A Guide to the Ultimate Iceland Road Trip
Are you dreaming of a road trip through Iceland, where volcanoes, glaciers, and waterfalls create a landscape unlike anywhere else? You’re in the right place! Iceland is famous for its dramatic scenery, and a road trip is the perfect way to explore it. This guide is here to help you plan an unforgettable journey, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler.
As a travel website specializing in Iceland and renting campers, we’re excited to share everything you need—from the best routes to practical tips—so you can hit the road with confidence and make memories that will last a lifetime. Let’s get started!
Why is Iceland a Great Road Trip Destination?
Iceland is a fantastic place for a road trip, thanks to its stunning and diverse landscapes. Picture yourself driving past volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls, and black sand beaches—all in one journey! The country’s well-maintained roads, like the famous Ring Road, make it easy to explore at your own pace. With a campervan, you can wake up to breathtaking views every day and enjoy the freedom of the open road. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights in winter or hiking under the midnight sun in summer, Iceland offers something magical for everyone.
Key Information for a Road Trip in Iceland
Before you hit the road, here’s some essential information to understand.
Road Types and Conditions
Iceland has two main road types: paved and gravel. The Ring Road (Route 1), which circles the island, is mostly paved and great for regular cars. Driving on gravel roads is common if you explore the countryside or the highlands (open only in summer), and these can be bumpy, so take it slow. Summer offers clear roads, but winter brings snow and ice, making driving trickier. Check road conditions daily on road.is.
Gas Prices
As of February 2025, fuel in Iceland costs approximately 314.94 ISK per liter ($2.25 USD), so it’s more on the pricy side. Prices rise in remote areas, so it’s wise to fill up in larger towns like Reykjavik or Akureyri to save money. Driving efficiently—such as maintaining a steady speed and avoiding extra weight—can help extend your fuel budget.
Choosing the Right Vehicle
A regular vehicle works fine for most trips, especially on the Ring Road. A 4x4 is necessary for gravel roads or the Highlands. Since we rent campers, we recommend a campervan for a cozy, flexible experience—it’s like a home on wheels! Book early (especially in summer) and get insurance covering gravel roads and weather damage. Make sure the vehicle fits your group and gear.
Accommodation Options
Iceland offers several places to stay during your trip:
- Hotels and Guesthouses: Cozy options costing $80-200 per night.
- Hostels: Affordable dorm beds at $20-50 per night.
- Camping Sites and RV Parks: These are ideal for campervans. They are priced at $10-20 per night (1,375–2,750 ISK) and offer stunning views and great facilities.
Additional Practical Information
Iceland’s unique conditions mean a little extra planning goes a long way for a safe and comfortable road trip. Here’s what you need to know to stay prepared and enjoy your journey.
- Drive Carefully: Go slow on gravel roads, watch for wandering sheep, and keep headlights on at all times.
- Speed Limits: In towns, drive at 50 km/h, 90 km/h on paved roads, and 80 km/h on gravel.
- Emergency Contacts: Call 112 for emergencies and 1777 for road condition updates.
- Weather Monitoring: Check forecasts daily on the Icelandic Met Office app since the weather changes fast.
- Packing Basics: Bring layers, waterproof clothes, sturdy shoes, snacks, water, and a first aid kit.
- Navigation Tools: Use a map or GPS app like Google Maps or Waze, plus SafeTravel for safety.
Camping in Iceland
Camping is a fantastic choice because it’s budget-friendly and lets you wake up surrounded by Iceland’s beauty. Many campsites have kitchens, showers, and even hot tubs or pools. Use the Parka.is app to book spots, especially in summer.
Note that wild camping—parking your campervan or setting up a tent outside designated sites—is not allowed in Iceland. The country has strict rules to protect its fragile environment, so stick to official campsites. These sites are safe, affordable, and a great way to meet other travelers while enjoying nature.
Here are our top 5 campsites in Iceland:
- Þakgil Campsite: Near Vík in South Iceland, this site sits in a canyon with amazing views and trails. It features a unique common area in a natural cave.
- Svínafellsjökull Campsite: Located in Southeast Iceland near Skaftafell, this campsite offers glacier views and free showers. It’s perfect for hikers and nature fans.
- Ásbyrgi Campsite: Located in North Iceland’s Vatnajökull National Park, this spot is in a dramatic canyon. It’s peaceful with well-kept facilities.
- Heiðarbær Campsite: Near Húsavík in North Iceland, this family-friendly site has a restaurant and pool. It includes a wind-protected paddock.
- Ísafjörður Campsite: This campsite in the Westfjords offers modern amenities and fjord views. It’s less crowded and great for a quiet stay.
Best Routes for a Road Trip in Iceland
Iceland offers incredible routes, each with its own charm. Here are the best ones to explore.
Ring Road
The Ring Road is a 1,332 km loop around Iceland that connects major towns and attractions. It’s perfect for a week-long trip to see highlights like the Golden Circle, South Coast, East Fjords, North Iceland, and Westfjords. Must-see stops include Geysir, Gullfoss, Skógafoss, and Vatnajökull Glacier, but there are many more. While it’s possible to drive it in 2-3 days, allow yourself to do it in 6-10 days if you have time. Great campsites along the way include Egilsstaðir (budget-friendly) and Skaftafell (glacier views).
Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is a 300 km day trip from Reykjavik packed with iconic sights. It includes Thingvellir National Park (where tectonic plates meet), Geysir (featuring Strokkur’s eruptions), and Gullfoss waterfall, the most-visited waterfall in the country. Optional stops like Brúarfoss and the Secret Lagoon are also top-notch, but it all depends on the time you have. If you want to do it as a day trip from Reykjavik, you should start really early and come back in the evening. Otherwise, you can stay at the Laugarvatn Campsite and enjoy some hot spring relaxation.
South Coast
The South Coast runs from Reykjavik to Höfn, showcasing waterfalls and black sand beaches over two to three days. Highlights include Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Reynisfjara Beach, and Vatnajökull Glacier. Glacier hikes at Sólheimajökull and views from Dyrhólaey are also cool activities. Watch for gravel roads and strong winds, and camp at Skógar (under Skógafoss) or Svínafellsjökull (glacier views).
Diamond Circle
North Iceland’s Diamond Circle offers a quieter adventure with fewer crowds. Key stops include Dettifoss (Europe’s second most powerful waterfall), Mývatn Lake, Goðafoss, Ásbyrgi Canyon, and Húsavík for whale watching. Ásbyrgi Campsite is an excellent base with its striking canyon setting.
Silver Circle
The Silver Circle in West Iceland is perfect for history and nature lovers seeking peace. It features the Deildartunguhver hot spring, Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls, and Reykholt (home of Snorri Sturluson). Camp nearby at Ísafjörður for modern facilities and fjord views.
Arctic Coast Way
The Arctic Coast Way is a remote northern route that goes from Akureyri to Raufarhöfn and offers wild coastal beauty and fewer tourists. It’s perfect for spotting Arctic foxes or enjoying peace and quiet, but be prepared for rough roads and limited services. Despite its isolation, Heiðarbær Campsite is a fantastic spot for families.
Snaefellsness Peninsula
A circular route in West Iceland, the Snaefellsness Peninsula features iconic sights like Kirkjufell Mountain, Snaefellsjökull Volcano, Djúpalónssandur Beach, and Arnarstapi. It’s perfect for a day or two, starting and ending in Stykkishólmur or Grundarfjörður. Local campsites are easy to access and are generally in beautiful settings.
Westfjords
The Westfjords are remote and rugged, with dramatic coastlines and charming villages. Highlights include Dynjandi Waterfall, Ísafjörður town, and the Hornstrandir Reserve. The roads are winding, so drive carefully. Camp at Ísafjörður for modern facilities and amazing views of the nearby fjords.
Additional Things to Consider
For every tip to Iceland, what to pack and the potential cost of your trip are things worth considering.
Essential Packing & Preparation
Iceland’s unpredictable weather means packing wisely:
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Warm layers (even in summer)
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Hat, gloves, and sunglasses
- Snacks, water, and a first aid kit
- Camera, binoculars, and a portable charger
- Insect repellent (summer) and sunscreen
Check forecasts daily and use layer clothing for changing conditions. For remote areas, include emergency supplies like a spare tire and extra fuel.
Budgeting and Logistics
Here’s a cost breakdown to plan your trip:
- Campervan Rental: $50-100 per day (book early for better rates).
- Gas: About $2.25 per liter (fill up in cities).
- Accommodation: Camping at $10-20 per night (1,375–2,750 ISK), hotels at $80-200.
- Food: Meals range $15-30, but cooking in your campervan saves money.
- Activities: Sightseeing is free in most cases (besides parking fees), so take advantage of that. Tours and other activities like visiting hot springs add to the budget, so keep that in mind if you don’t want to break the bank.
Saving money in Iceland
Iceland is an expensive country; there’s no way around it. However, there are some things you can do to minimize costs without lowering the quality of your trip:
- You can save by booking campsites ahead of time via Parka.is or using a Camping Card for free stays at select sites (plus a small tax).
- Look for free hikes and waterfalls. The best things that the country offers are (almost) free in most of the cases.
- Travel in the shoulder seasons (April–May, September–October)
- Drive fuel-efficiently at steady speeds and in smaller vehicles.
- Cook your own meals
- Don’t drink alcohol in bars or pubs; instead, go to the state-owned stores.
Tips for a Successful Road Trip
You’ve probably done your fair share of road trips in your life, but here are some tips that I think you’ll find valuable when planning your adventure to the Land of Fire & Ice.
Planning and Flexibility
Make a loose itinerary with key stops, but stay open to surprises—Iceland is full of hidden gems. Weather or new discoveries might change your plans, and that’s part of the fun.
Driving Strategies
Take breaks on long drives to stay alert. Drive slowly on gravel roads and in bad weather, keeping a safe distance to avoid gravel chips. Keep headlights on day and night, and check tires and lights regularly. Only use F-roads (highland tracks) or river crossings with a 4x4 and experience.
Stick to the Main Roads
I’m sure you’re a great driver, but even if you are, some off-roads in Iceland can be tricky. Try to stick to the main roads as much as possible (unless, of course, you’re planning to go to the Highlands).
Staying Connected
Get a local SIM card for internet in remote areas. Use Google Maps or Waze for navigation, the Icelandic Met Office for weather, and SafeTravel for safety tips. Share your itinerary and keep your phone charged for emergencies.
Conclusion
A road trip in Iceland is an unforgettable adventure. From the iconic Ring Road to the quiet Westfjords, every route offers something special. This guide equips you with route details, safety tips, and budgeting advice to explore Iceland’s wonders confidently. Pack your bags, grab your campervan keys, and hit the road! Whether camping under Skógafoss or relaxing at Hveravik, Iceland’s beauty awaits. Share your stories in the comments below—happy travels!