From Reykjavík: West and South Iceland – 7-Day Self-Drive

Traveling through Iceland with a self-drive itinerary can be one of the most rewarding ways to see this striking country, and this 7-day tour offers a comprehensive taste of the West and South. While we haven’t done it ourselves, we’ve reviewed the details carefully to give you an honest picture of what to expect. If you’re someone who loves planning your own adventure, appreciates flexibility, and wants to explore at your own pace, this could be a good fit.

One thing we particularly like about this experience is the variety of landscapes it covers—from rugged coastlines and waterfalls to volcanic landscapes and geothermal spas. Plus, the inclusion of the Blue Lagoon is a thoughtful way to unwind after days of exploring. On the flip side, it’s a fairly packed schedule, which might feel rushed if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want more time at each stop.

This tour tends to suit travelers who enjoy driving, have a sense of adventure, and are comfortable navigating on their own. It’s also ideal for those who want to see Iceland’s highlights without the constraints of a group tour, but still prefer some structure and local support along the way.

Key Points

• Flexible Self-Drive: You control your schedule, making spontaneous stops easy.
• Diverse Landscapes: From waterfalls and beaches to glaciers and volcanoes.
• Includes Iconic Sites: Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and more.
• Good Value for Wide Coverage: Focused on key natural highlights over 7 days.
• Comfortable Accommodation Options: Ranging from guesthouses to 4-star countryside hotels.
• Practical Pick for Independent Travelers: Especially those comfortable with driving abroad.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Iceland’s Variety in 7 Days

This tour offers a curated route that hits many of Iceland’s top sights. It’s a good choice if you want a broad overview that balances popular highlights with some lesser-known gems.

You’ll start in Reykjavík, where you can get your bearings and pick up your rental car. From there, your adventure kicks off with the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature” because it packs a surprising number of geological features into a relatively small area.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Miniature Iceland

Driving northwest, you’ll visit Gerðuberg Basalt Columns, which are as impressive as they sound—tall, geometric formations that showcase Iceland’s volcanic personality. You’ll also visit Ytri Tunga Beach, a seal-watching spot with a relaxed vibe, and explore charming towns like Arnarstapi and Hellnar, connected by scenic trails. The Gatklettur Arch Rock near Arnarstapi is a favorite for its dramatic seaside views.

In Snæfellsjökull National Park, you get a taste of Iceland’s mythical lore combined with geological features—think glaciers, lava fields, and volcanic craters. Expect to hike near the glacier-capped volcano and explore the Vatnshellir lava tube, which adds an underground thrill. The Djúpalónssandur Beach, with its black sands and remnants of shipwrecks, rounds out this area. The day ends with the iconic Kirkjufell mountain and waterfall, often called one of Iceland’s most photogenic spots.

Borgarfjörður: Saga Land and Wonders

Next, you’ll head south to Borgarfjörður, a region deeply rooted in Icelandic sagas. You’ll visit Reykholt, associated with medieval historian Snorri Sturluson, which is both historically interesting and offers scenic views. The Deildartunguhver hot spring is a highlight, known for being Europe’s most powerful hot spring, and the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls are beautiful, especially in the soft light of the day.

In Borgarnes, the small town charm shines through. Its Settlement Centre showcases the saga stories, making it a deep dive into Iceland’s narrative roots. We loved the way this area feels like stepping back in time, yet offering stunning natural scenery.

The Golden Circle: Iceland’s Classic Route

You’ll spend a day exploring the Golden Circle, a route that packs a punch with some of Iceland’s most famous sights. Þingvellir National Park is a must-see—both for its historical significance as the site of the ancient Icelandic parliament and its dramatic geological rifts.

Next, the Geysir geothermal area, where the reliable eruptions of Strokkur create a constant fountain show, offers both excitement and insight into geothermal activity. The Gullfoss waterfall is just as spectacular as you’ve heard—powerful, wide, and with a mist that creates rainbows on sunny days.

Arriving in Selfoss at day’s end, you’ll find a place with convenient options for dining and staying, making it a practical base for the Golden Circle.

More Great Tours Nearby

South Coast: Waterfalls, Black Sand Beaches, and Ocean Views

The South Shore is where Iceland’s raw power really shows. Starting with Seljalandsfoss, which is one of the few waterfalls you can walk behind—be prepared to get a little wet! Close by, Skógafoss offers a more traditional but equally awe-inspiring cascade, often shrouded in mist that creates rainbows.

Dyrhólaey provides panoramic views of the Atlantic with its striking arch and puffin colonies in season. The Reynisfjara beach is famous for its black sands, basalt columns, and powerful waves—be sure to keep a safe distance from the surf.

After exploring these iconic sites, you’ll head to Vík í Mýrdal, a charming village with a picturesque church perched above dramatic cliffs. Returning to Selfoss, you’ll be ready for the final day.

Relaxation and Reflection: Blue Lagoon

On your last day, you’ll drive around the Reykjanes Peninsula before arriving at the Blue Lagoon. While bathing is an optional extra, many travelers find it a perfect way to relax and soak in the geothermal waters before heading home. It’s a crowd favorite for a reason, and the scenery—surrounded by lava fields—is quite something.

Practicalities and Comforts

Accommodation options are mainly guesthouses and 3-star hotels, with the option to upgrade to 4-star hotels in Reykjavík or the best available in the countryside. All rooms are standard, so don’t expect luxury but plenty of comfort.

The rental car pickup process is straightforward, right outside Keflavík Airport, with shuttle options running frequently during the day. For late arrivals, walking to the delivery office is simple and convenient.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers appreciate the stunning views that come with each stop, from waterfalls to mountains and ocean vistas. One comment that stood out was how “the scenery was breathtaking everywhere we went,” reinforcing that Iceland’s landscapes are truly remarkable.

Some mention the packed schedule as a downside—while the itinerary covers a lot, it can feel rushed if you want to linger longer at any spot. You might find yourself wanting more time at the Blue Lagoon or exploring the lava fields in greater depth.

The choice of accommodation was generally described as comfortable and convenient, adding to the overall value of the tour. People also liked the flexibility of a self-drive, giving them the freedom to customize their trip and take spontaneous detours.

The Sum Up

This 7-day self-drive tour provides a well-rounded introduction to Iceland’s most iconic spots and some hidden gems. It’s a solid option for travelers who want a structured yet flexible way to see the country’s natural beauty without the constraints of a group tour. The emphasis on stunning views and diverse landscapes makes it particularly appealing for those who want high-impact scenery on a manageable schedule.

If you enjoy driving, exploring at your own pace, and wish to experience Iceland’s geological diversity—from waterfalls and glaciers to volcanic beaches—this tour could be a great fit. It strikes a good balance between coverage and comfort, especially with the variety of accommodation choices.

Keep in mind that it’s a busy itinerary, so if you prefer slow mornings or extra time at each site, you might want to consider adjusting your plans or adding a couple of extra days. Still, for most, this tour offers a memorable, picture-perfect journey through one of the world’s most captivating landscapes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers who haven’t driven in Iceland before?
Yes, but you should be comfortable with self-driving and navigating on your own. The rental process is straightforward, and the itinerary is designed to be manageable for most experienced drivers.

What kind of accommodation can I expect?
You’ll stay in guesthouses and 3-star hotels, with options to upgrade to 4-star hotels in Reykjavík or select the best available countryside hotels. All rooms are standard.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Where do I pick up the rental car?
The rental car shuttle is conveniently located just outside the Keflavík Airport arrivals hall, next to Flybus Parking. The shuttle runs regularly during the day.

Is the Blue Lagoon included in the price?
Bathing in the Blue Lagoon is an optional extra, so you can decide whether to include it or not. Many find it a perfect way to unwind before heading home.

How much driving am I expected to do each day?
While the itinerary covers a lot of ground, each day is planned with manageable driving distances, typically lasting a few hours. You’ll have time to enjoy stops along the way.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s mainly suited for independent travelers comfortable with driving. If you’re traveling with children, consider how long driving days are and whether they’ll enjoy the stops. The focus is on Iceland’s natural landscapes, not specifically family activities.

This tour offers a thorough, flexible way to experience Iceland’s stunning scenery, perfect for travelers seeking independence combined with guided highlights. Whether you’re after jaw-dropping waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, or relaxing in geothermal waters, it’s a journey that captures Iceland’s essence beautifully.

You can check availability for your dates here: