Iceland Self-Drive Expedition incl Activities

Arrive independently to Reykjavík–Keflavík Airport and collect your hire car which has been booked for you for the duration of your trip. Then, it’s time to set off along the south coast of Iceland as your adventure begins!

The goal today will be to reach the fabulous Umi Hotel on Iceland’s breathtaking south coast, visiting a number of awe-inspiring locations and sites along the way. This itinerary has been designed to showcase the best of the region, with suggestions provided for each leg of your journey. Today’s drive will see you pass by some iconic spots that we fully recommend visiting. The first of these is the magnificent Seljalandsfoss waterfall, one of Iceland’s most photographed sights, which is part of the river Seljalandsá and has its origins underneath the glacier Eyjafjallajökull. The volcano beneath this ice cap is the one that famously erupted in 2010 and caused havoc at airports across Europe.

Next up, as you drive along the Ring Road #1, you mustn’t miss the famous Skógafoss waterfall south of the Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers, and we also suggest a visit to the fascinating Skógar museum. A visit to Dyrhólaey will see you discover the promenade’s massive rock arch, before travelling to the world-famous black-sand beach of Reynisfjara where the enormous basalt stacks, roaring Atlantic waves and stunning panoramas beneath the looming cliffs of Mt. Reynisfjall are certain to impress. You may also wish to visit the charming coastal village of Vik before arriving at your hotel for a memorable overnight stay.

Soak up the peace and quiet of this idyllic location in the heart of the Icelandic countryside, enjoy magnificent views of the subglacial volcano Eyjafjallajökull and the Westman Islands, and savour a delicious meal in the hotel’s first-class restaurant before retiring to the comfort of your beautiful bedroom for a well-deserved rest after what will be sure to have been a busy day.

Accommodation: One night’s accommodation at Hotel UMI in a standard room with breakfast included.

After breakfast at the hotel this morning, set off to discover the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, one of Iceland’s most beloved sites, where the Hvítá river travels from the glacier Langjökull, before cascading 32 meters down Gullfoss’ two stages in a dramatic display of nature’s raw power.

From here you can join a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that has been arranged and included for you…a tour of the mighty Langjökull Glacier aboard a Monster Sleipnir Truck! As you journey in comfort and safety across Iceland’s second-largest glacier, and take a visit to a natural ice cave, this 4 hour guided tour is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience.

Upon conclusion of the glacier tour, you will get back on the road to drive to the beautiful Hotel Grimsborgir located in Selfoss in the heart of the Golden Circle route. This will be your very comfortable base for the next 2 nights.

Accommodation: 2 nights’ accommodation at Hotel Grimsborgir in a Superior Room with breakfast included.

Activities included today: Supertruck guided tour to Langjökull glacier & visit to natural ice cave

Today it’s time to explore some more of Iceland’s world-renowned “Golden Circle” sites, with your first stop taking you to the beautiful volcanic crater lake of Kerið in the Grímsnes area, before you make your way to the famous Geysir hot spring in the geothermal area of Haukadalur Valley. Although Geysir is the most well-known of the geysers and hot springs in the area, it is relatively inactive these days and may actually be considered dormant. There are, however, a number of other equally impressive geysers here including the powerful Strokkur, Smiður and Litli-Strokkur which remain active and are a joy to behold.

Next up, a visit to the greenhouses of Fríðheimar should see you learn about farm life in Iceland and how the farm harnesses the power of the area’s geothermal energy to grow four varieties of tomatoes and other vegetables despite Iceland’s long, dark winters. You could choose to sample some of the varieties and enjoy a unique food experience in the restaurant here.

Conclude your day of adventure with an included visit to the “Secret Lagoon”, a man-made pool which is fed by naturally occurring hot springs located at Hverahólmi, the geothermal area next to the village of Flúðir. It is the oldest pool in the country, and one of the most popular for locals and tourists alike. Your visit here includes towel rental and will be the perfect opportunity to relax and rejuvenate after another day of exciting experiences.

Accommodation: Overnight at Hotel Grimsborgir with breakfast included

Activities included today: Entry to Secret Lagoon including towel rent

It’s time to make your way now to Reykjavik, Iceland’s enchanting capital city, with one more adventure along the way. Spend today exploring the magnificent Thingvellir National Park, a wonderfully fascinating geological area that is a delight to explore at your own pace, and is part of the “Golden Circle”, making it one of Iceland’s most visited sites. We recommend arriving in Reykjavik in the early afternoon to give you some time to discover its vibrant scenes and strikingly unique architecture.

Accommodation: One night’s accommodation at Hotel Apotek in a Standard Room with breakfast included

After checking out of your hotel, there is time for one more unforgettable experience as you drive to the outstanding Sky Lagoon for an included day of relaxation and a quintessential Iceland experience. A hidden gem compared to the often-crowded Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon is a truly tranquil and memorable spot where you can immerse yourself in the warm embrace of water, steam, and the fabled night sky of the Arctic summer. Excitingly, your package includes the Ritual, a unique seven-step experience crafted by generations of authentic Icelandic bathing culture. What’s more, your premium package includes private shower facilities so there will be no hassle in getting ready to make your way back to the airport when you’ve finished at the lagoon.

Fully rejuvenated and filled with wonderful memories of your Icelandic adventure, it will be time to head back to the Reykjavík–Keflavík Airport to return your hire car and make your way onwards or homewards. Multiple extensions are available for this itinerary to allow you to see even more of Iceland, so please let us know should you wish to extend your explorations.