Ultimate 14-Day Road Trip Itinerary in Iceland

Iceland is a stunning country filled with captivating natural landscapes, and if you’re planning a 14-day road trip there, you’re in for a treat! In this article, we will outline a comprehensive itinerary for your ultimate adventure in Iceland. From visiting volcanoes and exploring Reykjavik to touring the famous Golden Circle and venturing into the picturesque highlands, this itinerary covers all the must-see destinations. We’ll also provide hotel recommendations, answer frequently asked questions about the trip, and give you valuable resources to make your road trip smooth and enjoyable. So get ready for an unforgettable journey through Iceland’s breathtaking beauty!

When it comes to planning a 14-day road trip in Iceland, Allan Su is your go-to guide! With multiple trips to the country under his belt, Allan Su shares his itinerary suggestions and insider tips to ensure you have an incredible experience. From the best time to visit Iceland to the type of vehicle recommended for the trip, Allan covers all the essentials. Accommodations options include hotels, guesthouses, and campgrounds, so you can choose what suits your budget and preferences. Allan also provides important resources for your road trip, such as weather updates, road conditions, and general safety updates. With Allan’s detailed itinerary, you’ll have a roadmap for visiting iconic spots like volcanoes, waterfalls, black sand beaches, glaciers, and more. So buckle up and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

How to Spend 14 Days in Iceland – A Road Trip Itinerary

Welcome to Iceland, the land of waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanoes! If you’re planning a 14-day road trip around this beautiful country, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive itinerary that covers all the must-visit destinations along the famous Ring Road. So buckle up, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Day 1: Arrival in Reykjavik

Your journey begins in Reykjavik, the vibrant capital city of Iceland. After landing at Keflavik Airport, pick up your rental car and make your way to your hotel. Speaking of hotels, we have some great recommendations for you:

  • Southern Iceland: Hotel Rangá
  • Eastern Iceland: Hotel Egilsstadir
  • Northern Iceland: Hotel Húsavík
  • Western Iceland: Hotel Reykjavik Marina
  • The Westfjords: Hotel Ísafjörður

Once you’ve settled in, take some time to explore Reykjavik. Visit the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church, stroll along the colorful streets of the city center, and indulge in some delicious Icelandic cuisine. For a truly unique experience, consider visiting the Perlan Museum, where you can learn about Iceland’s natural wonders through interactive exhibits.

Day 2: Drive to the Golden Circle

On day 2, it’s time to hit the road and embark on the Golden Circle route. The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route that includes three key attractions:

  1. Thingvellir National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Explore the scenic landscapes, walk through the Almannagjá fissure, and learn about the historical significance of this area.

  2. Geysir Geothermal Area: Get ready to witness the famous Strokkur geyser erupt every 5-10 minutes, shooting water up to 30 meters high. Take a leisurely stroll through the geothermal area and marvel at the bubbling mud pots and steam vents.

  3. Gullfoss Waterfall: Prepare to be amazed by the sheer beauty and power of Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. Stand on the viewing platforms and feel the mist on your face as the water cascades down into a deep gorge.

Day 3: Drive to Kerlingarfjoll

Today, it’s time to venture into the highlands of Iceland as you drive to Kerlingarfjoll. The drive itself is an adventure, as you navigate through rough mountain roads and witness breathtaking landscapes along the way. Once you reach Kerlingarfjoll, lace up your hiking boots and embark on a hike through this stunning mountain range. Marvel at the colorful rhyolite mountains, soak in the geothermal hot springs, and experience the raw beauty of Iceland’s highlands.

Day 4: Drive to Landmannalaugar

Continue your highland exploration as you drive to Landmannalaugar, another gem in the Icelandic wilderness. Landmannalaugar is known for its vibrant rhyolite mountains, natural hot springs, and stunning hiking trails. Take a dip in the hot springs, hike through the otherworldly landscapes, and immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of this remote region.

Day 5: Drive to Vik

On day 5, it’s time to head back to the Ring Road and make your way to Vik, a charming coastal town known for its black sand beach. Your first stop should be Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, where you can admire the towering basalt columns, walk along the dramatic shoreline, and maybe even spot some puffins if you’re lucky. Don’t forget to explore Dyrhólaey, a nearby promontory with stunning views of the coastline and the iconic arch.

Day 6: Drive to Skaftafell

Today, it’s time to visit Skaftafell National Park, a nature lover’s paradise. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the park’s extensive trail network. One of the highlights is the hike to Svartifoss Waterfall, a picturesque cascade surrounded by basalt columns. The hike offers stunning views of the glacier tongue and the surrounding mountains, making it a must-do activity in this area.

Day 7: Drive to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Prepare to be amazed as you visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a surreal landscape dotted with icebergs. Take a boat tour and navigate through the icebergs, keeping an eye out for playful seals that often swim in the lagoon. Afterward, visit nearby Diamond Beach, where icebergs washed ashore glisten like diamonds on the black sand.

Day 8: Drive to Egilsstaðir

On day 8, it’s time to explore the lesser-known region of East Iceland. Drive to Egilsstaðir, the largest town in East Iceland, and use it as a base to explore the surrounding area. Visit nearby attractions like Hengifoss Waterfall, known for its vibrant red rocks, and enjoy the tranquility of the Eastfjords region.

Day 9: Drive to Seyðisfjörður

Continue your adventure in East Iceland as you drive to Seyðisfjörður, a picturesque town nestled in a narrow fjord. Take a hike up to Vestrahorn Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views, explore the charming streets of Seyðisfjörður, and immerse yourself in the beauty of this remote corner of Iceland.

Conclusion

Congratulations, you’ve completed the ultimate 14-day road trip in Iceland! Let’s do a quick recap of the itinerary:

  • Day 1: Arrival in Reykjavik, explore the city
  • Day 2: Drive the Golden Circle route
  • Day 3: Drive to Kerlingarfjoll, hike in the mountains
  • Day 4: Drive to Landmannalaugar, explore the region
  • Day 5: Drive to Vik, visit Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and Dyrhólaey
  • Day 6: Drive to Skaftafell, hike in Skaftafell National Park
  • Day 7: Drive to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, take a boat tour and visit Diamond Beach
  • Day 8: Drive to Egilsstaðir, explore East Iceland
  • Day 9: Drive to Seyðisfjörður, visit Vestrahorn Mountain and explore Seyðisfjörður

Here are some important tips to keep in mind for your road trip:

  1. Gas stations: Gas stations are easy to find along the Ring Road, so you won’t have to worry about running out of fuel.
  2. Weather and road conditions: Keep an eye on the weather updates from veður.is and the road conditions from road.is to ensure safe and smooth travels.
  3. 4×4 vehicle: Unless you plan to skip the F-road sections, a 4×4 vehicle is recommended for this trip.
  4. Directions: Google Maps is a reliable navigation tool for your road trip.
  5. Cost breakdown: For a detailed cost breakdown of the trip, check out Allan Su’s video at 27:57.

As for the estimated total cost for the trip, it’s around $3,400 USD. This includes car rental, accommodations, food, activities, and other expenses.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your 14-day adventure in Iceland and get ready for an incredible journey through this stunning country. Have a fantastic trip, and don’t forget to capture those unforgettable moments along the way!