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8 day Self-drive tour | Glorious Glaciers and Northern Lights

Name: 8 day Self-drive tour | Glorious Glaciers and Northern Lights
Brand: Elife Travel
Price: 1546.72 USD
Availability: InStock

Country:

Iceland

Flight:

Not included

Favorite

Tour id:

171040

Operator:

Iceland Travel
Length:

8 days
Group size:

4 pax
Age:

1 to 99
Difficulty:
Difficulty levels:
- Relaxing
- Easy
- Moderate
- Serious
- Heart-pumping

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Itinerary

Spouting geysers, soaring waterfalls, black sand beaches, ice lagoons and the chance to search for the Northern Lights are some of the many natural wonders you can expect on the Glorious Glaciers and Northern Lights road trip.

Tour program

Day 1

Arrival in Iceland – The world’s northernmost capital city

Once you have landed at Keflavik Airport, please pick up your luggage and head through customs. Collect your rental car at the airport and proceed to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time in Iceland, we suggest that you take some time to explore the Reykjanes Peninsula (a UNESCO GeoPark site) before you head to Reykjavik.Reykjanes is a great introduction to Iceland’s unique geology and volcanoes and the site of two of Iceland’s most recent volcanic eruptions in 2021 and 2022 in the Fagridalur area. You’ll see unusual and stunning features around the peninsula, including craters, lava cliffs, fissures, and the Mid-Atlantic ridge itself. We recommend a stroll in the surreal Gunnuhver area where you can view quirky colorful mud pools and steam vents bubbling away.Reykjanes is also home to the renowned Blue Lagoon, and you might enjoy the chance to relax in the soothing azure waters. Important: admission to the Blue Lagoon needs to be booked in advance. We can help you with that!Travel to your hotel in Reykjavík and check-in. Please note check-in for most hotels begins at 14:00 – 16:00 (2:00pm-4:00pm)Overnight in Reykjavik.Approximate distance: 50 km / 30 miles

Start point

Keflavik International Airport / Keflavíkurflugvöllur (KEF), Keflavíkurflugvelli, Sandgerði, Southern Peninsula Region 235, Iceland

Day 2

Reykjavik to Borgarfjörður

Whale Fjord – Europe’s Most Powerful Hot Spring – Magical waterfallsToday, head to the scenic Borgarfjörður region via the Hvalfjörður tunnel. If you don’t want to take the tunnel, you can take the scenic coastal road instead (adds additional 17 km / 10 miles to the trip).On the way, if you’re looking for a uniquely Icelandic hot spring bathing experience you might visit the new Hvammsvik nature area. Though modern, the stone-lined seaside pools evoke the traditional hot spring pools of olden times. You can relax in a variety of warm seawater pools overlooking a scenic landscape.Borgarfjörður is a popular area among locals from Reykjavik, who enjoy coming here for holidays. It’s also getting popular with international visitors for its exotic landscapes and Viking history. We suggest a stop in Borgarnes town where you can learn about the first Viking settlers at the popular Settlement Museum. Visit Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot springs, the beautiful Hraunfossar (the Lava Falls), where melted water from a glacier flows through interesting lava formations. Near Deildartunguhver you can indulge in hot spring relaxation at the Krauma natural geothermal baths. Krauma is known for its “fire and ice” experience since it combines Deildartunguhver’s hot spring waters with cool spring water that originates from the mountains.Tonight, you are well situated to catch a glimpse of the famous northern lights, if Mother Nature decides to cooperate.Overnight in the Borgarfjörður area (2 nights). The location of the overnight stay may vary depending on availability at time of booking, you will however be able to see all the highlights mentioned in the itinerary. Approximate distance: 155 km / 96 miles

Day 3

Borgarfjörður – Langjökull Glacier OR Snæfellsnes

Langjökull Glacier OR Snafellsjökull National ParkToday you can choose to continue to explore the marvelous Borgarfjörður region, or you can visit the scenic Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Each area has something to offer.Borgarfjörður : Here’s a hidden gem glittering with enchanting volcanic scenery, glacial views, and Viking age history. Langjökull glacier offers exciting adventures such as exploring an ice cave and tunnel built into the icy-blue heart of the glacier. Start with an adventurous ride up the glacier in a monstrous 18-wheeled vehicle. Once in the tunnel, you’ll view a glacier from the inside and learn how these icy wonders are formed. Another interesting area activity is a guided visit to the colorful Viðgelmir lava cave. Another exotic experience is a guided winter hike to the Húsafell Canyon Baths, stone-lined hot pools in the secluded highlands.Snæfellsnes : This peninsula is known as “Iceland in a Nutshell” because it contains so many distinct types of Icelandic landscape in one location. Give yourself an early start since there is so much you can see in this beautiful area. We recommend you stop at the wind tangled Arnarstapi sea cliffs and the rocky beach of Djúpálónssandur. The beautiful Snafellsjökull glacier-volcano is the crown jewel of the peninsula. Legends say that the mountain is home to a benevolent half-troll guardian. Drive along the north coast through bustling fishing villages, stopping to look at Kirkjufell, the most photographed mountain in the country.Overnight in the Borgarfjörður area. The location of the overnight stay may vary depending on availability at time of booking, you will however be able to see all the highlights mentioned in the itinerary.Approximate distance: varies

Day 4

The Golden Circle

National Park with Geological Wonders – Golden Falls – Lively GeysersToday you’ll be visiting some of Iceland’s best-known national wonders! Head for the UNESCO-listed Þingvellir National Park, where the world's oldest parliament met for centuries on the shores of Iceland’s largest lake. This is also the meeting point of the tectonic plates that divide the North American and European continents, giving you the rare chance to take a walk between two continents. Visit the quirky geothermal fields of Geysir. Stroll along a footpath around colorful bubbling mud pools and spouting geysers. The most famous of these is Strokkur, which erupts about every ten minutes. Then visit the dramatic, two-tiered Gullfoss waterfall, a spectacular sight in winter when frozen mid-cascade.Afterwards, drive along winter country roads to your overnight in South Iceland. If nature co-operates, you might glimpse some northern lights!Travel idea: The Golden Circle area is full of hot springs, and there are two great local favorite bathing pools. Laugarvatn Fontana is built on top of a hot spring, and its steam baths are good for your skin and joints. The Secret Lagoon is a lovely historical stone-lined natural geothermal pool with its own tiny geyser nearby. We’re happy to book a visit for you.Overnight in the Hella or Hvollsvöllur area. The location of the overnight stay may vary depending on availability at time of booking, you will however be able to see all the highlights mentioned in the itinerary.Approximate distance: 200 km / 125 miles

Day 5

Waterfalls and Glacial Horizons

Thundering Waterfall – Black Beaches – Sea Cliffs & Stone ArchesTravel along the south coast, one of Iceland’s main farming areas. You’ll see many farms and shaggy haired herds of Icelandic horses as you head along the Ring Road. See the magnificent waterfall Skógafoss, site of hidden treasure. (Make sure you have your camera ready - Skógafoss makes a fantastic backdrop for a selfie!) Nearby is Skógar Folk Museum, well known throughout Iceland for its collection of mementos from several centuries housed in beautifully preserved old turf-roofed buildings.Make a stop in pretty Vik village. Nearby, you can admire stunning views of a black sand beach and the black basalt columns of Reynisdrangar.You’ll also see glaciers from the road, including Mýrdalsjökull and Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull. The road leads alongside this dramatic glacier as you head to your overnight in Southeast Iceland.Overnight in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area. The location of the overnight stay may vary depending on availability at time of booking, you will however be able to see all the highlights mentioned in the itinerary.Approximate distance: 180 km / 112 miles

Day 6

Glacial Wonders

Vatnajökull Glacier – Glacial National Park – Iceberg LagoonToday is perfect for exploring glacial wonders in Vatnajökull National Park, Western Europe's largest national park. Start with a visit to Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon, where blue, white, turquoise, and black-streaked icebergs shift and dance. The mystical lagoon is enormous and has been the backdrop for many major feature films and programs. It is a special place for photographers who enjoy the challenge of catching the icebergs in just the right light conditions.Depending on your schedule and sense of adventure, you might join a guided Super Jeep tour to visit a mystical crystal ice cave hidden deep in the glaciers. The tour departs from Jökulsárlón parking lot and must be booked in advance. We can help with that!Nearby is the Diamond Beach, an area where icebergs rest on black sand. It has become a famous site for Instagrammers.If you want a different glacial lagoon photography experience, the Fjallsárlón Iceberg Lagoon is beautiful and often has fewer visitors.Visit Vatnajökull National Park’s majestic Skaftafell area, which is located between two glaciers and offers several winter hiking possibilities. Skaftafell is also an excellent place to try a guided hike on a glacier. There are few better ways to really get close to a glacier and learn about their formation.Overnight in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area. The location of the overnight stay may vary depending on availability at time of booking, you will however be able to see all the highlights mentioned in the itinerary.Approximate distance: 250 km / 155 miles

Day 7

South Coast to Reykjavik

Amazing Waterfall – Volcanic View – Geothermal VillageDrive along the scenic south coast back to the west. Though you are following the same road, you will get a different view of the magical landscapes.Visit Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall that you can walk behind (subject to trail conditions). You’ll also be passing through landscapes impacted by Eyjafjallajökull volcano, famous for its 2010 eruption. If the skies are clear, you might even get a glimpse of the glacier-crowned volcano.The town of Selfoss makes a great break during your day. The innovative new Selfoss Center reconstructs the original buildings from the town’s 19th and early 20th century. Visitors find this colorful Icelandic style of corrugated iron facades and chalet architecture very charming. The buildings contain artisanal restaurants, pubs, local shops and art galleries. You’ll enjoy an authentic Icelandic small town shopping and dining experience, with a dash of history thrown in.The town of Hveragerði is also a wonderful place to take a break and enjoy the peaceful village atmosphere. Hveragerði is famous for its geothermal greenhouses where flowers and vegetables are grown year-round. The town has several charming restaurants featuring local cuisine, as well as a small geothermal park. Near Hveragerði you can enjoy guided winter activities like horseback riding, hiking and e-biking.Return to Reykjavik in the late afternoon/early evening. Perhaps this evening you’ll visit the Sky Lagoon, a seaside geothermal spa near Reykjavik. The Sky Lagoon is known for its relaxing 7-Step Ritual, which combines both modern and traditional geothermal pool traditions.Overnight in Reykjavík.Approximate distance: 265 km / 165 miles

Day 8

Departure from Iceland

Drive back to Keflavik International Airport. We recommend departing from your hotel in Reykjavik no later than at least 3 hours before your flight departure. It takes approximately 1 hour to drive to the airport, and the check-in will start 2 hours before your departure.If you did not visit the Blue Lagoon earlier but have some free time today, you might want to use the opportunity en route to the airport. For this detour, please be sure to allow for at least 2-2,5 hours extra so you’ll have ample time at the lagoon. Your rental car should be returned to the airport service area, which is located only 2 minutes from the airport building. A shuttle will then transport you to the departure hall.Approximate distance: 50 km / 30 miles

End point

Keflavik International Airport / Keflavíkurflugvöllur (KEF), Keflavíkurflugvelli, Sandgerði, Southern Peninsula Region 235, Iceland

Tour Details

accommodation

Accommodation in a standard room for 7 nights

Iceland Travel App

transport

Rental car for 7 days with unlimited mileage, CDW, theft protection and VAT

Vehicle type in this package;

Suzuki Swift 4wd or Similar.

It is possible to upgrade the car for a fee. If you wish to do so, please let us know at the time of booking.

Please see following options:

Suzuki SX4 4WD or similar
Skoda Octavia 4WD Autom. or similar
Kia Sportage 4WD Autom. or similar
Dacia Duster 4WD or similar
Toyota Land Cruiser Autom. or similar

You must be 21 years of age to rent a car, 23 years of age to rent Kia Sportage, Dacia Duster or Toyota Land Cruiser or similar.

insurance

Insurance is not included. Travel insurance is required for this tour. Please make sure you are adequately covered.

optional

Other activities and services are not included.

flights

International flights are not included

others

Icelandic->

Rental car for 7 days with unlimited mileage, CDW, theft protection and VAT

Price is based on rental car – Suzuki Swift 4WD Manual or similar 1.3

For other vehicle options please inform us during the booking process.
It is possible to upgrade the car for a fee. Please see following options:
- Skoda Octavia Station 4WD Autom. or similar 4.1
  Kia Sportage 4WD Autom. or similar 5.1
  Dacia Duster 4WD Manual or similar 5.2
  Toyota Land Cruiser Autom. or similar 7.1
  Free in-car unlimited Wi-Fi to help you navigate with your personal mobile device
  Car pick-up/drop-off at Keflavik International Airport
  Authorization for two people to drive the rental car during your trip
  Customer care service during office hours
  24-hour Iceland Travel emergency line assistance while you are in Iceland
  Service fee and taxes

others

Breakfast on arrival day

International airfare

Personal travel insurance (highly recommended)

Petrol/Gasoline

Tolls (tunnels, roads, and other route tolls), unless specified. More information here.

Admissions and activities other than those noted in the itinerary

Beverages, snacks, lunches, dinners unless otherwise noted in the itinerary

Guaranteed early check-in (check-in time for most hotels in Iceland starts 14:00 (2:00pm) – 16:00 (4:00pm)

Guaranteed late check-out

Any service not specifically listed under "Included"

meals

Daily breakfast (excluding arrival day)

guide

Our unique Iceland Travel App. The mobile-based app provides:

Information on over 1500 star points all over Iceland
Links to electronic versions of our Iceland Travel Road Book
Access to travel documents

Good to know

Currency

ISK

Iceland Krona

Iceland

Customer reviews

Operator

4.7

Faq Tour

How can I book a tour?

You can order a tour on our website by selecting the desired dates and clicking the “Confirm dates” button. You can also contact our sales department by phone or email.

Which payment options are available?

We accept credit cards, bank transfers and other popular payment methods.

Can I change or cancel my reservation?

Yes, changes or cancellations are possible, however penalties may apply depending on the time before the tour starts.

What documents are required to participate in the tour?

You will need a passport with a valid visa (if required) to visit countries along the tour route.