and difficult. To better understand the other seasons or times to visit Iceland, you can read my article about the best time to visit Iceland. What type of rental car? Before you start, make sure to read my extensive article about driving in Iceland to understand better the roads and the road system, what kind of rental car fits best for you and the time you intend to travel. The roads are often different than in other countries, and conditions can change quickly in different weather situations. Most of the time, when driving on the Ring Road, you are driving the official road defined as number 1. But keep in mind that the term Ring Road doesn't necessarily always refer to that road, as the Ring Road concept is a travel or tour concept and can incorporate other roads when you need to take a loop to go to interesting places. The landscapes and natural wonders should be your main objective Many visitors who come to Iceland are eager to witness the natural wonders and breathtaking landscapes that the country has to offer. From waterfalls, hot springs, and lava, to black sand beaches, basalt columns, icebergs, glaciers, canyons, mountains, fjords, charming towns, and even volcanic eruptions - Iceland has it all. However, for those who are unfamiliar with the island, it can be time-consuming and overwhelming to plan a trip that covers all the must-see places. In this article, we aim to help you optimize your itinerary and reach your destination as quickly as possible. One of the best ways to explore Iceland is by renting a car and driving on the Ring Road. This will give you the flexibility and freedom to control your time, allowing you to make the most of your travel experience. It is especially helpful for photographers who want to capture the essence of this unique volcanic island. Alternatively, you can hire a private local driver guide who will provide you with a vehicle and a wealth of information about the country's history, culture, and geology. This will enhance your experience, and you will be amazed at how much you can learn about this small but remarkable island. Starting the Ring Road in Reykjavík I recommend starting your road trip in Reykjavík and drive east by the south shore, counterclockwise. When you start in Reykjavík, you drive the famous south coast, which is also one of the most popular day tours from Reykjavik, but instead of coming back to the city, you continue your drive towards the fjords in the east. You spend two days enjoying the magnificent landscape, waterfalls, and icebergs on the south shore all the way to the southeast town of Höfn í Hornarfirði. Find a rental car in Iceland Put in your preferred dates and compare prices between all major rental car companies From Höfn, you head to the magnificent East fjords or Austfirðir for a spectacular scenic drive. After spending two days driving the scenic fjords and visiting waterfalls, towns and villages, and natural wonders in the eastern and northeast Regions, you drive through the beautiful Northern Region, visiting many interesting places and heading to the historically rich West Region. Your last stop is the tiny museum of Snorri Sturluson, the most interesting individual who has lived in Iceland and then back to Reykjavík. It is a convenient drive in the summer months and a drive on an asphalt road. A drive that will take you to most types of the natural wonders in Iceland that people find interesting and rarely see in other countries. . Accommodation, cell phone connection, fuel, charging, and practical things The Ring Road is a popular route in Iceland that offers various options for accommodations, ranging from luxurious hotels and quality guest houses to simple campsites. If you prefer camping, most towns and villages along the way provide excellent campsites, and you can rent a camper or bring your own tent. Additionally, all the towns and villages by the ring road have swimming pools, small convenience stores, and gas stations, making it easier for you to find everything you need. If you are concerned about safety, you should know that the Ring Road has almost full cellular phone GSM coverage, and it is a commonly used road by Icelanders. Iceland has one of the lowest crime rates of any country, so you can rest assured that you'll be safe while driving on this road. The drive along the Ring Road offers stunning views of Icelandic landscapes and natural wonders, making it a great opportunity for photography enthusiasts. You're sure to make beautiful memories on this road trip. Here is what you will see on the Ring Road in Iceland. The first day: waterfalls, black sands, moss-covered lava, and ocean stacks The second day: icebergs, glaciers and mountains The third day: scenic fjords, interesting shoreline, and charming small fishing villages The fourth day: mighty waterfalls, spectacular basalt column canyon and geothermal activity The sixth day: Sea stack, mountain climbing, a museum about the history and beautiful waterfalls Day one, the south shore The Southern Region of Iceland is known to have more fascinating places to see and experience than any other part of the country. The drive from Reykjavik to Kirkjubæjarklaustur on the first day is about 260 kilometers or 160 miles. If you decide to take the secondary roads leading to some of the natural wonders that you plan to visit, you can expect to drive around 320 kilometers or 200 miles. This means you'll be driving for approximately four hours. You'll have plenty of time to explore the breathtaking natural wonders. On average, you can spend anywhere from half an hour to two hours at each stop, depending on how much you enjoy the location. The Lava Center and Hvolsöllur village The region is full of natural wonders easily accessible from the Ring Road. To begin your journey, visiting the Lava Center in Hvolsvöllur village is recommended. This interactive museum provides an excellent understanding of volcanic activity, earthquakes, eruptions, and the geological factors that have shaped Icelandic landscapes. The center also features a short film about recent eruptions that is worth seeing. A visit to the Lava Center will undoubtedly enhance your tour and understanding of the area's natural wonders. At Hvolsvöllur village, there are several places where you can buy snacks, soda, coffee, etc. There are also quite a few places where you can find a restroom. In this small village, there are two gas stations and one very good grocery store. Seljalandsfoss, the waterfall you can walk behind Seljalandsfoss is the first natural wonder you must visit in Iceland. This beautiful waterfall is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, and you can even walk behind it! It's only a half-hour drive from Hvolsvöllur village, and it's close to Eyjafjallajökull, which became famous in 2010 when its eruption stopped all air traffic over the Atlantic Ocean. Additionally, Gljúfrabúi, another interesting waterfall, is located just 10 minutes north of Seljalandsfoss. It is a cave-like waterfall that is truly fascinating. Both waterfalls are particularly enjoyable for kids. You can enter by paying a parking fee at Seljalandsfoss. There's a small snack bar, a tiny gift shop, and public toilets available near the parking lot. The beautiful waterfall Skógafoss Less than an hour's drive to the East from Seljalandsfoss lies another famous waterfall named Skógafoss, which is also quite close to the main road. Both waterfalls are major attractions in Iceland, and people love to photograph them for a reason. At Skógafoss, admission is free, and you can choose to walk up approximately 500 steps to view the waterfall from above or stand in front of this magnificent flow of water falling down 60 meters. You can also walk towards this beautiful waterfall and get quite close until you feel the vapor spreading from the fall of the water. If you are a fan of waterfalls, another exciting waterfall named Kvernufoss is only about a 15-minute walk to the East of Skógafoss. Skógafoss, or the small hamlet Skógar, has restaurants, public restrooms, and a parking lot. Admission is free, but payments are required to use the restrooms. Find accommodation Put in your preferred dates and compare prices between all major rental car companies The arch Dyrhólaey After driving for about half an hour from Skógafoss, you need to take a right turn onto road number 218, which will lead you to Dyrhólaey. It is a half island and an arch that stretches into the ocean. Dyrhólaey is located in one of the southernmost parts of Iceland. The basalt rocks here have been protecting part of the coastline for thousands of years. It is situated in the middle of two large, black-sand beaches. During summer, it is a great place to catch a glimpse of the puffins up close. There are two parking lots at Dyrhólaey, both of which are interesting to stop by. The first is on top of the cliff, and the other is by the shoreline. The upper parking lot provides an excellent view of the glacier Mýrdalsjökull towards the west. The second, the lower parking lot, offers a view of the famous black beach, Reynisfjara. If you park in the upper parking lot, you can get very close to the puffins from June until late August. I recommend taking a walk towards the lighthouse on the west part of the cliff to see the beautiful arch. From this point of Dyrhólaey, you can get a unique and spectacular view of the Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers. On a clear day, it is one of the most impressive views of Ring Road. You can also continue down the path to the lower level and enjoy another spectacular view towards the east, where you can see the Reynisdrangar sea stacks and Reynisfjara black beach. However, you will need to walk back up to the upper level to get your car. This short hike is very rewarding on a good day. There is no service at Dyrhólaey, and admission is free. On the lower level is a public toilet with a fee to pay at the entrance. Find accommodation Put in the name of the place you plan to visit to check prices and availability Reynisfjara black beach and Reynisdrangar While driving this part of the south shore, you will experience a breath-taking view of the glaciers Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull from Seljalandsfoss to Reynisfjara and Reynisdrangar, which is your next stop. The drive from Dyrhólaey is only about 15 minutes. Reynisdrangar sea stacks are captivating natural wonders and a joy to view. By the foot of the mountain, Reynisfjall stretches almost to the ocean; there is a beautiful formation of basalt columns and magnificent rock formations. The black beach extending west and to your right is a deceiving place. Be aware of the hazardous waves. You must pay attention and read the signs and warnings before entering the beach. Admission is free, and a café is located by the shoreline. Public toilets are available for a fee at the entrance. Vík the village The next stop on your tour is the small villages of Vík. If you drive to the beach in the village, you can see Reynisdrangar from a different angle. Don't forget to stop by the beautiful church on the hill, which is an iconic spot for Vík and offers great photo opportunities. For your convenience, we recommend driving a little further to the tiny village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur to find hotels, guesthouses, or camping sites. In Vík, you'll find many options, such as cafes, restaurants, tourist shops, a large grocery store, gas stations, and accommodations. Mýrdalssandur and the lava from the Skaftáreldar eruption As you drive east from Vík, you will pass through the vast Mýrdalssandur sand plain. This sand plain was formed by the powerful volcano Katla, which is located in the middle of the Mýrdalsjökull glacier. Katla has a history of erupting every 100 years and most recently erupted in 1918. For this reason, we keep a close eye on Katla as it is expected to erupt at any time. As you continue along the road, you will come to the first lava from the 1783 eruption at Lakagígar ( click to see my Lakagígar road trip if you want to see a 4X4 Highland road trip), known as Eldhraun. This lava field is one of the largest ever recorded in historical times on Earth. The road runs through the lava field, which is covered with beautiful green moss. Near the junction to Fjaðrárgljúfur, at the end of the lava field, there is a viewing panel where you can stop and view the old moss-covered lava on both sides of the road. Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon Prior to arriving at Kirkjubæjarklaustur, travelers should take a left turn and drive approximately three kilometers, or two miles, to reach Fjaðrárgljúfur. This picturesque canyon features a tranquil stream that runs through its center and affords visitors the opportunity to walk along the convenient path located on its eastern side. After exploring the canyon, we recommend staying overnight in Kirkjubæjarklaustur village, where a variety of accommodations are available, including hotels, guesthouses, and campsites. Additionally, the village offers a selection of fine restaurants, both within the village itself and at nearby hotels. Day two, the southeast On the second day on the Ring Road, you will drive towards the east on the south shore part of the Ring Road. You will see waterfalls, basalt columns, and even a waterfall falling over a cliff of basalt columns.  You will also see glacier lagoons, icebergs, an ice cap, glacier tongues, and mountains. You are also driving through an agricultural area, and you will see a lot of farms and domestic animals in the field. It is a beautiful scenic drive displaying the many outlet glaciers south of the large icecap Vatnajökull. Foss á Síðu waterfall and Dverghamrar On your second day, you will drive for only 210 kilometers or 130 miles. The natural wonders are mainly by the Ring Road, so accessing them is easy and effortless. Your drive will begin from Kirkjubæjarklaustur, and the first noticeable place you will come across is the small waterfall Foss á Síðu, which is about 10 kilometers or 6 miles east of Kirkjubæjarklaustur town. This beautiful waterfall takes on many forms depending on how much water falls from the small lake Þórutjörn on top of the cliffs and is a great spot to park your car on the left side of the road and take some photographs. Just a few minutes drive away from the waterfall, you will find a wonderful formation of basalt columns called Dverghamrar, also known as the dwarf cliffs. It's definitely worth making a quick stop to explore this beautiful area. The walk around the small formation of basalt columns is not too long and there is a well-defined path to follow. As you wander around, you can't help but imagine that this is the home of a community of elves. It's a great stop for families with children, as the place has a certain mysterious atmosphere that kids will love. I took my daughters there when they were young and it's a place that they still talk about and remember fondly. Skaftafell National Park The drive from Dverghamrar to your next destination, Skaftafell, usually takes around an hour. Along the way, you'll be treated to some truly breathtaking landscapes. Before you enter a long stretch of sand known as Skeiðarársandur, make sure to stop at Lómagnúpur, a mountain that stands 688 meters tall (2100 feet) and boasts impressive cliffs at the top. There are plenty of parking spots on the left side of the road around Lómagnúpur, but be careful when parking and ensure you have a good view of the road both in front of and behind you. There are also small ponds and other vegetation around Lómagnúpur, which make for great foreground reflections in photographs. Find a rental car in Iceland Put in your preferred dates and compare prices between all major rental car companies The drive from Lómagnúpur to Skaftafell is equally stunning. Throughout the journey, you'll have Öræfajökull glacier directly ahead of you, as well as the outlet glacier Skeiðarárjökull on your left side. At the top of Öræfajökull, you'll see the peak of Hvannadalshnjúkur, which is the highest mountain in Iceland. Once you reach Skaftafell, you'll need to pay the parking fee in order to gain admission to the park. The park offers a range of services, including toilets, camping facilities, and information about hiking trails. Svartifoss waterfall Upon your arrival at Skaftafell, we highly recommend embarking on a 5.8 km (3.4 miles) hike to Svartifoss waterfall, which is one of the most stunning waterfalls in Iceland. The hiking trail is well-maintained, easy to navigate, and suitable for all skill levels, taking approximately two hours to complete. Along the way, you'll be treated to breathtaking views as the elevation gradually increases by about 300 meters (900 feet) in all directions. Skaftafell serves as a service center for the Vatnajökull National Park and provides several amenities such as a restaurant, a fantastic campsite, and clean restrooms. As you travel east along Ring Road, you'll find another restaurant and a convenience store at Freysnes. Svínafellsjökull glacier tongue Located a short distance east of Skaftafell is the magnificent glacier tongue of Svínafellsjökull. It is definitely worth a visit as the view from the lagoon by the tongue is magnificent. You can also get close to the icebergs floating on the lagoon. To reach the glacier, take a left turn with a sign close to Freysnes. The parking lot is also a short distance from Ring Road. It takes about an hour to hike to the spectacular sight of Svínafellsjökull from the parking lot. You will walk to the top of the moraine and a magical view to the north will open up. Jökulsárlón and the wonderlands of glaciers and icebergs After Skaftafell and Svínafellsjökull, your next destination is one of the most thrilling parts of your journey - Jökulsárlón. The drive should take less than an hour, covering a distance of about 67 kilometers or 42 miles. Jökulsárlón is the highlight of the Ring Road, and I suggest you park at the parking lot on the right side of the bridge. This will give you easy access to the beach. Walking under the bridge takes you to the main area of Jökulsárlón lagoon, where you can witness the constant battle between the tremendous forces of nature. Enormous icebergs fall from Europe's largest glacier and make their way to the ocean, floating through the lagoon. The water that comes from under the glacier pushes them to the coast, and they are then pushed back by the ocean forces of high and low tide to the shoreline. The icebergs on Fellsfjara Beach (Diamond Beach), south of the lagoon, look like ice sculptures. Being here is like visiting a gallery of Mother Nature's finest works. Plan to spend at least three hours at Jökulsárlón and Fellsfjara beach, and if you take the 30-minute boat trip, a bit more. The boat trip is fascinating, but it doesn't add a lot to the experience. Photographers will find infinite possibilities and motives at this location. You should also walk the shoreline from the service center about 500 meters north. In any case, Jökulsárlón is one of the most interesting stops on the Ring Road and a place to enjoy. Find accommodation Put in the name of the place you plan to visit to check prices and availability Hoffelsjökull Since this is a day of glaciers and icebergs, a stop is recommended by Hoffelsjökull outlet glacier not far from the town of Höfn, 60 kilometers, 37 miles. The outlet glacier and the glacier tongue are amazing, as well as the whole area south of the glacier and an attraction that is not visited by many people. Today, it is part of the Vatnajökull National Park, and the outlet glacier is retreating a bit faster, and the lagoon in front of the glacier tongue is getting bigger. The signs to on road nr. 1 to Hoffelsjökull are obvious, and the road number is nr. 984. From Hoffelsjökull, the drive to Höfn takes about half an hour.  There are many accommodation options in Höfn and the rural area around the town. Mostly good-quality hotels and guest houses, as well as a great camping site at Höfn. One of the best in Iceland. It is a great place to overnight, with good-quality restaurants and cafés. It is truly a town worth visiting and a beautiful place to take an evening walk. Day three, the east On the third day of your Ring Road trip, as you leave Höfn and head towards the east, you'll be treated to a day full of stunning mountains, picturesque views of the Vatnajökull ice cap, beautiful fjords, and attractive shorelines. The drive ahead is approximately 350 kilometers or 215 miles, but you'll probably take it slow as you'll be driving through a breathtaking landscape. It's important to remember that stopping on the shoulder of the road to take photographs or observe domestic animals grazing in the fields can be hazardous, so please refrain from doing so. During your journey, you'll also get to explore four charming small fishing villages, each with its unique history and character. Before you turn east to enter Ring Road number 1, be sure to take a moment to look towards the west, where you'll witness one of Iceland's most spectacular views. You'll see some stunning outlet glaciers stretching out from the Vatnajökull ice cap, which is a sight to behold on a clear day. Vestrahorn A short distance from the junction heading east on the Ring Road, about 3 kilometers (2 miles), there is a turn to the right to Vestrahorn. It is the name of a beautiful small mountain ridge. The mountains are an inseparable part of the stunning view you have from the town of Höfn, but you are in for a treat by driving to the shore south of the mountain. There is an admission fee or a parking fee that enables you to drive to the beach. There is a great view and a pleasure to visit on that road and the beach. Eystrahorn and Lónsfjörður As you drive towards the east, you will pass through Lónsfjörður Bay and reach the mountain Hvalnesfjall, also known as Eystrahorn. This mountain stands out on the eastern side of Lónsfjörður, just like Vestrahorn on the west side. While driving by the cove, make sure to look back towards the west for a view of Mr. Vestrahorn. You can park your car at Eystrahorn either by the shore or by the lighthouse. I recommend stopping at the lighthouse, where you can walk around the area towards the shoreline and enjoy the beautiful scenery. This is a very photogenic place with a great view towards the cove's lagoon. While driving in Lónsfjörður, you will see the entrance to Lónsöræfi backland on your left. This is one of the most wonderful places in the Icelandic Highland, but it is also one of the most difficult to travel. It is a hikers' and photographers' paradise, but you cannot drive a car to Lónsöræfi. If you have an extra day or two, there are local companies in Höfn that offer tours to Lónsöræfi during the summer. The drive from Eystrahorn to Djúpivogur village While driving past Eystrahorn towards Álftafjörður (Swan fjord), you will come across the majestic mountains and the bay. Álftafjörður fjord is unique among other east fjords as it receives glacial rivers that bring sediment from the glacier, making the bay shallow and perfect for photography. The whole bay and the surrounding area are peaceful and ideal for short walks and stops, just like the next fjord, the small fjord of Hamarsfjörður. When you reach the end of Hamarsfjörður, you'll come across the small village of Djúpivogur. From Djúpivogur to Reyðarfjörður Djúpivogur is one of four small villages and towns I recommend for this part of your Ring Road trip to Iceland. Djúpivogur is interesting because of its historical depth as a trading post and a fishing community. Here you can stop by the harbor and also drive to the beach east of the village. Because of the beautiful mountain towering over the village, the placement of Djúpivogur village is often defined as one of the most beautiful in Iceland. Here you also find restaurants and café. The drive from Djúpivogur through Berufjörður fjord is a typical Icelandic "in and out" fjord drive. When you look across the fjord, the distance to the other side is only 4 kilometers or about 2.5 miles. The drive to the innermost part of the fjord and back on the other side is 35 kilometers or 22 miles. Fortunately, it is a scenic drive, and you must remember to drive rather slowly and stop where permitted to look at the view, the shoreline, and the mountains. After driving 14 kilometers distance from Djúpivogur, you come to a beautiful waterfall, Nykurhylsfoss. Most of the rivers you have driven by until now are either dirty glacial rivers or runoff rivers; this waterfall, on the other hand, comes from a spring-fed river. So, the water is very clear and clean and comes from the valley called Fossárdalur west of the waterfall. This is a great place to stop. You take a left turn and up the small slope, where you find a parking lot. is the fjord Berufjörður, and before you reach the bottom of the fjord, you will find the waterfall Nykurhylsfoss. The waterfall is part of the beautiful spring fed river Fossá coming from the Fossárdalur valley. From Nykurhylsfoss waterfall, you drive to the small and beautiful village of Fáskrúðsfjörður. A short distance from the waterfall before you leave Berufjörður, you should stop at Blábjörg, which is geologically one of the oldest parts of Iceland. There is a good parking lot on your right side and short walking trails around the cliffs. Another interesting spot to stop by and explore the shoreline is to stop at Streitishvarf lighthouse on the tip of the peninsula between Berufjörður fjord and Breiðdalsvík bay. Here, the Ring Road takes you onward through the small fjord of Stöðvarfjörður and Breiðdalsvík Bay. On the north side of Stöðvarfjörður fjord, there is a small village with the same name. If you are interested in rocks, stones, and geology, there is a small museum in that village, Petra’s Stone Collection.  It is a museum worth stopping at, especially for families with children. From Stöðvarfjörður to Fáskrúðsfjörður is approximately 30 kilometers, and on the way, you see an island outside the east coast, Skrúður, and beautiful mountains while driving the lovely fjord. Find accommodation Put in the name of the place you plan to visit to check prices and availability Fáskrúðsfjörður and Reyðarfjörður The second village that I suggest visiting is Fáskrúðsfjörður. It is an interesting fishing village that has survived many changes throughout its history. Today, it has a solid economic foundation and a highly modern fishing industry. One of its most interesting chapters is the French connection and the French fishing activities during the 19th century. To explore the village, I suggest parking your car near the old hospital, which is now a hotel, and taking a walk around the old part of the village. After visiting Fáskrúðsfjörður, you can continue your journey by driving through the tunnel Fáskrúðsfjarðargöng on road number 1 to the third village I recommend stopping at, Reyðarfjörður. Although it is also a small and old fishing village, there is a significant difference between Reyðarfjörður and Fáskrúðsfjörður. Around the turn of the century, a large aluminum smelter was built in Reyðarfjörður, which transformed the village from a fishing village to a more versatile economic base. Today, much of the development in recent decades is connected to the huge factory. I also recommend taking a short walk around the town center at Reyðarfjörður. It is more like a modern-day village than an old fishing village. Additionally, Reyðarfjörður has excellent restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and a grocery store. Klifbrekkufossar in Mjóifjörður fjord and Seyðisfjörður village To reach Egilsstaðir for accommodations from Reyðarfjörður, you drive through the valley of Fagridalur. This is a great starting point for the next day and an excellent opportunity to take a short evening drive to the beautiful town of Seyðisfjörður, which is our fourth recommendation for a town to visit. While driving from Reyðarfjörður, a few kilometers before reaching Egilsstaðir, I recommend that you turn east on road number 953, Mjóafjarðarvegur, from Road number 1. Please note that this route is only available during summer as road number 953 is closed during winter. This road will take you to Mjóifjörður fjord, and you will cross a high mountain pass, Mjóafjarðarheiði. Once you arrive on the other side of the mountain pass and at the innermost part of the fjord, you will find one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland, Klifbrekkufossar. If you have the time, you might want to drive to the village or hamlet, which is one of the smallest and most isolated in Iceland, located only a few kilometers from the waterfalls. The drive to Mjóifjörður fjord takes some time, but the main goal of this drive is to see and experience the mighty Klifbrekkufossar, a natural wonder that you will probably have by yourself. Day four, the northeast The distance from Egilsstaðir to Mývatn Lake is around 160 kilometers or 100 miles. However, unlike the first three days of your trip, the most interesting places in the northeast region of Iceland are not located on the Ring Road. You will have to drive a bit to reach them. By the end of the day, you will have driven approximately 400 kilometers or 250 miles, including the recommended loops. Nonetheless, this part of the Ring Road is fascinating, and you're sure to enjoy it. The puffins at Borgarfjörður Eystri There is a widespread interest in puffins among tourists, and it's not hard to see why. Puffins are beautiful, likable, and not particularly intimidated by humans. Visitors can get up close to these charming birds and snap some great photos. Sometimes, the puffins even seem to pose and express happiness when they get a lot of attention. While there are many places to view puffins, few can beat the harbor area at Borgarfjörður Eystri, also known as Bakkagerði. That's why I suggest starting your fourth day of exploration in this small hamlet. It's a 70-kilometer drive, 44 miles, on road number 94 from Egilsstaðir and will take approximately 4 hours round trip. The drive is a scenic one through the east fjords, with stunning views of the Dyrfjöll mountains and a breathtaking mountain pass. Find a rental car in Iceland Put in your preferred dates and compare prices between all major rental car companies Stuðlagil canyon When you return to Egilsstaðir, you will be back on the Ring Road. Your first stop should be at Stuðlagil basalt column canyon and Stuðlafoss waterfall. The basalt columns in the canyon are stunning and one of the largest in Iceland. The river that runs through the canyon is the famous Jökla river. Interestingly, when I visited Stuðlagil in 2016, hardly anyone had visited the place. After taking and displaying photos of the canyon on my website and in magazines, it became one of Iceland's most popular tourist destinations. This was confirmed in research published by the Iceland Tourist Board. To reach the parking lot by the farm Klaustursel, you need to drive approximately 16 kilometers (9 miles) south on road number 923. There are two parking lots, one by the farm and a smaller one close to Stuðlafoss waterfall. The hike to Stuðlagil Canyon takes about 30 minutes. Make sure to hike to the canyon on the east side, as it is much more interesting than the west side near the farm Grund, which offers a limited view of the most spectacular parts of the canyon. I am particularly fond of Stuðlagil since I discovered it in 2016, gave it a name, and turned it into one of the most popular tourist destinations in Iceland, as you can read here. The drive through Möðrudalsöræfi When you continue on road number 1 after visiting Stuðlagil, you will enter the section of the Ring Road that is commonly referred to as Möðrudalsöræfi. On this part of the road, you will experience elevation changes of up to approximately 600 meters, which is almost 2000 feet. Due to this, it can be challenging to drive on this section of the Ring Road outside of the summer months. If you plan to drive between October and April, it is essential to keep in mind and check both the weather and road conditions before starting your journey. Möðrudalsöræfi and this region of the Ring Road are the most isolated, with only a handful of farms and a few inhabitants. It is practically a cold desert and part of the Highland, unlike the fjords in the east and the vegetation-rich south. The area is bare, dry, and covered with sand and ash. It is a fascinating landscape but also a unique driving experience. While driving on this section of the Ring Road, you will enjoy an excellent view to the south towards Herðubreið, the queen of the Icelandic mountains, and the northern part of the Highland. Not far from Herðubreið is the area where Iceland erupted from August 2014 to February 2015, creating the massive lava field Holuhraun. Dettifoss, Hafragilsfoss, Selfoss and Jökulsárgljúfur Once you reach the bridge that crosses the Glacier River in the Mountains, also known as Jökulsá á fjöllum, I strongly recommend taking a turn on road number 864. This will allow you to witness the stunning Jökulsárgljúfur canyon, Dettifoss waterfall, Selfoss waterfall, and Hafragilsfoss waterfall. Dettifoss is not only the most powerful waterfall in Iceland but also in Europe. On the other hand, Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders on the island. The primary route to Dettifoss Waterfall is on the west side, via road number 862, and the main tourist parking lot is located on that side. However, I recommend viewing all these scenic spots from the east side, via road number 864 (see map), as the view from this side is much more exhilarating and breathtaking. The west side is often crowded with buses and mass tourism, but on the east side, you can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere and see more. On the east side, you can benefit from the advantage of being on your own schedule in a rental car. Please note that the road on the east side is a gravel road and not as well-maintained as the asphalt road on the west side and may be a bit bumpy to drive, but it is only about 33 kilometers or 20 miles long. When you reach the signpost to the parking lot for Dettifoss on Road number 864, drive a few hundred meters further and turn by the sign to the parking lot at Hafragilsfoss waterfall. From the viewpoint by that waterfall, you will get a spectacular perspective of the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon to the north and the Hafragilsfoss waterfall to the south. This view is outstanding compared to the west side. After enjoying the view, drive back to the sign by Dettifoss, turn to the parking lot, and park the car. There is a short hike to the most spectacular waterfall in Europe. A bit farther south, you can walk to the beautiful Selfoss waterfall. To visit all three waterfalls, the view, the foreground, and the background are much better and more attractive on the east side. You then take the same road back, number 864, to road number 1. The Námaskarð and Mývatn After visiting the stunning waterfalls and Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon, you will continue driving towards Námaskarð while heading west on Road number 1. Námaskarð, also known as Hverarönd, is an intriguing and beautiful geothermal location with hot springs, mud pots, and geothermal activity. Here, you will witness some of the forces coming from the ground that shape the surrounding landscapes. As you drive from Dettifoss, you will come across an area with lava on both sides. This is because you are now near the northern part of the rift zone, where active volcanoes exist, unlike the east fjords, which are all old geologically. A stop at Námaskarð is a must, and you should walk the paths to get a good view and proximity of the geothermal activity. From Námaskarð, it's just a short distance to Lake Mývatn. Before you check into your hotel or park at the camping site, you should also enjoy the Mývatn Nature Baths, which are similar to the Blue Lagoon but with a spectacular view from the pool while you are in the warm water and steam. There are many hotels and camping grounds available at Mývatn in the small hamlet of Reykjahlíð and the surrounding area. Day five, the northwest On the fifth day, you drive from Mývatn Lake to the small town of Blönduós. You stop at a mysterious lava field, pseudo-craters, and two interesting waterfalls. You also visit the beautiful town of Akureyri and dip into a geothermal pool named after a notorious Viking. The drive is about 250 kilometers, 155 miles. Dimmuborgir and Skútustaðir pseudo craters Your first task on your fifth day is to explore the Mývatn Lake area a bit further before you leave. To start off, you can visit Dimmuborgir. Instead of taking road number 1 from Reykjahlíð, you should drive to the south on road number 848. Soon, you will see the sign for Dimmuborgir and the parking lot on your left side. There is a service center by the parking lot, and from there, you can choose different paths through the Dimmuborgir lava field. The paths display magnificent lava sculptures that Mother Nature formed in an eruption. Once you have finished the Dimmuborgir trail, you can continue on road number 848 to the south. After a short drive, you should stop at Skútustaðir tiny hamlet and walk the path to the Skútustaðir pseudo craters. The paths offer an interesting view of the craters and a good view of the lake and birdlife. Goðafoss waterfall waterfall Continuing on road number 848 to the west, you soon merge into road number 1, the Ring Road. Your next stop is by the waterfall Goðafoss, one of Iceland's most famous waterfalls. You stop by the service center and walk the path toward the waterfall. There are options here to view Goðafoss from both sides and a walking bridge to cross. Find accommodation Put in the name of the place you plan to visit to check prices and availability Aldeyjarfoss waterfall After visiting Goðafoss, take a left turn towards the south on Road number 1 and drive Road number 842, which will take you through the long Bárðadalur valley. This scenic drive of about 40 kilometers (24 miles) will lead you to another stunning waterfall, Aldeyjarfoss. This waterfall is located on the edge of the Highland and is known for its interesting basalt columns. Akureyri, the largest town in the northern region in Iceland From Aldeyjarfoss and Goðafoss, continue driving towards the beautiful and charming town of Akureyri. The town center is a joy to visit, and a must-see attraction is the towering church accessible by stairs. Take your time to explore the town and visit the Akureyri Botanical Garden. Akureyri is often referred to as the "Danish town in Iceland" due to its interesting history and unique architecture. The town center is home to many old and fascinating houses that are worth exploring. Grettislaug Natural Geothermal Pool From Akureyri, a stopover of at least 4 hours is recommended for visiting the Grettislaug geothermal pool. The pool, named after Grettir the Strong, is a natural outdoor pool. To get there: 1. Take a turn onto road number 75 from road number 1 at Varmahlíð small hamlet. 2. From there, drive to Sauðárkrókur town, which is a good place for a café stop. 3. Drive on Road number 744 for a short while and then turn north on Road number 748 to reach Grettislaug. Grettislaug is a great place to relax and dip in the stunning natural pools while enjoying the breathtaking view of Drangey Island and the surrounding mountains. The drive from Akureyri to Grettislaug is 133 kilometers or 82 miles. After your Grettislaug visit, you can turn back on Road number 744 and head west on Road number 748 to reach Blönduós village. Day six, the west On the sixth Ring Road Day in Iceland, you will see an interesting sea stack, do some "mountain climbing,” and learn about our history. The drive is about 360 kilometers, 223 miles. Hvítserkur When you drive from the town of Blönduós on Road nr. 1 in the Northwest part, you should take the time to visit Hvítserkur. You take the Road Nr. 711 Vatnsnesvegur to the north from Road Nr. 1. Hvítserkur is a magnificent sea stack and a lot of fun to visit. Mt. Grábrók From here, you have approximately a two-hour drive ahead as you continue on road number 1, heading south through the Hrútafjörður fjord and up to the Holtavörðuheiði mountain pass. This is quite a scenic drive, as the view is wonderful in all directions throughout the drive. Coming down from the mountain pass, you will drive through the beautiful Norðurárdalur valley, with one of our most famous salmon rivers on your left side. As you continue on the Ring Road, we recommend that you stop and climb the small mountain Grábrók. It is a tiny mountain, or a crater, with a convenient track to the top. At the top, you will have an excellent view of the nearby mountains, lava, and the renowned salmon river Norðurá. A small museum about Snorri Sturluson and history After you have climbed Grábrók, you can continue south on the Ring Road until you reach the junction of road number 50. Turn left and head towards road number 518, which will take you to the Snorrastofa Museum located by the church in the tiny hamlet of Reykholt. This museum is dedicated to Snorri Sturluson and is an excellent place to improve your knowledge about Iceland and learn about the Sagas and our literary heritage. Snorri Sturluson was a writer, poet, politician, and historian who lived in the 12th and 13th centuries and is probably one of the most interesting people in the history of Iceland. Although small, the museum provides a good overview of our remarkable Sagas and how they came about. Snorri's writing has inspired many writers and artists throughout the centuries. Hraufossar If you follow our recommendations, the last waterfall you will see is Hraunfossar. These waterfalls are unique as the clean spring-fed water comes from below the lava, making it a beautiful sight to see. Along with Hraunfossar, you will also witness the lovely Barnafossar rapids in the Hvítá River, and taking a walk around the area is a good idea to enjoy the striking scenery. Deildatunguhver and Krauma spa After leaving Hraunfossar on road 518, head towards the Ring Road on road number 50. Along the way, make sure to stop at Deildatunguhver Hot Springs, which has been delivering clean and boiling water from the ground since the settlement era. You can also take a relaxing dip in the water and enjoy the steam at Krauma Spa. Krauma is an excellent place to unwind after your tour, and you can even enjoy dinner at their fine restaurant before continuing your drive to Reykjavík. From Hraunfossar, you drive to Reykjavík the capital of Iceland This six-day journey should give you a good idea of what Iceland is all about and take you to some of the most interesting places in the country. You have seen many waterfalls, glaciers, icebergs, canyons, basalt columns, mountains, fjords, and geothermal areas. You have also seen many towns and villages and learned about our literary heritage and history. The best way to travel is to rent a car and find accommodations at a hotel, a guesthouse, or one of the many fabulous camping sites located almost everywhere in Iceland. This will give you flexibility and enjoyment and ensure that you get the most out of your trip to Iceland. Again, I recommend the best time for this trip to Iceland from the middle of May to the end of September. If you want to take a private tour with a local guide and a driver, you can always contact me and check if this is something that would be convenient for you.

Why visit Jökulsárlón Glacier and iceberg lagoon? 1. Jökulsárlón is a unique natural wonder on planet Earth 2. The lagoon and icebergs are easily accessible to everyone 3. You can visit Jökulsárlón at any time or any season 4. Jökulsárlón is one of the most photogenic natural wonders you will ever find 5. In between the icebergs in the lagoon is abundant wildlife, birds, and seals 6. By the parking lot, you can enjoy the fascinating movement and rotation of icebergs 7. The parking lots are only 20 steps and two minutes away from the main attraction 8. From the middle of June to the middle of July, you can view it 24 hours of daylight 9. The drive from Reykjavík is long but loaded with many natural wonders 10. In winter Northern Lights are often displayed by the Jökulsarlón lagoon Jökulsárlón is an iceberg lagoon in southeast Iceland. This large glacial lake is one of Iceland's most popular tourist attractions, and for a good reason. The lagoon is one of a few places on the planet where you can get close to a glacier and icebergs without entering a wilderness or having to travel to remote areas like the Icelandic Highland. Easily accessible, Jökulsárlón is located on the Ring Road, the main road that goes around the coastline in Iceland. In Icelandic, Lón means a lagoon. Jökulsárlón is usually full of icebergs that constantly break away from the edge of the glacier tongue Breiðarmerkurjökull outlet glacier that is part of Vatnajökull, the largest ice cap in Europe. It is a great place to visit and a stunning tourist attraction. It is the perfect place to take spectacular photos, to see the northern lights, to learn about nature and geological forces, and to go for a short hike. Even if Jökulsárlón was the only natural wonder in Iceland, it alone would be worth the trip to this Arctic island. Many times I have seen how visitors are overwhelmed after viewing this remarkable natural phenomenon. Even if you stay for a few hours, it is often difficult to leave. It is a place you can stop by and enjoy for hours on end. Along with Landmannalaugar and Gullfoss, it is the jewel in the Icelandic crown of natural wonders. A stunning work of nature In any sense, geological or otherwise, the lagoon is new. This might sound odd, but it has only been around for a few decades, and in a few more decades it might be gone. Its development by the forces of nature took a bit longer, though, possibly a few thousand years, but as a natural wonder, it has a short lifespan. Contrary to stagnant waterfalls that don’t change for centuries, even thousands of years, it is a living thing. It is a natural wonder deepening on forces such as temperature, high and low tides, and precipitation. Several centuries ago, the glacier tongue and the outlet glacier that you see on the farthest side of the lagoon reached the Atlantic coastline. This is right where the bridge on the Ring Road spans the short glacial river Jökulsá, the river that connects the lagoon with the ocean. At the beginning of the 4th decade of the last century, the glacier started melting, retreating, declining, and revealing the lagoon. From then on, the lagoon became larger as the glacier tongue shrank and retreated, in a way moving from the coastline toward the mountains where it is today. In the seventies the lake was eight square kilometers. Today the lake covers 18 square kilometers and is Iceland's deepest lake at approximately 248 meters. Eventually, the glacier tongue will retreat fully to the mountains and no longer deliver icebergs to the lagoon. How was the Jökulsárlón lagoon made? When you drive toward the lagoon on Ring Road no. 1 (great vacation road trip) from the west, if you look north you will see many small hills on your left. These hills prevent you from seeing the lagoon until you reach the bridge. If you were passing by this place at least one hundred years ago, you would have seen ice or a glacier tongue above the hills. At that time the tongue was progressing toward the shoreline, in the process pushing the soil in front of the ice and below the ground into the hills, or the moraines as they are called. As the ice cap, the outlet glacier, and the glacier tongue were moving over thousands of years, the ice was forced through the ground like a giant bulldozer digging a huge hole. And then everything stopped right by the moraines. At the same time, the temperature shifted and the glacier started to retreat, leaving a hole in the ground full of glacial water. This is the lagoon that is known today as Jökulsárlón or the Glacier Lagoon. The role of the ocean Since the Vatnajökull ice cap has many other outlet glaciers and glacier tongues crawling toward the lower land, we might ask: what’s so special about Jökulsárlón? One of the main reasons is the fact that the ice is at sea level and the ocean has access to the lagoon by the shoreline. At high tide, the warmer seawater flows into the lagoon and blends with the much colder glacial water. The seawater not only makes the lagoon look cleaner but also falls to the bottom of the lagoon and contributes to the breakup of the tongue. At low tide, the currents in the lagoon draw the icebergs toward the river by the bridge, flushing them out into the ocean and on to Fellsfjara beach, often called Diamond Beach. There the icebergs have a short life as the seawater is much warmer than the lagoon. At high tide, the force of the river and glacial water prevents the icebergs from leaving the lagoon. You can easily see this if you stop by the lagoon for a few hours. You will experience how the low and high tides shift the currents under the bridge. The role of precipitation One of the most important factors for any glacier is the snow that falls on the ice cap each year. This enhances the ice cap and increases its size. At times of massive precipitation, the outlet glaciers and the glacier tongue progress and spread out over the land. This is what occurred south of Vatnajökull between the 14th and the 19th centuries when many farms fell victim to fast-crawling glacier tongues. This was a period of cold weather and major changes in the area. Afterwards, another period started where the glacier tongues started to retreat as the precipitation could not keep up with the warmer temperatures pushing the glacier tongue back to the mountains. Full of life in the cold and deep lagoon Many visitors might think of the lagoon as a lifeless lake because of how cold it is. But nothing could be further from the truth. The lagoon is full of life and is teeming with herring, trout, salmon, and krill drifting from the sea with the tides. Often many seals are playfully enjoying their day in the water, and thousands of seabirds are nesting nearby, especially Arctic terns, skuas, and gannets. After you’ve enjoyed the lagoon, a walk to the shore, to Diamond Beach, is well worth it to view the melting icebergs moving around on the black sand pebble beach. What makes Jökulsárlón so interesting? The fascination lies in the icebergs constantly falling from the glacier tongue and into the lagoon, melting, rolling, and floating the one and a half kilometers toward the Atlantic Ocean. The depth of the lagoon helps the huge icebergs to float toward the ocean. Here you must remember that only 10% of the iceberg is visible on the surface; the rest is hidden in the water. When the icebergs melt, the balance sometimes changes and the icebergs roll upside down, which is a spectacular sight. Sometimes the lagoon is overcrowded with icebergs, each with its character and form, and sometimes it is almost empty. Sometimes you see black lines or even totally black icebergs. This is ash that fell on the surface of the ice cap from a volcanic eruption that happened a long time ago. When you are standing by the lagoon, it is as if you are viewing and following nature's working hours. Although many glacier tongues are retreating because of climate change, the progressing and retreating have been going on around the planet for millions of years. However, one of the effects of climate change is an increase in ocean temperatures in the northern hemisphere, and that is why Breiðamerkurjökull is retreating faster than normal. Access to the Jökulsárlón lagoon is as simple, but parking and facilities are a disgrace If you take the Ring Road no. 1, you cannot miss Jökulsárlón as it is practically on the main road between Skaftafell and the town of Höfn í Hornarfirði. By any measure, it is an impressive sight and a fascinating natural wonder. But, despite its immense popularity as a tourist attraction for many decades, the facilities around the area have long been a disgrace. Parking has always been unsatisfactory and still is. Restroom and toilet facilities remain limited and shabby. Refreshment facilities are still far from acceptable. The hiking paths and tracks are not marked. Even though the Icelandic Government spent a huge amount of money to purchase the land around the lagoon, this unacceptable state of affairs is an embarrassment for the Government and the Icelandic travel industry as a whole. So, if you are planning to visit you need to be prepared. Go to a restroom beforehand, take refreshments with you if you intend to stay for a few hours, and arrive early in the morning to get a decent parking space. Photography and popular culture The Jökulsárlón lagoon has been a location for many internationally acclaimed films, including A View to a Kill, Die Another Day, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, and Batman Begins, as well as the reality TV series Amazing Race. At one point, it was such a popular location for films that it was nicknamed the Bond Lagoon. For photographers, it provides a wealth of ideas as the foreground is constantly changing and also the background, as it is continuously affected by the weather in the mountains and the glaciers surrounding the lagoon. Jökulsárlón is one of the natural wonders in Iceland that you can visit all year round. Each season has its advantages and provides sharp contrasts. In November, you have the low light when the sun only shines for a few hours and comes up and sets south of the lagoon delivering a spectrum of interesting colors. In summer, you have the 24-hour sunlight and spectacular sunrises and sunsets north of the lagoon. Not to mention the Aurora Borealis, the northern lights during winter. Is sailing on the lagoon worth it? Several tour companies offer very expensive sailing tours along the lagoon. Even though it is nice to see the lagoon from a boat, a sailing tour won’t add much to your visit. If you decide to take a sailing tour, be sure to bring your camera, as the lagoon invariably delivers stunning photos from any angle, both when sailing on the lagoon and walking by the shoreline. And you’ll have better opportunities to get up close and personal with the icebergs. If you have limited time, skip the boat tour, walk for a bit along the shoreline toward the north, and then walk under the bridge to Diamond Beach. The time spent on the beach is much more interesting than a boat tour. When is the best time to visit? You can visit Jökulsárlón at any time of the year. It is stunning in summer and offers an amazing experience in winter. What you need to think about, though, is the weather in Iceland. Usually during the summer you will be able to reach the lagoon and the roads are fine. You have 24-hour daylight and many interesting opportunities for spectacular photography. However, in winter the weather and the road conditions can easily prevent you from making the 6-hour drive from Reykjavík to Jökulsárlón. And daylight only lasts for about 6 hours. So the best time to visit the lagoon is from the beginning of September until the end of October. The weather is usually fine, the light is great, and you can expect to see the northern lights. And, best of all, there’ll be less traffic by the lagoon.

In 2016, when I discovered Stuðlagil or Studlagil (eng), gave the canyon its name, and turned it into one of the most popular tourist attractions in Iceland with my writing and photography, it was completely unknown to both Icelanders and tourists traveling in Iceland. This is according to a 100-page report conducted by the University of Iceland for the Icelandic Tourism Research Center published in 2019. In 2016 I also set up the point for Studlagil on Google Maps so people could easily find this beautiful place. Although Stuðlagil and its basalt columns have existed forever, much of this fascinating landscape was below the water level of the river Jökla until a few years ago. Possibly more than 4 meters or 17 feet. It is almost hard to believe, when standing by the picturesque, relaxing river, watching the birds swim in joy and harmony, that Studlagil was a terrifying place under the pressure of a dominating and angry river. It is, by any standard, one of the most striking places in Iceland where you can see and photograph exceptional basalt columns. Jökuldalur valley Jökuldalur or the “Glacier Valley” is an impressive valley in East Iceland and home of Studlagil. Since early on, it has mostly consisted of sheep farms, some of which are considered among the best in the country. The valley is also known for its forceful glacial river that has three names: Jökulsá á Brú, Jökulsá á Dal, and Jökla, which forces its way down from the highland through the bottom to the valley for centuries. When heading to northern Iceland from the town of Egilsstaðir in the Eastern Region in Iceland on the Ring Road, road no. 1, part of the road goes through the lower part of Jökuldalur valley. To enter upper Jökuldalur, you need to take a turn south onto road no. 923 near the Skjödólfsstaðir farm. In upper Jökuldalur, you will find the exceptionally beautiful waterfalls: Stuðlafoss (basalt column waterfall) and the Stuðlagil canyon (basalt column canyon). The terrifying river that kept Studlagil basalt column canyon hidden Although this part of the river Jökulsá á Brú (the glacier river by the bridge) is magnificent because of its rare basalt column formation, not many had visited this natural wonder before 2016. It was truly one of the most stunning undiscovered gems in Iceland until I discovered Studlagil (Stuðlagil) basalt column canyon on one of my travels in Iceland and turned it into one of the most popular tourist attractions in Iceland with my writing and photography, as was stated in the report by the Icelandic Tourism Research Center. However, there is a reason for the lack of visits before that time. For centuries, River Jökla, which is 150 kilometers long, was one of the largest and most powerful glacial rivers in Iceland until the Hálslón reservoir was built. It was so strong that it divided the valley Jökuldalur into two parts that didn't have much communication for centuries. It was a river that was both dangerous and difficult to cross. It was the only river in Iceland that became known by its local name (Jökla) rather than either of its real name. The reservoir that swallowed the glacial river When Icelanders built the hydroelectric plant Kárahnjúkavirkjun and created the vast Hálslón reservoir, in the highlands in Hafrahvammagljúfur canyon, the sources of River Jökla were affected. The water from the sources in the northeastern highlands was diverted into the Hálslón reservoir, which ultimately prevented Jökla from running as a glacial river through the valley of Jökuldalur and Studlagil Canyon. From the reservoir, the river flows with its former force through 60 kilometers of underground tunnels to drive the hydroelectric turbines of the power plant. So, most of the sources of River Jökulsá á Brú don't reach Jökuldalur Valley anymore. They are now channeled to Fljótsdalur Valley. This project was executed by Icelanders to build a hydroelectric power plant to provide the aluminum plant in Reyðarfjörður electricity. It was a grand-scale interference with nature. No wonder the whole project led to a dispute. The sacrifice of building a power plant The hydroelectric project caused emotional disputes in Iceland during its construction. It was a major interference in nature. Not only did the reservoir drown valuable landscapes and natural wonders as it started to accumulate, but also changed the second largest river in Iceland. It even swallowed Töfrafoss waterfall that disappeared into the deep. The argument on the preservationists’ side was that the 57-square-kilometer reservoir has caused an irreversible environmental damage to the landscape, natural wonders, and the fauna. But ironically, it also revealed a beautiful and unique basalt column, a natural wonder, the Stuðlagil basalt column canyon. Stuðlagil—a ravishing natural wonder The change for the river Jökla was huge, as it changed from a glacial river to one fed by springs and creeks. Most of its water now comes from the lower part of the highlands and the surrounding mountains. Accordingly, its water level is much lower, and the river’s force has changed dramatically. Instead of being a forceful river carrying 120 tons of sand, mud, and dirt from under the Vatnajokull glacier every hour, it became a lovely, clear, blue flow leisurely wending its way down to the river’s mouth. However, sometimes, during autumn, the river changes to its older form when the Hálslón reservoir is full. At that point, the overflow of the glacial water from the mighty Vatnajökull glacier starts to float through Jökuldalur again. Usually, this happens in late August or September, but the volume is nowhere near what it was in the old days. this changes the appearance and experience of visiting Studlagil. How to visit the Studlagil Canyon? The west side Accessing Studlagil is relatively straightforward, with two options. The worse option and hardly worth it is to drive to the Grund farm and view the canyon from the west side of the canyon and the river. After turning south on Ring Road no. 1 by Skjödólfsstaðir to road no. 923, drive about 20 kilometers to farm Grund. At the farm, you will find a parking lot. Of the two viewing options, the west side of Studlagil is much less exciting, as the observation platform is oddly placed, has 240 steps (like walking up and down 18 floors in an apartment building), and gives a very limited view of the canyon’s true beauty. The west position is not worthwhile for photographers, as it is difficult to photograph the canyon's beauty from there. Furthermore, hiking on the east side is more comfortable than climbing hundreds of steps. The west side at Grund is a waste of time and energy. The east side (that I would recommend) The second option to view and experience Studlagil requires some hiking—an effort that only adds to the enjoyment of visiting such a place. Again, after turning south on Ring Road no. 1 by Skjödólfsstaðir to road no. 923, drive about 14 kilometers to farm Klaustursel. Less driving is required to reach the Klaustursel farm than Grund. On River Jöklai, by Klaustursel, you find a bridge on the east side. By the bridge, there is a parking lot on the west side. You can also drive over the new bridge about one-and-a-half kilometers to another parking lot on the east side and shorten the hike. After crossing the bridge to the east riverbank, hike for three kilometers to reach Stuðlagil canyon and is probably less of an effort and more interesting than climbing the odd stairs on the west side by Grund. Climbing down to the river in the canyon is possible at one spot and requires caution, but once down by the river, you sense that you have entered a wonder-world of basalt columns. The stones and rocks are sometimes wet and slippery, so take precautions. The hike for both ways is six to eight kilometers, and reaching the stop by the canyon takes probably two to three hours. I recommend going to the canyon in the morning for photography. An excellent way to plan this visit is to stay at a Skjödólfsstaðir accommodation or campsite and get an early morning start. When to visit Stuðlagil Canyon? It is advisable to visit Stuðlagil Canyon in the summer, from the beginning of June until the second week of August. In August, the hydroelectric reservoir's overflow sends part of the old dirty glacial river down the river path. This occurs every year in the middle of August and changes this natural wonder substantially. In winter, the vibrant colors of the vegetation disappear, and the canyon becomes dull and drab and is often covered with snow and ice. It is not noteworthy for viewing or photography as in the colorful summer days when the river is turquoise instead of brown and dirty.

Iceland is a geological marvel, offering a wide variety of places for geologists to conduct research, making it a significant source of study compared to most locations on the planet. Some geological wonders, such as basalt column stacks and various basalt column formations, are also among the most popular tourist attractions. Although this beautiful structure, which originates from basalt lava, can be found in many places worldwide, Iceland is the best place to find many beautiful basalt columns. At least where the distance between them is relatively short. The basalt column is a magnificent rock formation that has inspired many artists and designers and has sometimes been elevated to a divine level, as with our famous church, Hallgrímskirkja in Reykjavík. Basalt column places that you will enjoy We only had two main premises when choosing from the many basalt column places in Iceland. On the one hand, the place had to be a joy to visit and, on the other, relatively easy to access. Of the ten places, we choose at least four to five that are among Iceland's most visited tourist attractions. Places that people love to visit and photograph. But all the ten we chose are truly places that we can label as stunning natural wonders and places you will not regret visiting. The best way to explore Iceland's many basalt column sites is to rent a car and drive between them. Make a journey out of this interest in basalt columns. As car rental is expensive in Iceland, here is a useful link to compare offers from reliable companies and find the best price. 1. Stuðlagil canyon in Jökuldalur The newly discovered Stuðlagil, with its fascinating story at Jökuldalur valley in the Northeastern Region of Iceland, is probably one of the most beautiful basalt column attractions on the planet. As I have discussed in another article about Stuðlagil, I am the person who discovered this unique place and put it on the map. In 2016, I discovered Stuðlagil and turned it into one of Iceland's most popular tourist attractions with my writing and photography. The cathedral-like cliff formation around the turquoise-blue river is breathtaking. When you are down in the canyon, it feels like one of the otherworldly places or another dimension. The many forms of the basalt column are simply unique and a feast for photographers and those who enjoy the spectacular handwork of mother nature. For more information about Stuðlagil and its location on the map of Iceland, click Stuðlagil 2. Gerðuberg Gerðuberg at Snæfellsnes Peninsula is an almost unbelievably regular cliff composed of hundreds of stacks of basalt columns. From the road, it looks like any other cliff in the landscape, but once you approach, the beauty of this natural wonder opens up. You can observe the stacks from below and above and it does not require steep climbing. Like any basalt column attraction, there are many interesting photo opportunities and the best photo taken by Gerðuberg is yet to be submitted to the internet. For more information about Gerðuberg and its location on the map of Iceland, click Gerðuberg 3. Reynisfjara Throughout the years before Iceland became a favorite destination for tourists, Reynisfjara was never a big attraction when almost only Icelanders traveled the country during summer. We can even say that Reynisfjara was invented as one of the major tourist attractions in Iceland by our visitors, the tourists. And not without reason, one of the most interesting parts of Reynisfjara is the basalt column cliff by the black beach not far from the sea stacks of Reynisdrangar. There are probably thousands of photos floating on the internet taken of people climbing the basalt column in Reynisfjara. For more information about Reynisfjara and its location on the map of Iceland, click Reynisfjara 4. Hljóðaklettar Like Stuðlagil in Jökuldalur, Hljóðaklettar or Echo Cliffs is more like a wonderland constructed by patient people dedicated to minute detail rather than by the hand of mother nature. Or it might be the place where she worked on her art skills. On arrival, you are tempted to think that this is a bit weird. The many rock formations and patterns are almost deceiving and can easily fuel your imagination. In a place like this, you can easily understand why Icelanders were so interested in the stories of elves and small people living on cliffs as most of our many folklores reveal. For more information about Hljóðaklettar and its location on the map of Iceland, click Hljóðaklettar 5. Kálfshamarsvík Another great basalt column formation by the seashore, just like Reynisfjara, but very different. Kálfshamarsvík is a small bay on the Vatnsnes Peninsula in the Northern Region of Iceland. When you approach, it seems like just another flat bay by the shore, but as you come closer, the magic is revealed. The many rock formations, including the many basalt column formations, makes Kálfshamarsvík one of the most interesting attractions in Iceland and surely one of the most interesting basalt column attractions on our little island. For more information about Kálfshamarsvík and its location on the map of Iceland, click Kálfshamarsvík 6. Dverghamrar The Dwarfs Steep Cliff or Dverghamrar, is one of the wonderful gems in the Southern Region in Iceland just by the Ring Road. It is a perfect place to watch basalt columns without much effort if you are on a family tour and driving your own car on the Ring Road. This is also a good place to stop for a picnic and relax, surrounded by wonderful landscapes. But as the name implies, the basalt columns are quite small, and caution is needed as you might be surrounded by small people and elves. They are not particularly keen on having traffic of people by their homes. For more information about Dverghamrar and its location on the map of Iceland, click Dverghamrar 7. Svartifoss When you have two magnificent natural wonders combined into one, like a basalt column cliff and a waterfall, you most definitely have a winner. This combination of mother nature is so irresistible that you are easily hypnotized when placed in front of it. Svartifoss is a relatively small waterfall in a small spring-fed river, but falling over the basalt column in this quiet place fills your heart with enormous joy. It is one of those places that is so relaxing that it seems to lower blood pressure and could possibly replace tranquilizers. The basalt column cliff is beautiful and would be worth visiting even without the waterfall. For more information about Svartifoss and its location on the map of Iceland, click Svartifoss 8. Arnarstapi - Hellnar in Snæfellsnes Peninsula There are many reasons to walk the hiking path, from the small hamlet Arnarstapi, in the Snæfellsnes peninsula, to the tiny hamlet Hellnar. One is to view the many basalt column formations by the seashore. On this somewhat easy walk, there are many formations, and most of them are cliffs packed with birds, especially in spring and early summer. It is a very lively and enjoyable walk for everyone, and one of the attractions is the many basalt column formations. For more information about Arnarstapi - Hellnar and its location on the map of Iceland, click Arnarstapi – Hellnar 9. Stuðlafoss The newly discovered Stuðlagil canyon in the Jökuldalur Valley drew more attention to the Stuðlafoss waterfall and the basalt columns cliffs. The waterfall is in many ways similar to Svaritfoss, although the stacks are reversed. It is also a combination of a small waterfall and a small cliff of basalt column formation. For more information about Stuðlafoss and its location on the map of Iceland, click Stuðlafoss 10. Aldeyjarfoss In contrast to the Svartifoss waterfall and Stuðlafoss waterfall, Aldeyjarfoss is fed by a mighty glacial river. The river falls from a cliff, which is a major artwork of basalt columns. It is a waterfall viewed by many as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland, although it did not make it to our list of 10 most impressive waterfalls. The basalt column surrounding the waterfall is one of the most impressive ones in Iceland. For more information about Aldeyjarfoss and its location on the map of Iceland, click Aldeyjarfoss

Looking for a unique and unforgettable travel experience? Look no further than the Landmannalaugar region of Iceland. This stunning area is known for its otherworldly landscapes, including colorful mountains and geothermal hot springs. But it's not just the scenery that makes Landmannalaugar such a special destination - it's also the sense of adventure that comes with exploring a remote and rugged part of the world. And the best way to experience it all is a private tour with a Landmannalaugar local tour guide. From hiking through lava fields to soaking in natural hot springs, this tour offers a chance to discover the hidden gems of Iceland while immersing yourself in its stunning natural beauty. So if you're ready to step off the beaten path and embark on an unforgettable journey, join us for a Landmannalaugar tour and prepare to be amazed. This quality tour has been offered since 2018 and is operated by Hit Iceland and Einar Páll Svavarsson to Landmannalaugar from Reykjavík City and back. It is a journey to some of the most impressive landscapes and exciting attractions in Iceland and possibly to the most breathtaking places on the planet inside the stunning Torfajökull Caldera. My specialties are natural wonders, inspiring places in Icelandic nature, and places of historical and geological importance, especially in the Highland. If you want to get the most out of a day tour with a knowledgeable local expert on Iceland by your side in a new modified 4X4 vehicle, this is your tour. It is a private tour of a maximum of four passengers. The tour is a visit to the Highland, and we go to one of the most captivating places you can find in Iceland, the northwest part of the Torfajökull caldera and the only entrance possible in a vehicle. The purpose of the tour is to show natural wonders as well as presenting the beauty, the landform, geology, landscape, and the feeling you experience when you are close to spectacular natural wonders. The tour is offered from the time Landmannalaugar road opens in spring, usually in the middle of June (occasionally in late May) until late September when the snow starts to fall. During winter, everything in Landmannalaugar and the Islandic Highlands is covered with snow and not particularly interesting. What can we tell you about Landmannalaugar and Torfajökull Caldera? Landmannalaugar is perhaps better described as an area of mysterious landscape rather than a place. In essence, it is the northernmost part of the spectacular and unique volcanic system, Torfajökull Caldera, which is best known for its colorful rhyolite mountains. It is a vast region in the highland with many different hiking trails, mysterious and colorful valleys, warm creeks mixed with geothermal water, glacial rivers, spring-fed rivers, geothermal pool, volcanos, lava fields, and mountain peaks with stunning views towards impressive hot springs and rhyolite mountains of many different colors. In Landmannalaugar, you can explore, hike, relax, and experience. You can also have a walk through a mysterious small valley with small hot springs all around you. If you are interested in photography, the motives and landscapes to capture are endless. In Landmannalaugar, you can place yourself in a unique spot and easily find your private sanctuary among the magnificent colors of rhyolite mountains as you walk some of the beautiful Landmannalaugar tracks. The Hit Iceland tour is a perfect way to learn about Landmannalaugar, to understand what the Highland is all about, and how to drive on F-roads. What is there to see along the way to and from Landmannalaugar? The drive to Landmannalaugar is scenic, through a continually changing landform. As one of our passengers told us, it is like driving from one painting to another but all very different, for example, a drive through beautiful farmlands to a black sand wasteland. Along the way, we visit one of the most beautiful canyons, Sigöldugljúfur, known for its many small and spectacular spring-fed waterfalls. It is a stop that usually takes people’s breaths away, and the reaction is often a double wow. We also stop by a stunning volcanic crater, a maar, or an explosion crater, as it is called in Icelandic. Like Sigöldugljúfur, it is a spectacular site and one of only a few you can find in Iceland. We also make a short stop at Frostastaðarvatn Lake, close to Landmannalaugar. On our way back, we drive through the lava fields of Dómadalur Valley and by the Volcano Hekla, one of the most active volcanos in Iceland for many centuries. It is a tour of wow, ooh, gosh, and stunning. Landmannalaugar private tour from Reykjavík to Háifoss Waterfall and Hnausapollur Crater The tour starts in Reykjavík at 8:00 AM and takes you along the south coast through Selfoss Town and then straight to the edge of the Highland. Our first stop, around 10:00 AM in the morning, is at Háifoss Waterfall, the second-highest waterfall in Iceland. From there, we continue about for a half-hour drive to the magnificent small waterfalls in Sigöldugljúfur Canyon. The canyon is among the most photogenic places in Iceland, but it is not visited by many. From Sigöldugljúfur, we drive through a large lava field to the Hnausapollur volcanic crater, which is accompanied by a small turquoise-colored lake. After the Hnausapollur explosion crater during our Landmannalaugar private tour, we stop by Frostastaðavatn Lake, which presents a magnificent Highland view. By the lake, you have a great view over a significant part of the Highland. After viewing the crater, the lake, and admiring the landscape, we continue the short distance towards the mountains around Landmannalaugar, crossing rivers and stopping at the service center. We arrive at around 12:30 PM, a good time for a light lunch. Our stop in Landmannalaugar is about three and a half to four hours. Landmannalaugar private tour and the stop at Landmannalaugar, hiking, and the geothermal pool When we arrive in Landmannalaugar, we stop by the service center, and it is an excellent opportunity to take a hike with me, preferably to the Laugahringur or the Landmannalaugar lava field circle. It is a short hike that takes you through the interesting area of lava that erupted from Brennisteinsalda Volcano and flooded in the late 15th century. We also hike by some small smoking hot springs, geothermal/sulfur steam, and back through the small colorful gulley Grænagil (Green gulley). The 4-km hike and an elevation of about 100 meters takes roughly an hour and a half; it is a breathtaking introduction to the kind of landforms and landscape you encounter in the Landmannalaugar area. There is also another option to go for: the top of Brennisteinsalda Volcano, which takes about an hour and a half more in addition to Laugahringur; it is an exceptional peak that presents a 360-degree view to a vast part of the Icelandic Highland. The Brennisteinsalda hike and the addition to the Laugahringur hike and is about 7 kilometers (2 miles) with an elevation of 300 meters. It is a relatively easy but stunning walk that takes about 3 to 3 and a half hours. Finally, when we come back from the hike, you can dip into the famous Landmannalaugar geothermal natural pool. So, it is essential to bring hiking shoes and a small backpack with a bottle of water, sandwiches, light lunch, and some snacks as well as a towel and swimming suit to enjoy this stop to it fullest. The drive back through Dómadalur Valley From Landmannalaugar, we continue our tour at around 4:30 PM, depending on the activity. We begin by driving through the scenic drive through the Dómadalur Valley. The drive takes us through some magnificent landscape that is typical to the Icelandic Highland: vast fields of lava, small lakes, mountains, volcanoes, rivers, creeks and a 4X4 highland road, a landform often referred to as moon-like landscape. No wonder it was one of the filming locations at Radleys Scott Prometheus. It is a magical scenic drive that ends by the Volcano Hekla that could display one of its small eruptions at any time, according to geologists. We will stop once or twice just to take a photo and inhale the amazing moment of being in the Highland. From Hekla, we drive to Reykjavík and can expect to be there between 7:00 to 8:00 PM, so it is a long day tour. A once in a lifetime experience? For most people, this tour is a once in a lifetime experience. It is an opportunity to visit some of the most remarkable natural wonders in Iceland in a relaxed and convenient way, in a brand new, properly equipped and modified 4X4 Toyota Land Cruiser 2023 model. You will be traveling just like the locals do in the Icelandic Highland. It is also a scenic drive loaded with information from your highly knowledgeable local guide, Einar Páll Svavarsson, owner and creator of Hit Iceland, about the geology and geography of Iceland as well as the country’s history and literature. You will see and experience some of the most remarkable landforms on the planet as well as magnificent waterfalls. Additionally, you will get an infinite number of photo-taking opportunities whether you are a professional photographer or just taking a selfie. You will be accompanied with a highly experienced Icelandic local driver guide with extensive knowledge about Iceland, geology, the country, people, history, and, more importantly, with years of experience driving on F highland roads in Iceland. It will be a drive to some of the most interesting places in Iceland, a hiking tour with a guide around Laugahraun lava field and up to the volcano Brennisteinsalda, and a dip into a natural geothermal pool (the real thing—not man-made like the Blue Lagoon). Book your Landmannalaugar tour here What is included? A driver guide, a new modified 4X4 modified Toyota Land Cruiser vehicle, and fees for the service center and facilities in Landmannalaugar. A guided hike up to Mt. Brennisteinsalda. What is not included? Food, snacks, and drinks, so it is a good idea to bring snacks, water (soda), sandwiches, etc. Good to know and have in mind The weather in Iceland is unpredictable, especially in the highland. It is a place that is seldom particularly warm. What to bring with you? Hiking shoes and a swimsuit if you want to dip into the geothermal pool. We also advise you to bring warm clothes and a rain-resistant overlay. The driver will stop at service stations with small roadside convenience stores where you can purchase food and snacks if you don't bring food. Pick-up? In the booking process below, you tell me where you prefer to be picked up in Reykjavík. I can also pick you up in Hveragerði, Selfoss or in accommodation close to those towns. Feel free to contact me and ask for special requests for pick up along the road to the intersection of road nr. 1 and road nr. 30. CUSTOMERS REVIEWS From 2018 to 2023 Our day with Einar was the best day of our 12 day trip to Iceland! The beauty, the hidden spots, the hike and all the knowledge that was shared was well worth the time and the investment for our trip to Landmannalaugar. I would highly encourage anyone who is thinking about a trip to Landmannalaugar to go with Einar....you will love it! Bobbie Sack-Parisi June 23th 2023 The tour with you was exceptional and superb We want to commend you for the excellent tour we had with you few days ago. It is an unforgettable experience to say the least. Your encouragement made us to go all the way up and we both are proud that we did it, not knowing that we could make it. The tour with you was exceptional and superb and we enjoyed the drive, your knowledge, exceptional landscape and views and accomplishing the most strenuous hike with your relentless encouragement and of course the beautiful calm windless weather. Only thing we wish we had some walking sticks which would have helped going up and down the rough terrain. R &J Tripuraneni California Very safe driver and guide and helped us during the hike We had a great day with Einar on the Landmannalaugar tour. Great communication before the tour to agree the best pick up point. Very punctual. Took us to some amazing places and even made an extra stop to see waterfalls that were not on the itinerary. Didn’t rush us at all. Very safe driver and guide and helped us during the hike on sections that were challenging. Would highly recommend. Anna Verduyn The tour into the Icelandic highlands, including a hike in Landmannalaugar, was fantastic From the booking process to the organisation and execution of the tour - everything went perfectly. Einar already answered all our questions in advance and gave us a lot of information about Iceland and the highlands during the tour. He is an extremely friendly and competent tour guide and we felt very comfortable with him. Even though the trip was long, Einar made it entertaining with several stops. His car is comfortable and offers enough space. The highlight of the tour was the hike in Landmannalaugar. Wonderfull and very impressive. We can warmly recommend the tour with Einar to everyone. :) Melanie Walker The tour is a must The landscapes are stunning and explanations from the guide are highly interesting! Calli van Spaandonk Excellent service, treatment and professionalism. We would repeat without hesitation !!! We chose this excursion because after reading several companies and proposals it offered us privacy, a route with different visits and trekking. We were in Landmannalaugar last week (August). We loved it! Pick up at the hotel and several stops, each more spectacular, until you reach your destination. once there, time to eat and trekkin begins. Impressive views and effort, every climb, has a reward 10. Einar accompanied us at all times giving us explanations. Thank you very much Einer for all the commute conversations. OLGA POVEDA Spain We could not have wished for a better introduction to the highlands. We had a lovely trip on our first day in Iceland. Despite the rain on our hiking-trip we had a great time. Our guide Einar showed us some beautiful waterfalls of the main track, just awesome ! We especially liked the calmness of our guide and the kind reminder of our trip on the day before. Monique Wijers This was definitely the highlight of our 13 days in Iceland! We had an amazing day touring the the Highlands and Landmannalaugar. Einar was the perfect tour guide as he gave us his perspective on life in Iceland as well as his extensive knowledge of the Highlands. The stops we made for photographs were absolutely stunning. The day almost didn't happen as a light snow several days before had made some of the roads difficult. But through Einar's contacts and persistence he was able to determine that we could safely make it to Landmannalaugur. He hiked through beautiful lava fields and almost made it to the top of a volcano before the snow made the trails too slippery. As our last item before heading home we relaxed in the geothermal river that runs through Landmannalugur. Thanks Einar Mike Menne The Landmannalaugar tour with Einar was terrific It was the first thing we did in Iceland, and Einar gave us such a good foundation about various different aspects of the country. We would never have seen the highlands but for this trip, and even though the weather was pretty iffy, Landmannalaugur itself was a wonder, and the hike to the top of the volcano was great. We highly recommend it. Katherine Barton A perfect experience, highly recommended! The trip was the highlight of my stay in Iceland and my wife and I really enjoyed spending the time with Einar and learning about the land and the culture from a native. Charles Barker- September This was a perfect end to our Iceland trip We had driven the ring road on our own and wanted one guided tour to see some of the interior. There were a lot of choices but we are so glad we chose Hit Iceland and the Landmannalauger tour. Einar was friendly, helpful and full of information about the country, ancient history to present day. While we would have loved to hike longer, the mix of Einar's driving tour and the 3-hour hike was just right for a day trip. If we come back I would choose Hit Iceland again for sure. Barbara Blacker The views was amazing and truly beautiful We joined Landmanalaugar day tour on September. Einar a very good and experiences guide are so friendly. Well worth it! Chia Chin Liew A perfect level of adventure for our family of four This was a terrific tour. Einar is a personable font of knowledge, and took us to places we wouldn't have been comfortable driving on our own. The highlight was the 4.5 mi hike at Landmannalaugar, but the other stops were also impressive. Benjamin Schwartz I highly recommend the tour! Amazing day!! We got to see places that weren't mentioned in the common tours companies, we had a lot of explanations and information from our guide, the drive was save and very interesting with him ! It was a great experience, very flexible organization and wonderful landscapes. Léna Joyeux Thanks a lot Einar for a very nice day We have been lucky with a nice weather, and Einar has been an excellent guide, sharing his knowledge and experience in Iceland. A private tour that we definitely recommend. Thierry Sourp- August 4th 2019 Tour of a lifetime! This tour far exceeded my expectations. Highlight of our trip to Iceland! Patrick Lucy It was really nice tour I can recommend it without any kind of doubt. Ivan Menga I would highly recommend this tour! My husband and I along with our son and daughter in law went on the tour . We were celebrating my husband’s 60th birthday and Einar went out of the way to make it a very memorable celebratory day .He was with us hiking, talking and taking pictures for us . He was explaining all about Iceland during our drives continuously. I would highly recommend this tour ! He was very mindful during our hike of each of our capabilities and dealt with patience ! Sita Yanamadala Probably the highlight of our whole trip to Iceland Our trip to Landmannalaugar with Einar was probably the highlight of our whole trip to Iceland. Helped by great weather we saw some of the most breathtaking scenery I think we will ever see in our lives. Einar was so friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. We learned a lot from him and enjoyed his gentle company. He paced the day really well and was very patient on the 3.5 hour hike to the top and back (he's a lot fitter than we are!). Thoroughly enjoyed the dip in the thermal river/pool at the end of the hike! A thoroughly enjoyable day and we highly recommend Einar and Hit Iceland. Duncan Powell The route was perfect and beautiful Our time with Einar would not have been better! We were on the 4x4 highlands road and I only felt nothing more then 100% safe in everything that he did. We hiked to the top of a volcano and he took it very easy with me since I was just getting over an illness. He knew about secret areas that most didn't and the route was perfect and beautiful. His vehicle was very nice and the tour was private with just us! You would be crazy to go with any other tour company! Rachael Sadler Our Landmannalauger tour (June 21st) with Einar was the highlight of our trip to Iceland.. It's unique unworldly beauty is something you have to see to believe and well worth the extra effort needed to visit it. I considered many other tour companies but chose Einar with HitIceland knowing we would have our own guide with us on the trails, adequate time to complete the hiking loop (we're in our mid 60's) without feeling rushed, and since it turned out we were the only people on the tour we didn't have to follow a pre-determined schedule. The additional stops along the way were beautiful as well. Riding in his Land Cruiser was very comfortable (he is a very safe driver) and allowed us time to visit about the history, literature, politics, art, photography and geography of Iceland, all things that Einar has a deep interest in and is very knowledgeable about. Sandra Branlund USA Einar took us to amazing places that exceeded our expectations This one day Landmannalaugar trek was certainly a highlight of our trip to Iceland. We highly recommend this tour with Einar, who is a great guide and a very pleasant person. Daniel Lessa Bastos - Brazil - June 23rd 2019 Surpassed my expectations It was an experience and wonderful places that we met. I recommend, thank you for having a very nice day. Evelia Palacios Diaz - Mexico We had a great time to Landamannalaugar It sure takes some time to go there, but it’s really worth it. This is the place that we will remember most from our visit. The day was a really good day with sunshine, so we could see the nature far away. The pool after the hike was nice, but it’s a bit crowdy when you should change into your swimwear. That has to be done in a small toilet with people standing outside waiting. Einar was a good guide during the whole day! Katarina Sandberg Hansson ...took us places that otherwise would have been impossible This was an amazing experience for my wife and I as first-time visitors to Iceland. I'm a photographer that wanted to see the beauty of Iceland in the Highlands. Einar, our host guide, was amazing and made the visit to Landmannallaugar a trip to remember. Einar was extremely knowledgeable of the area and full of information relevant to our trip. He took us places that otherwise would have been impossible for us to find and photograph. Having looked at other adventure trips into the Highland, this one far exceeded our expectations with a cost component far better than other service providers. I highly recommend this tour with Einar to everyone wanting to get visit Landmannalogugar. Dominick and Barbara Mangiardi - California We enjoyed litteraly every minute of the tour Amazing! We got a nice guide who new the most beautiful hidden places where nobody else stopped. And they were really worth seeiing. We enjoyed litteraly every minute of the tour to landmannalaugar. Jildou Visser - USA This trip was the highlight of our trip to Iceland We had a great time with Einar, who picked us on time at our hotel and had a pleasant conversation during our drive. Einar is quite knowledgeable about Icelandic culture and history and shared many stories. Took us off the beaten path to see spectacular sights. This trip was the highlight of our trip to Iceland. Bhaskara Tripuraneni - USA Muy recomendable Lo descubrí casualmente y la experiencia fue excelente, Einar con su excelente atención y conocimiento de la zona, hizo que la jornada fuera inolvidable, nos enseñó rincones que no hubiéramos conocido sin el y nos acompañó durante el paseo que dimos dándonos detalles de lo que visitábamos. Muy recomendable. Lucas Peinado Mataix - Spain Einar was full of information, and took us to some really beautiful places as well as the Landmannalaugar area. My wife and I took this tour on our last full day in Iceland, and were lucky to have a personal tout on the day with just the two of us. Einar was full of information, and took us to some really beautiful places, that were tourist free, as well as the Landmannalaugar area. The tour is very spectacular, and the walk up the trail as Landmannalaugar is really spectacular. My only advice is to wear good walking shoes, as the terrain can be a bit precarious at the top of the mountain. Some people took walking poles, we didn't have any so we didn't and still made it ok. The trail to the top of the sandy coloured mountain is about 7km. Be sure to take warm layers of clothing, and your camera. A mobile phone is a good start, but a DSLR is better as the views are quite unique to this area. The mountains are colourful from the various minerals including obsidian, we saw shades of green, blue, orange, red, black and yellow, all of which changed with the varying levels of light. I went on a similar tour 10 years ago, and saw new things on this trip that I had not read about in tourist guides elsewhere. Ben Drury - Australia Einar showed us three beautiful spots before we arrived at Landmannalaugar We had an unforgettable trip with Einar to Landmannalaugar! We stayed in Selfoss, so Einar was so friendly to pick us up at our house there. There was no one else, so it was a real private tour for us (3 people). It was a beautiful sunny day after a lot of rain, so the colourful mountains were amazing. Einar showed us three beautiful spots before we arrived at Landmannalaugar. Because of the good weather we did a 2,5 hour hike up the mountain with him. Amazing views at the top. Then there was time to take a bath in the hot pool (bring your swimwear!). Then we drove back. Einar told us many things about the landscape, the vulcanoes, and gave us tips which places we should visit in Iceland. We had an amazing day with him, later on he sent us some pictures he took during the trip. Thank you Einar! Roos, Hugo and Eric de Thouars - Netherlands One of the highlights of our trip to Iceland The Highlands tour was one of the highlights of our trip to Iceland — a truly remarkable experience. Einar was knowledgeable and a fantastic guide. Highly recommended! Ken Kim - USA This day tour was perfect!. The most complete and not most expensive day tour, comparared with those proposed by other companies A private tour (max 4 persons) for a very reasonable price. In a very comfortable and spacious jeep, Einar, guide and founder of Hit Iceland company, who has spent most of his childhood in Landmannalaugar. will give you much information as possible on this site ( he is also a journalist). In summary: a trek in lava fields, a bath in a natural hot pool, a volcano crater, waterfalls .... make this day a memorable day! Nelly - France The tour was great, full of explanations and nice chats. Landscapes are gorgeous Our tour with Einar was a really outmost experience. We choose the one day "Landmannalaugar highland adventure & Geothermal Pool tour". We were the only 2 participants so it was a real "private" tour ! Einar was so kind to pick us up at our place in Reykjavík even if on a short notice. The tour was great, full of explanations and nice chats. Landscapes are gorgeous, Landmannalaugar is for sure a not to miss place. Einar came also with us during a short (abt. 2 hrs) hike up to Brennisteinsalda volcano: breathtaking ! The short dip in the pools at the end was as well great ! Worth the price, I would definitely reccomend it! Thank you again Einar and warmest regards to your daughter as well ! Tiziana and Barbara - Italy Amazing experience. It was a amazing experience, the place and our guide Einar were so good. Thank you very much Eva Pajares Lopez - Spain The place was awsome It was a wonderful experience. The guid was very patient and had good knowledge about the area. It was a nice private tour to have in iceland. The place was awsome. swapnil Jain - India Very god value for money Very nice tour with Einar, who is very knowledgeable. Told us a lot about Island and the geology around. We saw many spectacular views. Very god value for money:-) I can only recommend this tour / operator. Kim Nielsen - Danemark This was one of the highlights of our trip! We traveled in a truck with 2 other travellers. Our guide, Einar, was very knowledgeable about Icelandic history and the area which made the experience even better. On the way into the highlands, we stopped at a river canyon and a crater lake which were absolutely stunning. At Landmannalauger, we hiked through lava fields and up the the volcano peak. The views were surreal! Afterwards, we got to take a dip in the hot spring at the base. I felt that this was a much more personalized experience than a large group tour, and I highly recommend it to anyone wanting to visit the highlands. Mayra Acord - USA Truly a wonderful experience Beautiful place. Just as enjoyable is the trip with Einar, whose love for and knowledge of Iceland is worth the cost of the trip. Truly a wonderful experience. Daniel Fultz - USA It’s a mind blowing experience Highly recommended! It’s a mind blowing experience to have visited one of the most remote and remarkable natural wonders in Iceland. Every single view is unbelievably amazing! Most lucky to have found an experienced guide Einar who drove us safely to Landmannalaugar. Along the way we enjoyed stunning views of large lava fields, volcanic crater and magnificent waterfalls. We took a much longer hike in the highlands through impressive hot springs and rhyolite mountains of many different colors. Einar was kind enough to introduce us to more of Landmannalaugar by extending our hiking from 2 hours to 4 hours at no extra cost. All of us returned back to Reykjavik happily exhausted :) Thank you!! Ai Li Lim - Singapore this tour was just as advertised This tour was a wonderful start to our 10 day long trip to Iceland. We covered a lot of ground and got to see some breathtaking views. Einar also provided us with some very interesting background into the history of Iceland. All in all, this tour was just as advertised and vastly exceeded our expectations. Highly recommended ! Vinay Shetty - Overall it was an excellant tour Our experience with Hit Iceland and Einar was very good. Landmannalaugar is a very beautiful place along with many interesting spots to see on the way. Einar was a very friendly and informative guide. Overall it was an excellant tour. Ravitheja Addepally - Germany I find my journey extraordinary because of the landscape Despite the not so good weather, I find my journey extraordinary because of what the landscape you visit with your own eyes. Plus with Einar (our guide) he's been giving a lot of good knowledge about Iceland. And I love the fact that this tour doesn't force you to pay for the whole 4 peoples if you have only 1 or 2.. Jiranuj Kamolvisit

There are many glacier tongues that stem from the massive ice cap Vatnajökull. When driving the Ring Road in Iceland on the south side, the glacier tongues create a fascinating landscape, with ice cliffs falling hundreds of meters and moving at such a slow speed that the human eye can't capture the movement. The view is decorated with a clean white top and a beautiful green and yellow foreground during summer. As the ice melts and decreases, the cliffs in between the tongues increase. Each tongue has a unique name, with the most famous and accessible being Skaftafellsjokull and Svínafellsjökull on the southern side. Svínafellsjökull is a great place to get close to a glacier tongue You want to see a glacier tongue up close for many reasons. First is the ice breaking apart and forming hundreds of cracks and stacks of an endless formation. It is always a mild attack on your imagination as you just can't avoid strange thoughts in proximity to this demolishing part of nature. Secondly, the beauty of this amazing landscape is so bright and clean yet so powerful. Thirdly, there is the weirdness when you can hear the movement and all the spooky sounds, although you can't see the movement. Then, there are many motives you can find to photograph. We could probably go on and on. Svínafellsjökull glacier has also gained fame as an attraction after this fascinating site was selected as a location for Game of Thrones season seven to represent "north of the wall." Glacier tongues and lagoons You will find a lake or at least a small pond at the end of many glacier tongues. Some are larger glacier tongues, like the famous Jökulsárlón and Fjallsárlón, where the icebergs float on a relatively large lake, and some are small with icebergs that have broken from the tongues. The lagoon by Svínafellsjökull is small but enough to give the glacier a fascinating and compelling look. The glacier tongue is simply a fascinating phenomenon in nature, and there are not many places you can visit such a natural wonder with such proximity as you can by visiting Svínafellsjökull. For those interested in seeing Svínafellsjökull, you only need to drive a few kilometers east from Skaftafell on the Ring Road and turn left to drive the short distance to Svínafellsjökull.

Suppose you are looking for an exciting drive, a short road trip, or a tour in Iceland where you can comfortably drive and see the magnificent landscapes and beautiful natural wonders, astonishing small villages, and places with entertaining stories. In that case, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula Drive is an excellent option. Especially if you have your own car, ccamper, or a rental car, before you start. For a better understanding of what kind of car fits you tour make sure you read my extensive article about choosing the right car in Iceland. It is quite possible to take the Snæfellsnes Peninsula drive in a day, but you have to ask yourself, "am I really in a hurry when traveling?" I cannot suggest or advise such a rush as I always encourage people to enjoy the landscapes and the various natural wonders and appreciate the stories and folklore that have developed for centuries. If you stay in Reykjavík, the whole drive is approximately 500 kilometers or 310 miles. The area you cover has a good cell phone cover and is never specifically remote. It is a scenic drive by the shoreline with a spectacular view of mountains and a beautiful glacier. Enjoy the drive and inhale the natural wonders To get the most out of your drive, we recommend three days and two nights to enjoy the awesome Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The drive is both scenic and a place where you can find many impressive natural wonders. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula, located in the West Region of Iceland, also has interesting and beautiful small towns and villages with excellent accommodations, camping sites, cafés, and restaurants. Some also offer interesting tours and activities. Our tour begins and ends in Borgarnes town in the West Region, which is only 70 kilometers, 45 miles, from Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland. It is a road by the intersection of Road nr 1 (the Ring Road) and Road nr. 54. What I have in mind here is that you don't take the same way back when you finish the drive and can see new things all through your drive. Find a rental car in Iceland Put in your preferred dates and compare prices between all major rental car companies What you will see Driving on this tour around the Snæfellsnes Peninsula on Road Nr. 54, you will see a large crater, fields of lava, waterfalls, basalt columns, stacks and pillars by the shoreline, ravines with strange stories attached to them, and places from stories in the Sagas that happened over a thousand years ago. You will also see Snæfellsjökull, the Snæfellsnes glacier. It is a remarkable journey through landscape and history. In addition, you will visit some beautiful towns and villages and experience a scenic drive with spectacular mountains. The roads, your car, and the best time of the year to take this tour drive This is a trip that you can take at any time during the year, although the most exciting and straightforward time is from the middle of May until the end of September. Regarding seasons, you can fill in some valuable information by reading my comprehensive article about the best time to visit Iceland. The colors of summer also make the lava moss and vegetation very beautiful, giving you a much more enjoyable experience. But experiencing Iceland in the autumn and winter is also quite interesting. Any car, small or large, can be used for this drive as the roads are almost all excellent asphalt roads except for a part on the Northeast part of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula that only has a gravel road. In winter, it is always better and more secure to have a car with a front-wheel drive or preferably a four-wheel drive since they are more stable when the roads are icy and slippery. First day from Borgarnes to Arnarstapi When you drive through the town of Borgarnes heading north, you turn to your left on a roundabout at the edge of this small town to Road Nr. 54 Snæfellsnesvegur or The Snæfellsnes Road. At first, you drive on a lowland area called Mýrar with the whole Snæfellsnes peninsula in front of you with its many mountains and the glacier Snæfellsjökull quite visible at the far end. After a 20-kilometer drive, 13 miles, you will start to notice a large crater in front of you, standing alone on the lowland and dominating the view. This is Eldborg Crater, which you can read about in more detail here, your first stop. To access the walking trail to Eldborg, you turn left approximately 35 kilometers, 22 miles, to Road Nr. 5610 to a farm called Snorrastaðir. From the parking lot, you take the 3-kilometer hike, 2 miles. When you continue on Road Nr. 54. After the hiking tour to Eldborg, you only drive a few kilometers when you reach the short path to Gerðuberg, which you can read about in more detail here. This is a spectacular cliff with a fascinating geological formation of basalt columns. The basalt columns are so regular and so even that you would almost think this is man-made instead of made by Mother Nature. This should be your second stop, and you can drive to a parking lot by the cliffs. From Gerðuberg cliffs to your next and third recommended stop, Bjarnarfoss waterfall, which you can read about in more detail here, is approximately 55 kilometers, 35 miles. This is an incredibly scenic drive on a clear day since there are beautiful mountains on your right side and the glacier Snæfellsjökull at the end of the peninsula in front of you. You will also drive by stunning small ponds. Bjarnarfoss is an impressive waterfall with a spectacular small layer of basalt column cliff. There is a good parking lot beside the road and an easy and enjoyable path to the waterfall by the small spring-fed river. Find accommodation Put in the name of the place you plan to visit to check prices and availability From Bjarnarfoss, you turn towards Road Nr. 574 and take another turn to your left to Road Nr. 5723 to Búðir. From the parking lot at Búðir, there is a beautiful hike by the shoreline. You only need to walk about 500 meters -1.5 kilometers or a mile to enjoy this part of Snæfellsnes. It is a delightful walk where the rush is not required, but leave the sandals in the car as this is mostly walking in the sand. You should wear your hiking shoes, like in most places in Iceland. After Búðir, I recommend a visit to Rauðfeldsgjá, which you can read about in more detail here, a stunning ravine with an intriguing story dating back over a thousand years. Bárður Snæfellsás, a prominent character in the tale, is said to have played a significant role in the area's history. To reach Rauðfeldsgjá, you must travel a few kilometers on Road nr. 574 from Búðir. I suggest reading the fascinating story about Rauðfeldsgjá and the information on Bárður Snæfellsás, both of which can be found at the link above. If you prefer to dine at a restaurant, you should consider the excellent restaurant at the Hotel Búðir. From Búðir, you drive approximately 20 kilometers, 12 miles, to the west on Road Nr.574 to Arnarstapi, which you can read about in more detail here. Arnarstapi and the nearby village or hamlet Hellnar are excellent places to stay in addition to the Hotel at Búðir. Many places in the neighborhood offer affordable accommodations, and there is also a beautiful and convenient camping area at Arnarstapi. This should wrap up your first day at the Snæfellsnes Peninsula drive. Second day Snæfellsnes road trip Arnarstapi to Grundarfjörður You should begin your day early by taking the spectacular 2.5-kilometer hiking trail from the small harbor at Arnarstapi to Hellnar. It is an excellent marked trail by the shoreline, filled with unusual geological formations and lovely birdlife. In contrast to the coastline, you have the excellent Snæfellsjökull glacier and the mountain Stapafell on your right or north. If you take this track, you probably have to walk the same way back to Arnarstapi, but it is entirely worth it. At Arnarstapi, you should salute the statue of the mysterious person and troll Bárður Snæfellsás, which you can read about in a separate article. Bárður is a historical person who had quite an impact on the surrounding area. His story is hilarious and kind of sad at the same time, as part of the Icelandic Sagas. Even though he came to Iceland more than one thousand years ago, he still lives on the slope of the glacier Snæfellsjökull, and his presence is felt by many people who live there. From Arnarstapi, you continue west on Road Nr. 574 to Lóndrangar which you can read about in a separate article. Although the stacks are pretty impressive and visible from the road viewing panel at Þúfubjarg, I recommend driving a bit farther, taking the left turn after a short distance to Malarrif, and walking the one-kilometer walk by the shore to the stacks. It is a more impressive view and also more interesting for photographing. After a few minutes drive from Malarrif, you will find a small cabin on the right side of the road selling tours down to the deep cave Vatnshellir (Water Cave) on your right side. You can take a guided tour with stunning formations deep under the dark lava. As you continue from the Vatnshellir Cave, you turn left on Road Nr. 575 to the parking lot by Djúpalónssandur, which you can read about in a separate article in more detail here and Dritvík. Both are beautiful places to visit and have fascinating histories that go back to the first settlement in Iceland. Although the walk or short hike to Dritvík takes about an hour and a half back and forth, it is an enjoyable scenic hike with stunning stack formations along the way. Both places are ideal for photography, especially on a bright day when the glacier Snæfellsjökull is visible in the background. After Djúpalónssandur and Dritvík which you can read about in a separate article in more detail here, you continue on Road Nr. 574. After a short drive, you will see a small crater, Saxhóll, on your left side. This is ideal for a short stop and a walk up to the top. A good view of the shoreline and the glacier is from the top of the crater. From Saxhóll crater, you turn to Öndverðarnes, the westernmost point at Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The road is a dirt road and bit difficult and worse than a regular gravel road, but along the way, you can visit Skarðsvík which you can read about in a separate article beach and Svörtuloft which you can also read about in a separate article in more detail here cliffs, an excellent addition to the tour but a bit of a loop that takes about one and a half hours with all the stops. The cliffs at Svörtuloft display fantastic lava structures shaped by the Atlantic ocean's mighty force. When you approach the northern side of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, your journey is more like a scenic drive, and you'll visit small towns and villages rather than view natural wonders. The first stop is in the two small villages of Hellisandur and Rif. At Hellisandur, there is an excellent opportunity to visit the Maritime Museum in the Fishermen's Garden. It is an excellent opportunity to understand the hardship it took to live in Iceland only a few centuries ago. It is also a good idea to walk the village of Hellisandur by the shore from the parking lot at the Maritime Museum. When you drive towards Rif, the twin village, you should take a turn on Road Nr. 5738 to the church Inngjaldhólsskirkja that some folklore claim was visited by Cristoper Coluomus, and you can read about it in a separate article. Here you have a good view of the magnificent surroundings in a place called “Under the Glacier.” At Hellissandur, you should stop at Gilbakki Café and taste their fabulous fish soup. The owner is a dear friend of mine and Gunna, my wife, and we have known her since childhood. Her husband built the house a few years ago, and he also provides fresh fish for the fish soup from his daily fishing tour to the Breiðafjörður Bay. Here is an interview with Lúlli about their life at Snæfellsnes peninsula. From Rif village, you drive to the junction of Svöðufoss which you can read about in a separate article, turn right, and head on to the parking lot. A short hike from the parking lot to the beautiful waterfall Svöðufoss and the small basalt column cliffs within the fall. Next, you drive to the friendly town of Ólafsvík, a beautiful small fishing town with old houses and a small harbor. Walking from the town up to the slopes and having a good view over the shoreline is worth walking. After that stop, you continue to Grundarfjörður town, where you should find accommodation or stay at the campsite. Since it is only about 20-kilometer drive from the town of Grundarfjörður to the town of Ólafsvík, you can also find suitable accommodation at Ólafsvík, and the Camp Site in Ólafsvík is relatively new and among the best in Iceland. If you plan to take this self-drive, you will probably look for the best car for the tour and a good rental car price in Iceland. Then this link is exactly what you need. It allows you to easily compare offers from many reliable rental car companies, ensuring you get the most bang for your buck. Third day: Grundarfjörður - Borgarnes A great beginning on your third day is to walk from Grundarfjörður, a parking lot at the center, or from the camping site to Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall and photograph and view the waterfall and the mountain, Kirkjufell which you can read about in a separate article. You can also drive the short distance back on Road nr. 54 and park by the waterfall; the walk from the town is highly recommended. The mountain is probably one of the most renowned mountains in Iceland, and few mountains in Iceland are photographed more than Kirkjufell not surprising as it is one of the most beautiful mountains in Iceland. From Grundarfjörður village, you continue on Road Nr. 54 Snæfellsvegur to the east. After you pass the bridge over the fjord Hraunsfjörður (Lavafjord), you take a turn after a two-and-a-half-kilometer drive to a gravel road, Berserkjahraunsvegur Road Nr. 558, to view Berserkjahraun lava field. You continue on that road for about 1.7 kilometers, a mile, and take a left turn that takes you to the edge and over the lava back to Road Nr. 54, this unusual loop gives you a great view of the lava. The name comes from the Sagas (Eyrbyggja), and you should also read Berserkirnir in Berserkjahraun which you can read about in a separate article. When you have returned to Road Nr. 54, you continue west to one of Iceland's most beautiful and exciting towns, Stykkishólmur. You should begin your arrival to Stykkishólmur with a tour with Sæferðir to sail around the many islands in the large fjord, Breiðafjörður. The Vikingsushi Adventure is highly recommended. Sometimes, on the boat tour, you can spot the white-tailed eagle. After the boat tour, you should walk around the town, preferably up to the little lighthouse on the island beside the harbor now attached to the land. The views from the lighthouse and the top of the island are spectacular in all directions. From Stykkishólmur, I recommend stopping by the mountain of Helgafell, a small mountain in Iceland famous for its mystic powers. According to Eyrbyggja written in the 13th-century, Þorsteinn Þorskabítur drowned near Stykkishólmur in 938 and entered the mountain, where he has resided ever since. His father, Þórólfur Mostrarskegg, had already moved in.  Both of them were followers and good friends of Þór (Thor), the Pagan god who still visits them quite often. If you are visiting Helgafell for the first time, you are eligible to make three wishes. First, you need to go to the graveyard by the church and find the grave of Guðrún Ósvífursdóttir, who was buried there in the year 1000. To log in to the wishing process, make a sign of the cross over her grave. While Guðrún is believed to have lived in the mountain with the Pagan father and son, she was a Christian. To make your wishes, walk up to the top of the mountain in complete silence, without looking left, right, or back. Once you reach the top, enter the stone fence, look east, and present your three wishes. After that, you can look around and talk. From Helgafell, you continue on Road Nr. 54 to the east. Mind you, this part of the road is gravel and harder to drive for those not used to gravel roads. You have to drive a bit slower and take care. On the other hand, this is quite a scenic drive with an excellent view of the large fjord Breiðafjörður and all the islands. When you reach the intersection of Road Nr. 60 that takes you back to Road Nr. 1, where your drive began; you should continue for the moment, then take a right turn after a few hundred meters on Road Nr. 586 to Eiríksstaðir. At Eiríksstaðir is a small museum on the farm where the Viking Erik the Red lived before heading to the west, eventually making it possible for his son, the Viking Leif the Lucky, to find America. You should visit the museum and learn the story of the Viking Erik the Red and Leif the Lucky. After learning about this story from the days of settlement in Iceland, you drive back to Road Nr. 60 and head south. You will eventually come to Road Nr. 1, which will take you to Borgarfjörður and Reykjavík. On your way to Borgarfjörður, you should take the opportunity and walk on top of the small mountain Grábrók and also visit the waterfall Glanni. I am confident this is an excellent plan to see and explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. This plan will give you a good insight into life in Iceland throughout the centuries and a good view of some of the spectacular natural wonders in Snæfellsnes. © Emstrur sf.

The Icelandic highland is a vast area in Iceland and a large portion of the island. It is inland, mainly above an altitude of 300 to 350 meters, around 1000 to 1100 feet. There are many interesting places in the Highland, natural wonders, hiking trails, glaciers, and roads. The whole area, without exception, is highly sensitive and requires caution from everyone traveling in the Highland. It is also the part of Iceland that is only open for three months, from the middle of June until the middle of September. During the other nine months, the Highland is more or less packed with snow, frozen, and only accessible to people with extensive training, preparation, and knowledge. For anyone else, during those nine months, it is dangerous as severe snowstorms can dominate the Highland for days and weeks. Check the opening before planning a visit to the Highland Depending on many factors, such as the amount of snow during winter, the opening of the Highland may vary from year to year. Sometimes the Highland doesn't open until the beginning of July. The opening of the main tracks and roads may also vary. Before you start your Kjölur drive, you should look into the conditions and opening on the Icelandic road and coastal administrations webpage. Because of the altitude, the highland is almost never a warm place, although the weather is often relatively mild during the months of June and July. It is a harsh environment but has many fascinating attractions. For hikers and photographers, it is a goldmine. Kjölur or Kjalvegur road is the best option to experience the Highland For those who are interested in visiting the Highland in Iceland, taking a road trip on one of the main highland roads, Kjölur or Kjalvegur road, is probably the best option. Kjalvegur takes you to many fascinating places and also gives you a good idea of what the Highland looks like. The highland road usually opens first and has thrilling attractions and natural wonders to view and experience. What kind of vehicle is needed for a Kjalvegur road trip The road Kjalvegur is not convenient or well-maintained. It is a harsh gravel road. On the other hand, it is better than most other highland roads and does not have a river you need to cross, so it is not an F road. All highland roads in Iceland have always been considered roads for 4WD vehicles or Jeeps. Since Icelanders started to enter the Highland in vehicles, very few have even thought of entering the Highland in an ordinary family car. Anyone planning a trip on a highland road should do the same when selecting a car. Even though the Kjölur road has improved over the years, a mid-size 4WD car is recommended, preferably a Jeep. Forcing a small car over this road is probably going to take the enjoyment out of the road trip and put the car at risk. For further reference regarding rent a car in Iceland, read this important article. What will you see by driving Kjalvegur road, and how long does it take? The Icelandic highland is vast with mountains, glaciers, lakes, waterfalls, hot springs, colorful rhyolite mountains, countless rivers, and more. It does not draw its beauty from colorful vegetation but more from black sands, unusual geological formations, and magnificent views. It is remote and exotic, with many peaceful sanctuaries. Kjalvegur drive is a combination of an impressive scenic drive and visits to exciting attractions. The drive takes two days as we recommend camping for one night. It is not a long drive, only about 170 kilometers, approximately 100 miles, from Gullfoss waterfall to the Ring Road intersection in the Northern Region. Geysir hot spring and Gullfoss waterfall as starting points It is our preference to drive from the south to the north. It is probably more common for no other reason than most Icelanders live in the south and start their drive from home. If you are in Reykjavík, it is best to drive to Geysir and Gullfoss waterfall and start your road trip. And you should visit those magnificent natural wonders. Two of the most popular in Iceland. Into the gray world of glacial lakes and rivers At Gullfoss, you continue on Road Nr. 35 and drive north. You quickly notice that you are entering a remote area and different terrain. Although the first kilometers are asphalt roads, the rest is a rather rough gravel roads. Just as you drive over the bridge on the river Sandá, you take a turn to the west on the mountain road Nr. F335 Hagavantsvegur. This road is much rougher than Kjalvegur road and is, in the end, by lake Hagavatn and the waterfall Nýifoss, almost a difficult dirt road. It is a road that is under no circumstances for small cars. The whole area by Hagavant and the Waterfall Nýifoss with Langjökulll glacier and the mountain ridge Jarlhettur in the background is spectacular. But different compared to most places you visit in Iceland, as it is a harsh, gray, and cold environment. The lake is colored by the water flowing from under the glacier, and the river and waterfall have this unclean feeling because of all the dirt and clay the stream is carrying. After you drive back and when you are again on Road Nr. 35, you continue deeper into the Highland. When you pass the bridge on the river Hvítá, you should take a turn to Hvítárvatn. A good place to stop and view the glacier Langjökul and the lake. Like Hagavatn, this is a lake or a lagoon by the glacier. It is different than Jökulsárlón and Fjallsárlón that there are no icebergs that fall into the lake. The Waterfall and the camping site at Ásgarður As you continue your drive, you will notice the mountain ridge on your right, Kerlingafjöll. This is your next destination. After approximately 16 kilometers of driving farther into the Highland, you turn east on Road Nr. F347. After a few minutes and four kilometers drive, you come to the waterfall Gýgjarfoss. This is one of many spectacular waterfalls in the Highland in Iceland, although few are big tourist attractions. This location is also interesting in the sense that you are now between two glaciers, Langjökull in the west and Hofsjökull in the east. The whole scenery is magnificent but very different from most places. It is not as colorful as the lowland and not as warm. From Gýgjarfoss you continue to Ásgarður, the camping site in Kerlingarfjoll. It is ideal for camping. Here it is recommended to take an afternoon or evening walk to the geothermal pool only a few hundred meters from the camping site. The grand view and the fascinating rhyolite area with stunning hot spring Hveradalir The next day you begin the day by driving the short distance to Hveradalir hot spring area. The drive and the road are a bit steep and lead you up to approximately 1000 meters, 3280 feet, in altitude. Here you need a 4WD for better traction and security. The short drive is spectacular, passing a beautiful canyon and enjoying the magnificent scenery of mountains and glaciers. Once you have parked your vehicle, you can take a walk into one of the most beautiful wonderlands in Icelandic nature. If there is one place that is actually exotic in Icelandic nature, it is Hveradalir, and you will understand and feel when you have walked down the steps and stand in the middle of this unique place of color, steam, and boiling clay. We recommend that you spend two to three hours here and walk the many paths and steps to view the many small wonders in the area. It is not a place you want to rush through. The Highland and geothermal pool From Hveradalir and Kerlingarfjöll, you drive the same way back to Road 35 and continue your road trip north. The next stop is Hveravellir, 30 kilometers, approximately 19 miles drive. The scenery is a typical harsh highland scenery of gray sands, mountains with almost no vegetation, and glaciers. Halfway to Hveravellir, you will pass a sign, Beinahóll or Bonehill. The drive to the hill is very slow and only for good jeeps. The hill is part of one of the most chilling and famous stories in Icelandic history, the story of the brothers from the farm Reynisstaðir in Skagafjordur fjord and their travels over this road in the 18th century. Once you reach Hveradalir, you are in for a treat. Here you can dive into one of the most famous geothermal pools in the Highland and also take the time to view and admire the many highly interesting hot springs. And don't forget the "home" of the outlaw Eyvindur and his wife, Halla. There are fine walking paths around the area and many really interesting hot springs. Organizing the water for hydroelectric power The drive from Hveravellir to the intersection on Ring Road Nr. 1 in the northern part is about 90 kilometers. Contrary to the southern part, it has more vegetation and as you approach the Ring Road you drive through a morse, in accordance with the name of this area, Auðkúluheiði. This is not a particularly interesting area, nor does it have any particular attractions. Halfway through the road, you pass a large lagoon or a lake, the 5 square kilometer Blöndulón. This is actually a reservoir for the hydroelectric power plant Blönduvikrjun. As you continue, you will also see some other small constructions related to the power plant, and before you start your descent down to the beautiful valley of Blöndudalur you drive by the actual Blanda Power Station. If the Power Station is open, you can go in for a tour and take the highest lift in Iceland, 270 meters down to the three turbines that produce 150 KW of electricity. From the Power Station, you drive through Blöndudalur valley to the Ring Road Nr. 1.

Basalt columns (sometimes referred to as Columnar Jointing) is one of those marvels of nature that makes you stop and wonder. Most of the time you are stunned by the mere sight. It usually makes you wonder if mother nature is the author of this formation of hexagonal-shaped stacks and pillars. Often the regularity of the structure is nothing less than unbelievable. At Gerðuberg basalt column cliff, soon after you start your drive at the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in Iceland, you find one of the most impressive basalt column sites in the country. One of the reasons is the size of the place and the regularity of the stacks. Gerðuberg basalt column cliffs is part of the Snæfellsnes Road Trip, which is described in more detail in a separate article. Proximity is the key to enjoying Gerduberg basalt columns cliff on Snæfellsnes Peninsula Gerduberg basalt columns cliff Snæfellsnes is hardly noticeable from the road when driving even though the cliff is around 500 meters long and quite close to the road. A half a-kilometer cliff of hundreds of basalt column stacks stands like an army of pillars in a side-by-side row. It is a perfect place to view basalt columns and see the stunning formation of this incredible natural geological structure. Like the cliff, the columns are also quite regular. They are mostly twelve to fourteen meters high and about one and a half meters in diameter. Some are even leaning forward, giving the cliff a spectacular view as you walk by the cliff. And by the way, it is more exciting and more thrilling to walk one of the paths in front of the cliff than to walk on the top, especially the paths that are almost at the bottom of the pillars. There is nothing to see on the top so don’t fall into the trap of rushing to the path that leads to another path on top. Easily accessible from the road Gerðuberg is easily accessible from Highway 54 and only about one kilometer to a small parking lot. There is an old walking path just by the columns if you want to experience this incredible natural wonder up and close. It is also a perfect place to take stunning photos and take a relaxing moment as the view to the south from the cliff to Eldborg and Snæfellsjökull is also spectacular. Do you like basalt columns in the landscape? Visit my article and see the 10 most interesting basalt columns natural wonders in Iceland.

Svartifoss (The Black Falls) in the Skaftafell National Park is surrounded by black, hexagonal basalt columns. It falls 20 m into a beautiful ravine that is accessible along a trail starting at the Visitor's Centre. You can follow the trail to the bottom of the ravine, thus enjoying the fall and the walls up close. In the 20th century, the walls surrounding Svartifoss were an inspiration to various Icelandic architects. The impression of their extraordinary formations is quite apparent in Hallgrímskirkja in Reykjavik, as well as in the ceiling of the Icelandic National Theatre. Svartifoss is also where the world-renowned sculptor Richard Serra drew his inspiration for his sculpture Milestones, located on Viðey Island, offshore from Reykjavik. The base of the ravine is quite remarkable. Apart from the small lake created by Svartifoss, it is strewn with sharp rocks that have broken away from the hexagonal columns, as new column sections break faster than the water wears down the edges. The hike from the Visitor's Centre, or the Skaftafell camping site, only takes 30 minutes. But once by the fall, visitors tend to linger for quite some time, simply to admire nature's unique sense of beauty and harmony. Find accommodation in Iceland Find a rental car in Iceland Location in Iceland

You need to consider three things when renting a car or choosing the best car type to rent for your road trip and vacation in Iceland. The quality of the roads leading to your chosen destinations, the time of year, and the weather. Renting a car for a road trip around Iceland is by far the most convenient and interesting way to travel in Iceland. By hiring a car, visitors taking a road trip to Iceland can choose an itinerary that fits their budget and schedule. This way, they have the flexibility and freedom required in a country with so many natural wonders to explore, photograph, experience, and admire. With a car and a driving plan, you can always take your time and easily adjust or change your route. But - there are many aspects to consider when renting a car in Iceland. It is in many ways different from hiring a car in any other country. So, I encourage you to read this article carefully before you rent a car here so that you don’t end up with the wrong car. The type of roads in Iceland When it comes to finding a rental car in Iceland, the process can be more complicated than in most other countries. This is primarily due to the fact that many of the roads you will travel on while visiting Iceland's natural wonders and other places of interest are gravel, mountain or dirt roads. It's important to note that Iceland has three types of roads: asphalt, gravel, and Highland roads (F roads). At times, the places you plan to visit will require you to drive on all these types of roads, so it's essential to be prepared. In summary, the type of car you choose will depend on the places you intend to visit. A small rental car type is ideal for most roads during the summer A small 2WD car is a good option for driving around Iceland's main asphalt roads. It is also the cheapest way to do so. Small cars like the VW Polo, VW Golf, Toyota Yaris, Kia Rio, or Suzuki Swift can comfortably fit four people (consider the luggage you plan to carry as well). During the summer, a small car can take you to the most popular and interesting places, including natural wonders and accommodations. A small car is also suitable for driving on gravel roads during summer, especially if it has front-wheel drive, which is preferred by most Icelanders. However, it's important to remember that gravel roads are more demanding and difficult to drive on, so one should be cautious and drive slower than on asphalt roads. During winter, you can also travel on the main roads in a small car on drives, such as the Reykjanes Peninsula, the Ring Road, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and the Golden Circle. However, it's crucial to follow the weather forecast and road conditions from October until April, especially if you're in a small car. A mid-sized car is a better choice for comfort, especially during winter, and it's highly recommended for most places and drives. Time of year is important when choosing a rent a car Driving in Iceland during winter and summer is vastly different. For people living in warmer countries, it can be challenging to understand why Icelanders change their car tires in autumn and spring. Icelanders have two types of tires - "winter tires" and "summer tires" - because of the difference in driving conditions. Having personally experienced both, I know the difference, having lived in Southern California for six years. If you have no experience driving in winter conditions, it's best to consider a private tour with an experienced guide. Driving in winter and late autumn can be very difficult, especially if you're only used to driving on clean, dry roads in sunny weather. It's highly recommended to use a 4WD car or a front-wheel drive car if you plan to drive across Iceland during winter or autumn conditions. A larger vehicle type is better outside the main roads and during winter If you decide to travel to places away from the main roads, you are much better off hiring a midsize car, preferably an SUV or a 4WD car like VW Tiguan, Toyota Raf, Dacia Duster, or Suzuki Vitara. This applies to people interested in taking loops and exploring places off the main highways, such as Mjóifjörður, Látrabjarg in the West Fjords, Rauðisandur in the West Fjords, the Vatnsnes Peninsula, or some of the waterfalls that are not near the main road, like Aldeyjarfoss. The roads outside the main roads are most often gravel roads, going over steep mountain passes, and conditions change in rain and snow. For those roads, a vehicle with more space and larger tires is much better for your comfort and security. This is very important during winter. The weather The weather in Iceland is unpredictable. Even though we have a very efficient Met Office in Iceland, the weather can change rapidly in a short period at your location, often contrary to the original forecast by the Met Office. Despite this small issue of inaccuracy, when you are traveling in Iceland, the best option for weather is the website of the Icelandic Met Office. It is not uncommon that visitors plan to visit a specific place or area when planning a trip to Iceland, but when you are on your way or arrive, the conditions are not particularly inviting. This applies to all seasons, but most definitely in winter. This means that sometimes you need to spend more time inside your car than you planned when you set out. In summer, most of the time, the wind limits your options rather than the rain. A 4WD or 4X4 type is mandatory for the Highland roads in Iceland A small car type will not get you to the Highland if you choose to travel to this exotic part of the country. The Highland requires a 4X4 vehicle, but keep in mind that the Highland is only open from the beginning of July until the middle of September. Most of the roads in the Icelandic Highland are challenging and rough gravel roads, often with many rivers to cross. No one should enter Highland Road in a small car, a midsize car, or a car that doesn't have four-wheel drive and low gear. It is simply too dangerous and irresponsible and can severely damage the vehicle and even ruin it if stuck in a river; this can lead to a cost far exceeding the total expenditure on a trip to Iceland for the whole family. If water is sucked into the air intake of a car, the engine is ruined, not to mention the panic and the consequences of being stuck in a small car in the middle of a strong stream or a river. Tourists visiting Iceland have lost their lives in such circumstances, with the last incident being in September 2018 when a young woman drowned in a river in Þórsmörk. Keep that in mind when you select a car for the Highland. No rental car company or insurance company in Iceland covers a drive crossing a river. It can also be dangerous as a 2WD and a small 4WD, or even a midsize 4WD car with no low gear, can easily become stuck on a difficult road in the Highland. Few Icelanders would ever take such a risk, given their knowledge of the Highland. They are only too conscious of the danger to the passengers, who are often children and family members. But for the Highland roads, even a 4X4 is not always enough. A large, well-equipped, and even modified 4X4 vehicle is required for many rugged roads and tracks in the Highland. For these roads, a Toyota Land Cruiser, Jeep Wrangler, Toyota Hilux, Land Rover, or a similar vehicle is highly recommended for your convenience and security. Please don’t underestimate this premise. Find a rental car in Iceland Put in your preferred dates and compare prices between all major rental car companies Keep this list in mind when traveling in a rented car in Iceland There are three kinds of roads: asphalt, gravel, and mountain roads (F) Iceland is a small island, and the distance between places is usually short Almost all of the roads are narrow, two-way roads. THERE ARE NO FREEWAYS IN ICELAND Reduce speed considerably when driving over a one-lane bridge (there are many such bridges everywhere) Don't stop on a road shoulder or in the middle of the road to take photos! The speed limit is 90 KM/hr on main asphalt roads around the island The speed limit in Reykjavík and the towns is 50KM/hr The speed limit in residential areas in Reykjavík and in all towns and villages is 30KM/hr The restrictions on alcohol consumption for drivers are at 0.5 promille, like in most other European countries 4X4 cars are both safer and easier to drive in the Highland and during winter There are plenty of gas and charging stations around the country in all towns and villages A large 4X4 is required on Highland roads, the F roads Always check road conditions on The Road and Coastal Administration webpage, especially during winter Cellular phone connections are good on most roads and around the country Never try to cross rivers in a small 4X4 car or without understanding the river There are towns and villages almost everywhere around the coastline on the Ring Road, and you are never far away from help if needed Watch out for sheep on the roads (especially in spring and early summer) Pick up your rented car at the international airport in Keflavík Fuel prices are more or less the same around the country, and fuel is always expensive Emergency help is available almost everywhere in Iceland Check Safetravel all the time and every day for anything unusual during your tour to remain updated regarding the conditions in Iceland. When conditions are adverse (snow, snowdrift, slippery, bad visibility), don't hesitate to drive slower at a comfort level where you feel in control. In a situation like that, remember to slow down and give the right indicator light (blinker) when it is secure for the cars behind you to pass. Avoid holding up the traffic, as other drivers, especially local folks, might understand the conditions differently and better. Iceland is a small country and a small island Iceland is a small island with one International Airport. Keflavik Airport (KEF) in the city of Keflavik is the place where almost all visitors arrive. It is the best place to pick up your rental car, and most rent-a-car companies deliver their cars at Keflavik airport. There are many rent a car company in Iceland, and the airport is a good place to find the type of car that is ideal for your tour. If you want to have everything ready when you arrive, you should rent a car online. This site lets you quickly compare prices for a number of rent-a-car firms and find an excellent price for a rented car that fits your tour and the season when you plan to visit Iceland. The site lists both international and local firms and saves you a lot of time on an internet search. In the process, you can add accessories you may need, like a child seat, navigation tools, or an additional driver.