8 Day Self Drive: South and West Iceland Classic

Explore Skaftafell, part of Vatnajökull National Park and a place of great beauty with many well-maintained hiking trails, including a short walk to the beautiful Svartifoss waterfall. In this region, you can embark on a glacier walk or try your hand at ice-climbing with an optional guided tour.

Then head to the glorious Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and the Fjallsárlón ice lagoon where you can ride a boat along lagoon, gazing at the floating icebergs. You can also view the icebergs on the black sand beach by Jökulsárlón, known as the diamond beach. Head back to your accommodation for the night.

Spend the night in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area.

Day 7: South Coast to the Volcanic Reykjanes Peninsula

Drive along the south coast to the Reykjanes peninsula, visiting worthwhile stops along the way like Fjaðrarárgljúfur canyon and the Dverghamrar “elf cliffs”. Once you have traversed the road under Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull, you will continue to the volcanic wonderland of the Reykjanes Peninsula, which reminds you that Iceland is very much alive with natural geothermal energy.

We recommend visiting the bubbling mud pots at Seltún and Lake Kleifarvatn before reaching the world famous Blue Lagoon geothermal Spa (entrance not included). The Blue Lagoon´s water is rich in silica and blue-green algae, giving the lagoon its reputed healing powers and characteristic milky blue colour. In-water massages are available (must be booked in advance) but you can also unwind in a sauna and steam bath or get a soothing massage under the mini waterfall. Head to the capital city where you will drop the rental car off in the late afternoon before relaxing at your accommodation for your last night in Iceland.

Spend the night in Reykjavik.

Day 8: Departure