Iceland’s perfect landscapes invite you to explore at your own pace. Whether you want to hike an ice cave or soak in a natural hot spring, renting a campervan offers a unique way to see this magical country.
When deciding on an RV or campervan, consider your comfort and budget. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice for your trip:
The Ring Road
Due to high demand, Iceland is a popular place, and securing lodging and tours in the summer can be challenging. This means there will be a fair amount of congestion around the most iconic attractions, and booking as far in advance is wise.
To help you make the most of your trip, we have mapped out an itinerary that covers the highlights of Iceland in 10 days. You can find various tour options online, and it is essential to read reviews to ensure that the tour you choose will deliver.
The first part of the tour covers Iceland’s mesmerizing South Coast and some of its most famous waterfalls, including Skogafoss, Seljalandsfoss, and Gljufrafoss. If time permits, you can also visit the black sand beach of Reynisfjara and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, a must-see for any traveler to Iceland.
The Westfjords
Having the freedom of renting a campervan in Iceland personally lets you bond with Iceland’s landscape. It also allows you to visit many more destinations that might not be accessible on a regular tourist bus tour.
If you’re in the mood for a little geothermal action, stop at Haukadalur Valley, where you can explore some of Iceland’s most famous hot springs and see the infamously powerful Geysir. You rarely see this natural wonder shoot water up high, so take advantage of it while you’re there. Next up, if you have time, head over to the western coast of the Westfjords. It’s a drive, but you’ll be rewarded with a walk on the red-sand beach of Raudasandur and views from the iconic Latrabjarg Cliffs. The Golden Circle is one of Reykjavik’s most popular day tours, encompassing three of Iceland’s most famous attractions. It’s possible to self-drive the tour (as long as you don’t hit F-roads), but most visitors join a group tour in a camper. The first stop on the Golden Circle is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO world heritage site and home to Iceland’s first parliament. The park’s also where the tectonic plates meet, creating jaw-dropping geological sights. Another Golden Circle highlight is the Faxi waterfall on the Tungufljot River. The falls are around a five-minute detour off the main road and can be seen from both a hiking trail and a viewing platform. The final attraction on the Golden Circle is Kerid Crater, a volcanic crater home to an active geothermal greenhouse. It’s a quick stop but worth making, especially for science buffs.
The Eastfjords
Often overlooked by visitors, the East Fjords are one of Iceland’s most authentic regions, with little fishing villages clinging to steep fjord sides, a landscape imbued with living folklore, and traditional ways of life that seem to remain unchanged. It’s also the country’s least-populated region, giving it a unique sense of enchantment and wonder.
This is a great region to explore on foot and by kayak, the best way to enjoy the waterways. A great hiking trail to follow is the one that leads to Hengifoss Waterfall, a majestic cascade among Iceland’s tallest.
It’s a good idea to bring a daypack for hikes around the island so you can pack snacks, a jacket, and a towel to take a dip in hot springs or rivers. It will help to fill a raincoat and waterproof boots if the weather turns bad, which is relatively common in Iceland. And remember to check the weather forecast regularly — especially for wind. The winds here can get intense, and driving in them can be extremely taxing, even for experienced drivers.
The North
Most of the top attractions cluster around the north. Akureyri, the capital of the north, has a lovely town center and offers whale-watching tours from its harbor. Nearby, Hvitserkur is a sea stack inspired by Norse mythology. At Thristapar, you can learn about the gruesome execution of Agnes Magnusdottir (though the story has more to it than that).
Explore the wildly beautiful Studlagil Canyon, where a serene river winds through a deep green canyon framed by soaring basalt columns. A short detour off Route 76 is the breathtaking Kolufoss waterfall, where layers and ridges create a mesmerizing effect.
You can visit Iceland anytime, but winter brings its charms with the northern lights and a less-crowded experience. Most campervans are manual, so if you are uncomfortable driving a stick shift, practice at home before arriving. Also, remember to be mindful of speed limits since Iceland has many cameras, and fines are expensive.
The South
As you make your way around Iceland, you’ll be in awe of the natural highlights you’ll see. It may be tempting to stop for every waterfall or glacier that crosses your path, but remember to stay flexible as you drive and remember the weather.
For example, the Snaefellsnes peninsula is one of the most picturesque areas in Iceland, with charming villages and Kirkjufell (the iconic mountain that looks like Yoda from Star Wars). It’s also home to the Borgarfjordur Eystri puffin viewing area, where you can visit a series of platforms to admire the 10,000 mated pairs of puffins each summer.
If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in winter when everything will be snow-covered and even more stunning. And if you don’t feel comfortable driving in winter or don’t have the time, plenty of Iceland highlights can be enjoyed during other seasons.
