Embark on the final word street 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 long-lasting 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 street journey by means of the land of fireplace and ice.”
10-Day Iceland Ring Highway Itinerary
Driving Iceland’s Ring Highway is an incredible journey that permits you to discover off-the-beaten-path locations whereas having the posh of following a straightforward route. We advocate renting a 4X4 to your journey as this round street takes you thru the rugged landscapes of the nation to the highest of North Iceland the place situations can change immediately. Examine Automobile rental costs right here. If you’re not selecting up your rental automobile on the airport – e-book this airport shuttle to Reykjavik.
That can assist you with our price range chances are you’ll need to learn: How A lot Does a Journey to Iceland Price
About The Ring Highway Iceland
The Ring Highway is Iceland’s nationwide street Route 1. It circles almost the whole nation spanning 1,322 kilometers (821 mi). Most individuals drive the ring street in 7 days and you may even see plenty of the most well-liked ring street sights in only a few days. However we advocate no less than 10 days to see Iceland. Even then you’ll most likely need a number of extra days, however this can be a 10-day Iceland ring street itinerary that may take you thru a few of the nation’s most lovely landscapes and prime sights.
Our itinerary drives across the ring street clockwise from Reykjavik the place you’ll drive north a few of the nation’s most lovely paces.
Essential Web sites
Once you drive Iceland’s Ring Highway, it is rather necessary to remain updated on the climate forecast, right here is a few extra data to have with you for security. Essential web sites to observe for Iceland Highway situations are climate forecast, street situations, and from ICE -SAR for journey alerts.
In the event you don’t have a knowledge plan, we advise getting an e-sim. After 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 chances are you’ll not have protection all over the place in Iceland.
Most of Iceland’s ring street is paved and it has two-lane visitors, however that doesn’t imply it isn’t rugged. There are some single-lane bridges and slender passes, and climate can change rapidly. We typically had very restricted visibility. So lease a 4WD.
I bear in mind one snow squall developing 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 doable to discover it through the winter months as properly.
The Full Ring Highway Itinerary
Welcome to Reykjavik Worldwide Airport! You’ve arrived in Iceland! It’s time to choose up your rental automobile and make your method to the Northernmost capital of the World. Positioned 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 situated in between. Individuals usually go to these well-known springs on their manner into the town heart, or on the final day of their journey. There’s extra about them on the finish of this submit.
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 loosen up and plan for the times forward.
Reykjavik Points of interest
- Hallgrímskirkja: The Church of Hallgrímur is Iceland’s nationwide church. This iconic church is without doubt one of the tallest buildings in Iceland and provides an unimaginable view of the town from its tower.
- Harpa Live performance Corridor: This beautiful piece of contemporary structure is house to the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra. You possibly can 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 primary buying avenue in Reykjavik, crammed with boutiques, eating places, and cafes.
- Outdated Harbour: This space has been remodeled right into a energetic district with eating places, cafes, and museums.
- Reykjavik Artwork Museum: This museum is house to an unlimited assortment of contemporary and up to date Icelandic artwork.
- Learn our full Reykjavik Information
Dinner
You possibly can go whale watching instantly from Reykjavik. If you wish to get the compulsory whale-watching tour out of the best way earlier than you hit the ring street, e-book this tour on a luxurious yacht from downtown Reykjavik.
- Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur: Strive the well-known Icelandic sizzling canine at this common stand.
- Seafood Grill: Reykjavik is understood for its seafood, and this restaurant is a good place to attempt 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. Now we have 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 to your drive to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The drive from Reykjavik to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula takes about 2 hours. The peninsula is situated 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 house to the Snæfellsjökull Glacier, which is claimed to have mystical powers. There are additionally a number of mountain climbing trails and exquisite viewpoints within the park.
Go to Kirkjufell This mountain is without doubt one of 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 value testing.
Discover Djúpalónssandur This lovely black sand seashore is understood for its dramatic landscapes and is a good spot for images.
Night
In the event you go to through the winter months, you will 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, usually late September to early April). Equally, Snæfellsnes Peninsula provides 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 reside music or different occasions within the night. After an extended day of sightseeing, you might also need to loosen up at your lodging, whether or not that be having fun with a great e-book or soaking in a sizzling tub in case your lodging has one.
In a single day
The very best city to remain within the Snæfellsnes Peninsula largely is determined by your preferences, however Stykkishólmur is without doubt one of the hottest choices. It’s the largest city on the peninsula and provides a wide range of lodging choices, eating places, and companies. It’s additionally recognized for its lovely outdated homes and the Stykkishólmur Church, which provides nice views of the city and surrounding space.
Different choices for lodging embody Grundarfjörður (close to Kirkjufell Mountain) and Hellnar or Arnarstapi. All of those cities provide a spread 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 street journey, you’ll depart from the breathtaking landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and make your method 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 hold 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 heart can be value exploring, with its quaint outlets and comfortable cafes.
Take into account visiting the Akureyri Botanical Gardens, which boasts a wide range 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 provides loads to discover, such because the beautiful Eyjafjörður fjord and the Hlíðarfjall ski space through the winter months. and
Night
For dinner, bask in some native Icelandic delicacies at a close-by restaurant. Choices abound, from conventional dishes like lamb and fish soup to extra trendy fare.
- Bryggjan: It is a common spot for seafood, with a menu that options domestically sourced fish and different seafood choices.
- Rub 23: A classy restaurant recognized for its sushi and steaks. They provide a wide range of sushi choices, in addition to dishes made with Icelandic lamb and different native components.
- Akureyri Fish and Chips: A fantastic 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 following day’s adventures at your chosen lodging, be it a luxurious lodge or a captivating guesthouse. Learn extra: Greatest 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 recognized 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 best way 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 world’s prime sights. Go to the Mývatn Nature Baths, a geothermal lagoon the place you possibly can loosen up within the heat waters whereas having fun with the beautiful environment. One other must-see is Dimmuborgir, a lava subject recognized for its dramatic volcanic rock formations. In the event you’re excited about wildlife, you’ll want to take a look at the varied birdwatching alternatives across the lake.
Non-obligatory Day Journey
In case you have extra time, take into account visiting the close by city of Húsavík, recognized for its wonderful whale-watching alternatives.
Should do: If you will go whale watching in a single place in Iceland, it must be Husavik. This extremely rated Whale watching from Húsavík lives as much as its status because the whale-watching capital of Iceland. Discover the gorgeous, Skjálfandi Bay whereas observing whales, dolphins, and sea birds of their pure habitat.
Should Watch: Husavik has gained plenty of recognition due to the Will Farrell Film “EuroVision The Fireplace and Ice Saga.” out there on Netflix. Its lovely music was even nominated for an Oscar.
Night
For dinner, take into account making an attempt some native Icelandic delicacies at a close-by restaurant.
- Daddi’s Pizza: In case you have had sufficient of Icelandic meals, this common spot is understood for its scrumptious pizzas
- Vogafjós Cowshed Café and Restaurant: This distinctive restaurant is situated on a working farm and provides a spread of conventional Icelandic dishes made with native components, together with their very own home made 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 provides a wide range of Icelandic and worldwide dishes, with an emphasis on contemporary, native components. In addition 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. Steered 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, situated within the Eastfjords of jap Iceland. This roughly 180-kilometer journey will take you thru a wide range 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 toes) and 100 meters large (300 toes). Right here you may also 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, chances are you’ll find yourself spending the entire day right here!
Afternoon
Upon arriving in Egilsstaðir, delve into the world’s pure magnificence and discover a few of its prime sights. A must-visit is Seydisfjordur, a captivating village recognized for its colourful homes and vibrant arts scene. Be certain that to take a stroll alongside Rainbow Highway.
Don’t miss out on the beautiful Hengifoss, one of many tallest waterfalls in Iceland, with its spectacular basalt columns and vibrant pink 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 probably spot some seals or different wildlife. Moreover, the world round Egilsstaðir is house to a number of mountain climbing trails, offering ample alternatives to discover the beautiful landscapes on foot.
Night
Savor the native flavors at one of many eating places in Egilsstaðir or the encompassing space.
- Valaskjálf Restaurant: Positioned within the cultural heart of Egilsstaðir, this restaurant provides a wide range 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 home made truffles.
- Lake Lodge Egilsstaðir Restaurant: This lodge restaurant provides a spread of Icelandic and worldwide dishes with a concentrate on native components, 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. Steered 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 means of the mountains, offering loads of alternatives for beautiful 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 impression 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 stand up shut and private with the icebergs. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is probably the most well-known and you’ll most likely spend plenty of time right here.
You may as well go to the close by Diamond Seashore, the place icebergs from the lagoon wash up on the black sand, creating a surprising distinction. Another choice is exploring the Vatnajökull Nationwide Park, house to Europe’s largest glacier.
In case you have further time, take into account reserving a guided glacier hike or an ice cave tour, each of which offer 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, situated in Vatnajökull Nationwide Park. The drive covers a distance of about 140 kilometers and takes you thru a few of Iceland’s most beautiful 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 world. Skaftafell is a hiker’s paradise, with quite a few trails main to varied sights. One of many must-see spots is Svartifoss, an exquisite waterfall surrounded by black basalt columns. One other common hike takes you to Skaftafellsjökull, a glacier tongue that extends from the Vatnajökull glacier. Don’t miss the possibility to go to the customer heart, which provides exhibitions and details about the park’s pure and cultural historical past.
Night
For dinner, your choices could be restricted throughout the nationwide park, however yow will discover some good selections in close by cities comparable to Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Kaffi Munkar is a well-liked spot within the space that provides a spread 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 situated proper on the tip of Iceland’s south coast. The drive from Skaftafell to Vik is roughly 2 hours, protecting a distance of round 150 kilometers. Alongside the best way, you’ll move by means of beautiful 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 recognized for its towering basalt columns and highly effective waves.
Vik stands within the shadow of the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier and is house to the black sand seashore with enormous black basalt stacks standing guard. This well-known cluster of Basalt Rocks could also be one in all Iceland’s most recognizable sights and also you don’t need 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 response to folklore, as soon as an Icelandic troll is caught within the solar, it turns to stone.
Approximate driving time: 2 hours
Afternoon
One other common spot is the Dyrhólaey Peninsula, the place you possibly can admire the dramatic cliffs, distinctive rock formations, and its picturesque lighthouse. In the event you’re excited about historical past, take into account visiting the Skógar Folks Museum, which provides a captivating glimpse into Iceland’s previous.
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 situated only a quick drive from Vik. For these excited about hen watching, the cliffs round Dyrhólaey are house to varied seabird species, together with puffins.
Night
For dinner, head to one in all Vik’s native eating places to pattern some scrumptious Icelandic delicacies. Sudur Vik is a well-liked selection, providing a wide range 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 world’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 common attraction is the Skógafoss waterfall, one in all 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 mountain climbing 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
In case you have further time, take into account taking a dip within the Secret Lagoon, a geothermal pool situated within the close by city of Fludir. Get your secret lagoon admission ticket prematurely. Secret Lagoon tickets right here
For dinner, head to one in all Selfoss’s native eating places to pattern some conventional Icelandic delicacies. Tryum is a well-liked spot that provides a spread 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 sizzling canines. They appear to be probably the most inexpensive and common meals on the Ring Highway loop at gasoline stations. Pylsuvagninn Selfossi is a well-liked sizzling canine stand on the Ölfusá river bridge. If you will attempt a sizzling canine in Iceland, go for it right here. We ate plenty of sizzling canines at gasoline stations whereas driving in Iceland. It’s probably the most inexpensive method 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, protecting 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 well-liked vacationer route that features the Geysir geothermal space, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir Nationwide Park. For these excited about horse using, a number of farms within the space provide excursions on Icelandic horses.
Morning
A fantastic at present is to go to the close by Golden Circle, a well-liked vacationer route that features the Geysir geothermal space, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir Nationwide Park. For these excited about 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 situated 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 house 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 recognized for its sizzling 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 considered from a number of totally different vantage factors, every providing a singular perspective. This large waterfall is a two-stage cascade plummeting 32 meters (105 toes) from the Hvítá River. Gullfoss is probably the most visited waterfall in Iceland and for good motive. You possibly can stroll fairly near the dashing water and actually really feel its energy.
Afternoon
It’s time to make your method to Reykjavik. It is a nice time to take the chance to discover any sights you will have missed in your first day within the metropolis. Choices embody the Solar Voyager, a metal sculpture formed like a Viking ship, and the Hallgrímskirkja, a surprising church that is without doubt one of the tallest buildings in Iceland. You might also need to go to the Harpa Live performance Corridor, an iconic constructing recognized for its distinctive glass facade.
Night
For dinner, Reykjavik provides a variety of choices, from conventional Icelandic delicacies to worldwide dishes. The Fish Firm is a well-liked selection, recognized for its scrumptious seafood dishes made with contemporary, native components. After dinner, retire to your lodging for the night time. Reykjavik has numerous choices to select from, together with resorts, guesthouses, and Airbnb leases.
After dinner, test into your lodging for the night time. Reykjavik has a wide range of choices to select from, together with resorts, guesthouses, and Airbnb leases.
Ultimate Morning Day Journey and Fly Dwelling
Your driving on the Ring Highway vacation has come to an finish. Chances are high you can be returning your automobile rental on the airport, so earlier than you permit, this can be a nice time to go to Iceland’s hottest attraction the Blue Lagoon.
Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is commonly visited on day one or the final day of an Iceland journey. That is the proper alternative to appease these aching muscular tissues within the well-known sizzling springs. It could be probably the most touristy factor to do within the nation, however you have to expertise it no less than as soon as if you go to Iceland. Learn extra: How you can 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 embody:
- 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 wonderful possibility when staying in a single day on the Blue Lagoon.
How you can Plan For the Ring Highway in Iceland
Our journey to Iceland was with Iceland Journey and so they put collectively an unimaginable Iceland street journey itinerary for us. We liked having an itinerary arrange prematurely 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 rapidly, so having a tour firm plan made plenty 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 possibly can e-book a rental automobile and do the ring street independently. You possibly can 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 means of a couple of snowstorm. We had a automobile go proper off the street 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
In the event you aren’t snug driving in Iceland, there are organized excursions to Iceland that go across the ring street. You possibly can sit again, loosen up, 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 lots of the highlights talked about on this ring street 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 possibly can cancel as much as 24 hours prematurely to obtain a full refund.
This Circle Tour of the Ring Highway is a versatile possibility 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 method to drive round Iceland’s Ring Highway. However be sure you arrive on the campgrounds early. They’re first come first serve and wild tenting in Iceland is just not allowed. So you’ll want to be within the campground by sundown.
Most campgrounds have bathrooms and showers and a few have kitchens for cooking. Which is one other smart way to economize on an Iceland Highway Journey.
We stayed at principally Iceland Air Motels which can be all alongside the whole ring street route alongside the primary street. Our stays included an incredible breakfast which saved us some huge cash. They have been massive and scrumptious so we may make it by means of the day with simply snacks as an alternative of a big lunch.
Greatest Time to Drive the Ring Highway
The excessive season in Iceland is summer time and that is probably the most tough time to search out lodging. So be sure that to plan prematurely in case you are 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 all the things from hail and rain to snow and heavy winds. We did have sunny days as properly.
Bear in mind, in case you are driving in mid-summer the times are lengthy, and possibilities of seeing the Northern Lights are low. In the event you wait till nearer to autumn or go in late spring you have 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 possibly can 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 street a lot of the manner and there may be winter upkeep.
Nonetheless, In the event you go to in winter, there may be extra of a danger of roads being closed for a day or two, so enable further time. Iceland does have good winter street upkeep although, so in case you are used to winter driving, go for it! However be warned, once we have been there in September, most individuals we met have been terrified on the roads and mentioned it was scary for them to drive by means of snow squalls. (sure, we had them in September and we had street closures too).
Being from Canada, we’re used to snow squalls, however we additionally had a four-by-four SUV which helped lots. So, be sure that to lease an SUV with 4-wheel drive capabilities.
Suggestions for Driving the Ring Highway
Embarking on a street journey round Iceland’s Ring Highway is an thrilling journey that requires cautious preparation. Right here’s what you might want to take into account when it comes to gear and preparation:
Clothes and Gear:
- Waterproof and windproof jacket.
- Layered clothes to adapt to altering climate situations.
- Waterproof and comfy strolling or mountain climbing sneakers.
- Sun shades and sunscreen.
- Hat and gloves, particularly if touring in colder months.
- Backpack for day hikes and excursions.
- Digicam or smartphone for capturing beautiful landscapes.
Driving and Navigation:
- A dependable automobile appropriate for the season you’re touring in (take into account a 4×4 for those who plan to discover the highlands).
- A GPS, Google Maps, and a paper map for navigation.
- Familiarize your self with Iceland’s street guidelines and situations earlier than your journey.
- Examine the climate and street situations usually all through your journey.
Lodging and Meals:
- E-book your lodging prematurely, particularly through the peak summer time months.
- Pack snacks and water for the street, as there may be lengthy distances between cities and companies.
- Take into account bringing a cooler for perishable objects for those who plan to self-cater.
Security and Emergency:
- Convey a primary support package, flashlight, and any mandatory private medicines.
- Guarantee you have 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
- Once 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 provides 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 anyplace from 7 to 10 days. It would allow you to not solely absorb one of the best of the ring street but in addition allow you to get off the overwhelmed 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 might say that’s the minimal time wanted. You should utilize this itinerary and remove a number of issues for those who solely have a short while in Iceland.
What’s the finest path to tackle the Ring Highway in Iceland?
You possibly can journey the Ring Highway in Iceland in both route, clockwise or counter-clockwise, because it’s a round route. We advise going counter-clockwise, ranging from Reykjavik and heading alongside the South Coast first. It is because a few of the hottest sights, just like the Golden Circle, South Coast waterfalls, and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, are situated 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 biggest street journeys on the earth. This 10-day Iceland Ring Highway itinerary provides you the highlights however in case you have 2 weeks, you’ll actually be capable of see all of it.
So take your time to plan the proper Iceland Highway journey and ensure it consists of all of those stops!
Planning Sources for Your Iceland Ring Highway Itinerary
The Ring Rod – Iconic Stops on an Iceland Highway Tri
