Iceland 12-Day Trips & Itineraries

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Iceland Travel Insights

Godafoss waterfall in the north
Map of Best of West & North Iceland - 12 Days
Best of West & North Iceland - 12 Days

This off-the-beaten-path road trip is especially great during summer months when peak crowds head for Iceland's south coast and Golden Circle (and accommodations can be hard to find). Instead, you'll escape to more remote areas of the country, traveling from Reykjavik all the way to its sunnier north coast with stops in Snaefellsnes Peninsula, the Westfjords (by way of car ferry), Husavik, and Lake Myvatn. There's plenty of time to experience unique geological features along the way with lava fields, volcano hikes, massive waterfalls, and geothermal pools, not to mention cool Scandinavian culture and cuisine.

North Iceland's Viti crater is filled with a bright blue lake
Map of Iceland Ring Road & Westfjords Adventure - 12 Days
Iceland Ring Road & Westfjords Adventure - 12 Days

This epic 12-day road trip is a perfect way to absorb Iceland as you traverse all four corners of the country. You'll visit popular spots along the famous 828-mile Ring Road, and head off the beaten path to detour through the Westfjords (great for mountain biking and kayaking). The self-drive loop also includes stops in Iceland's two biggest cities, and numerous natural sites like volcanoes, waterfalls, lava fields, black sand beaches, glaciers, and more.

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.

Godafoss waterfall
Map of Iceland Ring Road & Westman Islands Highlights - 12 Days
Iceland Ring Road & Westman Islands Highlights - 12 Days

Make a complete circle of Iceland, plus explore the Westman Islands, on this 12-day self-drive itinerary that takes in a vast wealth of geological wonders, exciting activities, and cultural highlights. From whale watching, snorkeling the Silfra fissure, and a boat journey on the Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon to soaks in the Mývatn Nature Baths and Blue Lagoon, you'll experience Iceland in all its facets, north, south, east, and west.

Go beyond the usual Ring Road highlights to see Iceland's wild Eastfjords
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's farthest corners with this self-drive, Ring Road itinerary. In between plenty of guided adventures and independent exploration, you'll skirt the South Coast, traverse the rugged landscapes of Vatnajökull National Park, and venture into the lesser-visited splendor of the Eastfjords. Continue through the geothermal wonders of North Iceland and the black-sand beaches of Snæfellsnes, then wrap things up with a final night back in Reykjavík.

A snowy Icelandic scene near Arnarstapi area in Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Map of Self-Drive Iceland North, West & South: Ultimate Winter Adventure - 12 Days
Self-Drive Iceland North, West & South: Ultimate Winter Adventure - 12 Days

Enjoy an array of diverse regions, geological wonders, and exciting experiences on this 12-day self-drive itinerary, which explores Iceland's north, west, and south in the winter months. Wander through ice caves on the Vatnajökull glacier, snowmobile on the Myrdalsjokull ice cap, view seals on the Vatnsnes Peninsula, and even sample cheese at a goat farm. Add soaks in geothermal hot springs, hikes to iconic waterfalls, and drives through the majestic fjords of Westfjords for a comprehensive, in-depth self-drive exploration of Iceland.

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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Iceland
Travel specialist Guðmundur Óli Pálmason
active 3 mins ago

Guðmundur Óli Pálmason

Born in Reykjavík, Iceland, and from a young age I was already travelling all over Iceland with my parents. After a short stint as a driver guide on modified SUVs in 2004, I came back to it full...

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Travel specialist Adam Warszawski
active 1 day ago

Adam Warszawski

During several years of my Icelandic adventure, I worked in hotels and got to know the local tourism really well. But most importantly, I've had the chance to explore countless amazing places...

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Travel specialist Emanuela Grieco
active 20 hours ago

Emanuela Grieco

I am an Italian Travel Designer mostly based in Iceland. Traveling has been my passion since I was young, being always fascinated by other cultures and people. In 2005, after living and...

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Travel specialist Jenny Booth
active 6 hours ago

Jenny Booth

I love Iceland! I love the people, the scenery and the culture. After living in Iceland and going on many adventures myself, I have the knowledge and experience to work with others to plan a trip...

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Trip Reviews for Iceland

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

A gorgeous gem of a destination
Iceland | Mar 21 - Mar 28, 2026

R
Rob W.
Solon, OH | Reviewed on Mar 31, 2026
Iceland in the winter can be a challenge but a wonderful challenge if your guide prepares you!. Gummi was a great guide through KimKim! In a short but action packed week we were able to see the Snaefellsnes peninsula, reykjavik, the golden circle, a lava cave, a glacier, ice caves, northern lights, number of waterfalls, Vik, and a whale watching tour. Make sure your rental has studded tires and use the weather and safe roads apps to check on things everyday. I really can't say enough about... Read more

Iceland in the winter can be a challenge but a wonderful challenge if your guide prepares you!. Gummi was a great guide through KimKim! In a short but action packed week we were able to see the Snaefellsnes peninsula, reykjavik, the golden circle, a lava cave, a glacier, ice caves, northern lights, number of waterfalls, Vik, and a whale watching tour. Make sure your rental has studded tires and use the weather and safe roads apps to check on things everyday. I really can't say enough about our service. We had to make many adaptations but missed on nothing. We got some great personal recommendations and also hit the big attractions. Iceland is a wonderful gem. Next time we will see it in summer!

Local specialist: Guðmundur Óli Pálmason
Guðmundur Óli
Guðmundur Óli Pálmason
Local specialist in Iceland | Replied on Mar 31, 2026

Thank you for the kind review Rob!
You certainly got ALL THE WEATHER 😅 haha! What a week! But I'm so happy you still got to experience everything and we made it all work.
Teamwork is dreamwork!

I'm looking forward to having you back in summer. I'm sure there will be less need for daily modifications then 😊

Take care and all the best,
Gummi

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From the very beginning, Noga planned an amazing Icelandic adventure.
Iceland | Mar 22 - Mar 30, 2026

Spongie
Spongie K.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Mar 31, 2026
From day one, Noga planned an incredible trip with all the sights and attractions we wanted for our first Iceland adventure. From how easy it was to get around Reykjavik to our Blue car rental for the driving part of the trip, everything went smoothly. You can't predict Iceland's unpredictable weather, and some outdoor activities were canceled due to a blizzard. Nick and Maria were quick to adjust our itinerary. Our car rental's AI system still had glitches even after being turned off. I... Read more

From day one, Noga planned an incredible trip with all the sights and attractions we wanted for our first Iceland adventure. From how easy it was to get around Reykjavik to our Blue car rental for the driving part of the trip, everything went smoothly. You can't predict Iceland's unpredictable weather, and some outdoor activities were canceled due to a blizzard. Nick and Maria were quick to adjust our itinerary. Our car rental's AI system still had glitches even after being turned off. I contacted Nick, who immediately reached out to the car rental company, and within minutes, we knew it was safe to drive. Our safety was the top priority, and with our expert team of Noga, Maria, and Nick, every question and concern was answered instantly. We can't praise our dedicated team of Noga, Maria, and Nick enough! 🥰

Hotel Reviews
Blue Hotel Fagrilundur
Bláskógabyggd

We stayed two nights at the Blue Hotel. Our room was nice, clean, and comfortable enough for two people. They offered breakfast, which they called continental-style, but it was definitely more than that. They had a great coffee machine that served everything from lattes to espressos to hot chocolate. They also had bacon, beans, and a scrambled egg station for hot food. The breakfast included the usual cereals, yogurt, meats and cheeses, along with a variety of breads and mini pancakes with different toppings. There were hot tubs outside, and many guests used them. The hotel provided each guest with a fluffy robe and slippers, which was a nice touch.

Authenticity & Character
The Blue Hotel had a typical minimalist Scandinavian style, yet it was comfortable. Their reception area and breakfast room were in a separate building, designed in a more log-cabin style, but very charming.
Location
There was a charming restaurant called Mika across the street, and we dined there both nights. The tomato farm was next door, and we had lunch at the new wine bar and cafe. We shared a delicious appetizer and their famous tomato soup with bread. Location was great as it was within 15 minutes of waterfalls, geysers, and our lagoon to take a wonderful soak.
Staff
All of the staff were friendly and eager to assist.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Skuggi Hotel by Keahotels
Reykjavík

Our room was sufficient and offered enough space for two. It was clean and comfortable. I still can't get over not having a top sheet or washcloths. It must be a European thing, and I will remember to pack washcloths. The staff was excellent. When we needed a cab, we just went to the front desk; they pressed a button, and a cab driver arrived in the lobby to pick us up within minutes. Breakfast was included with our stay. There was a variety of cereals, yogurts, meats, and cheeses, wonderful bread including their rye bread, a tasty tuna salad, and I happened to like pickled herring, which was available every morning. They also had hard-boiled eggs and some fruit. It was definitely enough to start your day and get you through.

Authenticity & Character
This appeared to be a contemporary hotel. It had an elevator, a breakfast room, and a place for happy hour, but no food was served after breakfast.
Location
It could have been more centrally located. Reykjavik is a walkable city, but we had severe winds and blowing snow, which made it a little more difficult to walk to the areas we wanted to visit.
Staff
The staff was friendly, kind, and personable, and their English was flawless. I needed medication kept refrigerated, and they accommodated me.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Noga Heyman
Noga
Noga Heyman
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on Apr 01, 2026

Thank you, Spongie! I loved working with you and am so glad you had a successful trip in beautiful Iceland. We really appreciate your thorough review of the hotels, as we use this valuable information to improve trips for future travelers. I hope you're settling in nicely at home and we look forward to hearing from you when you're ready to plan your next adventure!

Read all Iceland reviews

Iceland Adventure
Iceland | Feb 16 - Feb 21, 2026

C
Cindy H.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Mar 30, 2026

Noga and the KimKim team made planning our Iceland adventure effortless and stress-free. The itinerary was well paced, and filled with stunning locations and unique hotels. All of the pre-trip info was clear, organized and incredibly helpful. The KimKim app kept everything organized so we could just enjoy the trip. Noga and the team were very responsive before and during the trip, and they had truly thought of every detail. We would highly recommend working with her and the KimKim team.

Local specialist: Noga Heyman
Noga
Noga Heyman
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on Apr 01, 2026

Thank you, Cindy! It was wonderful working with you and Jim and I'm so glad you had a fantastic trip to Iceland. I hope you'll consider kimkim again for your next adventure 😊

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