GLACIER LAGOON NOTHERN LIGHTS Self-Drive

On arrival to Keflavik International Airport, you will be greeted by a driver who will take you to your accommodation in Reykjavík. After settling in, the rest of the day is free for you to explore the vibrant city centre and its many museums, restaurants and bars for all tastes. Head to the main street, Laugavegur, to enjoy its various shops and cosy cafes. Spend the night in Reykjavík.

Start the day heading to the spectacular south coast. Here, you will visit the beautiful Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can follow a path behind its misty cascade. The next waterfall you will see, Skógafoss, is just as impressive in its winter coat and also has a trail running alongside it up a hill. Nearby is the Skógar Folk Museum, where we recommend exploring the old turf farm or checking out the exhibits inside for a taste of Iceland´s rich history. Spend the night in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area Driving distance approx. 249 km / 154 mi.

Spend some time exploring Skaftafell, part of the vast Vatnajökull National Park and a place of great natural beauty. Here, if you are feeling adventurous, join a guided glacier hike*. Then head to Fjallsárlón, the smaller lagoon before continuing to the famous Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and enjoy the surreal scene of icebergs floating by. Afterwards you can stop by the Diamond Beach, where you will see chunks of ice glistening on the black sands. Spend the night in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area.

*venturing onto a glacier or engaging in ice climbing should only ever be attempted with the assistance of a licensed and experienced guide.

Driving distance: 249 km/155 miles

Drive along the south coast today. Worthwhile stops along the way include the volcanic black sand beaches* near the village of Vík and the 120 metre-high promontory of Dyrhólaey with its spectacular rock arch, cliffs and amazing views along with the unique Reynisdrangar basalt columns rising out of the ocean. Another interesting stop along the route is the Lava Center at Hvolsvöllur – an exhibition on volcanoes and earthquakes (entrance not included), or you can choose to take part in an exciting optional activity. Spend the night in Selfoss area.

*Caution should always be exercised when visiting Reynisfjara beach near Vík due to powerful rogue/sneaker waves and the strong undertow current. Always stay far back from the water’s edge and read the warning sign before walking on the beach.

Driving distance: 203 km/126 miles

Drive the Golden Circle on your way back to the capital. Visit the explosion crater Kerið, before continuing to the geothermal Geysir area and explore the bubbling mud pots and spouting geysers. Next, make a stop at the stunning two-tiered Gullfoss waterfall, before closing the circle at the unique Þingvellir National Park. Þingvellir is included on UNESCO’s World Heritage Site list for being historically significant to the founding of Icelandic democracy and a place of striking natural beauty. Then head to Reykjavík for the evening. Spend the night in Reykjavik.

Driving distance: 188 km / 116 miles

When it’s time for your Iceland adventure to end, you will be picked up from the accommodation for your airport transfer by a shuttle bus about three hours before your flight. If you’re flying in the afternoon, you have the option to visit the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa to relax in the warm mineral waters before continuing to the airport (optional: not included).