NordicVisitor

Tour Information

Overview
PRODUCT:
ISSD-13
DURATION:
26 Days / 25 Nights
SEASON:
1 Jun - 31 Aug
PRICE FROM:
ISK 496900
DEPARTURES:
Daily
TYPE:
Self-drive tour
BOOK NOW Send us a request regarding this tour
Introduction

Having a hard time deciding which of your favourite places to visit in Iceland? With so much to see and do, the choices may seem overwhelming. Thankfully, we’ve made the decisions easier for you with this extended holiday that takes you to nearly every corner of the country—and off the beaten path—to explore Iceland’s stunning diversity of landscapes and natural phenomena. With the freedom of your own rental car, you can take your time and fully immerse yourself in all of your activities. In fact, you may just feel like a local after your stay!

Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Reykjavík
Upon arrival at Keflavik Airport, you are personally greeted by our representative and transferred to your accommodation in Reykjavík. After settling in, the rest of the day is yours to explore the vibrant capital at you own pace. Spend the night in a hotel or guesthouse in Reykjavík.

Highlights: Reykjavik.

Day 2: The Golden Circle
After breakfast, it’s time to pick up your rental car for this unforgettable Icelandic road trip! Begin the journey on the Golden Circle route to see some of Iceland’s best-known natural phenomena. The first stop is the beautiful Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO world heritage site, where Viking settlers met for their ancient assemblies amidst a picturesque area of vast lava fields, a calm lake, and deep gorges. Continue onwards to Haukadalur, location of the great Geysir area with its spouting geysers and the powerful Gullfoss, “The Golden Waterfall”. Spend the next two nights in a hotel or guesthouse in the vicinity of Selfoss. Driving distance approx. 185 km / 167 mi.

Highlights: Þingvellir, Gullfoss, Geysir and Kerið.
Optional activities: snorkelling/diving at the Silfra rift in Þingvellir, Quad Biking or horseback riding.

Day 3: Scenic South Iceland
Enjoy the day in the Selfoss area, near Iceland’s fertile farming region, where you may wish to do a bit of hiking or other optional activities including: horse riding or bathing in a natural geothermal stream at Hengill, a geological hot spot near Hveragerði; river rafting on the glacier River Hvítá; sea kayaking in Stokkseyri; golfing at Hella; quad biking in Hellisheiði; caving in Þingvellir; or a visit to an authentic Iceland farm. Or take a side trip to the charming coastal villages of Stokkseyri and Eyrabakki or perhaps drive up to Þjórsárdalur and Mt. Hekla. Those with a 4x4 rental vehicle can also venture out to the surreal, mountainous area of Landmannalaugar.

Optional activities: River rafting, horse riding, guided hike in Hengill area, kayaking, golfing, quad biking and more.


Day 4: Black Sand Beaches of the South Coast
Begin the day with a visit to Skógarfoss and Seljalandsfoss -- two waterfalls so picturesque that you may feel like you’re in a postcard. Continue east to Vík í Mýrdal and experience the volcanic black sand beach south of the village, from where you can view the uniquely jagged rock formations of Dyrhólaey and Reynisdrangar. Nearby at the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, you have the opportunity to experience a guided glacial hike. The last stop of the day is to the stunning Fjaðrarárgljúfur canyon before settling in at a hotel or guesthouse in the vicinity of Kirkjubæjarklaustur or Skaftafell. Driving distance approx. 205 km / 127 mi. 

Highlights: Skógar and Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, the remote geothermal Seljalandslaug pool, Vík í Mýrdal, Dyrhólaey and Reynisdrangar rock formations, Fjaðrárgljúfur and Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
Optional activities: Glacier-walk on Sólheimajökull glacier.

Day 5: Skaftafell and Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon
Begin the morning at Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park where many interesting trails await hikers – including one that leads to the Svartifoss (“Black Falls”) waterfall, which spills over a wall of remarkable, hexagon-shaped basalt columns. Then head east to the sparkling Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, where in summer you can take a boat ride among the floating icebergs and curious seals. Spend the next two nights in a hotel in the vicinity of Höfn. Driving distance approx. 210 km / 130 mi. 

Highlights: Skaftafell at Vatnajökull National Park and Glacier Lagoon.
Optional activities: Glaciers walk or ice climbing at Skaftafell, boat ride on Jökulsárlón or bird watching tour.


Day 6: Vatnajökull National Park and Höfn
Enjoy the many sights and activities today at the foot of Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull. First, visit the glacier museum in Höfn, then enjoy some fresh air on a hike up to the glacier or with a stroll along the black sandy coast. The town of Höfn has been nicknamed the “Lobster Capital of Iceland” so it is recommended to end the day with a delicious lobster dinner at one of the town’s restaurants.

Highlights: Vatnajökull Glacier, village of Höfn and lobster dinner.

Day 7: Off the Beaten Path in the East Fjords
As you drive along the amazing East Fjords, why not take a break in the charming village of Djúpivogur, or hike in the Hvannagil canyon. Anyone who enjoys offbeat tourist attractions – particularly geology buffs or garden enthusiasts – may want to visit Petra’s Mineral Collection in Stöðvarfjörður, a small, eclectic museum of natural objects and mineral rocks that originally started as a personal hobby by a long-time local resident. Finally, make a stop to Fáskrúðsfjörður to learn about the village’s French connections. Spend the next two nights in the vicinity of Egilsstaðir or Seyðisfjörður. Driving distance approx. 250 km / 155 mi.

Highlights: Hvannagil, Petra’s Mineral Collection, Djúpivogur, Mt. Búlandstindur, Fáskrúðsfjörður and Egilsstaðir.
Optional activities: Guided tour to Papey Island.


Day 8: Seyðisfjörður and Borgarfjörður Eystri
Today, visit the two charming villages Seyðisfjörður and Bakkagerði in Borgarfjörður Eystri. First, drive to Seyðisfjörður, one of the most enchanting villages in Iceland with its well-preserved wooden houses, steep mountains, and picture-perfect fjord scenery. Then head to Bakkagerði, a great setting for hikes and one of Iceland’s most isolated villages with a population of less than 130. But what it lacks in humans, it makes up for with other “residents” – it is rumoured to have the largest colonies of elves and fairies in the country as well as a thriving bird population. For a long day, you can also visit the monster habitat at Lagafljót, the Hengifoss waterfall, one of Iceland’s largest at 118 metres high, or the Hallormsstaðarskógur forest, the largest wooded area in Iceland. Driving distance approx. 200 km / 124 mi.

Highlights: Seyðisfjörður, Borgarfjörður eystri, Lagarfljót, Hengifoss and Hallormsstaðarskógur.
Optional activities: Kayaking on the fjords, sailing or deep-sea fishing.

Day 9: Lunar Landscapes of Lake Mývatn 
Once you’ve traversed the stunning East Fjords and surrounding moor lands, prepare to be amazed by the radically different, unearthly landscapes you are soon to encounter near Lake Mývatn. With the lunar landscapes of Námaskarð Pass, the Skútustaðagígar volcanic pseudocraters, and the starkly beautiful Dimmuborgir lava formations, you may feel like you’ve just landed on the moon! Don’t forget a visit to Mt. Krafla, one of Iceland’s most interesting volcanoes. Later in the afternoon, head to the amazing Mývatn Nature Baths for an ideal way to rejuvenate after this enjoyable day of sightseeing. Spend the next three nights in the vicinity of Lake Mývatn. Driving distance approx. 165 km / 102 mi.

Highlights: Lake Mývatn, Skútustaðir, Dimmuborgir, Námafjall, Krafla and Mývatn Nature Baths.
Optional activities: Bathing in Mývatn Nature Baths. 

Day 10: Hiking and Whale Watching in North Iceland
Use this day to further explore the area of Lake Mývatn with its many interesting hiking trails and unusual sights. You can also partake in an optional whale watching tour in Húsavík, the “Whale Watching Capital of Europe”.

Highlights: Lake Mývatn and Húsavík.
Optional activities: Guided super-jeep tours and whale watching.

Day 11: Jökulsárgljúfur National Park
Start the day with a scenic drive through the wonderful Jökulsárgljúfur National Park (part of Vatnajökull National Park), visiting such fascinating sights as the mythical Ásbyrgi canyon, the Hljóðarklettar (“rock of echoes”) area, and Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe. This park also offers ideal hiking conditions with its stunning lava landscapes, woodlands, and massive glacier river. Driving distance approx. 150 km / 93 mi.

Highlights: Ásbyrgi, Hljóðaklettar and Dettifoss.

Day 12: Akureyri - Capital of the North
As you make your way to Akureyri, the “Capital of the North”, take a break and enjoy the impressive scenery of Goðafoss, the “waterfall of the gods”. After arriving at Akureyri, you have plenty of free time to stroll through the charming town centre with its variety of interesting shops, museums, and cafes. The town also boasts a lovely botanical garden, filled with a noteworthy collection of Icelandic and imported flora. The next leg of the journey takes you through the Skagafjörður valley, known to locals as “the mecca of the Icelandic horse”, where you have the option of taking part in a horse riding tour. Spend the night in the vicinity of Hrútafjörður. Driving distance approx. 300 km / 186 mi. 

Highlights: Goðafoss, Akureyri and Skagafjörður.

Day 13: Wonderful West Fjords
Today marks the beginning of your journey around the beautiful West Fjords, one of the most remote, unspoiled regions in all of Europe. First, visit the enchanting town of Hólmavík, famous for its witchcraft museum and supernatural heritage. Next, continue along the scenic Strandir coast to Drangsnes, a tiny fishing village and haven for bird-lovers, then to Laugarhóll, a small hamlet popular for its naturally-heated hot pots. Finally, end the day in the peaceful village of Djúpavík. Spend the next two nights in the Standir area in the vicinity of Laugarhóll or Djúpavík. Driving distance approx. 200 km / 124 mi.

Highlights: Hólmavík and witchcraft museum, Drangsnes and Djúpavík.
 
Day 14: The End of the Road
You have the whole day to enjoy the isolated Strandir area of the West Fjords – one of the most remote places in Europe – where the pristine natural environment is largely untouched by modern development. Take your time as you travel the coastline between Djúpavík and Norðurfjörður, the point where the road literally ends, to experience the tranquil surroundings, bath in a hot natural pool, watch an amazing diversity of birdlife, and soak up the unique history this region has to offer. 

Highlights: Norðurfjörður, Krossneslaug, Gjögur and Eyri í Ingólfsfirði (Ingólfsfjörður).

Day 15: Scenery and Serenity of the Fjords
Drive from the Strandir area over the rugged Steingrímsfjarðarheiði route on your way westward to Heydalur in the narrow fjord of Mjóifjörður. In Heydalur, you have plenty of options to enjoy the great outdoors including a horse ride, an invigorating hike with a local guide, fishing in the fresh mountain lakes, or relaxing in a hot pot or pool in a truly unique natural setting. Spend the night in Mjóifjörður. Driving distance approx. 160 km / 99 mi.

Highlights: Fjords, Hörgshlíð (Iceland’s smallest swimming pool), Reykjanes, and Heydalur
Optional activities: 1-2 hour horse ride; guided hiking; and angling.

Day 16: Ísafjörður, Capital of the West Fjords
Today’s journey is characterized by endless but dramatic fjords and towering mountains on your way to Ísafjörður, the Capital of the West Fjords and the biggest settlement in the region. There you‘ll find some of the most historic houses in Iceland, dating back to the mid-18th century. In the afternoon, drive to Bolungarvík for a visit to the Ósvör Maritime Museum, then drive to the radar station on top of Bolafjall where, on a clear day, you can have amazing views over the uninhabited Hornstrandir Nature Reserve. Spend the next two nights in Ísafjörður. Driving distance approx. 180 km / 112 mi.

Highlights: Ísafjörður, Súðavík, Ósvör Maritime Museum and great views from Bolafjall.
Optional activities: kayaking in the fjords or mountain biking at Ísafjörður.

Day 17: Vigur - Harmony with Nature
Begin the day with a guided tour to Vigur, a small, charming island and paradise for nature lovers. The boat ride from Ísafjördur takes about 30 minutes and the guided tour around the island offers the perfect opportunity to see an abundance of birds in their natural environment such as eider ducks, arctic terns, puffins, black guillemot, and more. The only windmill in Iceland is also located on this island. Light refreshments made of local ingredients are served by the farmer’s family in their mid-19th century house. Later In the afternoon, visit Tjöruhúsið restaurant for a unique dining experience where fish from local fishermen is served fresh from the harbour. Spend the night in Ísafjörður.

Highlights: 3-4 hour guided tour of Vigur Island.
Optional activities: kayaking in the fjords or mountain biking at Ísafjörður.

Day 18: Waterfalls and Viking Sagas
On your way to the spectacular Dýrafjörður fjord stop at Flateyri. In Dýrafjörður you will find the trail of the Viking Saga Gisli Súrsson and “Skrúður”, the oldest botanical garden in Iceland and one of the northernmost in the world. Continue onwards to Hrafnseyri, where you can visit a museum dedicated to Jón Sigurðsson, hero of Iceland’s battle for independence. Next, stop at the impressive Dynjandi waterfall situated in the Arnarfjörður fjord before heading to the charming fishing village of Bíludalur where you will spend the night. Driving distance approx. 205 km / 127 mi.

Highlights: Mt. Kaldbakur, Dynjandi, Hrafnseyri, Reykjarfjörður natural hot pool and Bíldudalur.

Day 19: Europe's Westernmost Point
Start the day by visiting the remote outpost of Selárdalur to view the offbeat, colourful sculptures and buildings created by the naiveté artist Samúel Jónsson. Next, make a visit to the small village of Tálknafjörður before stopping to see the ghost ship in Patreksfjörður. Your final sightseeing opportunity of the day is at the spectacular 14 km-long, 444 metre-high cliff of Látrabjarg, the westernmost point of Europe. Spend the next two nights close to Látrabjarg. Driving distance approx. 150 km / 93 mi.

Highlights: Selárdalur and Samúel Jónsson museum, ghost ship in Patreksfjörður and Látrabjarg.

Day 20: Látrabjarg and Rauðisandur
Enjoy the morning with a refreshing hike at Látrabjarg, where you are able to get up close to some of the cliff-dwelling birds such as puffins and razorbills (when in season). Then drive to the sand mounds of Sauðlauksdalur, the “home of the Icelandic potato”, and finally to Rauðisandur to view the breathtaking white sand beaches. Spend the nights close to Látrabjarg Driving distance approx. 90 km / 56 mi.

Highlights: Látrabjarg, Sauðlauksdalur and Rauðisandur. 

Day 21: Flatey - Paradise
Drive from Látrabjarg to Brjánslækur to catch the Baldur ferry that sails through the Breiðafjörður fjord with its countless islands to Flatey, a paradise island with its well-preserved wooden houses, amazing birdlife, and breathtaking natural beauty. Cars are not allowed on this small island so the ferry will transport your car to the port at Stykkishólmur where you will pick it up the next day. Spend the night in Flatey. Driving distance approx. 90 km / 56 mi. Boat Trip from Brjánslækur to Flatey: Approx 1 hour.

Highlights: Flatey.

Day 22: Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Spend the morning in Flatey before boarding the ferry Baldur bound for the charming village of Stykkishólmur on the Snæfellsnes peninsula. From Stykkishólmur, drive to the holy mountain of Helgafell, where legend has it that you will be granted one wish if you walk up the mountain, and then check out the beautiful, “church-like” mountain of Kirkjufell in Grundarfjörður, where you will spend the next two nights. Driving distance approx. 40 km / 25 mi. Boat trip from Flatey to Stykkishólmur: Approx 2 hours.

Highlights: Stykkishólmur, Helgafell, Grundarfjörður and Kirkjufell.

Day 23: Snæfellsjökull National Park
Explore the magical Snæfellsjökull National Park with its amazing birdlife, lush valleys, rugged lava fields, and towering glacier. Drive along the coast of this scenic peninsula, passing such sights as Dritvík Cove, the Lóndrangar Cliffs, Hellnar, the Arnarstapi Cliffs, and small fishing villages on the coast. You may wish to test your strength at Djúpalónssandur, a black volcanic beach with four well-known “lifting stones” that sailors in old days used to distinguish their strength for their roles on the fishing boats. On Snæfellsnes, you can also choose from a variety of optional activities such as horse riding, hiking, or sea-angling. Spend the night on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Driving distance approx. 180 km / 112 mi.

Highlights: Snæfellsjökull National Park, Snæfellsjökull Glacier, Hellnar, Arnarstapi, Dritvík Cove, Gerðuberg and Búðir.
Optional activities: horse-riding and hiking all year, sea-angling in summer.


Day 24: Viking heritage in West Iceland
Today is your chance to explore western Iceland with its diverse attractions such as the Icelandic Settlement Centre exhibition in Borgarnes and Deildartunguhver, the largest hot spring in Europe. Continue on to the beautiful Hraunfossar waterfalls, where the sparkling spring water descends from a lava field to the river and the nearby Barnafoss waterfalls. You can also visit Snorrastofa, the medieval research institute at Reykholt, where the early settler Snorri Sturluson wrote his famous Saga Heimskringla in the 13th century. On your way back to Reykjavik, make a short visit to Fossatún, where it is rumoured that the troll woman Drifa overlooks the waterfall. Spend the next 2 nights in Reykjavík. Driving distance approx. 240 km / 149 mi.

Highlights: Borgarnes and the Settlement Centre, Deildartunguhver, Barnafossar; Hraunfossar, Snorrastofa, Húsafell, Reykholt and Fossatún.


Day 25: Reykjavik and the Blue Lagoon
The entire day is free to explore the capital area as you please! Spend some time sightseeing or visiting some of the museums in Reykjavik, or discover the hidden gems of the nearby Reykjanes peninsula, where you will find the famous Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa surrounded by a moonlike lava field. Other worthwhile attractions on this peninsula include: Reykjanesbær and the Viking World exhibition, the home of the Viking ship Íslendingur (“Icelander”); Grindavík and the Icelandic Saltfish Museum; the cliffs at Krýsuvík; and the steaming geothermal area around Kleifarvatn. Spend the night in Reykjavik.

Highlights: Reykjavik, Blue Lagoon, the Viking World, Saltfish Museum, Krýsuvík and Kleifarvatn.
Optional activities: the Blue Lagoon, whale watching from Reykjavik harbour or horse riding.

Day 26: Departure
Transportation to Keflavík Airport is provided via Fly bus in time for your departure flight. Travellers departing in the afternoon have the option of enjoying some additional sightseeing, shopping, or relaxing in Reykjavik after this long and enjoyable holiday.

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Detailed Information

Accommodation Details

We have three categories for accommodation on this tour: Budget, Comfort and Quality.

Budget

Rooms without private facilities. These are in country hotels, farmhouses and guesthouses. Some of these have washbasins in the rooms and all provide breakfast (included in the price). In the more remote areas, most places of accommodation offer optional evening meals.


Comfort

Rooms with private shower or bath and WC. These are in hotels or well-appointed guesthouses. All provide breakfast (included in the price) and most have their own restaurant.


Quality

Rooms with private shower or bath and WC. These are in the best hotels available at each location. All hotels provide breakfast (included in the price) and have their own restaurant.



Seasons
Seasons From 1 June - 31 August

Duration
26 Days / 25 Nights

Rental Cars

A   Ford Fiesta or similar (Manual)
B   Ford Focus or similar (Manual)
C   Ford Focus Wagon or similar (Manual)
D   Ford Mondeo or similar (Automatic)
E   Ford Escape or similar (Automatic 4x4)
F   Ford Explorer or similar (Automatic 4x4)
G   Ford Expedition or similar (Automatic 4x4)

For further information about the rental cars "Click here".


Booking
Advanced booking of at least three weeks prior to departure is recommended.
Extra nights and activities can be added by request; contact us for details.
This package can be customized to meet your needs; contact us for details.
For easier navigation, Nordic Visitor offers its customers a GPS navigation system for all self-drive packages in Iceland. Contact us for further information.
Note: the Baldur ferry does not stop at the island of Flatey from 22 August to 9 June. If your travel is within that period, you will spend an extra night at Snæfellsnes instead of stopping at Flatey.

Accommodation
Please note that many of the stopovers on this holiday are in small villages or remote areas with few and often small hotels or guesthouses that can become fully-booked quickly during the high season. We therefore recommend booking as far in advance as possible. In the remote areas of the West Fjords, the accommodation does not offer the same level of comfort and quality as in the more populated areas. For example, if you book the “quality” category, you will be staying in quality-level accommodation along the Ring Road and comfort level at the West fjords.


PRICES

The example prices in the tables below are listed as per person and in Icelandic Krona (ISK). You can use our Currency Calculator to convert the price.

Your total package price will be determined by your preferred level of accommodation (e.g. budget, comfort, etc.) and number of travellers as well as by travel season (e.g. high, low, shoulder) and choice of rental car (Types A, B, C etc.) if applicable.

(See information about children's prices below price tables.)

Note: You can also check prices for your exact specifications by clicking "book now" and completing the first step.


EXAMPLE PRICES



Budget


Type of car 1 Adult2 Adults3 Adults4 Adults
A ISK 858300 ISK 496900 ISK 396800 ISK 366800
B ISK 908700 ISK 522100 ISK 413600 ISK 379400
C ISK 987900 ISK 561700 ISK 440000 ISK 399200
D ISK 1057500 ISK 596500 ISK 463200 ISK 416600
E ISK 1242300 ISK 688900 ISK 524800 ISK 462800
F ISK 1659900 ISK 897700 ISK 664000 ISK 567200
G ISK 2007900 ISK 1071700 ISK 780000 ISK 654200

Comfort


Type of car 1 Adult2 Adults3 Adults4 Adults
A ISK 1057100 ISK 618700 ISK 478700 ISK 488600
B ISK 1107500 ISK 643900 ISK 495500 ISK 501200
C ISK 1186700 ISK 683500 ISK 521900 ISK 521000
D ISK 1256300 ISK 718300 ISK 545100 ISK 538400
E ISK 1441100 ISK 810700 ISK 606700 ISK 584600
F ISK 1858700 ISK 1019500 ISK 745900 ISK 689000
G ISK 2206700 ISK 1193500 ISK 861900 ISK 776000

Quality


Type of car 1 Adult2 Adults3 Adults4 Adults
A ISK 1236800 ISK 737100 ISK 564900 ISK 607000
B ISK 1287200 ISK 762300 ISK 581700 ISK 619600
C ISK 1366400 ISK 801900 ISK 608100 ISK 639400
D ISK 1436000 ISK 836700 ISK 631300 ISK 656800
E ISK 1620800 ISK 929100 ISK 692900 ISK 703000
F ISK 2038400 ISK 1137900 ISK 832100 ISK 807400
G ISK 2386400 ISK 1311900 ISK 948100 ISK 894400



CLICK HERE TO VIEW ALL PRICES


Children
Children age 0-2: Free Of Charge
Children age 3-11: Budget: ISK 102500 per child sharing room with adult
Comfort: ISK 137500 per child sharing room with adult
Quality: ISK 172500 per child sharing room with adult

Children age 12+: Full Price


Rooms
1 Person = Single room
2 Sharing = One twin/double room
3 Sharing = Triple room
4 Sharing = Two twin/double rooms

If you do not find prices for your ideal room combination by clicking book now then please contact us with your requirements and full details of your party.

Included

Not included

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An unforgettable travel experience