So we made it to the land of fire and ice dividing North America and Europe. It’s a place most people would not choose for their ideal vacation; yet is definitely a treat for those with an adventurous spirit. While most typical tourists stick to the big cities and leisure activities, we prefer a more authentic Icelandic adventure where one finds themselves immersed in the culture and alone with mother nature. Keep read
ing to explore my unforgettable journey along the ring road circling the entire country with emphasis on experiencing life as a local. A special shoutout to the master planner behind this trip and my loving husband; Juzar. I’ve written this blog as a guide for you if and when you plan your own journey to Iceland, although be warned that it may be tough to cover as much as we did in 9 days; now the question is will you rise to the challenge?
ing to explore my unforgettable journey along the ring road circling the entire country with emphasis on experiencing life as a local. A special shoutout to the master planner behind this trip and my loving husband; Juzar. I’ve written this blog as a guide for you if and when you plan your own journey to Iceland, although be warned that it may be tough to cover as much as we did in 9 days; now the question is will you rise to the challenge?Day 1 – Arrival to the Capital – Reykjavik
Sept 15, 2016 – From Keflavik airport, we took a Gray Line bus to the city centre. It was a rainy day. Once we had dropped our luggage at our guesthouse, we walked to the Hallgrímskirkja Church with its unique architecture and changeable benches. Next, we went to city hall facing the pond where we saw and met several species of birds and ducks. Don’t miss the 3D model of Iceland with its mountains, glaciers and contours within City Hall groun
d floor – it gives you a good big picture of the land. Next, we walked to the Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall and Conference Centre where instead of booking a show for the evening, we decided to take a walking tour of the modern building. We had lunch at a local version of McDonald’s called Aktu Taktu and then walked to the Solfar (Sun Voyager) Sculpture. Then, we visited Laugavegur Street which is lined with Danish-style colorful houses. We grabbed a casual dinner of chicken wings at an American Bar while enjoying the live Irish music playing across the street. Once dark, we strolled into several local book and clothing stores for souvenirs. After some night time photography at the church, don’t forget to watch for the Northern Lights between midnight and 1am.
d floor – it gives you a good big picture of the land. Next, we walked to the Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall and Conference Centre where instead of booking a show for the evening, we decided to take a walking tour of the modern building. We had lunch at a local version of McDonald’s called Aktu Taktu and then walked to the Solfar (Sun Voyager) Sculpture. Then, we visited Laugavegur Street which is lined with Danish-style colorful houses. We grabbed a casual dinner of chicken wings at an American Bar while enjoying the live Irish music playing across the street. Once dark, we strolled into several local book and clothing stores for souvenirs. After some night time photography at the church, don’t forget to watch for the Northern Lights between midnight and 1am.Travel Tip: stock up on breakfast supplies and quick meals for the road as the restaurants on the way can be quite expensive ($50/person/meal). Some good grocery options are Bonus supermarket or any small convenience store. Overnight: Aurora Guesthouse
Day 2 – Road Trip Begins with the Golden Circle
We picked up our 4×4 red Honda CRV from a local rent a car company in the morning and headed out. Today’s destination was the famous route known as the Golden Circle. First up was a visit to the
Thingvellir National Park. Here, we experienced amazing rock formations of geological significance due to the meeting of North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. We were told that the place also has historical origins as it was where the vikings first settled and created establishments including the world’s first parliament (who knew?). Continuing on to the even more exciting Great Geysir geothermal area. The area hosts dozens of geysers and hot springs, the most powerful of which (Strokkur) erupts every 8 minutes with such force that the boiling hot water jets 15 to 20 meters into the air – I had never seen or felt anything like it and this was the highlight of my day. Then, we went further to the Golden Waterfall, Gullfoss, a majestic beauty with the option of climbing over 5 sets of steps to the top for the best view. Before heading to our lodging for t
he night, we walked up and down into the impressive volcanic crater, Kerið. It was a misty day with sun shining and we were lucky to witness a full rainbow (semi-circle), and after a few minutes, unbelievably, it became a double rainbow!
Thingvellir National Park. Here, we experienced amazing rock formations of geological significance due to the meeting of North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. We were told that the place also has historical origins as it was where the vikings first settled and created establishments including the world’s first parliament (who knew?). Continuing on to the even more exciting Great Geysir geothermal area. The area hosts dozens of geysers and hot springs, the most powerful of which (Strokkur) erupts every 8 minutes with such force that the boiling hot water jets 15 to 20 meters into the air – I had never seen or felt anything like it and this was the highlight of my day. Then, we went further to the Golden Waterfall, Gullfoss, a majestic beauty with the option of climbing over 5 sets of steps to the top for the best view. Before heading to our lodging for t
he night, we walked up and down into the impressive volcanic crater, Kerið. It was a misty day with sun shining and we were lucky to witness a full rainbow (semi-circle), and after a few minutes, unbelievably, it became a double rainbow!Driving Distance: 200 kilometers. Overnight: Wooden cabin near the Lake in Hella
Day 3 – Volcanoes and Black Beaches
After breakfast, we drove along Iceland’s amazing south coast; stopped by the beautiful Seljalandsfoss waterfall and, for an exciting new perspective, took a walk behind the waterfall to
see the water crash over the cliff’s edge. It was surreal to stand there and feel the mist on my face.After a refueling stop, we parked the car and walked 8km (4km each way) to visit the famous plane crash site (Solheimasandur) in the middle of nowhere. A little further along was the powerful waterfall Skógafoss plunging 60 meters to create quite a massive splash. We also covered the less visited hiking trail which starts once you climb approximately 400 steps to the top of the falls. The trail had some amazing river rapids and hidden waterfalls on the way. We ordered some take-out burgers and fries from Hotel Skogafoss and ate in the car. Next stop was the Black B
each Reynisfjara, where huge basalt columns seemed to rise from the ocean bed in mysterious formations – but the best part was experiencing the sun setting. Then, we went to Dyrhólaey Nature Reserve where we enjoyed watching the water splash against the rocks. The highlight for me was when I realized I was standing on dried volcanic molten lava from an eruption! Finally, we roamed the charming town of Vík.
After breakfast, we drove along Iceland’s amazing south coast; stopped by the beautiful Seljalandsfoss waterfall and, for an exciting new perspective, took a walk behind the waterfall to
see the water crash over the cliff’s edge. It was surreal to stand there and feel the mist on my face.After a refueling stop, we parked the car and walked 8km (4km each way) to visit the famous plane crash site (Solheimasandur) in the middle of nowhere. A little further along was the powerful waterfall Skógafoss plunging 60 meters to create quite a massive splash. We also covered the less visited hiking trail which starts once you climb approximately 400 steps to the top of the falls. The trail had some amazing river rapids and hidden waterfalls on the way. We ordered some take-out burgers and fries from Hotel Skogafoss and ate in the car. Next stop was the Black Beach Reynisfjara, where huge basalt columns seemed to rise from the ocean bed in mysterious formations – but the best part was experiencing the sun setting. Then, we went to Dyrhólaey Nature Reserve where we enjoyed watching the water splash against the rocks. The highlight for me was when I realized I was standing on dried volcanic molten lava from an eruption! Finally, we roamed the charming town of Vík.Driving Distance: 240 kilometers. Overnight: Vogar Guesthouse
Day 4 – The ‘ICE’ comes Alive
Today, after breakfast, we drove over the desolate floodplains to Skaftafell National Park. This park is situated at the roots of Europe’s largest glacier (Vatnajökull). The 3 hour glacier walk along svinafellsjokull wa
s definitely the highlight of my day (see photo in first paragraph). Svartifoss waterfall was next, with its dark lava columns and mesmerizing height. It was by far the waterfall with the most greenery surrounding it. Then, after a detour to the snake gorge, we proceeded along the roots of Vatnajokull glacier to the best part, the Jökulsarlon glacier lagoon. Here, we saw bluish white ice blocks float on the water and drift lazily towards the ocean (in summer you can see puffins too). Short boat trips on the lagoon were operated for those eager for a closer scenic view – but for me, nothing could beat the feeling of holding the glassy ice pieces (remains of the glacial melt that were washed ashore) in my bare hands. Next, at the town of Höfn, we had an exclusive dining experience with amazing langoustine fish pizza at the local restaurant Humarhöfnin Veitingahús.
s definitely the highlight of my day (see photo in first paragraph). Svartifoss waterfall was next, with its dark lava columns and mesmerizing height. It was by far the waterfall with the most greenery surrounding it. Then, after a detour to the snake gorge, we proceeded along the roots of Vatnajokull glacier to the best part, the Jökulsarlon glacier lagoon. Here, we saw bluish white ice blocks float on the water and drift lazily towards the ocean (in summer you can see puffins too). Short boat trips on the lagoon were operated for those eager for a closer scenic view – but for me, nothing could beat the feeling of holding the glassy ice pieces (remains of the glacial melt that were washed ashore) in my bare hands. Next, at the town of Höfn, we had an exclusive dining experience with amazing langoustine fish pizza at the local restaurant Humarhöfnin Veitingahús.Driving Distance: 150 kilometers. Overnight: Guesthouse in the Höfn area
Day 5 – Rainbows and Hot Springs
From Höfn, we drove on through the tranquil Eastern Fjords. After threading 
the fjords, we proceeded to the town of Egilsstaðir, where we took a lunch break at a local bakery cafe decorated with historical artifacts – here we tried a local icelandic veggie soup which felt so good in the cold weather. From Egilsstaðir, we drove on to the amazing Lake Mývatn area and enjoyed its stunning landscapes especially during sunset (when the sky fills with blues, purples, oranges and reds). On the way to Lake Mývatn, we made a detour to Dettifoss, the largest waterfall in Europe. You may want to visit the relaxing Mývatn Nature Baths in the afternoon or evening and bathe in the geothermal water. As for us, we decided to cook dinner instead.
the fjords, we proceeded to the town of Egilsstaðir, where we took a lunch break at a local bakery cafe decorated with historical artifacts – here we tried a local icelandic veggie soup which felt so good in the cold weather. From Egilsstaðir, we drove on to the amazing Lake Mývatn area and enjoyed its stunning landscapes especially during sunset (when the sky fills with blues, purples, oranges and reds). On the way to Lake Mývatn, we made a detour to Dettifoss, the largest waterfall in Europe. You may want to visit the relaxing Mývatn Nature Baths in the afternoon or evening and bathe in the geothermal water. As for us, we decided to cook dinner instead.Driving Distance: 400 – 450 kilometers. Overnight: Lake Mývatn Guesthouse
Day 6. Whales and Canyons in the North
After breakfast of boiled egg sandwiches, we started the day early by visiting sites at Mývatn that we did not have time for the day before. We embarked on a hiking trail (it was so quiet and peaceful with the sounds of birds chirping). Here, I saw the clearest reflections of the land in the lake; like a perfect mirror image. Then, we continued to Húsavík. Húsavík was the first place in Iceland to offer successful whale watching cruises. We took a luxury boat to Öxarfjörður Bay and passed by not one but a group of 3 whales
! It was a once in a lifetime chance to watch the fountain of water coming out of the whale’s back and the classic tail splash as well. The next stop was Ásbyrgi canyon, a strangely shaped but spectacular horseshoe canyon, not to be missed. Tonight, we enjoyed the pleasure of a warm and luxurious bed in our 4 star hotel. Driving Distance: 250 kilometers. Overnight: Húsavík
! It was a once in a lifetime chance to watch the fountain of water coming out of the whale’s back and the classic tail splash as well. The next stop was Ásbyrgi canyon, a strangely shaped but spectacular horseshoe canyon, not to be missed. Tonight, we enjoyed the pleasure of a warm and luxurious bed in our 4 star hotel. Driving Distance: 250 kilometers. Overnight: Húsavík Day 7. The capital of the North
Today, we visited the second largest city in Iceland, Akureyri. Before reaching Akureyri, we came upon the Goðafoss waterfall, known as “waterfall of the gods.” Akureyri had plenty of urban treats to offer us, the best of which was the sight of other people! It was a place where every
one could find something they liked. For us, it was simply the hearty lunch offered by a local hostel called Akureyri backpackers. After a stroll within the city (we went to a church, an art gallery and some book cafes), we headed back out to 
countryside. We drove to Skagafjörður fjord, known for its agricultural prosperity and horse breeding. The highlight of the day was receiving a home-cooked meal from our host family (Steinunn and Johann) at the icelandic farm where we stayed the night. We had lamb stew with grilled fish and steamed vegetables – all with farm fresh ingredients!
one could find something they liked. For us, it was simply the hearty lunch offered by a local hostel called Akureyri backpackers. After a stroll within the city (we went to a church, an art gallery and some book cafes), we headed back out to 
countryside. We drove to Skagafjörður fjord, known for its agricultural prosperity and horse breeding. The highlight of the day was receiving a home-cooked meal from our host family (Steinunn and Johann) at the icelandic farm where we stayed the night. We had lamb stew with grilled fish and steamed vegetables – all with farm fresh ingredients!Driving Distance: 250 kilometers. Overnight: Skagafjörður on an Airbnb farm with a local icelandic family with their horses and sheep
Day 8. Northwest Iceland (Farms and Fishing Towns)
After saying goodbye to our hosts, we took a leisure drive through the Northwest region. We passed several farms with sheep and were amazed to see some icelandic horses running in the wild. After paying our respects at the Þingeyrarkirkja Church, Iceland’s first stone church and graveyard for important leaders of the country. Our next stop was Hvammstangi; followed by Rauðasandur where we parked and walked down to the shore to see some seals. We were told they bask in the sun during low 
tide hours, but even in high tide, we managed to see so many of them with their heads popping in and out of the water. Then, we continued along a bumpy road to Stykkishólmur, a charming fishing town with a relaxing atmosphere. After the long and winding drive, we decided we deserved to enjoy a fine dining experience at a local joint near the waters edge – we tried a delicious seafood pasta with clams, oysters, shrimp and even squid.
tide hours, but even in high tide, we managed to see so many of them with their heads popping in and out of the water. Then, we continued along a bumpy road to Stykkishólmur, a charming fishing town with a relaxing atmosphere. After the long and winding drive, we decided we deserved to enjoy a fine dining experience at a local joint near the waters edge – we tried a delicious seafood pasta with clams, oysters, shrimp and even squid.Driving Distance: 270 kilometers. Overnight: Stykkisholmur area
Day 9. Iceland in miniature
Our last day on the ring road involved driving through the Snæfellsnes peninsula in the west and visiting the many small fishing hamlets situated around the peninsula. With our explorer hats on, we meandered through spectacular Lóndrangar Rock Formations, snowy mountains, volcanoes, waterfalls, lava fields, and the magnificent Snæfellsjokull glacier towering over the tip of the 
peninsula. The peninsula is sometimes referred to as “Iceland in miniature” because it offers all the things found in the country. We stopped at the small town of Hellnar on the tip of the country’s west for lunch. We left Hellnar by 2pm to make it in time for our reservation at the Blue Lagoon Spa near Keflavik airport. A dip into the steaming water with a chilled lemonade in hand and a mud mask facial was the perfect end to the trip. Overnight in a B&B nearby before an early morning WOW Air flight back home.
peninsula. The peninsula is sometimes referred to as “Iceland in miniature” because it offers all the things found in the country. We stopped at the small town of Hellnar on the tip of the country’s west for lunch. We left Hellnar by 2pm to make it in time for our reservation at the Blue Lagoon Spa near Keflavik airport. A dip into the steaming water with a chilled lemonade in hand and a mud mask facial was the perfect end to the trip. Overnight in a B&B nearby before an early morning WOW Air flight back home.Driving Distance: 340 kilometers. Overnight: Hotel Bernhard BnB (Keflavik)
Globe Trotter 
Hi great work, its so detailed writing. We are actually transferred to the beautiful place. Did ull do a prior reservation for stay as each night at different place or go n hunt for it. Love
Hello! Thank you so much. We did all our reservations in advance using airbnb and booking.com. However, we met a couple who were taking it one day at a time too. The advantage of planning in advance is that you get to cover more in a day and you end up saving a lot of money too!