Why a Campervan Is the Best Way to Explore Iceland

A road trip around Iceland becomes much easier with a campervan. Many natural attractions are located far from cities and public transport rarely reaches them.

With a campervan you can:

• Travel at your own pace
• Stop at waterfalls and viewpoints anytime
• Save money on accommodation
• Stay close to nature every night

If you are planning your road trip, you can explore options in our
Iceland campervan fleet.

Iceland Campervan Itinerary Overview: The Ring Road Route

Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1) circles the entire island and connects most major regions. The full route is approximately 1,332 km.

Driving the full loop usually takes:

• 7 days for a faster trip
• 8–10 days for a relaxed itinerary

This route forms the backbone of almost every Iceland campervan itinerary because it connects waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes and coastal landscapes in one continuous drive.

You can check official road conditions before driving at
road.is.

Day 1 of the Iceland Campervan Itinerary: Reykjavik to the South Coast

Start your Iceland campervan itinerary by leaving Reykjavík and heading east.

Reykjadalur Hot Spring Valley

Near the town of Hveragerði you will find Reykjadalur, a geothermal valley where a short hike leads to a natural hot river.

Highlights include:

• Free natural hot spring bathing
• Geothermal steam vents
• Beautiful hiking landscapes

Continue toward the south coast.

Seljalandsfoss

A unique waterfall where visitors can walk behind the cascade.

Gljúfrabúi Waterfall

Hidden just beside Seljalandsfoss, this waterfall sits inside a small canyon and is often missed by travelers.

Skógafoss

One of the most powerful waterfalls in Iceland with a staircase leading to views above the falls.

Day 2 of the Iceland Campervan Itinerary: South Coast Adventures

Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck

One of Iceland’s most famous photography locations. The abandoned US Navy aircraft sits on a black sand desert.

Important tips:

• 45 minute walk from the parking area
• Bring warm clothing because wind can be strong
• Sunrise and sunset offer the best light

Dyrhólaey Cliffs

A dramatic viewpoint with massive rock arches and puffin colonies during summer.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Famous for basalt columns and powerful Atlantic waves. Always follow safety warnings due to sneaker waves.

Day 3 of the Iceland Campervan Itinerary: Canyons and Glaciers

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

One of Iceland’s most beautiful canyons with moss-covered cliffs and winding rivers.

Skaftafell Area

Located inside Vatnajökull National Park, this region offers scenic hiking trails including the route to Svartifoss waterfall.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Huge icebergs float across this glacial lagoon before drifting toward the ocean.

Diamond Beach

Just across the road, ice fragments from the lagoon wash up on black sand and sparkle like diamonds.

Day 4 of the Iceland Campervan Itinerary: East Fjords Drive

The East Fjords offer quieter roads and incredible coastal scenery.

Expect:

• Mountain roads
• Small fishing villages
• Wild reindeer sightings
• Dramatic fjord landscapes

Vök Baths

Near Egilsstaðir, Vök Baths offer a geothermal spa experience floating on a lake. It is a peaceful alternative to more crowded hot springs.

Day 5 of the Iceland Campervan Itinerary: Stuðlagil Canyon and North Iceland

Stuðlagil Canyon

This canyon features massive basalt columns and a bright turquoise river. It has become one of Iceland’s most photographed hidden locations.

The best viewpoint requires a short hike from the eastern parking area.

Continue to Lake Mývatn.

Lake Mývatn Area

This geothermal region offers lava fields, mud pools and volcanic landscapes.

Day 6 of the Iceland Campervan Itinerary: Waterfalls of North Iceland

Dettifoss

Europe’s most powerful waterfall and one of Iceland’s most dramatic natural sights.

Selfoss Waterfall

Located nearby, this waterfall forms a wide horseshoe-shaped cascade.

Goðafoss

Known as the “Waterfall of the Gods”, this iconic waterfall sits directly along the Ring Road.

Optional Extension to This Iceland Campervan Itinerary: Snæfellsnes Peninsula

If you have additional time, visit the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in West Iceland.

Highlights include:

• Kirkjufell mountain
• Snæfellsjökull glacier
• Arnarstapi coastal cliffs
• Djúpalónssandur black beach

Many travelers call this region “Iceland in miniature”.

Where to Stay During an Iceland Campervan Itinerary

Wild camping with vehicles is not allowed in Iceland. Instead travelers stay at designated campsites.

Typical campsite facilities include:

• Showers and toilets
• Cooking areas
• Electricity connections
• Fresh water stations

Most campsites cost around 1,500–2,500 ISK per person.

Learn more about camping rules here:
Campervan sleeping rules in Iceland

Extra Hidden Stops Along the Ring Road

If you want to make your itinerary even more memorable, consider adding these locations.

• Kvernufoss – a beautiful waterfall hidden near Skógafoss
• Hengifoss – one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland
• Hraunfossar – waterfalls flowing through lava fields
• Stuðlagil Canyon – one of Iceland’s most impressive basalt canyon formations

These locations are often quieter than the most famous attractions.

Tips for Planning Your Iceland Campervan Itinerary

Planning a successful Iceland campervan itinerary requires flexibility because weather and road conditions can change quickly.

• Check weather forecasts daily
• Drive carefully on gravel roads
• Keep extra fuel in remote areas
• Respect nature and marked paths
• Allow time for photography stops

Iceland rewards slow travel and curiosity. Many of the best moments happen unexpectedly along the road.

Why This Iceland Campervan Itinerary Creates the Best Road Trip

Iceland is a country designed for road trips. Landscapes change constantly and every day brings new discoveries.

From glaciers and volcanoes to waterfalls and wildlife, exploring Iceland by campervan allows you to experience the country in the most flexible and immersive way possible.