Iceland Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts in Iceland
Iceland's volcanos, waterfalls, and fjords create a unique landscape that forms the ultimate playground for road trippers, hikers and anyone who appreciates epic scenery and nature. It is also one of the world's best destinations to see the Northern Lights

Iceland's recent history tells a surprising story about its fast rise in popularity: Iceland's economic collapse during the financial crisis of 2008 created the perfect storm for its people to hunker down and join forces to rebuild its travel industry, and the subsequent 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull that grounded world air traffic for several weeks, provided an unexpected spotlight on Iceland's powerful, stunning nature. Together, these forces caused a surge in tourism, helping rebuild the Icelandic economy and earning Iceland a top spot on many travelers' bucket lists.
Iceland in winter
Map of Wintry Iceland Family Adventure - 14 Days
Wintry Iceland Family Adventure - 14 Days

If you're looking for a thrilling winter trip to Iceland that traverses all the highlights via the famous Ring Road, look no further. Experience glittering snowy landscapes and the bucket-list sight of the magical northern lights with this 14-day, excursion-packed itinerary. Perfect for families with adventurous older kids, you'll dogsled your way across snowy vistas, climb ice walls, hang out with a herd of wild reindeer, and relax in the therapeutic geothermal waters of Mývatn.

See iconic Hvitserkur in Iceland's north on a tour of the Ring Road and its highlights
Map of 13 Days in Iceland - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas
13 Days in Iceland - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Spending 13 days in Iceland offers you plenty of time to hit the road and explore the land of ice and fire at your own pace. Here are three self-drive Iceland itineraries that take you to the island nation's iconic sights and give you time to marvel at spectacular waterfalls, wander past legendary lava formations, and soak in Iceland's famous geothermal baths. Two itineraries include hiking and other outdoor sports and are best suited for summer travel, but for a truly unique adventure, consider a self-drive winter tour of Iceland's Ring Road.

Take the little ones to Iceland for fun family adventure
Map of  Discover Iceland's Wild West: Family Road Trip - 14 Days
Discover Iceland's Wild West: Family Road Trip - 14 Days

Discover the remote beauty of Iceland's wilder western side with this two-week family road trip. Spend quality time exploring Reykjavík's city sights before journeying west across the captivating Snæfellsnes Peninsula and the untouched Westfjords. Explore vast red-sand beaches, venture inside glaciers, and experience thundering waterfalls as you and the kids reconnect with nature and hang out with giant orcas, playful seas, and enchanting Arctic foxes.

Iceland's iconic Kirkjufell mountain peak on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Map of Coastal Iceland Tour: Snæfellsnes, Golden Circle & Westman Islands - 14 Days
Coastal Iceland Tour: Snæfellsnes, Golden Circle & Westman Islands - 14 Days

This 14-day self-drive tour of Iceland takes you on an excursion to some of the country's most amazing sights. Start in West Iceland and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, with visits to the crashing waterfalls and powerful hot springs of Reykholt. See black-sand beaches, walk through historic Þingvellir National Park, and ferry over to the Westman Islands for beluga whales and puffins. Walk among massive icebergs at Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, then end your stay in the vibrant capital city of Reykjavík.

Snowmobiling in Iceland
Map of Iceland Family Adventure: East to West Highlights & Westman Islands - 10 Days
Iceland Family Adventure: East to West Highlights & Westman Islands - 10 Days

This relaxed, 10-day road trip is perfect for outdoor-loving families wanting to explore Iceland's stunning natural highlights with a sprinkling of adventure. Recharge at the geothermal Vök Baths in the untouched and remote Eastfjords before journeying west via the South Coast, Westman Islands, and stunning Golden Circle. You'll wind up whale watching in Reykjavík but not before you've hung out with native reindeer, whizzed along a glacier on a snowmobile, and ventured inside a magical ice cave.

Iceland
Map of Iceland Self-Drive Adventure: Waterfalls, Geysers & Hot Springs  - 13 Days
Iceland Self-Drive Adventure: Waterfalls, Geysers & Hot Springs - 13 Days

This 13-day driving tour of Iceland takes you to some of the country's most amazing landmarks and historic sites. Travel along Iceland's Ring Road, where you'll see crashing waterfalls and long stretches of lava fields at Lake Mývatn. Visit historic fishing villages for beautiful harbor views and marine life tours, then hike the peaks of Kaldbakur Mountain. See geysers erupt into the sky, walk the cliffs of Arnarstapi, and take in the geological wonders of the Golden Circle and Þingvellir National Park.

The Ring Road
Map of Iceland's Magical Ring Road: Waterfalls, Lava Fields, Hot Springs & Wildlife - 13 Days
Iceland's Magical Ring Road: Waterfalls, Lava Fields, Hot Springs & Wildlife - 13 Days

See the magic of Iceland's Ring Road with this 13-day self-drive tour. Start in Reykjavík for whale watching and a vibrant downtown scene. From here, drive the Snæfellsnes Peninsula with its crashing waterfalls and black-sand beaches, then ferry to the Westfjords. Hike the cliffs of Látrabjarg, kayak to Vigur Island, and ride horses along the Westfjords' "Alps." Walk among icebergs at Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, visit breathtaking Seljalandsfoss waterfall, and end with a dip in the iconic Blue Lagoon.

Iceland family trip
Map of South Iceland Family Road Trip: Snaefellsnes, Golden Circle & Westman Islands - 10 Days
South Iceland Family Road Trip: Snaefellsnes, Golden Circle & Westman Islands - 10 Days

Combine adventure, wildlife excursions, and the best of Iceland's magical beauty on this 10-day family road trip. Travel through volcanic fields in Borgarfjörður, steeped in Old Norse mythology, and uncover the treasures of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Enjoy much-needed family time as you explore the waterfalls, secret lagoons, and geysers of Iceland's iconic Golden Circle at your own pace. A relaxed tour of the volcanic Heimaey Island and the glacial gems of the South Coast complete your family adventure.

A family watching the northern lights
Map of Relaxed West Iceland Family Self-Drive - 10 Days
Relaxed West Iceland Family Self-Drive - 10 Days

Experience West Iceland's wild beauty with this 10-day road trip, perfect for families who want to see the country's natural wonders at a more leisurely pace. Journey across the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and encounter tiny fishing villages, black sandy beaches, and epic mountains before finishing in the remote and untouched Westfjords. Savor moments with whales, seals, puffins, and Arctic foxes.

Take a hike in Þingvellir National Park with the kids in tow
Map of 1 Week in Iceland - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Iceland - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

One week in Iceland is enough time for a family-friendly, adventure-filled road trip that includes popular highlights and natural wonders along the South Coast and Golden Circle. Families with older children can incorporate ATV and snowmobile tours. Those with budding birders and biologists should consider itineraries that include Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the Eastfjords, or the Westfjords for a chance to encounter wildlife such as puffins, seals, and whales.

Children playing in Iceland
Map of Best of Iceland's Wild West & Arctic North: Family Friendly Road Trip - 10 Days
Best of Iceland's Wild West & Arctic North: Family Friendly Road Trip - 10 Days

Leave your cares behind you on this rejuvenating 10-day Icelandic family adventure that kicks off in the iconic Blue Lagoon Spa and ends with a journey into the icy heart of the Langjökull glacier. Along the way, discover Norse mythology, waterfalls, and lava caves among the wild beauty of Borgarfjörður and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Go horseback riding, whale watching, and puffin spotting along the northern coast, then head for the myriad charms of Reykjavík via the geothermal wonders of Lake Mývatn.

Giant volcano Askja offers a view at two crater lakes: smaller Viti and larger Öskjuvatn
Map of 15 Days in Iceland - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas
15 Days in Iceland - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 15 days in Iceland, there's ample time to discover all of the natural wonders and charming cities and villages. A highlights trip takes you around the whole island with a kayak tour of the Jökulsárlón lagoon and hikes. Alternatively, opt for a more easygoing itinerary that focuses on the south coast to the fumaroles of the Reykjanes Peninsula and the mountain views of Thórsmörk. Finally, a tour of the west coast offers a mix of wildlife, nature, and history around the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Iceland
Map of Iceland Best of the West: Snæfellsnes & Westfjords - 15 Days
Iceland Best of the West: Snæfellsnes & Westfjords - 15 Days

The rugged beauty of Iceland was made for road-tripping, which is precisely what you'll do on this 15-day self-drive excursion. You'll be traveling through the west, which is packed full of highlights ranging from waterfalls and glaciers to fjords and natural hot springs. You'll even have time for a detour to the north, where you'll ride horses, take helicopter tours, and drive the scenic Diamond Circle route.

Iceland's Reykjadalur Valley
Map of Natural Wonders of Iceland: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Hot Springs & Glaciers - 15 Days
Natural Wonders of Iceland: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Hot Springs & Glaciers - 15 Days

Take a 15-day self-drive tour of Iceland's phenomenal landscapes and natural vistas, starting with a trip along the Reykjanes Peninsula and a dip in the Blue Lagoon. Visit the Golden Circle and hike through the stunning Reykjadalur Valley, then see beluga whales and puffins in the Westman Islands. Continue counter-clockwise around the entire Icelandic coast as you scale thunderous waterfalls, traverse otherworldly lava fields, ride horses along black-sand beaches, and overnight in colorful fishing villages.

Check out Strokkur geyser on Iceland's Golden Circle route
Map of 10 Days in Iceland - 5 Winter Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Iceland - 5 Winter Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days this winter, you can explore Iceland on an exciting expedition from Reykjavík in the west to Egilsstadir in the east to Húsavík and Mývatn in the north. Alternatively, stick to one area, such as the Golden Circle route or the frost-laden Þingvellir National Park, to see phenomena like the Geysir geothermal area. Tour the blue ice cave in Vatnajökull, embark on a Jeep tour to Landmannalaugar, or see wildlife like reindeer, toothed whales (commonly sighted in winter), and horses as you enjoy an intrepid adventure along the East Fjords.

See Iceland's wonders as a family
Map of Active Iceland Ring Road Adventure for Families - 10 Days
Active Iceland Ring Road Adventure for Families - 10 Days

Perfect for families with energetic older kids, this exhilarating 10-day road trip takes in the best of the country's natural wonders as you tour Iceland's famous Ring Road. Discover the beauty of the Golden Circle before hiking the black-sand beaches and waterfalls of the South Coast. Explore the wild Eastfjords and raft glacial whitewater in the north as you adventure among volcanoes, canyons, glaciers, and lava caves to create family memories that will last a lifetime.

The road to Vestrahorn
Map of Untouched Iceland: Ring Road & Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure - 12 Days
Untouched Iceland: Ring Road & Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure - 12 Days

Spend 12 days discovering the beauty of Iceland with this guided and self-drive combo tour. Start in the city of Reykjavík to discover classic and modern Icelandic cuisine in a true foodie's paradise. Then it's off to Fagradalsfjall to walk among ethereal lava fields and see rivers of flowing lava from the active volcano. Hike the blue glacier ice of Skaftafell, see whales and other marine life in their natural habitat, and close your trip with a cliffside trek through the rocky crags of Gatklettur.

Take on the Skaftafellsjökull on a hike in Vatnajökull National park
Map of 1 Week in Iceland - 5 Winter Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Iceland - 5 Winter Itinerary Ideas

With one wintry week in Iceland, you can explore the icy highlights around the Golden Circle and Snæfellsnes Peninsula on a classic winter tour. Or, make your way north to the Diamond Circle, stopping at the geothermal landscapes surrounding Lake Mývatn before flying from Akureyri back to Reykjavík. For those who want a relaxing vacation, spend your days warming in natural hot springs while adventure seekers head to the East Fjords to get deep into Iceland's remote landscapes.

Snowfall over the red-roofed church in Vík
Map of Winter Tour of Iceland's Ring Road - 13 Days
Winter Tour of Iceland's Ring Road - 13 Days

This 13-day, self-drive adventure takes you along Iceland's famous Ring Road, which circles the entire country. Start in the Golden Circle for views of erupting geysers, iced-over crater lakes, and natural hot springs. Then, head to the southern coast for massive waterfalls, icebergs drifting in the sea, and black-sand beaches. Drive snowmobiles across icy glacial landscapes, search out herds of wild reindeer and close your tour in the modern city of Reykjavík with its vibrant cultural scene.

Views across the countryside near Vík
Map of Iceland Highlights & Ring Road Adventure - 15 Days
Iceland Highlights & Ring Road Adventure - 15 Days

Hit the road on Iceland's main highway for a 15-day self-drive adventure. You'll arrive in the west and, from there, head south, stopping at waterfalls, glaciers, and black-sand beaches. As you travel up to the east and north, you'll pass scenic fjords, go whale watching, brave river rapids, hike along sea cliffs, and explore lava caves before completing the circuit back in Reykjavík, Iceland's capital.

Skjalfandafljot river near Godafoss waterfall, Iceland
Map of Iceland Summer Self-Drive Tour - 13 Days
Iceland Summer Self-Drive Tour - 13 Days

Summer means fun in the sun and time spent outdoors and at beaches—even in a far-north country like Iceland. It's the perfect time for a road trip, and on this 13-day self-drive tour, you'll experience this Nordic nation's volcanic marvels, natural hot springs, shimmering ice caves, and breathtaking waterfalls. The adventure begins with a hike to an erupting volcano and continues with Zodiac boat rides and whale watching before ending on Iceland's famous black-sand beaches.

Isafjordur in Iceland's Westfjords
Map of Iceland Westfjords Self-Drive Tour - 13 Days
Iceland Westfjords Self-Drive Tour - 13 Days

Discover the wild beauty of western Iceland on an epic road trip adventure. Over 13 event-filled days, you'll travel up the country's famous Route 1 and venture down backroads to visit highlights and hidden gems. These include historic fishing villages, rugged sea cliffs, vast fjords, plunging waterfalls, volcanic rock formations, and other geological wonders you can only find in the land of ice and fire.

Seljalandsfoss
Map of Iceland Relaxed South Coast Self-Drive - 15 Days
Iceland Relaxed South Coast Self-Drive - 15 Days

This 15-day self-drive adventure delivers the best of southern Iceland at a more leisurely pace. Make Reykjavík your base for road trips to the highlights of this stunning region, from the geothermal wonders of the Reykjanes Peninsula to the waterfalls of the Golden Circle and the ice caves and glaciers of the far south. You'll also enjoy adventures exclusive to Iceland, including a soak in the famous Blue Lagoon and snorkeling between two continents.

See herds of reindeer in eastern Iceland
Map of Wild & Wintry Iceland: Northern Lights, Glaciers, & Volcanoes - 10 Days
Wild & Wintry Iceland: Northern Lights, Glaciers, & Volcanoes - 10 Days

This 10-day, self-guided tour of Iceland's winter landscapes combines the natural wonders of waterfalls, mountains, and volcanoes with plenty of wildlife and marine life viewing. Start in North Iceland, where you'll soak in the healing waters of Mývatn Nature Baths. Then, it's off to Húsavík for whale watching tours and the East Fjords to search out reindeer herds. Conclude your travels in the city of Reykjavík for more whale watching and an evening cruise to view the vibrant and colorful northern lights.

Puffins
Map of Discover West Iceland: Family-Friendly Road Trip - 7 Days
Discover West Iceland: Family-Friendly Road Trip - 7 Days

Packed full of family-friendly wildlife excursions and exhilarating drives through Iceland's rugged Westfjords region, this seven-day itinerary takes you past waterfalls, mountains, fjords, and red-sand beaches to wind up in the contemporary environs of Reykjavík. Along the way, discover tiny fishing villages untouched by time, remote islands full of seabirds, and the breathtaking landscape of Iceland's lesser-traveled western side.

Northern lights over the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon
Map of Iceland Winter Discovery: Golden Circle, East Fjords & Reykjanes Peninsula - 10 Days
Iceland Winter Discovery: Golden Circle, East Fjords & Reykjanes Peninsula - 10 Days

Nothing compares to Iceland in winter, and this 10-day self-drive tour takes you to some of its most breathtaking natural wonders and historic sites. Visit Þingvellir National Park for snorkel tours of the Silfra fissure and gushing geysers, then see the Streiti Coastline via Jeep, where you'll traverse remote roads and cross unbridged rivers. Hike the winter shores of Lake Mývatn, completing your trip with a spa day at the Blue Lagoon, where you'll soak in mineral-rich waters and enjoy a mud mask.

The Sun Voyager sculpture in Reykjavík
Map of Iceland Winter Holiday: In the Footsteps of Vikings - 10 Days
Iceland Winter Holiday: In the Footsteps of Vikings - 10 Days

On this self-drive adventure, you'll spend 10 days exploring all four corners of Iceland. Dive deep into the culture of Reykjavík before hitting the road north to volcanic beaches, historic landmarks, and geothermal sites like the bubbling mud pools at Lake Mývatn. After touring Iceland's eastern fjords, you'll head south to explore ice caves, visit waterfalls, witness lava flows, and take a drive along the famous Golden Circle.

Gullfoss waterfall in Iceland in winter
Map of 5 Days in Iceland - 5 Winter Itinerary Ideas
5 Days in Iceland - 5 Winter Itinerary Ideas

With five days to spend in Iceland this winter, you can head on a classic winter tour exploring the Golden Circle and the frozen landscapes surrounding Vík. Or, drive up Iceland's western coast to learn about Viking history and stay in remote fishing villages. For those who want to experience nature from all angles, focus on Iceland's south coast—stopping for a photography tour of the aurora borealis (northern lights)—and hike into Crystal Blue Ice Cave while wildlife lovers explore by horseback and dogsledding.

Landmannalaugar mountain background in Iceland's Fjallabak Nature Reserve in the Highlands
Map of Iceland Winter Adventure: Reykjavik, Hella & Kirkjubæjarklaustur - 10 Days
Iceland Winter Adventure: Reykjavik, Hella & Kirkjubæjarklaustur - 10 Days

This winter adventure leaves no stone, glacier, or volcano unturned as you experience the highlights of Iceland's south. Throughout this 10-day road trip, you'll travel the famous Golden Circle, hike glaciers, and visit epic waterfalls. Further offroad adventures will take you into ice caves and deep into dormant volcanoes—plus, you'll get to soak in the Blue Lagoon and enjoy a fun night out in Reykjavík.

Unwind in Iceland's natural hot springs
Map of Winter Spa Holiday in Iceland - 10 Days
Winter Spa Holiday in Iceland - 10 Days

This 10-day road trip through southern Iceland perfectly balances winter wonderland adventures and relaxing spa time. The moment you arrive, you'll visit lava caves, fjords, and villages—all while making time to unwind in geothermal hot springs. After a trip around the geysers and waterfalls of the famous Golden Circle, you'll tour glacier lagoons, explore ice caves, and seek out the northern lights before wrapping up the adventure with soaks in even more hot springs like the Blue Lagoon.

Iceland
Map of Iceland Winter Holiday: In the Footsteps of Vikings - 7 Days
Iceland Winter Holiday: In the Footsteps of Vikings - 7 Days

This seven-day road trip in Iceland is as much a journey through Viking history as a sightseeing tour of incredible natural wonders. Not only will you see highlight waterfalls, beaches, and geothermal sites, but you'll also visit museums and historic locales like the home of Leif Erikson. As a bonus, you'll do some whale watching and go on a photo tour to see the northern lights.

Iceland's Blue Lagoon
Map of Winter in Iceland: Relax & Reconnect - 7 Days
Winter in Iceland: Relax & Reconnect - 7 Days

If your goal is to reinvigorate your mind and body while connecting with nature, there are few better places for it than Iceland. On this winter getaway, you'll take a road trip along famous circuit routes dotted with stunning scenery like rivers, waterfalls, rugged beaches, geothermal areas, and historic villages. And almost every day of the trip, you'll stop at natural hot springs to relax and recharge.

The northern lights over Iceland
Map of North & West Iceland Family Adventure - 7 Days
North & West Iceland Family Adventure - 7 Days

Discover Iceland's wilder side with this whirlwind, seven-day road trip that takes you through the highlights of the country's north and west. Ideal for active families with older kids, experience thundering waterfalls, glacier volcanoes, geothermal hot springs, and ice caves as you journey from the Snæfellsnes Peninsula to the shores of Lake Mývatn. With exhilarating excursions aplenty, create treasured memories and enjoy quality family time while uncovering the land of ice and fire.

Looking through an ice cave in Iceland
Map of Winter Road Trip in Iceland: Glaciers, Caves & Waterfalls - 7 Days
Winter Road Trip in Iceland: Glaciers, Caves & Waterfalls - 7 Days

This weeklong winter adventure in Iceland takes you to the country's most famous natural highlights, including its largest glaciers. Upon arrival, you'll hop in a car and explore the waterfalls and national parks along the legendary Golden Circle route. Throughout this epic journey, you'll stop at glaciers for ice hikes, cave tours, and even snowmobile rides.

Northern Lights in Iceland
Map of Winter Tour of Iceland: Golden Circle, East Fjords & Diamond Circle - 7 Days
Winter Tour of Iceland: Golden Circle, East Fjords & Diamond Circle - 7 Days

This seven-day, self-drive winter adventure in Iceland starts with a visit to the Golden Circle, where you'll hike among waterfalls and volcanic craters. From there, take a guided, off-road ATV tour for a wild ride across tundra fields and unbridged streams, then head to the East Fjords to tour the Streiti coastline via Jeep. Relax in the nature baths at Lake Mývatn before concluding your travels with an evening cruise under the dancing lights of the aurora borealis.

Reindeer in Iceland
Map of Winter Wonders & Wildlife in Iceland - 5 Days
Winter Wonders & Wildlife in Iceland - 5 Days

This five-day, self-drive tour provides the perfect winter exploration of Iceland. Start with a drive along the Ring Road to the sights and sounds of crashing waterfalls, then search the night skies for northern lights via horseback. Spot wild reindeer herds along the shores of eastern Iceland, or head to Jökulsárlón glacier Lagoon with its massive floating icebergs. Visit Mosfellsdalur and take a dogsled ride along snow-covered trails before ending your tour with views along the Reykjanes Peninsula.

Teenage girl with Icelandic horse
Map of East to West Iceland Family Adventure -7 Days
East to West Iceland Family Adventure -7 Days

Perfect for families with older children in search of adventure and a digital switch-off, this seven-day road trip combines breathtaking excursions and a tour of Iceland's remote Eastfjords region. Discover wild reindeer, wintry glaciers, narrow fjords, towering basalt cliffs, and beautiful waterfalls as you venture from east to west. Along the way, you'll ride Icelandic horses, step inside a volcano, and relax in a geothermal infinity pool, ending your holiday restored, relaxed, and refreshed.

The northern lights over Iceland
Map of Iceland Winter Escape: Golden Circle & Northern Lights - 5 Days
Iceland Winter Escape: Golden Circle & Northern Lights - 5 Days

You can experience some of the best of Iceland in a mere five days. This brief itinerary maximizes sightseeing by putting you on a road trip around the waterfalls, national parks, and geothermal areas along the famous Golden Circle route. Along the way, you'll see the northern lights, fly over glaciers, and take a well-deserved soak in the legendary Blue Lagoon.

Seljalandsfoss at sunset
Map of Iceland's Winter Wonders: Snæfellsnes, Golden Circle & Reykjanes Peninsula - 7 Days
Iceland's Winter Wonders: Snæfellsnes, Golden Circle & Reykjanes Peninsula - 7 Days

Explore the magic of winter in Iceland on this seven-day, self-drive tour. Your journey begins with a drive to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, where you'll stop in the picturesque town of Akranes and take a guided tour of Langjökull Ice Cave. Then, it's on to the Golden Circle for a visit to Þingvellir National Park and a snorkeling tour of Silfra fissure. See the wondrous phenomena of the aurora borealis, then close your trip with a soothing dip in the waters of the Blue Lagoon.

Family fun in Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon
Map of South Iceland & Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Family-Friendly Road Trip - 7 Days
South Iceland & Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Family-Friendly Road Trip - 7 Days

Venture off the beaten track with this seven-day family road trip that takes you through Iceland's beautiful Snæfellsnes Peninsula, across the iconic geysers of the Golden Circle, and to the breathtaking waterfalls of the South Coast. Discover orcas as you ride the ocean waves on a whale watching tour, and ride horses along the glittering black sands of Vík before getting up close and personal with the colorful puffins at Ingólfshöfði Cape.

 A statue of Leif Erikson outside the Hallgrimskirkja in Reykjavík
Map of Iceland Winter Holiday: In the Footsteps of Vikings - 5 Days
Iceland Winter Holiday: In the Footsteps of Vikings - 5 Days

Iceland is for you if your dream of a winter getaway involves more ice and snow than sun and sand. Even with five days, you can enjoy its highlights on a road trip around Reykjavík and along the famous Golden Circle to waterfalls and geothermal areas. You can also stop to see full-size replicas of Viking ships, embark on mountain hikes, visit museums, and glimpse the unforgettable northern lights.

Diamond Beach, Iceland
Map of Iceland South Coast Winter Adventure - 5 Days
Iceland South Coast Winter Adventure - 5 Days

If your goal this winter is to reconnect with nature amid the spectacle of ice and snow, then there are few better places for it than Iceland. This five-day jaunt may be quick, but it packs in some of Iceland's most incredible natural highlights as you enjoy a road trip around the stunning South Coast. During the excursion, you'll visit waterfalls, see the northern lights, hike glaciers, visit sparkling ice caves, and ride ATVs on volcanic beaches.

Iceland's Skógafoss waterfall
Map of Iceland Winter Highlights: Vík, Golden Circle & Reykjanes - 5 Days
Iceland Winter Highlights: Vík, Golden Circle & Reykjanes - 5 Days

Take in Iceland's winter wonderland with this five-day, self-drive tour. See crashing waterfalls and ice caves along the Ring Road and visit the city of Vík for glacier hikes and ice climbing. Then it's on to the Golden Circle and astonishing views of the aurora borealis dancing in the night sky. Snorkel in the underwater world of the Silfra fissure and relax in the healing waters of the Blue Lagoon before closing your trip on the Reykjanes Peninsula, with its erupting geysers and bubbling hot springs.

A family hike through the Iceland landscape
Map of Highlights of Iceland & the Westman Islands: Family-Friendly Road Trip - 7 Days
Highlights of Iceland & the Westman Islands: Family-Friendly Road Trip - 7 Days

Perfect for active families, this seven-day road trip combines the best child-friendly excursions with Iceland's stunning highlights. Discover lava tunnels, lunar landscapes, and thundering waterfalls as you drive the country's Golden Circle. Set sail to the volcanic island of Heimaey and explore the icebergs, glaciers, and glittering black sands of the South Coast. A day in Reykjavík concludes this family adventure.

Dettifoss waterfall in Vatnajökull National Park in Northeast Iceland
Map of Self-Drive Iceland North, East & South: Half Circle Fly & Drive - 11 Days
Self-Drive Iceland North, East & South: Half Circle Fly & Drive - 11 Days

The best of eastern and southern Iceland awaits on this 11-day self-drive adventure that follows the Ring Road and explores the top sites of Lake Mývatn, the Eastfjords, the South Coast, and the Reykjanes Peninsula. You'll thrill to such fun activities as whale watching from Húsavik, hiking on Skaftafell glacier, and snorkeling the Silfra fissure. Plus, you'll have time to discover Reykjavik and Iceland's fascinating cultural history dating back to the Viking era.

Swim in the  Silfra fissure in Pingvellir National Park
Map of 12 Days in Iceland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
12 Days in Iceland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Travelers with 12 days to spend in Iceland have plenty of options. You can circle the entire island on a grand tour or focus your time on an in-depth exploration of two or three regions, such as the Westfjords, Snæfellness Peninsula, and Golden Circle. Perhaps you want a winter adventure, or an active adventure combining kayaking, hiking, and riding e-mountain bikes in West and South Iceland. These five itineraries show you how to make the most of your visit.

Icelandic horses
Map of Iceland Off-the-Beaten-Path Road Trip: North & West - 12 Days
Iceland Off-the-Beaten-Path Road Trip: North & West - 12 Days

Follow an arc from eastern to western Iceland via the north coast on this 12-day active self-drive adventure. You'll pack in many of the country's most iconic sites, from Godafoss waterfall and the volcanic wonders of Lake Mývatn to the dizzying Látrabjarg cliffs and world-famous Kirkjufell mountain. Plus, you'll thrill to mountain hikes, "Super Jeep" adventures, and even snorkeling in the Silfra fissure of the Mid-Atlantic Rift.

Thorsmork Valley
Map of Classic Iceland Ring Road Adventure: ATV, Zipline & Horseback - 12 Days
Classic Iceland Ring Road Adventure: ATV, Zipline & Horseback - 12 Days

Packed with exciting activities from the off-beat to iconic experiences, this 12-day self-drive adventure also explores a long wishlist of Iceland's top sites, from Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon and the geological wonders of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula to Gullfoss, Dettifoss, and Godafoss waterfalls. You'll thrill to ziplining, rides by ATV and horseback on black-sand beaches, hiking in Þórsmörk and Fjaðrárgljúfur canyons, and soaks in geothermal lagoons and even a beer-filled hot tub.

Arnarstapi, Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Map of Iceland South & West Coast Highlights: Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Golden Circle & Westman Islands - 11 Days
Iceland South & West Coast Highlights: Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Golden Circle & Westman Islands - 11 Days

Explore the wonders of western and southern Iceland on this action-packed 11-day self-drive itinerary. Thrill to orca whale watching off the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, hiking atop the Sólheimajökull Glacier, and exploring Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon by amphibian boat. You'll also savor a wealth of other iconic sites and experiences, from Kirkjufell mountain and Strokkur geyser to Skógafoss waterfall and the geothermal wonders of the Golden Circle, plus meet belugas at a sanctuary in the Westman Islands.

Godafoss waterfall
Map of Classic Iceland Ring Road Adventure: Snaefellsnes & Vatnsnes Peninsulas & Golden Circle - 11 Days
Classic Iceland Ring Road Adventure: Snaefellsnes & Vatnsnes Peninsulas & Golden Circle - 11 Days

Drive your 4WD in a clockwise loop of the entire island on this 11-day active itinerary packed with exciting adventures for a complete and quintessential Icelandic experience. You'll thrill to whale watching off the North Coast, steering a snowmobile across the Langjökull Glacier, snorkeling (or even scuba diving) in the Silfra fissure, and sleeping under the Northern Lights in a bubble. Along the way, you'll explore the top sites of the Snæfellsnes and Vatnsnes peninsulas, plus the Diamond Circle and Golden Circle.

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Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

Secure & easy booking

Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.