9 Days Self-Drive Tour with Pick Up – Ring Road Tour – 4×4 Campervan

Iceland’s Ring Road is at its best when you can stop for a waterfall, stay near a glacier, or change your plans because the weather turns rough. This nine-day 4×4 campervan trip gives you that freedom while taking care of the hard planning. You drive yourself, but the route, campsites, activities, Wi-Fi, tablet guide, and airport shuttle are arranged.

I like the mix of big sights and quieter stops, especially Seyðisfjörður, Ásbyrgi, and Fjaðrárgljúfur, which give the trip more character than a simple Golden Circle outing. I also like the built-in activities: glacier hiking, horseback riding, a Jökulsárlón boat trip, whale watching, and snorkeling at Silfra. The main caution is the pace. You cover nearly the whole country, and several days combine long drives with fixed activity times.

• A real Ring Road circuit: See the south coast, Eastfjords, North Iceland, and the Golden Circle in one carefully packed route.
• A campervan that works as your base: The 4×4 includes bedding, cooking equipment, storage, Wi-Fi, and a navigation tablet.
• Five major paid activities included: Horseback riding, glacier hiking, an amphibian boat ride, whale watching, and Silfra snorkeling.
• Good independent-travel support: You get a planned route without joining a large coach group.
• Watch the extra costs: Parking fees, food, optional attractions, and some campsite services are not included.
• Best for active drivers: You need to be at least 20 to drive, and the itinerary requires solid fitness.

A nine-day loop built around Iceland’s best natural sights

The trip begins and ends at CampEasy’s office at Selvík 5 in Keflavík. A complimentary shuttle runs from Keflavík International Airport or selected Keflavík-area hotels at 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. The drive from the airport to the office takes about five minutes, which is helpful after a long flight.

This is a private activity for your own group, not a seat on a scheduled bus. You receive a quality campervan, zero-risk coverage, an Easy Guide tablet, Wi-Fi, campsite fees, planned activities, and the route itself. The tablet is more useful than a basic map. It helps with navigation, campsite searches, parking reminders, and Icelandic driving rules.

The price is listed at $2,613.18 per person. That sounds high until you add up a 4×4 rental, nine days of camping, airport transfers, Wi-Fi, glacier and water activities, whale watching, and the convenience of having a route prepared for you. Still, read the inclusions carefully. One section says gas is included, while another lists fuel as excluded. Confirm this point before paying, since fuel around Iceland can affect the final cost.

Day 1: Reykjanes begins with fire and shifting earth

After collecting the van, you start on the Reykjanes Peninsula rather than racing toward Reykjavík. The Bridge Between Continents is a quick geological photo stop where you can stand over the rift between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

Gunnuhver adds the heat. Steam vents, mud pools, mineral-stained ground, and the Reykjanes lighthouse make this a good introduction to Iceland’s volcanic character. Stay on marked paths and keep your distance from the boiling ground.

The day ends at Kleifarvatn, a deep lake surrounded by old moss-covered lava. This is a quieter stop than the famous waterfalls ahead, and that is exactly why it works. You get time to adjust to the van, learn the tablet, and settle into the trip without an overloaded first day.

Day 2: Waterfalls, black sand, and Icelandic horses

The south coast begins with Seljalandsfoss, the 60-meter waterfall famous for the path behind its falling water. Waterproof clothing is a smart choice, even in fair weather. The waterfall area itself has no admission fee, but you must pay for parking.

Skógafoss is broader and more forceful. Spray hangs in the air, and the noise makes it feel much larger than photographs suggest. Nearby Kvernufoss gives you another waterfall with a quieter setting, so do not rush away after the main stop.

At Dyrhólaey, you look across a huge sea arch and the open Atlantic. The cliffs are also a bird site, though conditions and bird activity vary by season. Reynisfjara brings the famous basalt columns, offshore rock stacks, and black shore. Keep well back from the water. The waves here are powerful and unpredictable.

The scheduled one-hour horseback ride near Vík adds a welcome change from looking at scenery through a windshield. Icelandic horses are a distinct local breed, and the experience gives you a closer connection to the countryside. The timing matters: the ride begins at 2:30 p.m., so you cannot linger at every earlier stop.

Fjaðrárgljúfur is a twisting canyon with a cold river below. Its fame grew after appearing in a Justin Bieber music video, but the shape of the canyon is reason enough to visit. You then pass through Kirkjubæjarklaustur, a small settlement with Systrafoss waterfall and a possible mountain walk.

This is a full day. The route is rewarding, but you will need to watch the clock, especially if weather slows the drive.

Day 3: Glacier ice and the Diamond Beach

The day starts with a glacier hike near Skaftafell at 9:30 a.m. You walk on Falljökull, an outlet of the Vatnajökull ice cap, for about three hours and fifteen minutes. This is one of the trip’s most memorable activities, but it also explains why a good fitness level is required.

After the hike, Skaftafell National Park gives you time on foot. One popular path leads to Svartifoss, where dark basalt columns frame the waterfall. The park is free to enter, but parking costs extra.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is one of Iceland’s signature views. Icebergs break away from Vatnajökull and drift across the lagoon before reaching the sea. The included amphibian boat trip lasts about 35 minutes, with an English-speaking guide explaining the ice and geology. You may even spot seals.

At Diamond Beach, pieces of ice rest on black sand like scattered glass. The name is simple, but the scene changes with light, tide, and the amount of ice on shore. Plan to spend time outside the van here, not just stop for a quick photograph.

This is another demanding day, with an early activity, walking, and driving. The reward is a close look at Iceland’s ice rather than a roadside glance.

Day 4: The slower rhythm of the Eastfjords

Djúpivogur begins the Eastfjords section with the Eggs of Merry Bay sculptures. Each granite egg represents a bird associated with Iceland. It is an easy harbor stop and a pleasant contrast to the dramatic waterfalls.

You can add Petra’s Stone Collection, but it is optional and costs extra. The collection is housed at a private home and contains stones gathered across Iceland. If you stop, allow about an hour and a half including driving time.

Hallormsstaður offers woodland walks and a different side of Iceland. The forest is known for its many tree varieties, and reindeer may be seen in the area during early spring. Skriðuklaustur is another optional stop, with historic ruins and a farmstead near a waterfall.

Seyðisfjörður is the payoff. Colorful houses sit between steep mountains, and the village has a creative feel, especially during the Lunga Arts Festival in July. Allow three hours here if you want to walk, take photographs, and enjoy the setting rather than simply pass through.

This day has fewer headline attractions and more local atmosphere. I consider that a strength. After three busy days, the Eastfjords give you room to slow down.

Day 5: Craters, lava, and a warm evening at Mývatn

Rjúkandi Waterfall is a short early stop near Egilsstaðir. From there, the route toward Mývatn takes on a stark, almost lunar character.

Viti Crater and Krafla show Iceland’s volcanic side in bright colors. The crater lake may look emerald green, and nearby Námaskarð has steaming ground colored by minerals. Stay on the paths because the heat below the surface is real.

Grjótagjá is a small lava cave containing a hot spring that is too hot for bathing. It is worth a short stop for the unusual setting, but do not expect a long visit.

Dimmuborgir is a broad lava field filled with arches and rock formations created by an eruption about 2,300 years ago. The paths let you explore at your own pace, and this is one place where walking matters more than ticking off a viewpoint.

The day ends at Mývatn Nature Baths at 7 p.m. The warm outdoor water, sauna, steam room, and view toward the lake make this a well-timed rest after several active days. The two-and-a-half-hour visit is included, so you are not paying again at the entrance.

Day 6: Dettifoss, whales, and the north coast

Start early for Dettifoss. The waterfall is about 100 meters wide and 45 meters high, and you can feel its force underfoot. Road conditions can affect access, so the schedule deserves some flexibility.

Ásbyrgi is a very different sight: a large horseshoe-shaped canyon with high cliffs, trees, paths, and a small lake. Its shape comes from ancient glacial flooding. The woodland setting makes it feel calmer than Dettifoss, and you should allow time for a short walk.

The afternoon brings a three-hour whale-watching trip from Húsavík at 1:15 p.m. You may see whales or dolphins, but wildlife is never guaranteed. This fixed departure is the day’s main planning point, so leave enough time from Ásbyrgi.

Goðafoss, the Waterfall of the Gods, is an easy stop on the way to Akureyri. In Akureyri, you can see the church, botanical garden, and town center. The swimming pool and Christmas house are optional additions, with separate costs for the pool.

This is one of the most varied days on the route, but it also combines early driving, a boat trip, and city time. If you prefer slow mornings, this schedule may feel tight.

Day 7: Turf churches and the road back south

Grafarkirkja is a tiny turf church and one of the most atmospheric stops on the route. It is not a grand building. Its value comes from its age, small scale, and quiet setting.

The Hofsós swimming pool is an optional detour with a fjord view. Admission is not included, and the added drive takes about two hours and fifteen minutes from Grafarkirkja.

At 1238: The Battle of Iceland, history is presented through virtual reality. The one-hour-and-fifteen-minute visit covers the Battle of Örlygsstaðir and the end of Iceland’s independence. It provides a break from natural sights and gives the route some historical context.

Grábrók Crater is accessible to the top and offers a good final walk before Þingvellir National Park. Glanni Waterfall is only about five minutes away by road, so you may be able to add it if timing and weather cooperate.

Þingvellir is both a geological site and a major place in Iceland’s political story. You can see the effects of continental movement, Öxará waterfall, and the area near Silfra. Parking costs extra even though park entry is free.

Day 8: Silfra snorkeling and the Golden Circle

The final activity day starts with snorkeling at Silfra at 9 a.m. The fissure is filled with clear freshwater, and the activity is open to people aged 14 and older. There are also stated limits of 45 to 120 kilograms and 145 to 200 centimeters, so check these requirements before booking.

You need to arrive about 20 minutes early for paid activities. That advice matters here, since missing the meeting time could mean missing one of the trip’s main highlights.

Geysir follows, with Strokkur sending hot water up to about 15 meters. Gullfoss is the last major Golden Circle stop, dropping into a narrow gorge from about 32 meters. The listed 30-minute visit is short, so you may want to move efficiently.

The day ends with a hike to Reykjadalur’s warm river near Hveragerði. The walk takes about 45 minutes each way, followed by time in the water. Bring swimwear and allow four hours for the full stop. This is a natural bathing area rather than a managed spa, so expect a walk and simple conditions.

Day 9: Reykjavík before the airport shuttle

The final morning covers Reykjavík’s main landmarks. The Sun Voyager sculpture faces the sea, while Harpa’s glass architecture reflects Icelandic forms and light. Both are quick stops.

Hallgrímskirkja is close to the center and the colorful Rainbow Street. Entry to the church is free, but the tower has a separate fee and gives you a city view.

If your flight timing allows, Perlan offers exhibitions and an Aurora Show in a building set above Reykjavík’s water tanks. Admission is extra, so treat it as an optional final stop rather than part of the included package.

You return the van to CampEasy and can request the shuttle to Keflavík Airport or a selected Keflavík-area hotel. The shuttle does not serve Reykjavík itself, which is an important detail if you plan to stay in the capital after returning the vehicle.

What the campervan is really like

The van is designed for practical travel rather than hotel-style comfort. It includes bedding, cooking equipment, storage, Wi-Fi, and a tablet. You can prepare meals inside, which helps control food costs in an expensive country.

The 4×4 format is useful for Icelandic roads and changing conditions, but it does not cancel out winter weather. One campervan configuration had heating beneath the bed and a back door that did not seal perfectly, so cold-weather comfort may vary by vehicle. The company uses all-season all-terrain tires rather than studded tires, and fully frozen roads may still require caution.

Vehicle reliability was generally strong, but mechanical problems can happen. In one case, a timing belt failure was handled with a replacement van, and the replacement was upgraded. Staff members including Natalia, Dawid, Milan, Flore, and Lidia are specifically associated with helpful communication and smooth pickup or support.

The pickup process can be self-service if you arrive late, and email response times may not always feel quick. The in-vehicle tablet and chat support help reduce that problem, but I would still save emergency contact details before setting off.

Who should book this Iceland road trip?

You should consider it if you want independence without spending weeks planning every campsite and activity. It suits solo drivers, couples, and small private groups who like outdoor activities, can handle long driving days, and do not need a fixed hotel room each night.

It is less suitable if you dislike cooking, sleeping in a compact vehicle, or managing your own schedule. The route is busy, and fixed times for horse riding, glacier hiking, whale watching, and snorkeling leave less room for spontaneous detours.

The cancellation terms are generous if your plans change: you can receive a full refund when canceling at least 24 hours before the start time. Before booking, confirm the fuel policy, check the driver’s license requirements, and budget for parking, food, optional attractions, and campsite electricity or other services.

Should you book it?

I would choose this trip for an active first visit to Iceland, especially if you want the Ring Road, major outdoor activities, and the freedom to travel without a coach group. The included excursions and campervan support make the price easier to justify.

I would skip it if you want leisurely mornings or a softer travel style. Nine days is enough to see an impressive amount of Iceland, but it is not enough to linger everywhere. Confirm the fuel wording and winter tire setup, then book if you are ready to drive, cook, hike, and let the weather shape the day.

FAQ

Where does the tour begin and end?

It begins and ends at the CampEasy office at Selvík 5 in Keflavík. A shuttle can take you to or from Keflavík International Airport or selected hotels in the Keflavík area.

Is airport pickup included?

Yes. CampEasy offers a complimentary shuttle from Keflavík International Airport or selected Keflavík-area hotels. Pickup times are listed as 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

What age must the driver be?

The driver must be at least 20 years old and must show a valid international driving license suitable for the vehicle and valid for at least 12 months at pickup.

What activities are included?

The package includes horseback riding near Vík, a glacier hike at Skaftafell, an amphibian boat trip on Jökulsárlón, whale watching from Húsavík, and snorkeling at Silfra.

Are parking fees included?

No. Parking fees at places such as Seljalandsfoss, Skaftafell, Þingvellir, and some Reykjavík attractions are not included.

Is food included?

No. Food and beverages are not included unless a restaurant is specifically part of an included activity. The campervan has cooking equipment for preparing meals.

Are there age or size limits for the activities?

Some activities require participants to be at least 14 years old. Silfra snorkeling also lists a minimum weight of 45 kilograms, a maximum weight of 120 kilograms, a minimum height of 145 centimeters, and a maximum height of 200 centimeters.