The Ring Road in Iceland is probably one of our most important (and fun!) pieces of infrastructure. This is because the Ring Road (also called Route 1) wraps in a giant circle all around the island and connects most cities and towns (and interesting sights and attractions!) with each other. The fact that it’s such an important main road, paved and well-maintained, definitely makes it a favorite for road-tripping travelers all throughout the year. But if you’re thinking of exploring this route, there’s no other way than to hit the road with your campervan and a 10-day Iceland itinerary (any fewer days, and you’ll miss out).
This article will guide you through all the ins and outs of your 10-day campervan rental in Iceland trip, give you all sorts of handy tips and tricks, and even provide you with a full itinerary to either use as is or for inspiration. So, let’s not beat around the bush and start planning our road trip around the island!
Why Travel Iceland’s Ring Road in a Campervan?
There are many reasons to travel Iceland’s Ring Road in a campervan. This includes the following:
- Iceland’s Ring Road allows visitors to get a taste of almost every region in Iceland since the road wraps around the entire island.
- Because it wraps around the island and connects most cities and towns, driving the Ring Road is the easiest way of seeing a LOT of Iceland’s most famous attractions.
- Since it’s one of the island’s most important infrastructures, it’s paved and well-maintained, making it a great option for travelers all year round.
- Driving the Ring Road with a campervan gives you the ultimate freedom and flexibility as you’re not constantly chasing official check-in times at booked hotels or guesthouses, giving you a little more leeway to explore the island at will.
- Driving the Ring Road with a campervan is a very budget-friendly way of exploring the island. Not only have you taken care of both your transport and your accommodation in one fell swoop, but it also allows you to make use of our super-affordable campsites (especially if you purchase a Camping Card).
- Traveling with a campervan around the Ring Road will also allow you to use our affordable camping spots later or sooner than traditional campers because early winter weather conditions or unmelted snow and ice in early spring won’t bother you as much as it will a traditional camper. It also allows you to use our affordable campsites irrespective of any “uncomfortable” weather conditions since your cozy camper will keep you comfy and warm.
- When it comes to the Ring Road and all its amazing attractions, there is no better way to get as close to the action as possible than with a campervan. Except for being able to have a hot cup of coffee in the parking lot while staring out at a black sand beach, many of our campsites offer exclusive views and incredibly convenient access (mere meters!) to a few of our incredible sights, This includes campsites such as Skogar Campsite offering spectacular views of Skogafoss Waterfall.
- Packing and unpacking are also a thing of the past. Whereas regular Ring Road road-trippers will have to pack up almost daily to move onto their next booked accommodation, campervan road-trippers merely have to unpack and pack up once as they travel around with their campervan “home” like a snail (in only the best sense, of course!)
A Few Essential Tips Before Starting Your Campervan Adventure
The following will be handy to know before you hit the (Ring) road in your camper:
- Ensure you book well in advance. Not only are campervans popular here in Iceland (for obvious reasons), but our summer is considered peak season. So, if you’re planning on visiting the island during that time and haven’t pre-booked…well, you might find yourself utterly disappointed.
- Make sure you understand the rules of the road here in Iceland (which may be different from what you’re used to). Stick to speed limits, watch out for animals such as reindeer crossing the road, and don’t ever park on the side of the road (no, not even for that quick photo!).
- Make sure you understand the camping rules in Iceland. Many who come to Iceland come with a lot of wild camping ideas and don’t know that after many disastrous years, campervan camping rules have legally been changed on the island. For example, you cannot “camp” in one of our local parking lots or park on what looks like an open field (the latter more than likely belongs to a private owner where you’re not allowed to camp without their explicit permission).
- You’ll need to pack smart. A campervan has limited space, and you’ll need to keep in mind that you’ll be driving and living in that space for 10+ days – you definitely don’t want to do that feeling cramped.
- We highly recommend you stock up on supplies in the bigger cities and towns. Shops and gas stations become fewer the more remote you start moving around on the island. And the bigger stores, such as Kronan and Bonus, are also likely to be more budget-friendly. This also becomes especially important if you use things that may not be readily available in smaller shops or towns.
- Plan your refueling stops on a map beforehand. We cannot stress this enough. Gas prices in Iceland differ, and not even the same gas stations in Iceland have the same prices. The more remote you travel in the country, gas stations also not only become fewer, but they become more expensive. So, it’s worth putting in the extra research to save a few bucks and not get left stranded along the side of the road.
Your 10-Day Ring Road Itinerary Through Iceland in a Campervan
The following is a good example of what a 10-day Ring Road itinerary can look like. Feel free to use it as is or take some inspiration to customize it according to your own preferences:
Day 1: The Golden Circle and the Secret Lagoon
Perhaps you’ve just flown in and want to grab your campervan and kickstart your road trip immediately, or you arrived the day before and spent your first night in the capital city of Reykjavik so you can be well-rested for the adventure ahead.
Whatever you decide, day one of our 10-day Ring Road itinerary begins by exploring the Golden Circle. Similar to the Ring Road, the Golden Circle is also a popular road trip route that circles around a part of southern Iceland. But this loop road is much smaller than the Ring Road (300 kilometers in total). So, most will either take it on as a jam-packed day trip or a shorter road trip.
The route is also famed for having many of our most famous attractions, so you’re in for a real treat! Just a short detour off the Golden Circle, you’ll also find the Secret Lagoon. If you have enough time, we highly recommend you visit and take a dip!
Must-See Stops:
- Thingvellir – Many Golden Circle attractions are actually found within the borders of Thingvellir National Park. But it’s why Thingvellir is Thingvellir in the first place that we want to highlight here. Thingvellir was the meeting place of leaders and chieftains and essentially the first parliament here in Iceland, which took place in the area. It’s a historic site well worth the visit.
- Geysir Geothermal Area – Geysir is the GOAT when it comes to geysers and is the very reason we call them that. Although this old-timer is now completely dormant, its younger brother, Stokkur, sits just a short walk away and still erupts every 10 minutes or so, shooting liters of boiling hot water meters into the air.
- Gullfoss Waterfall – One of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, with two tiers totaling 32 meters. Its name translates to “Golden Falls,” and while some believe it’s due to the color of the mineral-rich water when the sun shines on it, others prefer to believe the story of a greedy farmer who chucked his gold into the waterfall so no one else could have it after his death.
- Secret Lagoon – The Secret Lagoon is also referred to as Gamla Laugin and is the oldest swimming pool in Iceland. Built in 1891, it first served the locals by being the go-to place where one learns how to swim. But, in a strange twist of fate, the pool was forgotten and fell into disrepair. Till a new owner breathed new life into it, making it the favorite spot it once was yet again.
Where to Camp:
Skjol Campground (near Gullfoss)
Day 2: The South Coast: Cruising Along Waterfalls & Black Sand Beaches
On day two you’ll be cruising down the south coast with all its breathtaking views. This particular section of the route is most famous for its watery features (from rushing falls to frozen glaciers) and Iceland’s characteristic black sand beaches.
Must-See Stops:
- Seljalandsfoss Waterfall – Seljalandsfoss stands a staggering 60 meters tall and is also known as “the waterfall you can walk behind. If you take the trail up to the fall, you can literally view the Icelandic landscape through its veil of water.
- Skogafoss Waterfall – Skogafoss is also 60 meters tall, but it definitely beats Seljalandsfoss in width, with its 25 meters across. Absolutely gorgeous!
- Gljufrabui Waterfall – Gljufrabui is not the tallest waterfall in Iceland, standing at 40 meters high, but it’s a bit of a hidden gem here in Iceland. This incredibly picturesque waterfall tumbling over moss-covered cliffs is hidden behind a crack in the cliffs (as if a portal to another world), where it sits as a reward after traversing a narrow ravine.
- Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – Iceland is characterized by our black sand beaches, but Reynisfjara might just be the most famous of them all. This beach stretches out for about 3 kilometers, with the ocean on one side and dramatic black basalt cliffs on the other.
- Dyrholaey Rock Formation – Dyrholaey is a piece of land protruding out into the ocean. But it has become a sliver of what it once was due to erosion over time and being weathered away by the elements. It also now boasts a big hole, essentially turning it into an arch.
It’s an impressive sight and stands as a testament to the power of nature and time and has also become a spot to have a bit of fun with. You’ll often see boats trying to navigate through the hole, and we’ve even had a daredevil in a plane fly through it once!
Where to Camp:
Day 3: Vatnajökull: The Park and the Glacier
Vatnajökull National Park is Iceland’s largest national park, named after its most famous inhabitant, Vatnajökull Glacier (which holds the title of the largest glacier in Europe!).
The park, as it’s known today, has become this size due to various smaller national parks in Iceland being incorporated into its boundaries throughout the years (such as Skaftafell National Park). Needless to say, this park holds absolutely breathtaking sights and many once-in-a-lifetime experiences, so keep the camera close today.
Must-See Stops:
- Fjadrargljufur Canyon – Fjadrargljufur is an incredible, fairy-tale-like canyon. Imagine moss-covered cliffs towering 100 meters above you, with the Fjadra River winding its way through. Anyone can walk and explore this 2-kilometer stretch of canyon, knowing that they are walking through history (2 million years to be exact).
- The Hiking Trails in Skaftafell National Park – Skaftafell has many hiking trails one can choose from; some just loop around the beautiful landscape, while others take you to some of our popular attractions. It really doesn’t matter how much time you have available, what your fitness level is, or how much hiking experience you have; you’ll be able to find a hiking trail that suits you and your situation perfectly.
- Svartifoss Waterfall – Svartifoss is our “muse” here on the island. It’s not one of our tallest, reaching 20 meters, but it’s a very striking waterfall with its dark, hexagonal basalt backdrop. Once you’ve visited the waterfall, you must also visit Hallgrimskirkja in Reykjavik to see if you can spot the resemblance.
Where to Camp:
Day 4: Vatnajökull National Park Continues - An Icy Glacier and a Hot Spring
Today, you will experience first-hand what it means to be the Land of Fire and Ice with our extreme and contrasting elements. It’s an exciting day as you continue to explore Vatnajökull National Park.
Must-See Stops:
- Jökulsarlon Glacier Lagoon – This lagoon is a frozen wonderland. Nestled next to the Breidamerkurjökull Glacier, gigantic pieces of ice break off and fill the lagoon with icebergs and sheets of ice. The lagoon is also home to many seals, playing in the water and floating around on the ice. The best way to explore Jökulsarlon is by booking a spot on one of the boat tours.
We’d recommend the Zodiac if you don’t mind getting your heart pumping a bit and the Amphibian if you’re just looking for a leisurely cruise. Either way, these vessels will get you super close to the action.
- Diamond Beach – Diamond Beach is practically the neighbor of Jökulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and is just as magical. Here, you will find hundreds of pieces of ice strewn all across the beach as it washes ashore. When the light dances on the ice, they look like sparkling diamonds!
- Hoffell Hot Tubs – The Hoffell Hot Tubs look a bit like those makeshift pools your college roommate might have made at a music festival. But you’ve never seen views like this at a music festival! The little pools are not very deep (just comfortable to sit or lie in).
They sit beside a cliff face, providing some shelter from the elements, with views across the Icelandic landscape as far as the eye can see (which includes a pretty spectacular view of the glacier). Simply breathtaking!
Where to Camp:
Day 5: The East Fjords
Today, you will mission around the East Fjords, where the day will be marked by impressive views over the fjords (really, we cannot stress enough how distracting the views can be to a driver, so beware!), and landscapes that are among the favorite subjects of photographers that come to the island.
Must-See Stops:
- Vestrahorn Mountain – Vestrahorn is a very dramatic-looking mountain with its dark tint and almost spikey peaks. This is also why locals often refer to it as “the Batman mountain” due to the peaks resembling Batman’s ears.
- Stokksnes Beach – Stokksnes is a black sand beach that can be found next to Vestrahorn Mountain. But this beach differs from the rest in terms of its intimate setting. It’s a small beach, but it’s also private as it sits on private property. You’ll need to pay a small entrance fee to access the beach, which immediately decreases the foot traffic.
- The Village of Djupivogur – Djupivogur is a very picturesque little town surrounded by breathtaking mountain and ocean views. Once you’ve experienced the tranquil setting, you might be tempted never to leave.
Where to Camp:
Day 6: Exploring North Iceland
Today will be the first day of a couple spent exploring the northern parts of the island.
Must-See Stops:
- Hengifoss Waterfall – Hengifoss is one of the tallest waterfalls here in Iceland, standing at a staggering 128 meters tall. But this waterfall’s claim to fame is not really its height; it’s the red clay rings captured in its black basalt cliff background, making it look like something from a sci-fi movie.
- Dettifoss Waterfall – Dettifoss is a beast of a waterfall. It’s 44 meters tall and 100 meters wide, pumping out water at such an incredible volume and speed that it’s officially been given the title of Europe’s most powerful waterfall!
- Hverir Geothermal Area – Hverir resembles something you’d expect from a landscape on Mars. The ground has all sorts of discoloration due to mineral deposits, and the area is draped in steam from the steam vents and bubbling mud pots.
- Myvatn Nature Baths – The Myvatn Nature Baths are one of our most famous geothermal pool destinations in Northern Iceland. Since this is a private business and more resort-like in nature (with many other facilities and amenities than just the pools), there is an entrance fee.
Where to Camp:
Day 7: Husavik & Akureyri
Today will be spent exploring the two capital cities of North Iceland (even though just one is official). Even though Akureyri has the official title, Husavik is known as the “whale-watching capital of Iceland” (which should already give you a clue as to what adventures await you today on your 10-day Ring Road itinerary around Iceland).
Must-See Stops:
- Husavik – There are plenty of things to see and do in Husavik, but your first stop should be a whale-watching boat tour at the Husavik Harbor. If you come during our whale season between April and September, you’ll even be able to see some of the migratory whale species that call Iceland home this time of year.
- Akureyri – As the official capital of the north and one of the largest cities in Iceland, you can be sure to find plenty of exciting things to see and do here. Some of these include the Akureyri Botanical Gardens, Laufas Heritage Site, and the Akureyri Art Museum.
Where to Camp:
Day 8: Exploring the Tröllaskagi Peninsula
The Tröllaskagi Peninsula is another region in Iceland famous for its breathtaking scenery. It sits between the Greenland Sea and two fjords, boasts incredibly majestic mountain ranges, and has some of the highest population of wild-roaming Icelandic Horses (so keep your eyes peeled!).
Must-See Stops:
- Dalvik – Dalvik is one of the biggest villages in the peninsula (which is hard to believe, considering its population of roughly 1400 people). The town sits in an extremely picturesque setting, which is also why you’ll find plenty of hiking trails around the town.
- Siglufjördur – Siglufjördur is another picturesque little fishing village sitting along a beautiful fjord. It’s also known as one of the peninsula’s most densely populated towns despite boasting only 1300 permanent residents. Siglufjördur is also the most northern town you’ll find here on the island.
- Hofsos Infinity Pool – The Hofsos Infinity Pool is massive (25 meters long and 20.5 meters wide). The infinity pool, with its views over the sea, gives one the feeling of being part of the ocean.
Where to Camp:
Varmahlid or Hofsos Campgrounds
Day 9: Exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula
The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is often referred to as “Iceland in miniature” because it practically contains each and every type of contrasting region and landscape you’ll find all across the island.
Must-See Stops:
- Kirkjufell Mountain – Whether you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or just an avid fan of the Game of Thrones series, Kirkjufell Mountain is not to be missed. This odd cone-shaped mountain has become the most photographed mountain in Iceland and is so impressive that it even got a lead role in the popular Game of Thrones series (as Arrowhead Mountain). There are trails to explore the mountainside, but summiting is exclusive to pro climbers climbing with a guide.
- Berserkjahraun Lava Field – There are many lava fields here in Iceland (we are the Land of Fire and Ice, after all), but Berserkjahraun is exceptionally special. This lava field is estimated to be roughly 4000 years old and is so massive that the loop road around it takes up to 30 minutes to drive.
- Ytri Tunga – Iceland is famous for its black sand beaches, so it’s odd to find a golden sand beach such as Ytri Tunga along our shores. Yet, this is not what Ytri Tunga is most famous for. It’s home to one of Iceland’s largest seal colonies, so if you’d like to spot a few of our friends chilling on the rocks or chasing each other through the water – Ytri Tunga should be your go-to.
- Vatnshellir Cave – Vatnshellir is an 8000-year-old lava cave. It’s 200 meters long and goes 35 meters below ground. The cave can be explored by booking a spot on a guided tour.
Where to Camp:
Day 10: Homeward Bound
Today, you will return to Reykjavik via West Iceland as your 10-day Ring Road itinerary in your campervan comes to an end. Once again, it is up to you whether you’d like to spend the night in the capital before flying out the next day or whether you’d like to depart the island on your 10th day.
Just leave enough time to drop the campervan off (which includes some final paperwork), and remember to refuel the vehicle beforehand since it must be returned with a full gas tank.
Must-See Stops:
- Glymur Waterfall – Glymur is Iceland’s second tallest waterfall, clocking in at an astounding 198 meters high.
- Reykjavik – It’s not the official capital city of Iceland for no reason. This city is an eclectic mix of vibrant modernism and historical treasures. A few of the things you can look forward to in the city are Hallgrimskirkja, checking out the Sun Voyager, the National Museum of Iceland, and Perlan.
- Blue Lagoon – Since the Blue Lagoon is on the way to Keflavik Airport, we suggest stopping here before catching your flight (so either day 10 or the next day). The Blue Lagoon, with its unique aesthetic and bright blue milky water, is one of our most famous geothermal pool venues in Iceland. So famous, in fact, that you might recognize it from a few Hollywood blockbusters such as Hostel or Star Trek. As another resort-like venue with a myriad of facilities and amenities, you’ll need to pay an entry fee to gain access.
Where to Camp:
Either in Reykjavik Eco Campsite or on the plane home
When is the Best Time to Take On This 10-Day Ring Road Itinerary for a Campervan Road Trip Around Iceland?
For this 10-day Ring Road itinerary, we recommend you visit during the warmer months. Precisely when will rely solely on you, your preferences, and your budget. The following info can help you make your final decision:
- For the very best weather (especially since you’ll be traveling north) and the most daylight hours (VERY needed with a jam-packed itinerary), Iceland has to offer, you’ll need to come during the summer season (June to August).
- The most daylight hours mid-summer actually means experiencing one of our most famous natural phenomena; the Midnight Sun. From mid to end of July, darkness never really falls, despite the sun taking a quick dip behind the horizon (essentially giving you a 24-hour day).
- Just be aware that this is our peak season, bringing peak-season crowds and peak-season prices with it.
- For a more budget-friendly trip while still getting plenty of good weather and daylight hours, pick one of the shoulder months (late April, May, or September).
- If you’re an animal lover, there are certain times during the warmer months that are must-visit times. This includes April to September for whale season and May to August for Puffin season (especially when you’re camping at Arnarstapi; you’ll find plenty of these cuties along the cliffs!).
- Needless to say, due to the better weather, late April to September are some of the best times when it comes to our road conditions. You may still get some of our legendary winds and a bit of rain at times, but you won’t need to contend with wind speeds of 35+ kilometers an hour, blizzards, and ice and snow on the road.
10-Days in a Campervan: Why Driving the Ring Road Route is the Best Way of Experiencing Iceland.
As you can see, a 10-day road trip itinerary gives you the opportunity to experience many of Iceland’s most famous attractions and activities, and the Ring Road will give you a taste of most of the different regions and their landscapes.
Whether you’re looking for icy adventures or the island’s fiery side, wanting to tick off the most famous tourist attractions, or discovering a few hidden gems – this itinerary has you covered. There’s also no better way to remain captain of your exploration and truly immerse yourself in the Icelandic landscape than by traveling around in a campervan.
So, whether you want to use it as is or modify our 10-day Ring Road itinerary - it’s time to start planning, begin packing, catch that flight, rent your campervan in Iceland, and hit the Ring Road!
