Iceland Express Circle – 6-Day Self-Drive

Iceland’s "Express Circle" offers adventurous travelers a chance to explore the country’s stunning natural wonders at their own pace. This 6-day self-drive itinerary covers iconic sites like the Golden Circle, Vatnajökull National Park, and Lake Mývatn. With free cancellation and accommodations included, it’s an enticing option for those seeking the freedom to craft their Icelandic journey. But the real question is – what surprises might await those who take the wheel and embark on this extraordinary expedition?

Key Points

• This 6-day self-drive tour covers major attractions in Iceland, including the Golden Circle, South Coast, Vatnajökull National Park, and Lake Mývatn.
• The tour includes car rental, accommodations, and a detailed itinerary, priced from $893.05 per person.
• The tour is suitable for drivers aged 21 and older, with pickup and drop-off at Keflavík International Airport.
• Highlights include visiting Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, and Dettifoss waterfall.
• The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Iceland Express Circle Tour

The Iceland Express Circle – 6-Day Self-Drive tour offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of Iceland’s stunning natural wonders.

Priced from $893.05 per person, the 6-day self-drive package includes car rental, accommodations, and a detailed itinerary covering top attractions like the Golden Circle, South Coast, Vatnajökull National Park, and Lake Mývatn.

Guests can freely cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour is suitable for drivers 21 and older, with pickup and drop-off at Keflavík International Airport.

This self-drive experience allows travelers to discover Iceland’s spectacular landscapes at their own pace.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Reykjavík

Your Iceland Express Circle tour begins upon arrival at Keflavík International Airport.

You’ll collect your rental car and drive to Reykjavík, Iceland’s capital. Spend the day exploring this vibrant city.

Wander the charming streets, browse local shops, and marvel at the modern architecture. Don’t miss the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church and the Sun Voyager sculpture.

In the evening, sample Icelandic cuisine at one of the many restaurants. After a full day, retire to your hotel in Reykjavík, ready to embark on the next leg of your Iceland adventure.

Day 2: The Golden Circle and South Coast

After breakfast, you depart Reykjavík and make your way to the renowned Golden Circle route.

First, you visit Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.

Next, you explore the Geysir geothermal area, home to the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every 5-10 minutes.

You then witness the breathtaking Gullfoss waterfall, one of the most iconic in Iceland.

Continuing along the south coast, you stop at Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls before reaching the black sand beaches of Vík í Mýrdal.

You spend the night in Kirkjubæjarklaustur.

Day 3: Vatnajökull National Park and Glacier Lagoon

On day three, you venture into Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier.

You’ll hike to Svartifoss, a striking waterfall framed by hexagonal basalt columns.

Next, you’ll visit Jökulsárlón, a breathtaking glacial lagoon where icebergs drift and seals play.

At the adjacent Diamond Beach, you’ll find a sparkling shoreline scattered with chunks of ice.

The stunning landscapes of Vatnajökull will captivate you as you explore this frozen wonderland.

Your overnight stay will be in Egilsstaðir, a town known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

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Day 4: North Iceland and Lake Mývatn

Having explored the southern regions, the journey now leads to North Iceland and the captivating Lake Mývatn.

The day begins with a drive to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. Next, travelers discover the volcanic wonders of Lake Mývatn, including the Námaskarð geothermal area, Hverfjall crater, and the unique lava formations of Dimmuborgir.

A stop at the majestic Goðafoss waterfall, nicknamed the "Waterfall of the Gods," completes the day’s highlights.

The overnight stay in Akureyri, the vibrant capital of North Iceland, offers a chance to explore the town’s charm and culture.

Day 5: West Iceland and Return to Reykjavík

With the northern regions explored, the journey now turns westward as the travelers make their way back to Reykjavík.

The first stop is the Skagafjörður region, known for its rich history and stunning landscapes. They then continue to the Borgarfjörður valley, where they visit:

The travelers venture to Skagafjörður, steeped in history and scenic splendor, then onward to Borgarfjörður’s attractions.

• Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring

• Hraunfossar and Barnafoss, two beautiful and unique waterfalls

• Reykholt, a historic site associated with the medieval Icelandic scholar Snorri Sturluson

Finally, the travelers return to Reykjavík, completing their circle around this breathtaking island nation.

Rental Car and Driving Considerations

As an essential part of this self-drive tour, the rental car selection and driving considerations play a crucial role in ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey through Iceland.

The tour includes a rental car with unlimited mileage, along with comprehensive insurance coverage such as Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW), Gravel Protection (GP), and Theft Protection (TP).

Drivers must be at least 21 years old and possess a valid international driver’s license.

Pickup and drop-off of the rental car are conveniently arranged at the Keflavík International Airport, simplifying the logistics of the experience.

Accommodation and Dining Options

The tour offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets.

Standard accommodations include guesthouses and 3-star equivalent hotels, while the Comfort option provides 4-star hotels in Reykjavík and the best available in the countryside.

For a comfortable stay, the Comfort option offers 4-star hotels in Reykjavík and the best available accommodations in the Icelandic countryside.

The tour includes daily breakfast, ensuring a hearty start to each day’s adventures.

Dining options throughout the journey allow travelers to sample the rich culinary delights of Iceland, from traditional Icelandic fare to international cuisines, catering to a range of tastes and dietary requirements.

• Standard accommodations: Guesthouses and 3-star equivalent hotels

• Comfort accommodations: 4-star hotels in Reykjavík, best available in the countryside

• Daily breakfast included

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book My Own Flights and Meet the Group at the Destination?

Yes, you can book your own flights and meet the group at the destination. The tour package does not include flights, so you’re free to arrange your own travel to and from Iceland.

Are Single Supplements Available for Solo Travelers?

Single supplements are available for solo travelers. Travelers booking the tour alone can pay an additional fee to have a private room instead of sharing accommodations. The single supplement cost varies depending on the tour package selected.

Can I Extend My Stay in Iceland Before or After the Tour?

Yes, you can extend your stay in Iceland before or after the tour. The supplier offers flexibility to add extra nights in Reykjavik or elsewhere in Iceland to customize your trip.

Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary to Include Additional Activities?

Yes, the itinerary can be customized to include additional activities. Travelers can work with the tour provider to add or modify stops along the route to suit their interests and preferences.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Self-Drive Tour?

The self-drive tour doesn’t have a maximum group size, as it’s an independent itinerary. Travelers book the package individually and drive themselves, so the group size is flexible based on the number of vehicles rented.

The Sum Up

The Iceland Express Circle – 6-Day Self-Drive tour offers travelers the freedom to explore Iceland’s natural wonders at their own pace. With a convenient car rental, pre-booked accommodations, and a well-planned itinerary, this all-inclusive package ensures a hassle-free and breathtaking adventure. Whether you’re seeking the majesty of the Golden Circle, the grandeur of Vatnajökull National Park, or the serenity of Lake Mývatn, this tour provides the perfect balance of flexibility and convenience.

You can check availability for your dates here: