13-Day Iceland Itinerary in September: South Coast & Highlands

The journey, day by day

Open any day for the full plan — stops, drives, and where to stay.

1. DAY 1

   Arrival and Geothermal Peninsula Exploration

   Starting the trip from Keflavik Airport, explore the Reykjanes Peninsula's volcanic landscapes, including the Bridge Between Continents and Gunnuhver, before heading to Selfoss.

   6 stops3 hours 10 minsSelfoss
2. DAY 2

   Highlands Adventure: Landmannalaugar's Rhyolite Peaks

   Departing Selfoss, today is a thrilling 4x4 journey into the Icelandic Highlands, exploring the dramatic Háifoss waterfall and the vibrant rhyolite mountains of Landmannalaugar, culminating in a relaxing hot spring soak.

   5 stops4 hours 50 minsHella
3. DAY 3

   Classic Waterfalls & Hidden Gems

   From Hella, journey along the South Coast to witness the iconic Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Discover the hidden Gljúfrabúi and Kvernufoss waterfalls before settling into Vík for the night.

   4 stops2 hours 40 minsVík
4. DAY 4

   Black Sand Beaches & Ice Exploration

   Embark on an exhilarating guided tour into the Katla Ice Cave. Spend the afternoon exploring the dramatic Dyrhólaey arch and Reynisfjara's black sands, concluding in Vík.

   4 stops1 hour 20 minsVík
5. DAY 5

   Canyons and Glacial Views East of Vík

   From Vík, journey through vast lava fields to hike the unique Yoda Cave, explore the majestic Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, and witness the grandeur of Svínafellsjökull glacier.

   5 stops2 hours 50 minsHof
6. DAY 6

   Glacier Lagoons, Diamond Beach & Vestrahorn

   From Hof, explore the dramatic Svartifoss waterfall before witnessing the stunning icebergs of Fjallsárlón and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoons. Conclude the day with the sparkling Diamond Beach and iconic Vestrahorn.

   6 stops4 hours 10 minsHöfn
7. DAY 7

   Coastal Drive & Towering Waterfalls

   From Höfn, embark on a scenic Eastfjords drive, exploring charming Djúpivogur and its unique art. Later, hike to the impressive Hengifoss waterfall before relaxing at Vök Baths near Egilsstaðir.

   5 stops4 hours 10 minsEgilsstaðir
8. DAY 8

   Canyons, Waterfalls & Geothermal Wonders

   From Egilsstaðir, journey through a stark landscape to witness the unique basalt columns of Stuðlagil Canyon, then feel the immense power of Dettifoss and Selfoss waterfalls, before exploring the bubbling mud pots of Námaskarð, ending in Mývatn.

   4 stops3 hours 0 minsMývatn
9. DAY 9

   Mývatn's Volcanic Wonders to Akureyri

   Departing Mývatn, explore the unique volcanic landscapes of Hverfjall and Dimmuborgir, marvel at Skútustaðagígar and Goðafoss, then unwind at the Forest Lagoon before reaching Akureyri.

   6 stops3 hours 10 minsAkureyri
10. DAY 10

    Capital of the North & Coastal Drive

    From Akureyri, explore the charming 'Capital of the North' before journeying west. Discover historic turf farms, dramatic canyons, and a unique sea stack on your way to Hvammstangi.

    5 stops4 hours 10 minsHvammstangi
11. DAY 11

    Glacier Hike & Saga Valley

    From Hvammstangi, journey south to West Iceland's Borgarfjörður region, experiencing a thrilling glacier hike and exploring the unique Hraunfossar waterfalls.

    4 stops7 hours 20 minsBorgarnes
12. DAY 12

    Reykjavik Exploration

    From Borgarnes, journey to Reykjavik for a day of urban exploration. Discover iconic architecture, delve into history at museums, and unwind at the Sky Lagoon, experiencing the vibrant city center.

    6 stops2 hours 20 minsReykjavik
13. DAY 13

    Golden Circle Essentials & Departure

    From Reykjavik, embark on a classic Golden Circle adventure, exploring Þingvellir's history, the erupting Geysir, and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, before heading to Keflavik Airport for your departure.

    5 stops3 hours 20 minsKeflavik