A Ten-Day Road Trip Itinerary Across Iceland’s Ring Road
Exploring Iceland via the Ring Road, also known as Route 1, offers a structured way to experience the country’s diverse landscapes. A ten-day itinerary provides a framework for visiting many of Iceland’s notable natural features, including waterfalls, glaciers, and coastal settlements. This itinerary is organized as a day-by-day route, with suggested driving distances and campsite options to help with planning. It assumes travelers have a vehicle and are prepared for variable weather and road conditions.
The Ring Road circles the island, covering approximately 1,332 kilometers (828 miles). While many travelers complete the loop in seven to ten days, a ten-day pace allows for more frequent stops and a less hurried experience. The itinerary below is designed to be flexible; driving times can vary due to weather, road conditions, and personal interests. All distances are approximate and should be verified with current maps and road information.
Camping in Iceland is popular but regulated; campers must use designated campsites. Most campsites offer basic facilities such as restrooms and showers, and some have cooking areas. It’s advisable to purchase a camping card if staying at many sites, as it can reduce costs. This itinerary includes a mix of established campsites near key attractions.
Days 1-3: Reykjavík to the South Coast
Day 1: Reykjavík to Hveragerdi and Selfoss
Begin in Reykjavík, the capital, where you can stock up on supplies. Drive east on Route 1 toward Hveragerdi, a town known for its geothermal activity. Continue to Selfoss, a good base for exploring the Golden Circle. Driving distance: about 60 kilometers (37 miles). Campsite option: Selfoss Camping, which offers pitches for tents and campervans.
Day 2: Golden Circle
From Selfoss, take a day trip to the Golden Circle, which includes Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. This detour adds roughly 200 kilometers (124 miles) round trip. Return to Selfoss for the night. The Golden Circle is a popular route, so expect crowds at major stops.
Day 3: Selfoss to Vík
Drive east along the south coast, passing Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. Both are easily accessible from Route 1. Continue to Vík, a small village surrounded by dramatic landscapes. Driving distance: about 180 kilometers (112 miles). Campsite option: Vík Camping, located near the beach.
Days 4-5: Vík to Höfn
Day 4: Vík to Skaftafell
Head east through the Eldhraun lava field toward Skaftafell, part of Vatnajökull National Park. Skaftafell offers hiking trails to waterfalls like Svartifoss and views of glaciers. Driving distance: about 140 kilometers (87 miles). Campsite option: Skaftafell Camping, which is basic but scenic.
Day 5: Skaftafell to Höfn
Continue east to Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and the nearby Diamond Beach. Then drive to Höfn, a town known for its harbor and proximity to Vatnajökull glacier. Driving distance: about 130 kilometers (81 miles). Campsite option: Höfn Camping, with facilities for tents and RVs.
Days 6-7: Höfn to Egilsstaðir and the East Fjords
Day 6: Höfn to Egilsstaðir
Drive along the East Fjords, a region with steep mountains and small fishing villages. The route includes several tunnels and narrow roads. Take time to stop at viewpoints. Driving distance: about 260 kilometers (162 miles). Campsite option: Egilsstaðir Camping, a well-equipped site.
Day 7: Egilsstaðir to Mývatn
Head west toward Mývatn, a lake area known for its geothermal features and birdlife. Along the way, you might detour to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. Driving distance: about 200 kilometers (124 miles). Campsite option: Mývatn Camping, which offers good amenities.
Days 8-10: Mývatn to Akureyri and Back to Reykjavík
Day 8: Mývatn to Akureyri
Drive west to Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city. The route passes through scenic valleys and near Goðafoss waterfall. Akureyri offers museums, restaurants, and a botanical garden. Driving distance: about 90 kilometers (56 miles). Campsite option: Akureyri Camping, located near the city center.
Day 9: Akureyri to Snæfellsnes Peninsula
This is a longer drive, so start early. Head west toward the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called ‘Iceland in Miniature’ for its varied landscapes. Driving distance: about 300 kilometers (186 miles). Campsite option: Grundarfjörður Camping, with views of Kirkjufell mountain.
Day 10: Snæfellsnes to Reykjavík
Explore the peninsula in the morning, then drive back to Reykjavík. The route passes through Borgarnes and along fjords. Driving distance: about 200 kilometers (124 miles). This completes the Ring Road loop. Campsite option: Reykjavík Campsite, if you need one more night.
Practical Considerations for the Ring Road
Driving in Iceland requires attention to road conditions, especially in winter. Many roads, including parts of Route 1, may be closed due to snow or strong winds. Always check weather and road.is before setting out. Speed limits are generally 90 km/h on paved roads and 80 km/h on gravel roads. Fuel stations are available in most towns, but it’s wise to refuel when possible, especially in remote areas.
Camping in Iceland is only allowed in designated campsites. Wild camping is restricted and often prohibited. Most campsites operate from June to September, with fewer options in winter. It’s recommended to have a warm sleeping bag and waterproof clothing. Some campsites require a small fee, and many accept cards.
This itinerary is a general framework. Travelers may adjust daily distances based on interests and conditions. For personalized planning, companies like Wanderlust Journeys can provide additional resources. Always prioritize safety and respect natural environments.
