Travel Highlights

Iceland Self-Guided Tour

A self-guided tour of Iceland in June 2024 had been in the works for almost three years. Since I wasn't really eager to go, I'd been adding things to see and do over and over again. The whole itinerary ended up being truly amazing and captivating. Considering the distances and attractions, a self-guided tour of Iceland requires at least 10 nights of accommodation. We gradually put together our itinerary, consulting with other travelers and eventually incorporating activities they rarely include, such as whale watching, horseback riding, and a boat trip to the islands to see the puffin, Iceland's national bird.

Since Iceland is a Nordic country, not far from Norway, renowned for its fjords, we also included a visit to Norway, which is only a two-and-a-half-hour flight away, for a total of about 20 days. Because everything in the Nordic countries is imported, prices are incredibly high.

Gasoline prices in Iceland and Norway are truly appalling: around $2.50 per liter, or about $10 per gallon. A hamburger costs an average of $20. The most expensive hotel we stayed in was $400, which clearly shows how expensive this trip was. So, traveling to the Nordic countries is like a chef braving the heat in the kitchen; in Iceland, don't be afraid of the price.

Describing Iceland as the island of ice and fire is no exaggeration. The warm climate created by the warm currents allows for frequent rain and snowfall, forming glaciers in winter that partially melt in summer to form rivers and countless beautiful waterfalls. Furthermore, the island boasts over 130 volcanoes, over 30 of which are active. Iceland is undoubtedly one of the world's most stunning natural wonders, and if you could only visit one country in your lifetime, it would have to be Iceland. However, the chances of experiencing no rain, no wind, no snow, and blue skies with white clouds are extremely rare. Therefore, besides choosing summer as the ideal time for a trip to Iceland, the rest depends on whether the weather is favorable.

The weather was truly beautiful the moment we landed in Iceland. The sun occasionally peeked through, but the wind was unbearable. The temperature was still low, and the strong wind made us shiver. As soon as we left the airport, we needed to pick up our rental car, Blue, which required a bus to arrive, so we endured a long wait in the parking lot, enduring the strong wind. Since our flight arrived early in the morning, we picked up the car at 9:00 AM and began our day's itinerary.

We first went to the capital, Reykjavík, to buy some sandwiches and drinks at a supermarket. Today's highlight was the Golden Circle. Driving onto Highway 36, we began to feel like we were on a journey. It wasn't long before we arrived at Thingvellir National Park. Our final destination was Selfoss, where we would spend the first night. Today's itinerary would include several attractions, including Thingvellir National Park, Strokkur Geysir, and Gullfoss Waterfall—the three largest waterfalls in Iceland—and the popular southern Golden Circle.

Iceland Itinerary

There are 10 full-day trips around the island, with accommodations in the following towns:

· Night 1: Selfoss - Hotel South Coast

· Night 2: Skatafel - Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon

· Night 3: Lindarbrekka

· Night 4: Seydisfjordur - Studio Apartments

· Nights 5 & 6: Lake Myvatn - Vogahraun 4

· Night 7: Sauðárkrókur - Hotel Mikigardur

· Night 8: Snæfellsnes Peninsula -

· Nights 9 & 10: Reykjavík -

There are 10 full-day trips around the island, with the first morning being 10 Rent a car from Iceland's airport at 1:00 PM. Starting from Keflavík Airport, we'll travel counterclockwise, passing Selfoss, Hof, Djupivogur, Seyðisfjörður, Lake Myvatn, Blönduðis, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Spend the final two nights in the capital, Reykjavík. Return the car to Keflavík Airport in the morning, concluding this 11-day island tour.

Day 1, Sunday - Iceland Airport, June 2

Today's highlight is the Golden Circle. Driving onto Route 36, we begin to feel the journey. It won't be long before we reach Thingvellir National Park. Our final destination is Selfoss, where we'll spend the first night. Today's itinerary will include several attractions:

• Thingvellir National Park, home to the Icelandic Parliament, the site of the world's oldest democratic parliament.

• Bruarfoss Waterfall, a beautiful blue waterfall hidden off Highway 37.

• Strokkur Geysir, a natural fountain erupting from the ground.

• Gullfoss, one of Iceland's three largest waterfalls and a popular attraction in the southern Golden Circle.

Restaurant: Kaffi Krús (we had lamb shank and fish and chips).

Overnight: Hotel South Coast.

Day 2, Monday, June 3rd.

Day 2 departs Selfoss and arrives at Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon (Skaftafell). This hotel is located near the glacier, so the journey is quite long, at 3 hours and 41 minutes (292 km). • Seljalandsfoss, also known as the Waterfall, offers a unique viewing experience.

• Skogafoss, also known as the Rainbow Falls, is one of Iceland's most majestic waterfalls.

• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, ranked among the world's top ten most beautiful beaches, featuring elf rocks and basalt.

• The DC3 Plane Wreck on Iceland's southern coast, a historic and iconic attraction.

Restaurants:

You will need to bring your own dinner to eat at the hotel. (There's a large shopping mall called Krónan in Vik, which is a great place to shop and also offers free restrooms.) You'll need to buy dinner, breakfast for the next day, and lunch.

Overnight: Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon (Skaftafell)

Day 3, Tuesday - June 4

Day 3 Itinerary: Fosshotel Glacier The lagoon is a 24-minute drive away. We departed from the hotel at 7:10 AM and arrived at Glacier Guides, 785 Skaftafell, Iceland, at 7:35 AM. We needed to arrive an hour early at 7:40 AM for our 4-hour tour. Our tour started at 8:40 AM and ended at approximately 1:00 AM. We departed from the glacier at approximately 1:30 AM and arrived at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Boat Tours and Cafe, Jökulsárlón, 781 Höfn í Hornafirði, Iceland, at 2:20 AM, with an estimated stay of 2 to 3 hours. Therefore, we departed at 4:30 AM and arrived at Höfn í Hornafirði, Iceland, at 5:30 AM. We continued driving to Djúpivogur, Iceland, at 1:27 AM, arriving at 7:00 AM. Join this fantastic 4-hour glacier hike on the magnificent Vatnajökull outlet glacier and experience the adrenaline rush of climbing Iceland's most captivating geological feature. This is a perfect opportunity for travelers in the Vatnajökull region who want to spend an afternoon amidst a genuine Icelandic glacier.

Jogsjokull Glacier Lagoon Cruise: Circumnavigating the lagoon in an amphibious vehicle allows you to admire the glacier up close and personal, marveling at the natural wonders. This experience is one of the rare and remarkable ones you'll only get once in a lifetime. Most Iceland tourists, whether traveling with a tour group or independently, purchase a ticket to take a boat ride to experience it for themselves. Nearby is Diamond Beach, a beautiful beach covered in washed-up ice fragments that can be eaten raw. Restaurant: Z Bistro Höfn (We ordered lobster soup, lobster sandwich, lobster pasta, and ribs.)

Overnight: Lindarbrekka (Djúpivogur)

Day 4, Wednesday - June 5

The previous days were quite tiring, so today's journey is shorter and we want to enjoy the scenery of the East Fjords. We'll depart early this morning from Djúpivogur, passing through Egilsstaðir and finally arriving in Seyðisfjörður, a town featured in the film "The Adventures of Alyssa Dei". In the afternoon, we'll hike to a hidden waterfall, a 2-3 hour hike. Today's itinerary was quite unique. The route along Route 93 between Egilsstaðir and Seyðisfjörður was truly breathtaking. While there weren't any special sights to see, the journey was truly unforgettable during our entire 10-day journey.

The small town of Seyðisfjörður was just a rest stop along the way, but we discovered a hidden gem: a trail with mountains, water, and waterfalls, a feature rarely mentioned online. After much searching, we finally found Vestdalur, another unforgettable waterfall valley. Located less than two miles northeast of Seyðisfjörður, it's a few minutes' drive away, with a roadside parking area. Hiking Distance: 3-mile loop

Hiking Time: Approximately 2.5-3.5 hours (including stops)

https://icelandweddingplanner.com/2020/11/10/vestdalsfossar-hike-in-seydisfjordur/

Restaurant: Skaftfell Bistro

Overnight: Studio Apartments

Day 5, Thursday - June 6

Today we depart Seyðisfjörður and head to Lake Myvatn. This area of Lake Myvatn offers numerous attractions and is close to Akureyri, the largest city in the north. We plan to stay two nights in Myvatn to minimize the hassle of changing rooms and moving luggage.

Departing at 9:30 AM, we expect to reach Dettifoss in a 2:30-minute drive. Just a few hundred feet away lies Hafragilsfoss, another perfect photo spot. A 50-minute drive to Krafla Landsvirkjun offers panoramic views and leads to Stora Viti, the crater lake.

Once at Lake Mývatn, there are many attractions to visit, including geothermal areas and underground hot springs. You can also soak in the natural hot springs at the Mývatn Nature Baths in the evening.

• Dettifoss, the tallest waterfall in Europe and one of Iceland's three largest waterfalls.

• Stora Viti, the crater lake.

• Hverir Namafjall, the geothermal area. If you haven't had the chance to visit Mars, experience it at Hverir Namafjall.

• Grjotagja Cave, the underground hot springs, offers a unique and breathtaking view, and was a filming location for the movie "Game of Thrones."

• Mývatn Nature Baths, where you can spend hours surrounded by lava fields.

Vogafjós Farm Resort is a combination accommodation and farm restaurant. Their cuisine is exceptionally local and fresh, and is well worth a try. Restaurant: Vogafjós Farm Resort

Overnight: Vogahraun Guesthouse

Day 6, Friday - June 7

Húsavík is a small town in the municipality of Norðurþing on Iceland's North Coast. While not a secret, many visitors to Lake Myvatn don't know that whale watching is possible just an hour away. This is a unique experience. Departing at 8:15 AM for an hour's drive, we'll join a boat trip at 9:45 AM for a three-hour excursion.

In the afternoon, we'll return to the guesthouse area to explore volcanic peaks such as Hverfjall. We'll hike the volcanic trails, which take 1:30 minutes each way. There are many spectacular sights around Lake Myvatn. The lake itself is pristine and beautiful, but be sure to see the Dimmuborgir rock formation.

• Experience a traditional tour of Húsavík, known as the whale watching capital of Europe. • Hverfjall, a massive volcanic eruption, where you can climb to the summit.

• Dimmuborgir, a volcanic castle and unique gardens near Lake Myvatn, home to legends of pixies.

Restaurant: Hlodufell Restaurant & Bar Husavik (lunch) / Vogafjós Farm Resort

Overnight: Vogahraun Guesthouse

Day 7, Saturday - June 8th

Departing from Myvatn, we'll travel 243 kilometers to Sauðárkrókur. We'll pass Godafoss Waterfall and Akureyri, Iceland's largest city in the north. Before arriving in Akureyri, we'll visit a farm for Icelandic horse riding. If you have time, try to join the one-hour tour starting at 10:00 AM.

Departing Myvatn early in the morning at 8:30 AM, we'll pass Godafoss Waterfall. Arrive at 9:15 and stay for 30 minutes. Depart at 9:45. Arrive at 10:30. Horseback riding ends at 11:00 and ends at 12:00. Depart at 12:00 and arrive in Akureyri around 12:30. Rest for 2 hours. Depart at 2:30 and arrive at the hotel at 4:00.

Whether you're traveling with a tour group or on your own, if you're planning a tour around Iceland, you'll definitely pass through Akureyri, the northern capital. Akureyri, also known as the Northern Capital of Iceland, is an important port and fishing center. It was only gradually settled in 9 AD and officially became a city in 1786, receiving a municipal charter.

Godafoss Waterfall, a turning point in Icelandic faith, isn't just a mythical gathering of gods. Icelandic Horse Riding

Akureyri Cathedral, Akureyrarkirkja

You'll arrive at Sauðárkrókur around 4:00 PM and explore the harbor. Since we didn't have a boat trip to Drangey Island that afternoon, we stopped at Sauðárkrókur to soak in the natural hot springs at Grettirs Pool. This location is ideal for a relaxing soak.

You can enjoy bathing in nature year-round. Grettislaug, a hot spring located 15 kilometers north of town, is about a 20-minute drive along a gravel road. It's mentioned in Iceland's famous Grettis Saga. Surrounded by rocks and rolling, mossy hills, it's a legendary bathing spot. Clean bathrooms and changing areas are available. The elderly Icelanders who run the guesthouse are very kind and friendly. For 2,000 Icelandic krona per person (we estimate about $13 USD), we spent the afternoon at this place and felt it was well worth it.

Restaurant: Centrum Kitchen & Bar (Akureyri), Kaffi Krókur (Sauðárkrókur)

Overnight: Hotel Mikligardur

Day 8, Sunday - June 9

Our Drangey Island cruise departs from Sauðárkrókur pier at 9:30 AM and takes approximately four hours, returning to port at 1:30 PM. Surrounded by the magnificent scenery of Skagafjordur in northern Iceland, Drangey Island is a birdwatching paradise. The island is home to thousands of nesting seabirds, including puffins, auklets, gannets, kittiwakes, fumares, gulls, ravens, and long-tailed hawks. The island, a steep, side-slab rock formation standing approximately 180 meters tall, offers stunning views of the entire fjord.

We can inquire about boat tours for birdwatching and island watching at the visitor center. Sauðárkrókur is a small town in Skagafjordur in northern Iceland. Since their tour only offers one at 9:30 AM, we don't need to arrive that early; we'll need to return the next morning for our boat trip. Drangey Tours offers a short boat trip to the beautiful island, and the view of the fjord from the sea is delightful and beautiful. While on the island, there's a bit of a climb, but it's well worth it. Being so close to the track, the views of puffins, gulls, and seagulls are priceless. From the top, you get a panoramic view of the fjord.

The adventure begins the moment you step onto the small pier. You climb up a very steep hill (definitely a workout!) and trek along a narrow path along the cliffside (anyone afraid of heights won't enjoy this part, but I think it makes it even more incredible). Then you climb a metal ladder that goes straight up. Puffins are everywhere! It's the most surreal experience. Once you reach the top, the view is breathtaking! Our guide (the son of a father-son duo) was so friendly and entertaining, telling great stories and providing tons of information about the land, the puffins, and Icelandic folklore. We explored almost the entire island clifftop, and there were only 11 of us the entire time we were there!

They only take one group a day; no other tours go there. It's an almost private experience, and it feels so special. The puffins are so cute and charming. I couldn't stop smiling. I highly recommend this tour. It's well worth the money! The price was really good for what it was. I really hope to experience this again one day! Thank you, Drangey Tours, for making my birthday wish come true!

Read more Our guide, Helgi, was very friendly, knowledgeable, and told great stories. I highly recommend this tour; it's a must-do on any trip to North Iceland. It's run by a father-and-son team, and both Helgi and Viggó are wonderful people.

At around 2:00 PM, we began our four-and-a-half-hour journey. This was probably the longest we'd taken in the past 10 days, but it included a visit to Hvitserkur, the Elephant Rock, and finally to Stykkishólmur, the largest island on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. We then headed west to Snæfellsnes for our overnight stay.

My first mistake today was taking the wrong road. Hvitserkur is a rock formation in the north of Iceland. Heading west from Blöndøs, after passing Route 716 and heading north, there are two roads: 711 and 717. Google suggested taking 711, but I accidentally ended up on 717. The entire road is full of potholes and is incredibly difficult to drive on.

Restaurant:

Overnight: Stoo Guesthouse and Apartments

Day 9, Monday - June 10

Today is our last day. This morning, we'll depart from Snæfellsnes Peninsula and visit Kirkjufell, the nearby church mountain. Then, we'll return to Reykjavík. In the afternoon, we'll visit the Blue Lagoon.

Check-in: 201 Hotel

Day 10, Tuesday - June 11

Finally, we'll return to the hotel at Keflavík Airport, concluding our 10-day independent travel itinerary.

Check-in: 201 Hotel

Day 11, Wednesday - June 12 (Flight to Oslo, Norway)

Fly to Oslo Airport

Best Time to Sightsee: Iceland is famous for its many spectacular waterfalls, geysers, and volcanoes. To see as much as possible, you'll need longer days, fewer crowds, and weather that doesn't make roads impassable. This means visiting during the last few weeks of peak season, from the last week of May to mid-June, or anytime in September.

Best time for good weather: The best time to visit Iceland for the best weather is during the high season, particularly July and August, when average highs are around 13°C, but temperatures can reach as high as 15°C or even 20°C. If you're looking to avoid the rain, May and June see the least rainfall, with temperatures typically reaching a pleasant 11°C.

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