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Ring Road circumnavigation, volcanic crater lakes, aurora hunting — a comprehensive look at every detail of an Iceland self-drive, from visas to car rental.
Iceland: The Closest Place on Earth to Another Planet
Iceland, this island enveloped by the North Atlantic, draws travelers from around the world with its extraordinary geology, breathtaking natural scenery, and unique Viking culture. Self-driving is the best way to explore Iceland because most of the jaw-dropping sights are strung along Route 1 (the Ring Road).
Route 1 Ring Road: Itinerary Planning
Classic Ring Road Route (8–10 Days)
Iceland’s Ring Road spans approximately 1,332 km — completing the full circuit requires ample time:
- D1: Arrive in Reykjavík; rest and adjust to jet lag
- D2: Golden Circle (Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss)
- D3: Selfoss → Skógafoss → Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
- D4: Vatnajökull National Park (Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon)
- D5: East Fjords (Höfn town)
- D6: Seyðisfjörður → Egilsstaðir
- D7: Dettifoss → Mývatn area
- D8: Akureyri (northern capital)
- D9: Snæfellsnes Peninsula
- D10: Return to Reykjavík
Complete Car Rental Guide
Choosing the Right Vehicle
Iceland’s roads are complex; choosing the right rental is essential:
| Season | Recommended Vehicle | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| May–September | 2WD SUV or estate | Good road conditions; scenic drives |
| October–April | 4WD SUV | F-roads (mountain tracks) may close; 4WD needed |
| Year-round | Compact (summer) | Budget-friendly; summer roads are in good shape |
Choosing a Rental Company
Iceland’s main rental companies include:
- Lotos (large local company; reasonable prices)
- Blue Island (good service; easy airport collection)
- Avis / Budget (international chains; trustworthy)
Booking via QEEQ international car rental lets you compare prices from multiple companies and often get extra discounts. If you need European GPS navigation, NordVPN can keep your online maps working reliably when the connection is unstable.
Rental Tips
- Full insurance: Strongly recommended — CDW (collision damage waiver) and gravel protection
- Watch your fuel: Petrol stations are few and far between in Iceland; refuel whenever you can
- F-roads: Mountain tracks require 4WD; solo entry is not permitted
- Right-hand traffic: Opposite to some countries — allow time to adjust
Iceland Must-See Attractions
The Golden Circle
Þingvellir National Park: The junction of the Eurasian and North American plates — the only place in the world where you can walk on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.
Geysir geothermal area: Erupts every 5–10 minutes, sending water 20–30 metres skyward.
Gullfoss: One of Iceland’s most spectacular waterfalls, tumbling in two tiers — an awe-inspiring sight.
Iceland’s South Coast
Skógafoss: 60 metres high, clouds of mist, rainbows appearing frequently.
Black Sand Beach: Reynisfjara — black basalt columns beside breaking waves, rated one of the world’s most beautiful black beaches.
Vatnajökull National Park
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: A lake formed by glacial meltwater, scattered with crystalline icebergs — a habitat for harbour seals.
Blue glacier hike: Led by professional guides, crampons on, walking into the heart of the glacier.
Mývatn Area
Dettifoss: One of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls — its volume is 200 times that of Niagara Falls.
Námafjall geothermal area: Bubbling mud pools and steam vents, heavy with the scent of sulphur.
Iceland Aurora Hunting Guide
Best Viewing Times
Iceland’s aurora season runs September through March, with October, November, February, and March being the prime months.
Aurora Viewing Conditions
- Aurora index: KP value must reach 3 or above
- Weather: The lower the cloud cover the better
- Light pollution: Get away from Reykjavík city lights
Recommended Viewing Spots
- The black church on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula
- Near Gullfoss
- Þingvellir National Park
Aurora Photography Tips
- Use a tripod with long exposure
- Manual focus set to infinity
- ISO 1600–3200; aperture f/2.8–f/4
Practical Self-Drive Tips
Budget Reference
| Item | Daily Budget |
|---|---|
| Car rental | ¥500–1,500 (varies by season and vehicle) |
| Accommodation | ¥800–2,000 (guesthouse to hotel) |
| Food | ¥300–800 (supermarket vs. restaurant) |
| Tickets/activities | ¥500–1,500 (glacier hike etc.) |
| Fuel | ¥300–500 |
Fuelling Up
- Most petrol stations are self-service
- Credit cards accepted; PIN required
- N1 is the most common chain; open 24 hours
- Make sure you know the difference between petrol (bensín) and diesel
Weather and Road Conditions
- Iceland’s weather changes with bewildering speed; four seasons in one day
- Check road.is for live conditions before setting out
- Winter driving requires special care on snow and ice
Visas and Insurance
- Chinese passport holders need a Schengen visa (Iceland is a Schengen member)
- Travel insurance with emergency evacuation cover is strongly recommended
- AirHelp can assist with flight delay compensation claims
Summary
An Iceland self-drive is the ultimate journey for your eyes and your soul. From the geysers of the Golden Circle to the floating ice of Jökulsárlón, from the black sand beach under the aurora to the geothermal wonders of Mývatn — every stop leaves you speechless. Plan your route in advance, book your rental car, understand the road conditions, and you’ll come away with memories of Iceland that will last a lifetime.
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