Northern lights Iceland Challenge self-drive tour 8 days

Embark on an unforgettable 8-day self-drive adventure around Iceland’s iconic Ring Road, where every day brings you closer to nature’s most stunning wonders and every night gives you a chance to hunt for the breathtaking Northern Lights.

Begin your journey in Reykjavik, then explore the majestic Golden Circle, including Thingvellir National Park, the powerful Gullfoss waterfall, and the steamy Geysir geothermal area.

Discover the hidden gems of the West and North, from the charming town of Akureyri to the awe-inspiring Diamond Circle.

Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and the Crystal Ice Cave, then unwind on the black sands of Reynisfjara and visit cascading waterfalls.

Cap off your trip with a rejuvenating dip in the Blue Lagoon.

As you chase the elusive Northern Lights each night, this adventure promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Book now for an extraordinary Icelandic journey!

ITINERARY:

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN ICELAND AND REYKJAVIK

• Pick up your rental car at the airport.
• Drive to Reykjavik.
• Spend the day exploring Reykjavik's vibrant culture and attractions, such as Hallgrímskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, and the Sun Voyager sculpture.
• Overnight stay in Reykjavik or nearby.

DAY 2: GOLDEN CIRCLE AND TOMATO FARM

• Visit Thingvellir National Park and explore the rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Enjoy Gullfoss waterfall with a rainbow.
• Explore Geysir geothermal area and the most famous geyser in the world.
• Explore Kerid Crater, a volcanic crater lake with striking blue water and red rock surroundings.
• Stop for a unique experience at this greenhouse farm where tomatoes are grown using geothermal energy. Enjoy a tomato-themed lunch.
• Drive to Borgarnes for an overnight stay at Hotel Hamar or similar.

DAY 3: WEST ICELAND

• Visit Europe’s most powerful hot spring, Deildartunguhver.
• Enjoy a scenic drive through the charming town of Blönduós on the way to the North.
• Explore a traditional Icelandic turf house and museum.
• Enjoy a dip in a wild hot spring with a beautiful view, away from the crowds.
• Stay in Sauðárkrókur or drive a little further to find the romantic beauty of Siglufjörður.
• Overnight at a cozy hotel in the North West of Iceland.

DAY 4: AKUREYRI, DIAMOND CIRCLE, AND MYVATN

• Visit Godafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods,” one of Iceland’s most picturesque waterfalls.
• Explore Grjótagjá Thermal Water Cave, a small lava cave with a geothermal hot spring inside.
• Walk through Hverir Geothermal Area, with bubbling mud pots and fumaroles.
• Witness the power of Europe’s most voluminous waterfall, Dettifoss.
• Relax in the warm, mineral-rich waters of Myvatn’s natural baths.
• Drive to Egilsstaðir for the overnight stay.

DAY 5: EAST FJORDS

• Explore the peaceful town of Egilsstaðir on the banks of the Lagarfljót river.
• Drive to Seyðisfjörður, a picturesque town nestled in a fjord, known for its colorful houses and artistic vibe.
• Continue your journey along the scenic coastline, stopping in the charming fishing village of Djúpivogur.
• Relax in the coastal town of Höfn or nearby.

DAY 6: JÖKULSÁRLÓN, DIAMOND BEACH AND CRYSTAL ICE CAVE 

• Begin your adventure with a thrilling boat tour on the shimmering waters of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.
• Venture onto Diamond Beach, where glittering ice sculptures adorn the black sand shores, creating a mesmerizing spectacle unlike any other.
• Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Crystal Ice Cave within the Vatnajökull Glacier.
• Drive to Vik, a charming coastal village nestled amidst dramatic cliffs and black sand beaches.
• Stay overnight on the South Coast and hunt for the Northern Lights again.

DAY 7: AMAZING SOUTH COAST

• Visit Reynisfjara, one of Iceland’s most famous black sand beaches, known for its dramatic basalt columns.
• Visit Dyrhólaey, a picturesque promontory offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean.
• Drive south along Iceland’s scenic coastal highway.
• Explore Skógafoss, an amazing waterfall, and hike to the top of the mountain next to the waterfall.
• Visit Sólheimajökull Glacier, where you can walk on the ice.
• Explore Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall you can walk behind.
• Retreat to Reykjavik or nearby for a well-deserved overnight stay.

DAY 8: BLUE LAGOON AND DEPARTURE

• Indulge in a day of relaxation at Iceland’s world-renowned Blue Lagoon, a geothermal oasis known for its soothing waters and stunning surroundings. Immerse yourself in the warm, mineral-rich waters, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the lava fields. (The Blue Lagoon can also be visited on arrival day.)
• After a morning of rejuvenation, bid farewell to Iceland as you drop off your rental car at the airport.

INCLUDED IN THE TOUR:

• Hand-selected accommodation of comfort level with a private bathroom.
• Rented car for all days, 4WD with basic insurance.
• Full breakfast daily.
• Lunch at Friðheimar Tomato Farm.
• Entrance tickets to Kerid Crater area.
• Myvatn thermal bath - comfort entrance.
• Amphibian boat tour at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.
• Crystal Ice Cave tour on a super jeep.
• Blue Lagoon premium pass.
• 24/7 on-call support.
• Daily timing plan.
• Restaurant and bar recommendations according to your dietary restrictions.

1880 EUR / 2030 USD per person

Price is per person, based on double occupancy for the itinerary as described, and subject to availability.