Embark on the last 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 enduring 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 way of the land of fireside and ice.”
10-Day Iceland Ring Highway Itinerary
Driving Iceland’s Ring Highway is a tremendous journey that means that you can discover off-the-beaten-path locations whereas having the luxurious of following a simple route. We advocate renting a 4X4 on 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 straight away. Examine Automobile rental costs right here. If you’re not choosing 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 practically the whole nation spanning 1,322 kilometers (821 mi). Most individuals drive the ring street in 7 days and you’ll even see quite a lot of the preferred ring street sights in just some days. However we advocate a minimum of 10 days to see Iceland. Even then you’ll in all probability need a number of extra days, however it is a 10-day Iceland ring street itinerary that can take you thru a few of the nation’s most stunning landscapes and high sights.
Our itinerary drives across the ring street clockwise from Reykjavik the place you’ll drive north a few of the nation’s most stunning paces.
Vital Web sites
Once you drive Iceland’s Ring Highway, it is rather vital to remain updated on the climate forecast, right here is a few extra info to have with you for security. Vital web sites to comply with for Iceland Highway situations are climate forecast, street situations, and from ICE -SAR for journey alerts.
For those who 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 together with your automobile as chances are you’ll not have protection everywhere 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 slim passes, and climate can change rapidly. We typically had very restricted visibility. So lease a 4WD.
I keep in mind one snow squall arising 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 in the course of the winter months as properly.
The Full Ring Highway Itinerary
Welcome to Reykjavik Worldwide Airport! You may have arrived in Iceland! It’s time to decide up your rental automobile and make your option 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 positioned in between. Individuals usually go to these well-known springs on their method into the town middle, or on the final day of their journey. There’s extra about them on the finish of this put up.
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 shocking Nordic setting, Reykjavik is a contemporary metropolis the place you possibly can loosen up and plan for the times forward.
Reykjavik Sights
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 unbelievable 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 may take a guided tour or get pleasure from a live performance. Solar Voyager: This stunning sculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason is a must-see. It represents a dreamboat and an ode to the solar. Try the High 5 Pure Wonders of Reykjavik Laugavegur: That is the principle buying road in Reykjavik, crammed with boutiques, eating places, and cafes. Outdated Harbour: This space has been reworked right into a full of life district with eating places, cafes, and museums. Reykjavik Artwork Museum: This museum is house to an enormous assortment of contemporary and up to date Icelandic artwork. Learn our full Reykjavik Information
Dinner
You may go whale watching instantly from Reykjavik. If you wish to get the compulsory whale-watching tour out of the way in which 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 scorching canine at this fashionable stand. Seafood Grill: Reykjavik is thought for its seafood, and this restaurant is a superb place to strive some native dishes. Learn our Icelandic Meals information that will help you know what to order.
In a single day in Reykjavik
There are many lodging choices in Reykjavik, from luxurious resorts to cozy guesthouses. We’ve stayed at each the Hilton Reykjavik or Resort Marina Reykjavik and they’re nice decisions.
Approximate driving time: 50 km / 31 miles
Day 2 – Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Profit from your day by getting up early on your drive to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The drive from Reykjavik to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula takes about 2 hours. The peninsula is positioned in west Iceland and is thought for its dramatic landscapes, together with mountains, lava fields, and delightful shoreline.
Late Morning to Afternoon
Discover Snæfellsjökull Nationwide Park which is house to the Snæfellsjökull Glacier, which is alleged to have mystical powers. There are additionally a number of climbing trails and delightful 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 stunning black sand seashore is thought for its dramatic landscapes and is a superb spot for pictures.
Night
For those who go to in the course of the winter months, you’ll have the chance to see the Northern Lights. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a superb 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 on account 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 e book or soaking in a scorching tub in case your lodging has one.
In a single day
The perfect city to remain within the Snæfellsnes Peninsula largely will depend on 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 stunning 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 supply a variety 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: Resort 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 option to north Iceland to the charming city of Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city space. Akureyri is also known as “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, examine into your lodging and take a while to discover this vibrant city.
A must-visit is the Akureyri Church, a shocking 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 middle can be value exploring, with its quaint retailers 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. An alternative choice is the Akureyri Swimming Pool, a geothermal pool that may be a hit with each locals and vacationers. There are water slides
The encircling space additionally provides lots to discover, such because the beautiful Eyjafjörður fjord and the Hlíðarfjall ski space in the course of 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 fashionable spot for seafood, with a menu that options domestically sourced fish and different seafood choices. Rub 23: A stylish 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: An important spot for an off-the-cuff meal, this restaurant serves scrumptious fish and chips made with recent, native fish.
Afterward, you possibly can relaxation up for the subsequent day’s adventures at your chosen lodging, be it a luxurious resort or a captivating guesthouse. Learn extra: Finest 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 stunning landscapes, together with lush valleys and volcanic terrain. On the way in which to Mývatn be sure that. to cease on the Goðafoss waterfall. One more stunning waterfall in Iceland.
Afternoon
Upon arrival in Mývatn, take a while to discover the realm’s high 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 discipline recognized for its dramatic volcanic rock formations. For those who’re concerned with wildlife, remember to try the assorted birdwatching alternatives across the lake.
Elective Day Journey
In case you have further time, take into account visiting the close by city of Húsavík, recognized for its wonderful whale-watching alternatives.
Should do: If you’re going to go whale watching in a single place in Iceland, it ought to be Husavik. This extremely rated Whale watching from Húsavík lives as much as its popularity because the whale-watching capital of Iceland. Discover the attractive, Skjálfandi Bay whereas observing whales, dolphins, and sea birds of their pure habitat.
Should Watch: Husavik has gained quite a lot of reputation because of the Will Farrell Film “EuroVision The Hearth and Ice Saga.” obtainable on Netflix. Its stunning track was even nominated for an Oscar.
Night
For dinner, take into account attempting some native Icelandic delicacies at a close-by restaurant.
Daddi’s Pizza: In case you have had sufficient of Icelandic meals, this fashionable spot is thought for its scrumptious pizzas Vogafjós Cowshed Café and Restaurant: This distinctive restaurant is positioned on a working farm and provides a variety of conventional Icelandic dishes made with native components, together with their very own selfmade cheese and cured meats. The café additionally has a terrific view of the cowshed, so you possibly can watch the cows when you eat. Hótel Laxá Restaurant: This resort restaurant provides a wide range of Icelandic and worldwide dishes, with an emphasis on recent, native components. Additionally 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. Advised resort 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, positioned within the Eastfjords of japanese 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 ft) and 100 meters large (300 ft). Right here you can too 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 realm’s pure magnificence and discover a few of its high sights. A must-visit is Seydisfjordur, a captivating village recognized for its colourful homes and vibrant arts scene. Make certain 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 vivid pink clay. One other stunning 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 realm round Egilsstaðir is house to a number of 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 middle 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 web site, Klausturkaffi is thought for its conventional Icelandic pancakes and selfmade desserts. Lake Resort Egilsstaðir Restaurant: This resort restaurant provides a variety 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. Advised resort: Resort Eyvindara
Approximate driving time: 2 hours
Day 6: Egilsstaðir to Höfn
Morning
Gasoline 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 way of the mountains, offering loads of alternatives for beautiful pictures.
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 study glaciers, their impression on the panorama, and the consequences 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 in all probability spend quite a lot of time right here.
You can too go to the close by Diamond Seashore, the place icebergs from the lagoon wash up on the black sand, creating a shocking distinction. An alternative choice is exploring the Vatnajökull Nationwide Park, house to Europe’s largest glacier.
In case you have additional time, take into account reserving a guided glacier hike or an ice cave tour, each of which give 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, positioned 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 fantastic thing about the realm. Skaftafell is a hiker’s paradise, with quite a few trails main to numerous sights. One of many must-see spots is Svartifoss, a lovely waterfall surrounded by black basalt columns. One other fashionable hike takes you to Skaftafellsjökull, a glacier tongue that extends from the Vatnajökull glacier. Don’t miss the prospect to go to the customer middle, which provides exhibitions and details about the park’s pure and cultural historical past.
Night
For dinner, your choices may be restricted inside the nationwide park, however you will discover some good decisions in close by cities resembling Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Kaffi Munkar is a well-liked spot within the space that provides a variety 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 positioned proper on the tip of Iceland’s south coast. The drive from Skaftafell to Vik is roughly 2 hours, masking a distance of round 150 kilometers. Alongside the way in which, you’ll go by way of beautiful landscapes, together with huge lava fields, dramatic cliffs, and black sand seashores. Learn extra: South Coast of Iceland – High 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 large black basalt stacks standing guard. This well-known cluster of Basalt Rocks could also be certainly one of 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 tug their three-masted ship to shore, time ran out and the solar got here up. In line with folklore, as soon as an Icelandic troll is caught within the solar, it turns to stone.
Approximate driving time: 2 hours
Afternoon
One other fashionable spot is the Dyrhólaey Peninsula, the place you possibly can admire the dramatic cliffs, distinctive rock formations, and its picturesque lighthouse. For those who’re concerned with historical past, take into account visiting the Skógar People Museum, which provides a captivating glimpse into Iceland’s previous.
In case you have additional 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. An alternative choice is to go to the Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, a shocking gorge positioned only a brief drive from Vik. For these concerned with hen watching, the cliffs round Dyrhólaey are house to numerous seabird species, together with puffins.
Night
For dinner, head to certainly one of 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 realm’s high sights. One of many must-see spots is the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, the place you possibly can stroll behind the cascading water for a novel perspective. One other fashionable attraction is the Skógafoss waterfall, certainly one of Iceland’s largest and most iconic waterfalls.
Don’t miss the prospect to go to the Eyjafjallajökull Customer Heart, the place you possibly can be taught concerning the notorious 2010 eruption that disrupted air journey worldwide.
Proceed on to Skaftafell Nationwide Park, the place you possibly can go climbing or mountaineering 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 fuel station.
Night
In case you have additional time, take into account taking a dip within the Secret Lagoon, a geothermal pool positioned within the close by city of Fludir. Get your secret lagoon admission ticket upfront. Secret Lagoon tickets right here
For dinner, head to certainly one of Selfoss’s native eating places to pattern some conventional Icelandic delicacies. Tryum is a well-liked spot that provides a variety 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 scorching canine. They appear to be probably the most reasonably priced and fashionable meals on the Ring Highway loop at fuel stations. Pylsuvagninn Selfossi is a well-liked scorching canine stand on the Ölfusá river bridge. If you’re going to strive a scorching canine in Iceland, go for it right here. We ate quite a lot of scorching canine at fuel stations whereas driving in Iceland. It’s probably the most reasonably priced option 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, masking a distance of round 50 kilometers. This brief journey takes you thru some stunning landscapes, together with volcanic fields and mountains.
An alternative choice is to discover the Golden Circle, a preferred vacationer route that features the Geysir geothermal space, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir Nationwide Park. For these concerned with horse driving, a number of farms within the space supply excursions on Icelandic horses.
Morning
An important at this time is to go to the close by Golden Circle, a preferred vacationer route that features the Geysir geothermal space, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir Nationwide Park. For these concerned with artwork, the Reykjavik Artwork Museum and the Einar Jónsson Museum supply a glimpse into Iceland’s vibrant artwork scene.
Thingvellir Nationwide Park is a UNESCO World Heritage web site that’s positioned 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 study 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 realm can be recognized for its scorching 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 might be seen from a number of totally different vantage factors, every providing a novel perspective. This huge waterfall is a two-stage cascade plummeting 32 meters (105 ft) from the Hvítá River. Gullfoss is probably the most visited waterfall in Iceland and for good cause. You may stroll fairly near the speeding water and actually really feel its energy.
Afternoon
It’s time to make your option to Reykjavik. It is a nice time to take the chance to discover any sights you’ll 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 shocking 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 recent, 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, examine into your lodging for the night time. Reykjavik has a wide range of choices to select from, together with resorts, guesthouses, and Airbnb leases.
Remaining Morning Day Journey and Fly Residence
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 allow, it is a nice time to go to Iceland’s hottest attraction the Blue Lagoon.
Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is usually visited on day one or the final day of an Iceland journey. That is the proper alternative to assuage these aching muscle mass within the well-known scorching springs. It might be probably the most touristy factor to do within the nation, however you should expertise it a minimum of as soon as if you go to Iceland. Learn extra: Learn how to 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 Resort. Only a 10-minute stroll from the Blue Lagoon, nestled among the many lava fields this award-winning resort is a wonderful possibility when staying in a single day on the Blue Lagoon.
Learn how to Plan For the Ring Highway in Iceland
Our journey to Iceland was with Iceland Journey they usually put collectively an unbelievable Iceland street journey itinerary for us. We cherished having an itinerary arrange upfront 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 quite a lot of sense all we had. to do was think about 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 may e book a rental automobile and do the ring street independently. You may examine 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 way of multiple 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
For those who aren’t snug driving in Iceland, there are organized excursions to Iceland that go across the ring street. You may 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. Go away Reykjavik to see most 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 may cancel as much as 24 hours upfront 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 rather 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 option to drive round Iceland’s Ring Highway. However ensure 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 wonderful means to save cash on an Iceland Highway Journey.
We stayed at largely Iceland Air Accommodations which can be all alongside the whole ring street route alongside the principle street. Our stays included a tremendous breakfast which saved us some huge cash. They had been giant and scrumptious so we may make it by way of the day with simply snacks as a substitute of a big lunch.
Finest Time to Drive the Ring Highway
The excessive season in Iceland is summer season and that is probably the most troublesome time to search out lodging. So be sure that to plan upfront 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 the whole lot from hail and rain to snow and heavy winds. We did have sunny days as properly.
Keep in mind, in case you are driving in mid-summer the times are lengthy, and probabilities of seeing the Northern Lights are low. For those who wait till nearer to autumn or go in late spring you’ve 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 may drive the Ring Highway in Winter, however you need to have winter driving expertise. The Ring Highway operates 12 months spherical. It’s a two-lane street many of the method and there’s winter upkeep.
Nonetheless, For those who go to in winter, there’s extra of a danger of roads being closed for a day or two, so permit additional 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 had been there in September, most individuals we met had been terrified on the roads and stated it was scary for them to drive by way 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 quite a bit. So, be sure that to lease an SUV with 4-wheel drive capabilities.
Ideas 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 it’s good to take into account by way of gear and preparation:
Clothes and Gear:
Waterproof and windproof jacket. Layered clothes to adapt to altering climate situations. Waterproof and cozy strolling or climbing footwear. Sun shades and sunscreen. Hat and gloves, particularly if touring in colder months. Backpack for day hikes and excursions. Digital camera 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 should you 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. Test the climate and street situations often all through your journey.
Lodging and Meals:
Ebook your lodging upfront, particularly in the course of the peak summer season months. Pack snacks and water for the street, as there might be lengthy distances between cities and companies. Take into account bringing a cooler for perishable objects should you plan to self-cater.
Security and Emergency:
Convey a primary assist package, flashlight, and any mandatory private drugs. Guarantee you’ve a charged cellphone with an Icelandic SIM card or roaming capabilities for emergencies. Familiarize your self with the emergency quantity in Iceland (112).
Extra Ideas:
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. Comply with the velocity limits Once you come to fuel 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’s going to allow you to not solely absorb the most effective of the ring street but in addition allow you to get off the crushed 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’d say that’s the minimal time wanted. You should utilize this itinerary and get rid of a number of issues should you solely have a short while in Iceland.
What’s the greatest path to tackle the Ring Highway in Iceland?
You may 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 positioned 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 best street journeys on this planet. This 10-day Iceland Ring Highway itinerary offers you the highlights however in case you have 2 weeks, you’ll actually have the ability to 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