South Iceland Highlights

Day 1: Arrival

Upon landing in Iceland, collect your rental car at the airport. Embark on your journey from the airport, traversing the otherworldly lava fields that define the Reykjanes Peninsula. This unique, volcanic landscape, adorned with moss-covered rocks and framed by distant mountains, serves as a mesmerizing gateway to Iceland's natural marvels. Your first night will be spent in Reykjavík, the country's vibrant capital.

Driving: Approx 50 km (31 miles)

Accommodation: Reykjavík.

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Day 2: Explore South Iceland

The drive from Reykjavík to Kirkjubæjarklaustur will take you through some of Iceland's most breathtaking landscapes, introducing you to the country's diverse natural wonders. This route promises an unforgettable exploration of Iceland's southern coast, marked by waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic terrain. Your first main stops outside the city are the famous waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Seljalandsfoss, known for the path that leads behind its cascading water, offers a unique perspective. Just a short drive away, Skógafoss impresses with its sheer size and the thunderous sound of falling water.

Continue to Vík í Mýrdal, Iceland's southernmost village. Renowned for its stunning black sand beaches, such as Reynisfjara, and the basalt sea stacks of Reynisdrangar, Vík offers dramatic coastal views and photo opportunities. As you proceed, you'll drive through the Eldhraun lava field, the result of one of the largest volcanic eruptions in recorded history. The vast expanse of moss-covered lava creates an otherworldly landscape that's both eerie and beautiful.

A detour to Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is highly recommended. This ancient canyon, carved by glacial meltwater, features steep walls and a winding riverbed, offering stunning views from its rim. Your destination, Kirkjubæjarklaustur, is a small village with a big history. Known for its natural beauty and historical sites, including the Systrafoss waterfall and Kirkjugólf, the 'Church Floor,' which is a natural pavement of basalt columns, Kirkjubæjarklaustur serves as a perfect base to explore the surrounding area.

Driving: Approx 270 km (168 miles)

Accommodation: Kirkjubæjarklaustur area.

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Day 3: Skaftafell & Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

This day promises an exploration of glaciers, lagoons, and black sand beaches, encapsulating the dramatic beauty of the Icelandic landscape. Your first destination is Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park, a paradise for nature lovers. The drive east will unveil stunning vistas of vast lava fields, with the mighty Vatnajökull glacier looming in the distance. In Skaftafell, hike to the majestic Svartifoss, encircled by dark basalt columns that inspired the architecture of Reykjavík's Hallgrímskirkja church. The area offers numerous trails leading to glacier tongues and panoramic views.

Further east lies Jökulsárlón, a breathtaking glacier lagoon filled with floating icebergs. The contrast of the ice against the deep blue water creates a mesmerizing scene. Visit the adjacent Diamond Beach, where ice chunks from the lagoon wash onto the black sand, glistening like jewels under the sun.

After Jökulsárlón its time to head back west to Vík í Mýrdal. As you make your way back, the landscapes transition from the ice and water of Jökulsárlón to the volcanic sands and cliffs of Iceland’s south coast. If you still have time, you can continue exploring the area around Vík, perhaps adding something you did not have time for the day before.

Driving: Approx 330 km (205 miles)

Accommodation: Vík area.

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Day 4: Golden Circle

Today we head northwest towards Gullfoss, one of Iceland's most magnificent waterfalls. Gullfoss, or "Golden Falls," cascades down a deep gorge in two stages, creating a stunning visual and auditory spectacle. Numerous viewpoints allow you to experience the waterfall from different perspectives. A short drive from Gullfoss brings you to Geysir geothermal area in Haukadalur Valley. Witness the awe-inspiring Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water up to 30 meters into the air.

From Geysir drive west towards Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its historical, cultural, and geological significance. Þingvellir is the site of the world’s oldest recorded legislative parliament (Alþingi), established in 930 AD, and sits atop the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly drifting apart. After exploring the Golden Circle, make your way back to Reykjavík. The capital city awaits with its array of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, and the bustling Old Harbour, perfect for winding down after your journey through Iceland's natural wonders.

Driving: Approx 300 km (186 miles)

Accommodation: Reykjavík.

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Day 5: Departure

Depart from your lodging in Reykjavík and make your way to Keflavík International Airport. Returning your rental car at Keflavík Airport marks the completion of your Icelandic adventure.

Driving: Approx 50 km (31 miles)

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