Embark on the final street journey journey with our complete 10-day itinerary for driving Iceland’s well-known Ring Road. Experience the rugged mountains and distinctive geological options that make this Nordic island nation a must-visit vacation spot. From the iconic waterfalls and black sand seashores of South Iceland to the geothermal wonders of the North, our information will make sure you don’t miss a factor in your journey round Iceland’s spectacular Ring Road. So, buckle up and prepare for an unforgettable street journey by means of the land of hearth and ice.”
10-Day Iceland Ring Road Itinerary
Driving Iceland’s Ring Road is an incredible journey that means that you can discover off-the-beaten-path locations whereas having the luxurious of following a simple route. We advocate renting a 4X4 in your journey as this round street takes you thru the rugged landscapes of the nation to the prime of North Iceland the place circumstances can change in an prompt. Compare Car rental costs right here. If you aren’t selecting up your rental automobile at the airport – ebook this airport shuttle to Reykjavik.
To assist you with our funds it’s possible you’ll wish to learn: How Much Does a Trip to Iceland Cost
About The Ring Road Iceland
The Ring Road is Iceland’s nationwide street Route 1. It circles almost the complete nation spanning 1,322 kilometers (821 mi). Most individuals drive the ring street in 7 days and you may even see rather a lot of the hottest ring street points of interest in only a few days. But we advocate at the very least 10 days to see Iceland. Even then you’ll most likely need a number of extra days, however this can be a 10-day Iceland ring street itinerary that may take you thru some of the nation’s most lovely landscapes and prime points of interest.
Our itinerary drives round the ring street clockwise from Reykjavik the place you’ll drive north some of the nation’s most lovely paces.
Important Websites
When you drive Iceland’s Ring Road, it is rather essential to remain updated on the climate forecast, right here is a few extra info to have with you for security. Important web sites to comply with for Iceland Road circumstances are climate forecast, street circumstances, and from ICE -SAR for journey alerts.
If you don’t have a knowledge plan, we propose getting an e-sim. When we journey we use Airalo and have by no means had an issue. There are lots of e-sims to select from, however you also needs to make certain to get a GPS together with your automobile as it’s possible you’ll not have protection in all locations in Iceland.
Most of Iceland’s ring street is paved and it has two-lane site visitors, however that doesn’t imply it isn’t rugged. There are some single-lane bridges and slim passes, and climate can change rapidly. We generally had very restricted visibility. So lease a 4WD.
I bear in mind one snow squall developing throughout a four-wheel drive tour in northern Iceland the place we hit some unhealthy climate. Our driver continued driving utilizing his GPS. (we requested him to cease) However, like Canada, Iceland’s roads are nicely maintained when it snows, so it’s doable to discover it throughout the winter months as nicely.
The Complete Ring Road Itinerary
Welcome to Reykjavik International Airport! You have arrived in Iceland! It is time to select up your rental automobile and make your solution to the Northernmost capital of the World. Located in the southwest of Iceland, this metropolis is to not be missed on an Iceland itinerary.
Reykjavik is about 45 minutes from the airport with the Blue Lagoon positioned in between. People typically go to these well-known springs on their method into the metropolis middle, or on the final day of their journey. There is extra about them at the finish of this publish.
Day 1 – Airport to Reykjavik
Once you get to Reykjavik there are such a lot of issues to see and do. With a Viking historical past and a surprising Nordic setting, Reykjavik is a contemporary metropolis the place you possibly can calm down and plan for the days forward.
Reykjavik Attractions
Hallgrímskirkja: The Church of Hallgrímur is Iceland’s nationwide church. This iconic church is one of the tallest constructions in Iceland and provides an unbelievable view of the metropolis from its tower. Harpa Concert Hall: This beautiful piece of fashionable structure is dwelling to the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra. You can take a guided tour or take pleasure in a live performance. Sun Voyager: This lovely sculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason is a must-see. It represents a dreamboat and an ode to the solar. Check out the Top 5 Natural Wonders of Reykjavik Laugavegur: This is the primary buying avenue in Reykjavik, stuffed with boutiques, eating places, and cafes. Old Harbour: This space has been reworked right into a energetic district with eating places, cafes, and museums. Reykjavik Art Museum: This museum is dwelling to an unlimited assortment of fashionable and up to date Icelandic artwork. Read our full Reykjavik Guide
Dinner
You can go whale watching straight from Reykjavik. If you wish to get the compulsory whale-watching tour out of the method earlier than you hit the ring street, ebook this tour on a luxurious yacht from downtown Reykjavik.
Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur: Try the well-known Icelandic sizzling canine at this fashionable stand. Seafood Grill: Reykjavik is understood for its seafood, and this restaurant is a superb place to strive some native dishes. Read our Icelandic Food information that can assist you know what to order.
Overnight in Reykjavik
There are lots of lodging choices in Reykjavik, from luxurious motels to cozy guesthouses. We have stayed at each the Hilton Reykjavik or Hotel Marina Reykjavik and they’re nice selections.
Approximate driving time: 50 km / 31 miles
Day 2 – Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Make the most of your day by getting up early in your drive to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The drive from Reykjavik to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula takes about 2 hours. The peninsula is positioned in west Iceland and is understood for its dramatic landscapes, together with mountains, lava fields, and delightful shoreline.
Late Morning to Afternoon
Explore Snæfellsjökull National Park which is dwelling to the Snæfellsjökull Glacier, which is alleged to have mystical powers. There are additionally a number of mountaineering trails and delightful viewpoints in the park.
Visit Kirkjufell This mountain is one of the most photographed mountains in Iceland and is a must-see in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. There’s a waterfall close by, Kirkjufellsfoss, which can also be price testing.
Explore Djúpalónssandur This lovely black sand seashore is understood for its dramatic landscapes and is a superb spot for images.
Evening
If you go to throughout the winter months, you might have the alternative to see the Northern Lights. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a superb place to view them as a result of it has much less gentle air pollution than Reykjavik. (Seasonal, sometimes late September to early April). Similarly, Snæfellsnes Peninsula provides an excellent alternative for stargazing resulting from its distant location and low gentle air pollution.
Enjoy Icelandic delicacies at an area restaurant or café. Some locations may have stay music or different occasions in the night. After an extended day of sightseeing, you may additionally wish to calm down at your lodging, whether or not that be having fun with an excellent ebook or soaking in a sizzling tub in case your lodging has one.
Overnight
The greatest city to remain in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula largely will depend on your preferences, however Stykkishólmur is one of the hottest choices. It is the largest city on the peninsula and provides a spread of lodging choices, eating places, and providers. It’s additionally recognized for its lovely previous homes and the Stykkishólmur Church, which provides nice views of the city and surrounding space.
Other choices for lodging embrace Grundarfjörður (close to Kirkjufell Mountain) and Hellnar or Arnarstapi. All of these cities provide a variety of lodging choices, from motels to guesthouses. Just make certain to ebook forward, particularly throughout peak season.
Where to remain in Stykkishólmur West Iceland: Hotel Fransiskus
Approximate driving time: 2 hours
Day 3 – Snæfellsnes Peninsula to Akureyri
Morning
On Day 3 of your Icelandic street journey, you’ll depart from the breathtaking landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and make your solution to north Iceland to the charming city of Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city space. Akureyri is also known as “the Capital of North Iceland. This drive will take approximately five hours, but the changing scenery from the peninsula to the northern regions of Iceland will keep you captivated.
Afternoon
Once you arrive in Akureyri, check into your accommodation and take some time to explore this vibrant town.
A must-visit is the Akureyri Church, a stunning Lutheran church perched on a hill overlooking the town. Designed by the famous Icelandic architect Guðjón Samúelsson, this iconic building is a symbol of Akureyri. The town center is also worth exploring, with its quaint shops and cozy cafes.
Consider visiting the Akureyri Botanical Gardens, which boasts a variety of plant species from both Iceland and around the globe. Another option is the Akureyri Swimming Pool, a geothermal pool that is a hit with both locals and tourists. There are water slides
The surrounding area also offers plenty to explore, such as the stunning Eyjafjörður fjord and the Hlíðarfjall ski area during the winter months. and
Evening
For dinner, indulge in some local Icelandic cuisine at a nearby restaurant. Options abound, from traditional dishes like lamb and fish soup to more modern fare.
Bryggjan: This is a popular spot for seafood, with a menu that features locally sourced fish and other seafood options. Rub 23: A trendy restaurant known for its sushi and steaks. They offer a variety of sushi options, as well as dishes made with Icelandic lamb and other local ingredients. Akureyri Fish and Chips: A great spot for a casual meal, this restaurant serves delicious fish and chips made with fresh, local fish.
Afterward, you can rest up for the next day’s adventures at your chosen accommodation, be it a luxury hotel or a charming guesthouse. Read more: Best Icelandic food
Where to Stay
Day 4: Akureyri to Mývatn
Morning
Start your day with breakfast in Akureyri before embarking on the approximately 1-hour drive to Mývatn, a volcanic lake and surrounding area known for its unique geological features and rich birdlife. The drive from Akureyri to Mývatn is around 90 kilometers and takes you through some beautiful landscapes, including lush valleys and volcanic terrain. On the way to Mývatn make sure. to stop at the Goðafoss waterfall. Yet another beautiful waterfall in Iceland.
Afternoon
Upon arrival in Mývatn, take some time to explore the area’s top attractions. Visit the Mývatn Nature Baths, a geothermal lagoon where you can relax in the warm waters while enjoying the stunning surroundings. Another must-see is Dimmuborgir, a lava field known for its dramatic volcanic rock formations. If you’re interested in wildlife, be sure to check out the various birdwatching opportunities around the lake.
Optional Day Trip
If you have additional time, consider visiting the nearby town of Húsavík, known for its excellent whale-watching opportunities.
Must do: If you are going to go whale watching in one place in Iceland, it should be Husavik. This highly rated Whale watching from Húsavík lives up to its reputation as the whale-watching capital of Iceland. Explore the beautiful, Skjálfandi Bay while observing whales, dolphins, and sea birds in their natural habitat.
Must Watch: Husavik has gained a lot of popularity thanks to the Will Farrell Movie “EuroVision The Fire and Ice Saga.” accessible on Netflix. Its lovely track was even nominated for an Oscar.
Evening
For dinner, contemplate making an attempt some native Icelandic delicacies at a close-by restaurant.
Daddi’s Pizza: If you’ve had sufficient of Icelandic meals, this fashionable spot is understood for its scrumptious pizzas Vogafjós Cowshed Café and Restaurant: This distinctive restaurant is positioned on a working farm and provides a variety of conventional Icelandic dishes made with native components, together with their very own selfmade cheese and cured meats. The café additionally has an excellent view of the cowshed, so you possibly can watch the cows whilst you eat. Hótel Laxá Restaurant: This resort restaurant provides a spread of Icelandic and worldwide dishes, with an emphasis on recent, native components. They even have an excellent view of the lake.
Then, head to your lodging for the evening. There are a number of choices in and round Mývatn, starting from motels and guesthouses to tenting websites. Suggested resort in Mývatn: Fosshotel Myvatn
Approximate driving time: 1 hour
Day 5 – Mývatn to Egilsstaðir
Morning
Kick off your day with a scrumptious breakfast in Mývatn earlier than setting out on the roughly 2-hour drive to Egilsstaðir, positioned in the Eastfjords of jap Iceland. This roughly 180-kilometer journey will take you thru a spread of landscapes, from volcanic fields to lush farmlands and rugged fjords.
En route make certain to cease at Europe’s strongest waterfall. Dettifoss is the Niagara Falls of Iceland. (with out the motels, bars, and casinos) At 45 meters excessive (144 toes) and 100 meters extensive (300 toes). Here you can even discover Jökulsárgljúfur National Park. Its spectacular horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi Canyon homes another spectacular waterfalls as nicely, Selfoss, Hafragilsfoss, and Réttarfoss. If you wish to chase waterfalls, it’s possible you’ll find yourself spending the complete day right here!
Afternoon
Upon arriving in Egilsstaðir, delve into the space’s pure magnificence and discover some of its prime points of interest. A must-visit is Seydisfjordur, a captivating village recognized for its colourful homes and vibrant arts scene. Make certain to take a stroll alongside Rainbow Road.
Don’t miss out on the beautiful Hengifoss, one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland, with its spectacular basalt columns and vibrant crimson clay. Another lovely waterfall in the space is Litlanesfoss, surrounded by distinctive basalt columns.
If time permits, contemplate taking a scenic drive alongside the Eastfjords, the place you possibly can admire the dramatic shoreline and presumably spot some seals or different wildlife. Additionally, the space round Egilsstaðir is dwelling to a number of mountaineering trails, offering ample alternatives to discover the beautiful landscapes on foot.
Evening
Savor the native flavors at one of the eating places in Egilsstaðir or the surrounding space.
Valaskjálf Restaurant: Located in the cultural middle of Egilsstaðir, this restaurant provides a spread of dishes together with Icelandic lamb, fish, and vegetarian choices. Klausturkaffi: Situated in the Skriðuklaustur cultural heritage web site, Klausturkaffi is understood for its conventional Icelandic pancakes and selfmade truffles. Lake Hotel Egilsstaðir Restaurant: This resort restaurant provides a variety of Icelandic and worldwide dishes with a give attention to native components, together with reindeer, Arctic char, and lamb.
Then head to your lodging for the evening. There is a variety of choices to select from, together with motels, guesthouses, and tenting websites. Suggested resort: Hotel Eyvindara
Approximate driving time: 2 hours
Day 6: Egilsstaðir to Höfn
Morning
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast in Egilsstaðir, then embark on the roughly 3-hour drive persevering with down east Iceland to Höfn, a picturesque fishing city in the southeast of Iceland. This roughly 260-kilometer journey takes you alongside the coast of the Eastfjords earlier than heading inland by means of the mountains, offering lots of alternatives for beautiful images.
Upon arriving in Höfn, immerse your self in the space’s wealthy maritime historical past by exploring the city and its harbor. One of the must-visit points of interest is the Höfn Glacier Museum, the place you possibly can study glaciers, their affect on the panorama, and the results of local weather change.
Afternoon
There are lots of issues to do round this space of east Iceland. Visit Fjallsárlón and Jökulsárlón glacial lagoons to rise up shut and private with the icebergs. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is the most well-known and you’ll most likely spend rather a lot of time right here.
You may go to the close by Diamond Beach, the place icebergs from the lagoon wash up on the black sand, creating a surprising distinction. Another choice is exploring the Vatnajökull National Park, dwelling to Europe’s largest glacier.
If you’ve further time, contemplate reserving a guided glacier hike or an ice cave tour, each of which give an unforgettable expertise of the Vatnajökull glacier.
Evening
Indulge in some scrumptious native seafood for dinner; Höfn is especially well-known for its lobster. Kaffi Hornið and Pakkhús are two wonderful choices for sampling this delicacy.
Day 7: Höfn to Skaftafell
Morning
Wake up early in Höfn and begin your day with a hearty breakfast at one of the native eateries or your lodging. After breakfast, embark on the roughly 2-hour drive to Skaftafell, positioned in Vatnajökull National Park. The drive covers a distance of about 140 kilometers and takes you thru some of Iceland’s most beautiful landscapes, with glaciers, mountains, and black sand plains filling your view.
Afternoon
Upon arrival in Skaftafell, immerse your self in the pure magnificence of the space. Skaftafell is a hiker’s paradise, with quite a few trails main to numerous points of interest. One of the must-see spots is Svartifoss, a good looking waterfall surrounded by black basalt columns. Another fashionable hike takes you to Skaftafellsjökull, a glacier tongue that extends from the Vatnajökull glacier. Don’t miss the likelihood to go to the customer middle, which provides exhibitions and details about the park’s pure and cultural historical past.
Evening
For dinner, your choices could be restricted inside the nationwide park, however yow will discover some good selections in close by cities reminiscent of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Kaffi Munkar is a well-liked spot in the space that gives a variety of dishes, from soups and sandwiches to extra substantial meals.
Approximate driving time: 2 hours
Day 8 Skaftafell to Vik
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast in Skaftafell earlier than setting out in your journey to Vik in South Iceland. This charming village is positioned proper at the tip of Iceland’s south coast. The drive from Skaftafell to Vik is roughly 2 hours, protecting a distance of round 150 kilometers. Along the method, you’ll go by means of beautiful landscapes, together with huge lava fields, dramatic cliffs, and black sand seashores. Read extra: South Coast of Iceland – Top Things to See and Do
Morning
Once you arrive in Vik, take a while to discover the native points of interest. A must-visit is Reynisfjara, a well-known black sand seashore recognized for its towering basalt columns and highly effective waves.
Vik stands in the shadow of the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier and is dwelling to the black sand seashore with large black basalt stacks standing guard. This well-known cluster of Basalt Rocks could also be one of Iceland’s most recognizable sights and also you don’t wish to miss it.
Legend has it that this group of stone spires are literally trolls turned to stone by the solar. As they tried to drag their three-masted ship to shore, time ran out and the solar got here up. According to folklore, as soon as an Icelandic troll is caught in the solar, it turns to stone.
Approximate driving time: 2 hours
Afternoon
Another fashionable spot is the Dyrhólaey Peninsula, the place you possibly can admire the dramatic cliffs, distinctive rock formations, and its picturesque lighthouse. If you’re in historical past, contemplate visiting the Skógar Folk Museum, which provides an enchanting glimpse into Iceland’s previous.
If you’ve further time, contemplate taking a guided tour to discover the close by Katla Geopark, which encompasses a number of pure wonders, together with the Katla Volcano and Mýrdalsjökull Glacier. Another choice is to go to the Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, a surprising gorge positioned only a quick drive from Vik. For these in chicken watching, the cliffs round Dyrhólaey are dwelling to numerous seabird species, together with puffins.
Evening
For dinner, head to 1 of Vik’s native eating places to pattern some scrumptious Icelandic delicacies. Sudur Vik is a well-liked alternative, providing a spread of dishes, together with their well-known lobster soup.
Day 9 Vik to Selfoss
Morning
Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast in Vik earlier than embarking on the roughly 1.5-hour drive to Selfoss. The journey covers round 110 kilometers and takes you previous picturesque landscapes, together with rolling hills, farmlands, and rivers.
Afternoon
Upon reaching Selfoss, discover the space’s prime points of interest. One of the must-see spots is the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, the place you possibly can stroll behind the cascading water for a singular perspective. Another fashionable attraction is the Skógafoss waterfall, one of Iceland’s largest and most iconic waterfalls.
Don’t miss the likelihood to go to the Eyjafjallajökull Visitor Center, the place you possibly can study the notorious 2010 eruption that disrupted air journey worldwide.
Continue on to Skaftafell National Park, the place you possibly can go mountaineering or mountaineering on Vatnajökull glacier
Insider Tip – As you drive south alongside Route 1 cease for espresso in Hella. This city has colourful homes lining the river financial institution and it’s a good place to get provides or to refill your automobile at a gasoline station.
Evening
If you’ve further time, contemplate taking a dip in the Secret Lagoon, a geothermal pool positioned in the close by city of Fludir. Get your secret lagoon admission ticket in advance. Secret Lagoon tickets right here
For dinner, head to 1 of Selfoss’s native eating places to pattern some conventional Icelandic delicacies. Tryum is a well-liked spot that gives a variety of dishes, from fish and chips to lamb burgers.
Iceland Hot Dog – One factor you’ll discover each time anybody talks about touring to Iceland is a point out of sizzling canine. They appear to be the most reasonably priced and fashionable meals on the Ring Road loop at gasoline stations. Pylsuvagninn Selfossi is a well-liked sizzling canine stand at the Ölfusá river bridge. If you’ll strive a sizzling canine in Iceland, go for it right here. We ate rather a lot of sizzling canine at gasoline stations whereas driving in Iceland. It’s the most reasonably priced solution to journey.
Day 10: Selfoss to Reykjavik
After having fun with a leisurely breakfast in Selfoss, embark on the roughly 1-hour drive to Reykjavik, protecting a distance of round 50 kilometers. This quick journey takes you thru some lovely landscapes, together with volcanic fields and mountains.
Another choice is to discover the Golden Circle, a well-liked vacationer route that features the Geysir geothermal space, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. For these in horse driving, a number of farms in the space provide excursions on Icelandic horses.
Morning
An amazing right now is to go to the close by Golden Circle, a well-liked vacationer route that features the Geysir geothermal space, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. For these in artwork, the Reykjavik Art Museum and the Einar Jónsson Museum provide a glimpse into Iceland’s vibrant artwork scene.
Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage web site that’s positioned in a rift valley the place the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates mee. This can also be the web site of the world’s first parliament, the Althing, established in 930 AD. Visitors can discover the park’s trails, take pleasure in its lakes and waterfalls, and study Iceland’s wealthy historical past.
The Geysir Geothermal Area is dwelling to a number of geysers, together with Strokkur, which erupts roughly each 5-10 minutes, sending water and steam as much as 30 meters into the air. The space can also be recognized for its sizzling springs, mud pots, and fumaroles.
Lastly, the Gullfoss waterfall is a panoramic two-tiered waterfall that drops a complete of 32 meters right into a rugged canyon. The waterfall could be seen from a number of totally different vantage factors, every providing a singular perspective. This large waterfall is a two-stage cascade plummeting 32 meters (105 toes) from the Hvítá River. Gullfoss is the most visited waterfall in Iceland and for good cause. You can stroll fairly near the speeding water and actually really feel its energy.
Afternoon
It is time to make your solution to Reykjavik. This is a superb time to take the alternative to discover any points of interest you might have missed in your first day in the metropolis. Options embrace the Sun Voyager, a metal sculpture formed like a Viking ship, and the Hallgrímskirkja, a surprising church that’s one of the tallest constructions in Iceland. You may wish to go to the Harpa Concert Hall, an iconic constructing recognized for its distinctive glass facade.
Evening
For dinner, Reykjavik provides a variety of choices, from conventional Icelandic delicacies to worldwide dishes. The Fish Company is a well-liked alternative, recognized for its scrumptious seafood dishes made with recent, native components. After dinner, retire to your lodging for the evening. Reykjavik has numerous choices to select from, together with motels, guesthouses, and Airbnb leases.
After dinner, examine into your lodging for the evening. Reykjavik has a spread of choices to select from, together with motels, guesthouses, and Airbnb leases.
Final Morning Day Trip and Fly Home
Your driving on the Ring Road vacation has come to an finish. Chances are you may be returning your automobile rental at the airport, so earlier than you permit, this can be a nice time to go to Iceland’s hottest attraction the Blue Lagoon.
Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is usually visited on day one or the final day of an Iceland journey. This is the excellent alternative to assuage these aching muscle tissues in the well-known sizzling springs. It could also be the most touristy factor to do in the nation, however you could expertise it at the very least as soon as once you go to Iceland. Read extra: How to Visit The Blue Lagoon in Iceland – Is it Worth It?
If you wish to actually take pleasure in the Blue Lagoon you possibly can keep right here. Luxury motels embrace:
The Blue Lagoon Retreat is a five-star luxurious escape that overlooks the lagoon and stands excessive sufficient to see the lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula. The Silica Hotel. Just a 10-minute stroll from the Blue Lagoon, nestled amongst the lava fields this award-winning resort is a wonderful choice when staying in a single day at the Blue Lagoon.
How to Plan For the Ring Road in Iceland
Our journey to Iceland was with Iceland Travel they usually put collectively an unbelievable Iceland street journey itinerary for us. We beloved having an itinerary arrange in advance with motels pre-booked and plans made. Iceland is a well-liked journey vacation spot and motels alongside the Ring Road route can ebook up rapidly, so having a tour firm plan made rather a lot of sense all we had. to do was consider driving the Ring Road and having fun with our time. Visit Iceland Travel to assist with planning your journey.
Driving The Ring Road Independently
You can ebook a rental automobile and do the ring street independently. You can examine automobile rental costs at CarRental.com. We advocate getting a 4X4 with a GPS. We drove the Ring Road in late September and drove by means of a couple of snowstorm. We had a automobile go proper off the street in entrance of us in north Iceland. They weren’t in a four-wheel drive so we had it a lot simpler between our winter driving expertise and the snow tires on our SUV.
Ring Road Tours
If you aren’t snug driving in Iceland, there are organized excursions to Iceland that go round the ring street. You can sit again, calm down, and let the professionals take you to the fashionable vacationer points of interest.
This 8-day small group tour takes you on a circle tour of Iceland. Leave Reykjavik to see many of the highlights talked about in this ring street journey information. From waterfalls to lava fields, in the south to the East Fjords and northern lights of the North. It covers all of it. Check it out right here: You can cancel as much as 24 hours in advance to obtain a full refund.
This Circle Tour of the Ring Road is a versatile choice the place you possibly can select from 4, 5, 6 or 7 days. It takes you to the South Coast, East Fjords, Lake Mývatn, and waterfalls and non-compulsory excursions of Borgarfjörður and Lava Caving and non-compulsory tour of the Golden Circle. Plus rather more. Details right here.
Where to Stay on the Ring Road
There are campgrounds alongside the route with lots of availability. This is by far the most economical solution to drive round Iceland’s Ring Road. But be sure you arrive at the campgrounds early. They are first come first serve and wild tenting in Iceland shouldn’t be allowed. So you’ll want to be in the campground by sundown.
Most campgrounds have bogs and showers and a few have kitchens for cooking. Which is one other smart way to save cash on an Iceland Road Trip.
We stayed at principally Iceland Air Hotels which can be all alongside the complete ring street route alongside the primary street. Our stays included an incredible breakfast which saved us rather a lot of cash. They have been giant and scrumptious so we might make it by means of the day with simply snacks as a substitute of a big lunch.
Best Time to Drive the Ring Road
The excessive season in Iceland is summer time and that is the most tough time to search out lodging. So make certain to plan in advance if you’re reserving from June to August. We traveled to Iceland from Mid to Late September and it was much less crowded. The climate was fairly unpredictable with the whole lot from hail and rain to snow and heavy winds. We did have sunny days as nicely.
Remember, if you’re driving in mid-summer the days are lengthy, and possibilities of seeing the Northern Lights are low. If you wait till nearer to autumn or go in late spring you’ve a greater likelihood to see them as the solar units earlier. And there will certainly be fewer crowds throughout shoulder season.
Can you Drive the Ring Road in Iceland in Winter?
You can drive the Ring Road in Winter, however it is best to have winter driving expertise. The Ring Road operates 12 months spherical. It is a two-lane street most of the method and there’s winter upkeep.
However, If you go to in winter, there’s extra of a threat of roads being closed for a day or two, so permit further time. Iceland does have good winter street upkeep although, so if you’re used to winter driving, go for it! But be warned, once we have been there in September, most individuals we met have been terrified on the roads and stated it was scary for them to drive by means of snow squalls. (sure, we had them in September and we had street closures too).
Being from Canada, we’re used to snow squalls, however we additionally had a four-by-four SUV which helped rather a lot. So, make certain to lease an SUV with 4-wheel drive capabilities.
Tips for Driving the Ring Road
Embarking on a street journey round Iceland’s Ring Road is an thrilling journey that requires cautious preparation. Here’s what you might want to contemplate in phrases of gear and preparation:
Clothing and Gear:
Waterproof and windproof jacket. Layered clothes to adapt to altering climate circumstances. Waterproof and comfy strolling or mountaineering footwear. Sunglasses and sunscreen. Hat and gloves, particularly if touring in colder months. Backpack for day hikes and excursions. Camera or smartphone for capturing beautiful landscapes.
Driving and Navigation:
A dependable automobile appropriate for the season you’re touring in (contemplate a 4×4 if you happen to plan to discover the highlands). A GPS, Google Maps, and a paper map for navigation. Familiarize your self with Iceland’s street guidelines and circumstances earlier than your journey. Check the climate and street circumstances frequently all through your journey.
Accommodation and Food:
Book your lodging in advance, particularly throughout the peak summer time months. Pack snacks and water for the street, as there could be lengthy distances between cities and providers. Consider bringing a cooler for perishable gadgets if you happen to plan to self-cater.
Safety and Emergency:
Bring a primary support equipment, flashlight, and any mandatory private drugs. Ensure you’ve a charged telephone with an Icelandic SIM card or roaming capabilities for emergencies. Familiarize your self with the emergency quantity in Iceland (112).
Additional Tips:
Respect the native surroundings and cling to any indicators or laws in place to guard Iceland’s distinctive landscapes. Be ready for altering climate circumstances and pack accordingly. Follow the velocity limits When you come to gasoline stations, refill. We make it a rule to fill when our tank is half full. Take your time and luxuriate in the journey, as the Ring Road provides numerous alternatives to discover Iceland’s pure magnificence.
Iceland Ring Road Itinerary: FAQ’s
How lengthy does it take to drive the Iceland Ring Road?
For an unforgettable journey round the Ring Road, we advocate anyplace from 7 to 10 days. It will allow you to not solely take in the greatest of the ring street but additionally allow you to get off the overwhelmed monitor in North Iceland and in Southeast Iceland.
Can you do the Iceland Ring Road in 7 days?
You can do the Iceland Ring Road in 7 days however we’d say that’s the minimal time wanted. You can use this itinerary and get rid of a number of issues if you happen to solely have a short while in Iceland.
What is the greatest path to tackle the Ring Road in Iceland?
You can journey the Ring Road in Iceland in both path, clockwise or counter-clockwise, because it’s a round route. We counsel going counter-clockwise, ranging from Reykjavik and heading alongside the South Coast first. This is as a result of some of the hottest points of interest, like the Golden Circle, South Coast waterfalls, and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, are positioned in the southern half of the island.
These are the prime websites to see on the Ring Road in Iceland. It is really one of the biggest street journeys in the world. This 10-day Iceland Ring Road itinerary provides you the highlights however when you have 2 weeks, you’ll actually have the ability to see all of it.
So take your time to plan the excellent Iceland Road journey and ensure it consists of all of these stops!
Planning Resources for Your Iceland Ring Road Itinerary
The Ring Rod – Iconic Stops on an Iceland Road Tri
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