The Ring Road in Iceland, also known as Route 1, is a unique opportunity to explore the majority of this amazing country’s breathtaking landscapes in a single trip. The route is an astonishing 1,332 kilometres (820 miles) distance, and it goes in a circle around the island. The most popular way to do the Ring Road is, of course, with a camper van. This article will guide you through everything you need to know before the start of your ultimate adventure!
What Is the Iceland Ring Road?
The Ring Road is essentially the main highway in Iceland, which loops around the country and connects major attractions as well as towns. It passes through a variety of terrains and natural wonders, including coastal areas and remote mountains. This route is accessible all year long, as it is very safe and well-maintained. It is suitable for most vehicles, including camper vans.
Why Is a Camper van the Ideal Option?
Although the Ring Road can be undertaken with a normal car, camper vans are generally considered to be the ideal option for it. Some of the reasons for this include:
- Flexibility: You can travel in your own pace and adjust your itinerary as you go, staying longer in places you love or moving on when you're ready.
- Convenience: Your accommodation travels with you, so you don’t need to book hotels each night. It also means you don’t have to plan your stops based on accommodation - you can find a perfect spot when you get tired of driving.
- Cost-effective: Combining transport and accommodation can save quite a lot of money, especially as Iceland is known for its high prices.
- Immersion in nature: What can be more perfect than waking up to breathtaking views of nature and falling asleep under the beautiful night sky…
How does Iceland Camper rental work?
Renting a camper van in Iceland is a fairly straightforward process. First and foremost, find a reputable Iceland camper rental company. Do this by researching different options and reading online reviews to check how trustworthy they are. Once you have chosen a provider, select the right vehicle for your needs. Smaller campers may be easier to drive and park, however, they will also have limited space and fewer amenities. A larger 4x4 camper will have everything you need in it and will fit up to 5 people. It is always recommended to book your camper in advance, as a camper van rental in Iceland can be in high demand, particularly during the peak tourist months.
How long does it take to drive around Iceland?
The time you take to complete the Ring Road will depend on your pace and interests. While it is technically possible to drive the route in a few days, this approach would miss the whole point of the journey.
Most visitors will spend at least 7 days exploring the Ring Road, and some will even extend their adventure to 10-14, to truly take it all in.
Iceland Ring Road itinerary example:
If you are unsure how to plan your Ring Road itinerary, here is an example itinerary with some ideas:
- Day 1 - Reykjavik to Vik: Most people will start their journey in Reykjavik and pick whether they want to go clockwise or counter-clockwise. In this case, we are going counter-clockwise to the town of Vik. On your first day, you can explore the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, as well as visit Hvolsvöllur or the black sand beach at Reynisfjara.
- Day 2 - Vik to Höfn: On the second day, you can explore the amazing Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and go for a stroll on the Diamond Beach nearby, reaching Höfn at the end.
- Day 3 - Höfn to Egilsstaðir: Next, to get to Egilsstaðir, you will drive through the scenic East Fjords and will get the opportunity to explore the infamous Petra's Stone Collection in Stöðvarfjörður.
- Day 4 - Egilsstaðir to Mývatn: On the fourth day, visit the picturesque Dettifoss waterfall on your way to Mývatn. The town is famous for its Nature Baths, where you can relax for the rest of the afternoon.
- Day 5 - Mývatn area: At the half-way point, you may now want to rest from driving, so it’s a good chance to explore the surrounding attractions in Mývatn. The Dimmuborgir lava field and the geothermal area of Hverir are both must-visits here.
- Day 6 - Mývatn to Akureyri: Back on the road and heading towards Akureyri, Iceland’s northern capital, you will get a chance to visit the amazing waterfall of Goðafoss near Fossholl. Once you reach Akureyri, you can explore the town’s attractions of the nearby Hlíðarfjall mountain peak.
- Day 7 - Akureyri to Snæfellsnes Peninsula: As you drive through the beautiful North Iceland’s landscapes, there are lots of attractions located in the area, including the Hvitserkur basalt island, Guðrúnarlaug hot spring mountain peak, and Guðrúnarlaug hot spring.
- Day 8 - Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Just before the end of your journey is the perfect time to take another day off driving and explore the amazing Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Do not miss the Kirkjufell mountain and waterfall as well as the Djúpalónssandur black pebble beach!
- Day 9 - Snæfellsnes to Golden Circle: The Golden Circle is another scenic route located close to Reykjavik. It goes slightly inland and features a number of renowned attractions, like the Gullfoss waterfall or the Þingvellir National Park.
- Day 10 - Golden Circle to Reykjavik: On your return to Reykjavik, you can enjoy your last day exploring the capital city or visiting the infamous Blue Lagoon.
Final Words
This itinerary is just one of the many ways you can explore Iceland’s Ring Road, but it gives you an idea on how much you can see and do in this amazing journey!
What about you, have you ever rented a camper van in Iceland? Feel free to share any tips & advice below! (Second photo by Alex He on Unsplash)
ABOUTME
We overland. We eat plants and fungi. We live outside as much as possible. We are all connected. A female travel blogger overlanding and writing about ecotourism, ethical and sustainable travel, socially conscious travel and housesitting. An online travel magazine since 2015.
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