Embark on the last word highway journey journey with our complete 10-day itinerary for driving Iceland’s well-known Ring Highway. Expertise the rugged mountains and distinctive geological options that make this Nordic island nation a must-visit vacation spot. From the enduring 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 Highway. So, buckle up and prepare for an unforgettable highway journey by way of the land of fireside and ice.”
10-Day Iceland Ring Highway Itinerary
Driving Iceland’s Ring Highway is an incredible journey that means that you can discover off-the-beaten-path locations whereas having the luxurious of following a straightforward route. We advocate renting a 4X4 on your journey as this round highway takes you thru the rugged landscapes of the nation to the highest of North Iceland the place situations can change immediately. Examine Automotive rental costs right here. In case you are not choosing up your rental automobile on the airport – e book this airport shuttle to Reykjavik.
That will help you with our price range it’s possible you’ll wish to learn: How A lot Does a Journey to Iceland Value
About The Ring Highway Iceland
The Ring Highway is Iceland’s nationwide highway Route 1. It circles almost the complete nation spanning 1,322 kilometers (821 mi). Most individuals drive the ring highway in 7 days and you may even see loads of the most well-liked ring highway sights in just some days. However we advocate at the very least 10 days to see Iceland. Even then you’ll most likely need a couple of extra days, however it is a 10-day Iceland ring highway itinerary that may take you thru a number of the nation’s most lovely landscapes and prime sights.
Our itinerary drives across the ring highway clockwise from Reykjavik the place you’ll drive north a number of the nation’s most lovely paces.
Necessary Web sites
If you drive Iceland’s Ring Highway, it is vitally essential to remain updated on the climate forecast, right here is a few extra data to have with you for security. Necessary web sites to observe for Iceland Highway situations are climate forecast, highway situations, and from ICE -SAR for journey alerts.
For those who don’t have an information plan, we advise getting an e-sim. Once we journey we use Airalo and have by no means had an issue. There are many e-sims to select from, however you also needs to be sure that to get a GPS along with your automobile as it’s possible you’ll not have protection in every single place in Iceland.
Most of Iceland’s ring highway 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 slender passes, and climate can change shortly. We generally had very restricted visibility. So lease a 4WD.
I keep in mind one snow squall arising 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) Nonetheless, like Canada, Iceland’s roads are properly maintained when it snows, so it’s potential to discover it in the course of the winter months as properly.
The Full Ring Highway Itinerary
Welcome to Reykjavik Worldwide Airport! You have got arrived in Iceland! It’s time to choose up your rental automobile and make your option to the Northernmost capital of the World. Situated within 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. Individuals usually go to these well-known springs on their method into town middle, or on the final day of their journey. There may be extra about them on the finish of this put up.
Day 1 – Airport to Reykjavik
When 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 times forward.
Reykjavik Sights
- Hallgrímskirkja: The Church of Hallgrímur is Iceland’s nationwide church. This iconic church is among the tallest constructions in Iceland and affords an unimaginable view of town from its tower.
- Harpa Live performance Corridor: This gorgeous piece of recent structure is residence to the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra. You may take a guided tour or get pleasure from a live performance.
- Solar Voyager: This lovely sculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason is a must-see. It represents a dreamboat and an ode to the solar. Try the Prime 5 Pure Wonders of Reykjavik
- Laugavegur: That is the principle purchasing avenue in Reykjavik, crammed with boutiques, eating places, and cafes.
- Outdated Harbour: This space has been remodeled right into a full of life district with eating places, cafes, and museums.
- Reykjavik Artwork Museum: This museum is residence to an enormous assortment of recent and modern Icelandic artwork.
- Learn our full Reykjavik Information
Dinner
You may go whale watching instantly from Reykjavik. If you wish to get the compulsory whale-watching tour out of the way in which earlier than you hit the ring highway, e book this tour on a luxurious yacht from downtown Reykjavik.
- Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur: Attempt the well-known Icelandic scorching canine at this well-liked stand.
- Seafood Grill: Reykjavik is understood for its seafood, and this restaurant is a good place to strive some native dishes.
- Learn our Icelandic Meals information that can assist you know what to order.
In a single day in Reykjavik
There are many lodging choices in Reykjavik, from luxurious resorts to cozy guesthouses. We have now stayed at each the Hilton Reykjavik or Lodge Marina Reykjavik and they’re nice selections.
Approximate driving time: 50 km / 31 miles
Day 2 – Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Profit from your day by getting up early on 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 exquisite shoreline.
Late Morning to Afternoon
Discover Snæfellsjökull Nationwide Park which is residence to the Snæfellsjökull Glacier, which is alleged to have mystical powers. There are additionally a number of mountaineering trails and exquisite viewpoints within the park.
Go to Kirkjufell This mountain is among the most photographed mountains in Iceland and is a must-see within the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. There’s a waterfall close by, Kirkjufellsfoss, which can be price testing.
Discover Djúpalónssandur This lovely black sand seashore is understood for its dramatic landscapes and is a good spot for images.
Night
For those who go to in the course of the winter months, you could have the chance to see the Northern Lights. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a good place to view them as a result of it has much less gentle air pollution than Reykjavik. (Seasonal, sometimes late September to early April). Equally, Snæfellsnes Peninsula affords a terrific alternative for stargazing as a result of its distant location and low gentle air pollution.
Get pleasure from Icelandic delicacies at a neighborhood restaurant or café. Some locations may additionally have stay music or different occasions within 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 e book or soaking in a scorching tub in case your lodging has one.
In a single day
The perfect city to remain within the Snæfellsnes Peninsula largely is dependent upon your preferences, however Stykkishólmur is among the hottest choices. It’s the largest city on the peninsula and affords quite a lot of lodging choices, eating places, and providers. It’s additionally identified for its lovely outdated homes and the Stykkishólmur Church, which affords nice views of the city and surrounding space.
Different choices for lodging embrace Grundarfjörður (close to Kirkjufell Mountain) and Hellnar or Arnarstapi. All of those cities provide a variety of lodging choices, from resorts to guesthouses. Simply be sure that to e book forward, particularly throughout peak season.
The place to remain in Stykkishólmur West Iceland: Lodge Fransiskus
Approximate driving time: 2 hours
Day 3 – Snæfellsnes Peninsula to Akureyri
Morning
On Day 3 of your Icelandic highway journey, you’ll depart from the breathtaking landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and make your option to north Iceland to the charming city of Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city space.
Akureyri is sometimes called “the Capital of North Iceland. This drive will take roughly 5 hours, however the altering surroundings from the peninsula to the northern areas of Iceland will preserve you captivated.
Afternoon
When you arrive in Akureyri, test into your lodging and take a while to discover this vibrant city.
A must-visit is the Akureyri Church, a surprising Lutheran church perched on a hill overlooking the city. Designed by the well-known Icelandic architect Guðjón Samúelsson, this iconic constructing is a logo of Akureyri. The city middle can be price exploring, with its quaint outlets and comfy cafes.
Take into account visiting the Akureyri Botanical Gardens, which boasts quite a lot of plant species from each Iceland and across the globe. Another choice is the Akureyri Swimming Pool, a geothermal pool that could be a hit with each locals and vacationers. There are water slides
The encompassing space additionally affords a lot to discover, such because the gorgeous Eyjafjörður fjord and the Hlíðarfjall ski space in the course of the winter months. and
Night
For dinner, take pleasure in some native Icelandic delicacies at a close-by restaurant. Choices abound, from conventional dishes like lamb and fish soup to extra fashionable fare.
- Bryggjan: It is a well-liked spot for seafood, with a menu that options domestically sourced fish and different seafood choices.
- Rub 23: A classy restaurant identified for its sushi and steaks. They provide quite a lot of sushi choices, in addition to dishes made with Icelandic lamb and different native substances.
- Akureyri Fish and Chips: An excellent spot for an off-the-cuff meal, this restaurant serves scrumptious fish and chips made with contemporary, native fish.
Afterward, you possibly can relaxation up for the subsequent day’s adventures at your chosen lodging, be it a luxurious lodge or an enthralling guesthouse. Learn extra: Finest Icelandic meals
The place to Keep
Day 4: Akureyri to Mývatn
Morning
Begin your day with breakfast in Akureyri earlier than embarking on the roughly 1-hour drive to Mývatn, a volcanic lake and surrounding space identified for its distinctive geological options and wealthy birdlife. The drive from Akureyri to Mývatn is round 90 kilometers and takes you thru some lovely landscapes, together with lush valleys and volcanic terrain. On the way in which to Mývatn be sure that. to cease on the Goðafoss waterfall. One more lovely waterfall in Iceland.
Afternoon
Upon arrival in Mývatn, take a while to discover the realm’s prime sights. Go to the Mývatn Nature Baths, a geothermal lagoon the place you possibly can calm down within the heat waters whereas having fun with the gorgeous environment. One other must-see is Dimmuborgir, a lava area identified for its dramatic volcanic rock formations. For those who’re keen on wildlife, remember to try the assorted birdwatching alternatives across the lake.
Elective Day Journey
If in case you have extra time, take into account visiting the close by city of Húsavík, identified for its wonderful whale-watching alternatives.
Should do: If you will go whale watching in a single place in Iceland, it ought to be Husavik. This extremely rated Whale watching from Húsavík lives as much as its fame because the whale-watching capital of Iceland. Discover the attractive, Skjálfandi Bay whereas observing whales, dolphins, and sea birds of their pure habitat.
Should Watch: Husavik has gained loads of reputation because of the Will Farrell Film “EuroVision The Hearth and Ice Saga.” obtainable on Netflix. Its lovely music was even nominated for an Oscar.
Night
For dinner, take into account attempting some native Icelandic delicacies at a close-by restaurant.
- Daddi’s Pizza: If in case you have had sufficient of Icelandic meals, this well-liked spot is understood for its scrumptious pizzas
- Vogafjós Cowshed Café and Restaurant: This distinctive restaurant is positioned on a working farm and affords a variety of conventional Icelandic dishes made with native substances, together with their very own selfmade cheese and cured meats. The café additionally has a terrific view of the cowshed, so you possibly can watch the cows whilst you eat.
- Hótel Laxá Restaurant: This lodge restaurant affords quite a lot of Icelandic and worldwide dishes, with an emphasis on contemporary, native substances. Additionally they have a terrific view of the lake.
Then, head to your lodging for the night time. There are a number of choices in and round Mývatn, starting from resorts and guesthouses to tenting websites. Instructed lodge 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 within the Eastfjords of japanese Iceland. This roughly 180-kilometer journey will take you thru quite a lot of landscapes, from volcanic fields to lush farmlands and rugged fjords.
En route be sure that to cease at Europe’s strongest waterfall. Dettifoss is the Niagara Falls of Iceland. (with out the resorts, bars, and casinos) At 45 meters excessive (144 ft) and 100 meters broad (300 ft). Right here you too can discover Jökulsárgljúfur Nationwide Park. Its spectacular horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi Canyon homes another spectacular waterfalls as properly, Selfoss, Hafragilsfoss, and Réttarfoss. If you wish to chase waterfalls, it’s possible you’ll find yourself spending the entire day right here!
Afternoon
Upon arriving in Egilsstaðir, delve into the realm’s pure magnificence and discover a few of its prime sights. A must-visit is Seydisfjordur, an enthralling village identified for its colourful homes and vibrant arts scene. Make certain to take a stroll alongside Rainbow Highway.
Don’t miss out on the gorgeous Hengifoss, one of many tallest waterfalls in Iceland, with its spectacular basalt columns and shiny purple clay. One other lovely waterfall within the space is Litlanesfoss, surrounded by distinctive basalt columns.
If time permits, take into account taking a scenic drive alongside the Eastfjords, the place you possibly can admire the dramatic shoreline and presumably spot some seals or different wildlife. Moreover, the realm round Egilsstaðir is residence to a number of mountaineering trails, offering ample alternatives to discover the gorgeous landscapes on foot.
Night
Savor the native flavors at one of many eating places in Egilsstaðir or the encompassing space.
- Valaskjálf Restaurant: Situated within the cultural middle of Egilsstaðir, this restaurant affords quite a lot of dishes together with Icelandic lamb, fish, and vegetarian choices.
- Klausturkaffi: Located within the Skriðuklaustur cultural heritage website, Klausturkaffi is understood for its conventional Icelandic pancakes and selfmade truffles.
- Lake Lodge Egilsstaðir Restaurant: This lodge restaurant affords a variety of Icelandic and worldwide dishes with a concentrate on native substances, together with reindeer, Arctic char, and lamb.
Then head to your lodging for the night time. There’s a vary of choices to select from, together with resorts, guesthouses, and tenting websites. Instructed lodge: Lodge Eyvindara
Approximate driving time: 2 hours
Day 6: Egilsstaðir to Höfn
Morning
Gas 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 within the southeast of Iceland. This roughly 260-kilometer journey takes you alongside the coast of the Eastfjords earlier than heading inland by way of the mountains, offering loads of alternatives for gorgeous images.
Upon arriving in Höfn, immerse your self within the space’s wealthy maritime historical past by exploring the city and its harbor. One of many must-visit sights is the Höfn Glacier Museum, the place you possibly can find out about glaciers, their influence on the panorama, and the results of local weather change.
Afternoon
There are many issues to do round this space of east Iceland. Go to Fjallsárlón and Jökulsárlón glacial lagoons to rise up shut and private with the icebergs. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is probably the most well-known and you’ll most likely spend loads of time right here.
You can even go to the close by Diamond Seaside, the place icebergs from the lagoon wash up on the black sand, creating a surprising distinction. Another choice is exploring the Vatnajökull Nationwide Park, residence to Europe’s largest glacier.
If in case you have further time, take into account reserving a guided glacier hike or an ice cave tour, each of which give an unforgettable expertise of the Vatnajökull glacier.
Night
Take pleasure 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
Get up early in Höfn and begin your day with a hearty breakfast at one of many native eateries or your lodging. After breakfast, embark on the roughly 2-hour drive to Skaftafell, positioned in Vatnajökull Nationwide Park. The drive covers a distance of about 140 kilometers and takes you thru a few of Iceland’s most gorgeous landscapes, with glaciers, mountains, and black sand plains filling your view.
Afternoon
Upon arrival in Skaftafell, immerse your self within the pure great thing about the realm. Skaftafell is a hiker’s paradise, with quite a few trails main to numerous sights. One of many must-see spots is Svartifoss, a ravishing waterfall surrounded by black basalt columns. One other well-liked hike takes you to Skaftafellsjökull, a glacier tongue that extends from the Vatnajökull glacier. Don’t miss the possibility to go to the customer middle, which affords exhibitions and details about the park’s pure and cultural historical past.
Night
For dinner, your choices could be restricted inside the nationwide park, however you could find some good selections in close by cities reminiscent of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Kaffi Munkar is a well-liked spot within the space that provides a variety of dishes, from soups and sandwiches to extra substantial meals.
Approximate driving time: 2 hours
Day 8 Skaftafell to Vik
Start 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 on the tip of Iceland’s south coast. The drive from Skaftafell to Vik is roughly 2 hours, overlaying a distance of round 150 kilometers. Alongside the way in which, you’ll move by way of gorgeous landscapes, together with huge lava fields, dramatic cliffs, and black sand seashores. Learn extra: South Coast of Iceland – Prime Issues to See and Do
Morning
When you arrive in Vik, take a while to discover the native sights. A must-visit is Reynisfjara, a well-known black sand seashore identified for its towering basalt columns and highly effective waves.
Vik stands within the shadow of the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier and is residence to the black sand seashore with big black basalt stacks standing guard. This well-known cluster of Basalt Rocks could also be one in every 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. In keeping with folklore, as soon as an Icelandic troll is caught within the solar, it turns to stone.
Approximate driving time: 2 hours
Afternoon
One other well-liked spot is the Dyrhólaey Peninsula, the place you possibly can admire the dramatic cliffs, distinctive rock formations, and its picturesque lighthouse. For those who’re keen on historical past, take into account visiting the Skógar Folks Museum, which affords an enchanting glimpse into Iceland’s previous.
If in case you have further time, take into account 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 keen on hen watching, the cliffs round Dyrhólaey are residence to numerous seabird species, together with puffins.
Night
For dinner, head to one in every of Vik’s native eating places to pattern some scrumptious Icelandic delicacies. Sudur Vik is a well-liked selection, providing quite a lot of dishes, together with their well-known lobster soup.
Day 9 Vik to Selfoss
Morning
Begin 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 realm’s prime sights. One of many must-see spots is the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, the place you possibly can stroll behind the cascading water for a singular perspective. One other well-liked attraction is the Skógafoss waterfall, one in every of Iceland’s largest and most iconic waterfalls.
Don’t miss the possibility to go to the Eyjafjallajökull Customer Heart, the place you possibly can study in regards to the notorious 2010 eruption that disrupted air journey worldwide.
Proceed on to Skaftafell Nationwide Park, the place you possibly can go mountaineering or mountain climbing 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 replenish your automobile at a gasoline station.
Night
If in case you have further time, take into account taking a dip within the Secret Lagoon, a geothermal pool positioned within the close by city of Fludir. Get your secret lagoon admission ticket upfront. Secret Lagoon tickets right here
For dinner, head to one in every of Selfoss’s native eating places to pattern some conventional Icelandic delicacies. Tryum is a well-liked spot that provides a variety of dishes, from fish and chips to lamb burgers.
Iceland Scorching Canine – One factor you’ll discover every time anybody talks about touring to Iceland is a point out of scorching canine. They appear to be probably the most inexpensive and well-liked meals on the Ring Highway loop at gasoline stations. Pylsuvagninn Selfossi is a well-liked scorching canine stand on the Ölfusá river bridge. If you will strive a scorching canine in Iceland, go for it right here. We ate loads of scorching canine at gasoline stations whereas driving in Iceland. It’s probably the most inexpensive option 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, overlaying 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 preferred vacationer route that features the Geysir geothermal space, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir Nationwide Park. For these keen on horse using, a number of farms within the space provide excursions on Icelandic horses.
Morning
An excellent in the present day is to go to the close by Golden Circle, a preferred vacationer route that features the Geysir geothermal space, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir Nationwide Park. For these keen on artwork, the Reykjavik Artwork Museum and the Einar Jónsson Museum provide a glimpse into Iceland’s vibrant artwork scene.
Thingvellir Nationwide Park is a UNESCO World Heritage website that’s positioned in a rift valley the place the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates mee. That is additionally the positioning of the world’s first parliament, the Althing, established in 930 AD. Guests can discover the park’s trails, get pleasure from its lakes and waterfalls, and find out about Iceland’s wealthy historical past.
The Geysir Geothermal Space is residence 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 world can be identified for its scorching 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 may be seen from a number of completely different vantage factors, every providing a singular perspective. This huge waterfall is a two-stage cascade plummeting 32 meters (105 ft) from the Hvítá River. Gullfoss is probably the most visited waterfall in Iceland and for good purpose. You may stroll fairly near the speeding water and actually really feel its energy.
Afternoon
It’s time to make your option to Reykjavik. It is a nice time to take the chance to discover any sights you could have missed in your first day within the metropolis. Choices embrace the Solar Voyager, a metal sculpture formed like a Viking ship, and the Hallgrímskirkja, a surprising church that is among the tallest constructions in Iceland. You might also wish to go to the Harpa Live performance Corridor, an iconic constructing identified for its distinctive glass facade.
Night
For dinner, Reykjavik affords a variety of choices, from conventional Icelandic delicacies to worldwide dishes. The Fish Firm is a well-liked selection, identified for its scrumptious seafood dishes made with contemporary, native substances. After dinner, retire to your lodging for the night time. Reykjavik has varied choices to select from, together with resorts, guesthouses, and Airbnb leases.
After dinner, test into your lodging for the night time. Reykjavik has quite a lot of choices to select from, together with resorts, guesthouses, and Airbnb leases.
Ultimate Morning Day Journey and Fly Residence
Your driving on the Ring Highway vacation has come to an finish. Chances are high you’ll be returning your automobile rental on the airport, so earlier than you permit, it is 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. That is the right alternative to assuage these aching muscle mass within the well-known scorching springs. It might be probably the most touristy factor to do within the nation, however you should expertise it at the very least as soon as once you go to Iceland. Learn extra: The way to Go to The Blue Lagoon in Iceland – Is it Price It?
If you wish to actually benefit from the Blue Lagoon you possibly can keep right here. Luxurious resorts 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 Lodge. Only a 10-minute stroll from the Blue Lagoon, nestled among the many lava fields this award-winning lodge is a superb choice when staying in a single day on the Blue Lagoon.
The way to Plan For the Ring Highway in Iceland
Our journey to Iceland was with Iceland Journey they usually put collectively an unimaginable Iceland highway journey itinerary for us. We beloved having an itinerary arrange upfront with resorts pre-booked and plans made. Iceland is a well-liked journey vacation spot and resorts alongside the Ring Highway route can e book up shortly, so having a tour firm plan made loads of sense all we had. to do was focus on driving the Ring Highway and having fun with our time. Go to Iceland Journey to assist with planning your journey.
Driving The Ring Highway Independently
You may e book a rental automobile and do the ring highway independently. You may test automobile rental costs at CarRental.com. We advocate getting a 4X4 with a GPS. We drove the Ring Highway in late September and drove by way of multiple snowstorm. We had a automobile go proper off the highway 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 Highway Excursions
For those who aren’t comfy driving in Iceland, there are organized excursions to Iceland that go across the ring highway. You may sit again, calm down, and let the professionals take you to the favored vacationer sights.
This 8-day small group tour takes you on a circle tour of Iceland. Depart Reykjavik to see most of the highlights talked about on this ring highway journey information. From waterfalls to lava fields, within the south to the East Fjords and northern lights of the North. It covers all of it. Test it out right here: You may cancel as much as 24 hours upfront to obtain a full refund.
This Circle Tour of the Ring Highway 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 elective excursions of Borgarfjörður and Lava Caving and elective tour of the Golden Circle. Plus way more. Particulars right here.
The place to Keep on the Ring Highway
There are campgrounds alongside the route with loads of availability. That is by far probably the most economical option to drive round Iceland’s Ring Highway. However ensure you arrive on the campgrounds early. They’re first come first serve and wild tenting in Iceland just isn’t allowed. So it would be best to be within the campground by sundown.
Most campgrounds have bogs and showers and a few have kitchens for cooking. Which is one other wonderful means to save cash on an Iceland Highway Journey.
We stayed at principally Iceland Air Inns which might be all alongside the complete ring highway route alongside the principle highway. Our stays included an incredible breakfast which saved us some huge cash. They had been giant and scrumptious so we might make it by way of the day with simply snacks as a substitute of a big lunch.
Finest Time to Drive the Ring Highway
The excessive season in Iceland is summer time and that is probably the most troublesome time to seek out lodging. So be sure that to plan upfront 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 every part from hail and rain to snow and heavy winds. We did have sunny days as properly.
Bear in mind, if you’re driving in mid-summer the times are lengthy, and probabilities of seeing the Northern Lights are low. For those who wait till nearer to autumn or go in late spring you’ve got a greater likelihood to see them because the solar units earlier. And there will certainly be fewer crowds throughout shoulder season.
Are you able to Drive the Ring Highway in Iceland in Winter?
You may drive the Ring Highway in Winter, however it’s best to have winter driving expertise. The Ring Highway operates 12 months spherical. It’s a two-lane highway a lot of the method and there may be winter upkeep.
Nonetheless, For those who go to in winter, there may be extra of a threat of roads being closed for a day or two, so enable further time. Iceland does have good winter highway upkeep although, so if you’re used to winter driving, go for it! However be warned, after we had been there in September, most individuals we met had been terrified on the roads and mentioned it was scary for them to drive by way of snow squalls. (sure, we had them in September and we had highway 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, be sure that to lease an SUV with 4-wheel drive capabilities.
Suggestions for Driving the Ring Highway
Embarking on a highway journey round Iceland’s Ring Highway is an thrilling journey that requires cautious preparation. Right here’s what you could take into account by way of gear and preparation:
Clothes and Gear:
- Waterproof and windproof jacket.
- Layered clothes to adapt to altering climate situations.
- Waterproof and comfy strolling or mountaineering sneakers.
- Sun shades and sunscreen.
- Hat and gloves, particularly if touring in colder months.
- Backpack for day hikes and excursions.
- Digital camera or smartphone for capturing gorgeous landscapes.
Driving and Navigation:
- A dependable car appropriate for the season you’re touring in (take into account a 4×4 in case you plan to discover the highlands).
- A GPS, Google Maps, and a paper map for navigation.
- Familiarize your self with Iceland’s highway guidelines and situations earlier than your journey.
- Examine the climate and highway situations often all through your journey.
Lodging and Meals:
- Ebook your lodging upfront, particularly in the course of the peak summer time months.
- Pack snacks and water for the highway, as there may be lengthy distances between cities and providers.
- Take into account bringing a cooler for perishable gadgets in case you plan to self-cater.
Security and Emergency:
- Convey a primary help package, flashlight, and any crucial private drugs.
- Guarantee you’ve got a charged telephone with an Icelandic SIM card or roaming capabilities for emergencies.
- Familiarize your self with the emergency quantity in Iceland (112).
Extra Suggestions:
- Respect the native surroundings and cling to any indicators or rules in place to guard Iceland’s distinctive landscapes.
- Be ready for altering climate situations and pack accordingly.
- Observe the pace limits
- If you come to gasoline stations, replenish. We make it a rule to fill when our tank is half full.
- Take your time and benefit from the journey, because the Ring Highway affords numerous alternatives to discover Iceland’s pure magnificence.
Iceland Ring Highway Itinerary: FAQ’s
How lengthy does it take to drive the Iceland Ring Highway?
For an unforgettable journey across the Ring Highway, we advocate wherever from 7 to 10 days. It can allow you to not solely absorb one of the best of the ring highway but in addition allow you to get off the crushed monitor in North Iceland and in Southeast Iceland.
Are you able to do the Iceland Ring Highway in 7 days?
You are able to do the Iceland Ring Highway in 7 days however we’d say that’s the minimal time wanted. You should use this itinerary and remove a couple of issues in case you solely have a short while in Iceland.
What’s the greatest path to tackle the Ring Highway in Iceland?
You may journey the Ring Highway in Iceland in both path, clockwise or counter-clockwise, because it’s a round route. We recommend going counter-clockwise, ranging from Reykjavik and heading alongside the South Coast first. It is because a number of the hottest sights, just like the Golden Circle, South Coast waterfalls, and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, are positioned within the southern a part of the island.
These are the highest websites to see on the Ring Highway in Iceland. It’s actually one of many best highway journeys on this planet. This 10-day Iceland Ring Highway itinerary offers you the highlights however if in case you have 2 weeks, you’ll actually be capable to see all of it.
So take your time to plan the right Iceland Highway journey and ensure it contains all of those stops!
Planning Sources for Your Iceland Ring Highway Itinerary
The Ring Rod – Iconic Stops on an Iceland Highway Tri