Around Iceland: Drive & Hike

When you arrive at Keflavik International Airport, you’re greeted by Iceland’s otherworldly beauty. As you journey by road toward downtown Reykjavik, the scenery shifts dramatically, taking you through craters and sprawling lava fields—a glimpse into the island’s unique volcanic origins.

Reykjavik, a vibrant and eclectic city, is as cosmopolitan as it is charming. Its compact layout makes it perfect for exploring on foot. Stroll through streets lined with outdoor gear stores and artisan craft shops, then eat at one of the city’s outstanding seafood restaurants. If you’re unsure what to try, the Arctic Char comes highly recommended—a true Icelandic delicacy!

Begin your day by collecting your car in Reykjavik then journey into the stunning Icelandic countryside, heading straight to Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a leisurely walk through the dramatic rifts of the Earth's crust for a truly unforgettable experience.

Next, travel north to the picturesque Hvalfjörður, or "Whale Fjord," home to Iceland's tallest waterfall, Glymur Falls. If you have time before heading to your overnight accommodaiton, continue to the historic Reykholt Valley, once a renowned center of learning in Iceland. Here, visit a small museum dedicated to Snorri Sturluson, the influential 13th-century Icelandic writer and historian.

Thingvellir Loop Walk - 7.7km (4.7 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 24m (80ft)

Glymur Waterfall Walk - 5km (3 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 219m (720ft)

Total Drive: Approx 160km, 3 hours

The western peninsula of Snæfellsnes, with its dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and the glacier-capped peak of Snæfellsjökull, is often called "Iceland in Miniature." This breathtaking region is said to have inspired Jules Verne’s classic, A Journey to the Centre of the Earth. Today, take a scenic walk along the volcanic coastline of Arnarstapi, where you'll discover striking basalt arches, hidden sea caves, and thriving colonies of kittiwakes and guillemots. If you're in the mood for more exploring, two other optional walks include the basalt column cliffs of Gerðuberg and the atmospheric black pebble beach at Djúpalónsandur.

Snæfellsnes: Walk to Gerðuberg - 6km (3.7 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 197m (646ft)

Walk to Djúpalónsandur beach & Dritvík Cave - 2.5km (1.5 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 18m (59ft)

Arnarstapi to Hellnar Round Trip - 5.4km (3.3 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 40m (131ft)

Total Drive: Approx 120km, 2 Hours

Make your way around the peninsula, and if the weather's on your side, enjoy spectacular views of the glacier and volcano Snaefellsjokull, nestled within the Snaefellsjokull National Park. Today’s trails lead you to Rauðhóll and Selvallafoss, two off-the-beaten-path but wonderfully scenic spots on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Rauðhóll showcases its striking red volcanic terrain and sweeping vistas, while Selvallafoss, often called the "Sheep’s Waterfall," is a delightful hidden gem where you can stroll right behind the curtain of water. Wrap up the day in the picturesque fishing village of Stykkishólmur for an overnight stay.

Rauðhóll Loop Walk - 2.7km (1.6 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 64m (209ft)

Walk to Selvallafoss via Berserkjahraun Lava Fields - 8.6km (5.3 miles) - Ascent/Descent:96m (318ft)

Total Drive: Approx 120km, 1.30 Hours

A long drive today links you to the north of the island via the Vatnsnes Peninsula, a wild and startlingly beautiful place home to one of the largest seal colonies in Iceland. Watch both harbour seals and grey seals in their natural habitat. Visit the Icelandic Seal Centre in Hvammstangi to get information on how best to see them before continuing to illugastaðir , a prime viewing point!

Vatnsnes Peninsula: walk to illugastaðir view point - 1.9km (1.1 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 2m (6ft)

Total Drive: Approx 320km, 4-5 hours

Less than 50km from the Arctic Circle, lies the beautiful northern peninsula of Trollaskagi—Troll Peninsula—made from 10-12 million year old basalt strata. Visit Siglufjordur, a charming fishing village located at the foot of towering mountains and ‘herring capital of Iceland’, before enjoying a lovely little walk to a beautiful mountain lake. End the day driving to Myvatn the Northern Lights Capital of Iceland.

Walk to Nykurtjörn lake - 10.3km (6.4 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 645m (2115ft)

Dalvik to Bæjarfjall return walk - 8.2km (5 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 784m (2572ft)

Total Drive: Approx 240km, 3 hours

Start your day with a visit to Goðafoss, a stunning horseshoe-shaped waterfall. When it’s time to hit the trails, you’ve got options! You can take on the Leirhnjúkur loop, or wander through the dramatic Dimmuborgir lava fields and climb up the striking Hverfjall crater. Don’t miss the chance to explore the Lake Mývatn area, a haven for birdwatchers and home to bubbling mud pots and steaming geothermal landscapes. To top it all off, treat yourself to a soothing soak in the Mývatn Nature Baths. They're the perfect, peaceful alternative to the Blue Lagoon, with warm waters that’ll melt your worries away.

Myvatn - Leirhnjúkur Loop - 4.4km (2.7 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 36m (118ft)

Loop Walk around Dimmuborgir lava Field and Hverfjall crater - 11.4km (7 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 130m (426ft)

Total Drive: 45km, 1 hour

Head towards the stunning East Fjords, beginning with a refreshing circular walk connecting the impressive waterfalls of Selfoss and Dettifoss—the most powerful waterfall in Iceland. Then continue your journey south and inland, crossing vast ash-covered landscapes and passing by Iceland’s highest farm. Arrive in the charming village of Egilsstaðir, a picturesque base for the next couple of nights in the East Fjords region.

Total Drive: Approx 210km, 3 Hours

Take it easy today as you explore the stunning East Fjords at your own pace. Opt for a hike to the enchanting Stórurð, famous for its vivid turquoise pools and massive boulders, or follow the picturesque loop trail to the peaceful bay of Brúnavík. Either choice promises spectacular views. The East Fjords are one of Iceland's hidden treasures, offering dramatic mountain peaks, quaint fishing villages, and a calming vibe that feels far removed from the busier parts of the country.

Return Walk to Stórurð - 15.9km (9.8 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 366m (1200ft)

Bakkagerdi to Brúnavík Loop Walk - 13.6km (8.4 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 830m (2723ft)

Total Drive: 140km, 2 Hours

Start your journey in Egilsstaðir and head into the heart of the East Fjords, making a stop at Lagarfjlot Lake. From there, take a scenic walk to the stunning Hengifoss waterfalls, the latter being Iceland’s third tallest, cascading into a breathtaking gorge. We also suggest taking a walk through the enchanting Hallormsstadur forest nearby. Continue onward to the picturesque south coast, where you'll spend the night in the charming village of Hofn, nestled on the edge of the majestic Vatnajokull glacier

Hengifoss Waterfall Walk - 4.5km (2.7 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 324m (1062ft)

Hallormsstaðaskogur Circular Walk - 5.5km (3.4 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 151m (495ft)

Total Drive: Approx 280km, 3-4 Hours

Head west from Höfn to visit the iconic Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, where massive icebergs float across vivid blue waters, creating a truly surreal scene. Just nearby, don’t miss Fjallsárlón, a smaller lagoon offering close-up views of the ice and glacier. Later, head to Skaftafell National Park for an unforgettable hike. The Svartifoss & Sjónarnípa Loop combines the dramatic basalt columns of Svartifoss with sweeping glacier views from Sjónarnípa, showcasing the rugged beauty of Iceland’s south.

Jokulsárlón west side - 1.3 km (0.8 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 4m (13ft)

Fjallsárlón - Circle - 2.7 km (1.6 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 68m (223ft)

Skaftafell: Svartifoss & Sjónarnípa Loop Walk - 7.3 km (4.5 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 251m (823ft)

Total Drive: Approx 130km, 1.5 Hours

Skaftafell, nestled within Vatnajökull National Park, sits at the edge of the mighty Vatnajökull glacier, which impressively spans 8% of Iceland’s total land area. From here, continue your journey with a scenic drive to the picturesque village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Once there, stretch your legs with a short walk around the village, including a visit to the unique basalt column formations known as the "Basalt Floor"—a natural wonder that adds to the charm of this peaceful spot.

Walk around Kirkjubæjarklaustur and the Basalt floor pavement - 5km (3.1 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 142m (465ft)

Total Drive: Approx 70km, 1 Hours

Leave Kirkjubæjarklaustur behind and make your way to Vík, the southernmost village on Iceland’s mainland. Here, you might want to take on the Reynisfjall Sea Cliffs Hike for some incredible views. Afterward, head to the Skógá River, a must-visit for its special scenery. Follow the river upstream for up to 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) to discover an impressive series of waterfalls along the way. End the day with a drive to Hveragerði, where you’ll spend your final night before returning to Reykjavík.

The Reynisfjall Sea Cliffs Hike - 6.8km (4.2 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 297m (974ft)

Walk upstream the Skoga River - 12.3km (7.6 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 443m (1453ft)

Total Drive: Approx 210km, 3 Hours

Start your morning with a leisurely walk around Hveragerði, One experience not to miss is a visit to Reykjadalur—known as the “Steam Valley”—where you can soak in a naturally heated river and unwind in true Icelandic style. Later, begin your journey back west to Reykjavík, making scenic stops along the way.

Finally, return to Reykjavík and drop off your rental car, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure.

Reykjadalur - hot river - 7.4km (4.5 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 224m (734ft)

Reykjadalur Grændalur - 5.4km (3.3 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 320m (1049ft)

Total Drive: Approx 50km, 1 Hours

A transfer is included to take you back to Keflavik International Airport for your departure. Alternatively, if time allows, you might choose to make your own way to the airport with a stop at the renowned Blue Lagoon (additional cost, bookable locally). Enjoy a relaxing dip in its soothing geothermal waters—a perfect way to end your trip.