7-Day South Coast Summer

Arrive at Keflavík International Airport, pick up your rental vehicle, and make the short drive through the Reykjanes lava fields into Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital city. Spend the day strolling past the colorful houses of downtown, visiting the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, or exploring the striking Harpa Concert Hall along the waterfront.

Stay: Reykjavík

Kick off your road trip by exploring the rugged, otherworldly landscapes of the Reykjanes Peninsula. Home to newly formed lava fields, steaming mud pools & sulfur vents, and the dramatic coastal cliffs of Reykjanesviti, this region showcases Iceland’s dynamic earth in full force. Walk across the Bridge Between Continents—where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates drift apart & explore the brand-new lava fields erupted in the 2021-onwards volcanic eruption series. Optional activities include an underground exploration of a lava tunnel or an exciting ATV tour.

Stay: Reykjavík

Drive along the famous South Coast, home to some of Iceland’s most recognizable landmarks. Stop first at Seljalandsfoss, where a walking path takes you directly behind the falling curtain of water, then head down the road to the towering, 60-meter-tall Skógafoss. Continue east to the black sand beach of Reynisfjara near Vik, famous for its towering basalt columns, roaring Atlantic waves, and nesting puffins along the sea cliffs.

Stay: South East or Kirkjubæjarklaustur region

Journey deeper east toward Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest ice cap. The highlight of the day is the breathtaking Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where giant blue icebergs break off from an outlet glacier and float out to sea. Just across the highway lies Diamond Beach, where glinting ice fragments wash up on the jet-black sand like glistening jewels. Consider taking a boat tour to float right alongside the ice of a guided glacier hike to explore the icy giants up close.

Stay: South East or Kirkjubæjarklaustur region

Spend the morning exploring Skaftafell, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts inside Vatnajökull National Park. Choose from a variety of scenic hiking trails, including the path to Svartifoss—a waterfall framed by dark hexagonal basalt columns. In the afternoon, drive back along the South Coast, stopping at Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon or some other of our favourite lesser-visited sites in the area.

Stay: Hella/Hvolsvöllur region

Head inland to navigate the world-famous Golden Circle. Stand in awe as the Strokkur geyser blasts scalding water 30 meters into the air every few minutes at the Geysir Geothermal Area. Marvel at the sheer power of Gullfoss (the “Golden Waterfall”), and walk through the historic rift valley at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where the world’s oldest knwon parliament was founded in 930 AD. Optional activities include snowmobiling on a glacier, snorkeling in Silfra Fissure in the rift valley or a riding tour with the unique Icelandic horse.

Stay: Reykjavík

Conclude your summer adventure with a visit to the famous Blue Lagoon (optional add-on). Submerge yourself in the warm, mineral-rich milky-blue water surrounded by mossy lava fields—the perfect unwinding ritual before heading to Keflavík Airport to drop off your rental car and board your flight home.