Discover the Beauty of Iceland’s Ring Road with iBestTravel
The Ring Road is the primary highway in Iceland, looping around the country and connecting major attractions along with towns. It traverses a variety of terrains and natural wonders, including coastal settings and remote mountains. This route is accessible year-round as it is safe and well-maintained, making it suitable for most vehicles, especially camper vans.
Why Choose a Camper Van?
Although you can undertake the Ring Road with a standard car, camper vans are generally regarded as the ideal choice. Here’s why:
- Flexibility: Travel at your own pace and adjust your itinerary on the go, allowing for longer stays at your favorite spots or moving on whenever you’re ready.
- Convenience: Your accommodation travels with you, eliminating the need to secure hotel reservations nightly. This means finding a perfect spot to rest when you’re tired becomes hassle-free.
- Cost-effective: Combining transport and lodging can save you a significant amount of money, particularly as Iceland is known for its high living costs.
- Immersion in Nature: Imagine waking up to breathtaking views and falling asleep under a stunning night sky.
Renting a Camper Van in Iceland
Renting a camper van in Iceland is a straightforward process. Start by finding a reputable Iceland camper rental company. Conduct thorough research and read online reviews to ensure their reliability. After selecting a provider, choose a vehicle that meets your needs. Smaller campers may offer easier handling, while larger 4×4 campers tend to provide more amenities and space for up to 5 people. It’s advisable to book your camper in advance, especially during peak tourist months when demand is high.
Planning Your Journey on the Ring Road
The time required to complete the Ring Road varies based on your pace and interests. While it is technically feasible to drive the route in several days, such a quick trip does not do justice to the incredible experiences that await.
Most travelers will spend at least 7 days exploring the Ring Road, with some extending their adventure to 10-14 days to truly appreciate all the wonders Iceland has to offer.
Example Itinerary for the Ring Road
If you’re unsure about how to structure your Ring Road itinerary, here’s a sample plan:
- Day 1 – Reykjavik to Vik: Starting your journey in Reykjavik, you might head counter-clockwise toward Vik, exploring Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls along with the black sand beach at Reynisfjara.
- Day 2 – Vik to Höfn: Spend your second day at the stunning Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and take a leisurely stroll on the nearby Diamond Beach, ultimately reaching Höfn.
- Day 3 – Höfn to Egilsstaðir: Drive through the scenic East Fjords, making a stop at Petra’s Stone Collection in Stöðvarfjörður.
- Day 4 – Egilsstaðir to Mývatn: Visit Dettifoss waterfall as you travel to Mývatn, renowned for its Nature Baths where you can unwind.
- Day 5 – Mývatn area: Midway through your journey, take this opportunity to explore nearby attractions like the Dimmuborgir lava field and the geothermal area of Hverir.
- Day 6 – Mývatn to Akureyri: Travel towards Akureyri, Iceland’s northern capital, stopping by Goðafoss waterfall and exploring the local tourism highlights.
- Day 7 – Akureyri to Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Admire North Iceland’s landscapes and attractions, including Hvitserkur basalt island and the surrounding hot springs.
- Day 8 – Snæfellsnes Peninsula: An additional day allows you to delve deeper into the wonders of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, visiting Kirkjufell mountain and the unique Djúpalónssandur black pebble beach.
- Day 9 – Snæfellsnes to Golden Circle: Experience the Golden Circle, which features renowned sites like Gullfoss waterfall and Þingvellir National Park.
- Day 10 – Golden Circle to Reykjavik: On your return day, uncover the delights of Reykjavik or consider a visit to the famous Blue Lagoon.
This itinerary is merely one of the numerous ways to embark on Iceland’s Ring Road adventure, providing insight into the incredible sights and experiences available during your journey!
Share Your Experience
Have you ever rented a camper van in Iceland? Share your tips and experiences below!