Our Immersive South Coast Iceland Self Drive itinerary is designed for those who want to see the absolute best of Iceland over nine incredible days, without spending the whole time driving. This itinerary combines popular sights, nature, and adventure. From the mighty glaciers in the southeast to the Valley of Thor in the forgotten highlands and the volcanic landscape of the west.
This Immersive South Coast Iceland self drive tour was designed to reduce driving time and have as many activities and experiences as you can fit in without feeling rushed. In essence, it covers the ‘Best of Iceland’. It is a perfect family-friendly itinerary. So, rather than trying to race around the entire island, you get to take your time and immerse yourself in the Icelandic landscape. The tour spans 9 days and 8 nights, which is inclusive of your arrival and departures days; however, these days can be amended to fit your schedule.
The tour includes a glacier hike, two of Iceland’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the wonderful Volcanic Westman Islands. The ever popular Golden Circle region, the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon situated within Vatnajökull National Park, geothermal hot springs, rural villages, and a day trip into the remote Southern Highlands.
Arrival Day, South Coast & South East of Iceland
After recuperating from your flight in Reykjavík, you will start your Immersive South Coast Iceland self drive tour by travelling along the entire south coast. As you travel the entire south coast, you’ll get the opportunity to walk behind the 60 m tall Seljalandsfoss waterfall and come up close to the roaring Skógafoss waterfall. Followed by a walk on Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach before continuing on further east.
You’ll travel as far as the Vatnajökull National Park in the southeast. This area is known for its breathtaking scenery, glacier lagoons, black sand beaches, and mountainous landscape. Over the space of 3 days, you will get the chance to explore this unique area intimately. You will visit the renowned Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where you can watch the giant icebergs float around and wash up on the black sand shores of Diamond Beach.
If you are feeling adventurous, you can add in a zodiac boat tour, hike on a glacier, and snowmobile on top of one of the mighty ice caps. For the less adventurous, there are countless nature walks to experience the flora and fauna, horse riding options, museums, and lava exhibitions. There are plenty of incredible views to make you forget the rest of the world exists for a few days. There’s a reason this area was crowned as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019.
Southern Highlands & Volcanic Islands
Next, spend a full day exploring the remarkable Southern Highlands in an off-road 4×4 Super Jeep, crossing glacier rivers and navigating rugged terrain with our expert partners. Discover volcanic craters, hidden waterfalls, remote hot springs, and stunning vistas, culminating in a picturesque picnic lunch. This authentic highland adventure offers an intimate experience of Iceland’s untamed beauty and the freedom to embrace the unexpected.
Then, ferry over to the volcanic archipelago of the Westman Islands. On the Westman Islands, you will have the chance to zoom around the volcanic island by RIB boat. You will learn about the 1973 volcanic eruption that almost devastated the entire island, and, of course, go searching for the Atlantic puffin which calls this quiet island home in the summer months.
The Golden Circle & The Blue Lagoon
Your final few days will revolve around the more celebrated parts of the country. You’ll venture into the Golden Circle to enjoy one of Iceland’s biggest waterfalls at Gullfoss, see the ever-erupting geyser at Geysir, and learn all about Iceland’s geological past at the Þingvellir National Park and much more in this incredible spot.
To end it all, take in some lesser-known geological hot spots of the Reykjanes peninsula. Coincidentally, this is also where the well-visited Blue Lagoon is situated. Not a bad way to end your time in Iceland before your flight home the following day.
Tour Highlights
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OPERATES |
DURATION 9 days, 8 nights including arrival and departure days |
MINIMUM AGE This depends on the selected activities |
| LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY Easy – moderate. This depends on the selected activities |
STARTING POINT |
END POINT |
| Inclusions • Accommodation with breakfast all mornings • Activities as listed in the proposed itinerary • Rental vehicle with Wi-Fi • Detailed step-by-step itinerary in an app • Hidden Iceland’s on ground support every step of the way. |
Exclusions • Fuel, parking & other fees • International flights • Meals unless otherwise specified |
Accommodation options
Premium: Primarily 4-star hotels, offering high-quality amenities and services, comfortable and stylish rooms, and excellent locations with easy access to attractions.
Luxury: Combination of 4-star and 5-star hotels and lodges, providing superior amenities and exceptional service, elegant and spacious rooms, and often feature on-site fine dining and wellness facilities.
Exclusive accommodation & private lodges: Exclusively 5-star hotels and private lodges, offering unmatched luxury and personalised service, luxurious suites and private accommodations, with top-tier amenities including private pools, spas, and gourmet dining options.
Ready to make this your dream trip?
