Jessica's 11 day travel guide to Iceland

The journey, day by day

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

1. DAY 1

   Day 1 · 2026-08-26

   Arrival and Geothermal Peninsula Exploration

   Arriving at the airport this morning, you'll pick up your 4x4 and immediately delve into the Reykjanes Peninsula's raw volcanic beauty, culminating in Reykjavik for the evening.

   8 stops2 hours 50 minsReykjavik
2. DAY 2

   Day 2 · 2026-08-27

   Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Journey to the Center of the Earth

   From Reykjavik, journey to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, exploring the dramatic basalt columns, spotting seals, visiting the iconic black church, and hiking coastal trails before reaching Stykkishólmur.

   7 stops4 hours 20 minsStykkishólmur
3. DAY 3

   Day 3 · 2026-08-28

   West to North: Legends and Landscapes

   From Stykkishólmur, journey along the scenic coast, admiring Kirkjufell and hiking Grábrók Crater. Explore Kolugljúfur Canyon and historic Glaumbær before arriving in Akureyri, the vibrant capital of the North.

   6 stops5 hours 50 minsAkureyri
4. DAY 4

   Day 4 · 2026-08-29

   Whales, Waterfalls, and Volcanic Wonders

   From Akureyri, journey to the majestic Goðafoss, embark on an exciting whale watching tour in Húsavík, then explore the unique geothermal landscapes and volcanic crater around Lake Mývatn.

   6 stops2 hours 30 minsMývatn
5. DAY 5

   Day 5 · 2026-08-30

   Dettifoss and Stuðlagil Canyon

   From Mývatn, journey to witness the immense power of Dettifoss, Europe's most powerful waterfall. Afterwards, hike into the stunning basalt columns of Stuðlagil Canyon before relaxing at Vök Baths.

   3 stops2 hours 50 minsEgilsstaðir
6. DAY 6

   Day 6 · 2026-08-31

   Puffins and Eastfjords Coastal Drive to Höfn

   From Egilsstaðir, embark on a scenic journey to the Eastfjords, spotting puffins at Hafnarhólmi and admiring Seyðisfjörður's charm. Drive south along dramatic coastlines, concluding the day in Höfn.

   7 stops6 hours 10 minsHöfn
7. DAY 7

   Day 7 · 2026-09-01

   Glacier Lagoons and Diamond Ice

   From Höfn, immerse yourself in the ethereal beauty of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach, witnessing floating icebergs. Conclude with a rewarding hike to a stunning glacier viewpoint in Skaftafell.

   5 stops3 hours 20 minsKirkjubæjarklaustur
8. DAY 8

   Day 8 · 2026-09-02

   Canyons, Black Sand, and Waterfalls

   From Kirkjubæjarklaustur, explore the majestic Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, witness Reynisfjara's black sands, and marvel at iconic waterfalls before an evening horse riding adventure near Vík.

   6 stops4 hours 50 minsSelfoss
9. DAY 9

   Day 9 · 2026-09-03

   Golden Circle Icons & Tectonic Snorkel

   From Selfoss, explore the Golden Circle's geological wonders: Kerið Crater, the powerful Gullfoss, and erupting Geysir. Conclude with a unique snorkel in the Silfra fissure and historic Þingvellir.

   5 stops2 hours 30 minsReykjavik
10. DAY 10

    Day 10 · 2026-09-04

    Reykjavik Exploration & Seaside Soak

    From Reykjavik, delve into the capital's cultural heart, exploring iconic landmarks and a national museum, before unwinding at Hvammsvik Hot Springs, then heading to Keflavik.

    5 stops2 hours 40 minsKeflavik
11. DAY 11

    Day 11 · 2026-09-05

    Departure from Keflavik

    [Easy Day] From Keflavik, embark on a very early morning journey to Keflavik Airport. Return your rental car and prepare for your flight, concluding your unforgettable Icelandic adventure.

    1 stop0 hours 20 minsKeflavik