Finally, the time had come for a trip of a lifetime, one we had been dreaming of for a long time, our group adventure to the mesmerizing landscapes of Iceland. A land where glaciers meet volcanoes, where waterfalls crash over ancient cliffs, and where the sky dances with lights at night. This was Iceland, and we were ready to explore its raw, untouched beauty.
We traveled across this surreal island with 18 amazing people and 2 vans! What made this journey unforgettable wasn’t just the dramatic landscapes that felt like scenes from another planet, it was the shared laughter, the walks in the wind, and the awe we felt together every single day.
If you’re dreaming of discovering Iceland through a nature-filled road trip, this itinerary is for you. Whether it’s your first time on the island or you’re returning to dive deeper into its wonders, our 9-day adventure will inspire you to pack your bags and hit the road. Get ready for an epic ride through a land that defies imagination.
General Information
Travel Essentials
Visitors to Iceland do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, provided they are from a visa-exempt country. However, make sure to check the latest entry requirements before your trip. You will need a passport with at least 3 months of validity beyond your intended departure date from Iceland.
Currency
The official currency is the Icelandic Króna (ISK). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas. It is still a good idea to carry some cash, particularly if you plan to visit remote areas or smaller towns. ATMs are available in major cities, but it’s best to withdraw money in advance for more remote areas.
Electricity
Iceland uses 230V, 50Hz, with plug types C and F. To avoid any inconvenience, a universal adapter is recommended.
Telecommunications & Internet
Major mobile providers in Iceland include Síminn, Vodafone, and Nova, offering SIM cards with affordable data plans. For visitors from Schengen Area countries and other European Union nations, you can often use your existing mobile plan in Iceland without any extra charges, as long as you check whether your provider covers Iceland under their roaming agreements. Make sure to verify connectivity options before your trip to ensure seamless service.
If you prefer, you can still purchase a local SIM card upon arrival at the airport or stores throughout the country. Alternatively, for those looking for an even more convenient option, an Airalo eSIM will allow you to stay connected without the need to change physical SIM cards.
Language
The official language is Icelandic. However, English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, so communication is easy for most visitors.
Culture & Religion
Iceland is known for its unique cultural heritage, with a rich tradition of Norse sagas and folklore. The majority of Icelanders are members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, but the country is also known for its progressive and secular society. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions, such as the importance of personal space and the emphasis on nature and environmental conservation.
Wildlife & Nature
Iceland is a haven for nature lovers, boasting diverse landscapes, including glaciers, volcanoes, geysers, and hot springs. The island is also famous for its wildlife, such as puffins, Arctic foxes, and whales. The country’s national parks, including Thingvellir National Park and Vatnajökull National Park, offer breathtaking opportunities for hiking and exploration.
Food & Drinks
Icelandic cuisine is known for its fresh fish, lamb, and dairy products. Traditional dishes include lamb stew, skyr (a creamy yogurt-like product), and various seafood dishes such as fish soup and smoked salmon. Don’t miss trying a plate of Icelandic hot dogs, which are a beloved fast food choice. For drinks, Iceland is also famous for its craft beer scene and the famous Brennivín, a caraway-flavored schnapp often referred to as “Black Death.”
Interesting Facts
- Iceland is the only country in the world that does not have a forest cover, though it is working on reforesting projects.
- The country is a leader in geothermal energy use and has some of the most active volcanoes in the world.
- Iceland has a population of just over 350,000, making it one of the least densely populated countries in Europe.
- The country is famous for the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis), visible during the winter months.
- Iceland has no military, and its police force is unarmed.
- The island’s landscape is constantly changing due to volcanic activity, making it one of the most geologically active places on Earth.
- Iceland was the last place to be settled in Europe, with Norsemen arriving in the 9th century.
- Iceland is home to the world’s first national park, Thingvellir National Park, founded in 1930.
- Despite its name, Iceland is not entirely covered in ice. Most of its land is volcanic, with ice sheets covering only some areas.
Day 1: The journey to Iceland begins
Our Iceland adventure officially kicked off with a relaxed yet exciting first day. We met at the airport in the afternoon, some of us for the first time. It was a great chance to connect in person, go over a quick trip briefing, and share our excitement for what was ahead.
Once we completed the usual airport procedures and passed through security, we were ready to board our first flight with Lufthansa, heading to Munich for a short layover. Although our departure was delayed by around 40 minutes, there was a bit of concern about whether we’d make the connection to Keflavík. Luckily, everything worked out, and we made it just in time.
On the second flight, excitement grew as we approached our destination. Just before landing, Iceland welcomed us with one of its most magical gifts: the Northern Lights glowing faintly in the sky. It was the perfect start to what we knew would be an unforgettable week.
We landed in Keflavík without further delays, picked up some quick essentials from the airport (most shops were already closed since it was late), and collected our two vans from the parking lot. From there, we drove straight to our accommodation for the night, at 201 Hotel, which is located about 7 kilometers outside Reykjavík.
After checking in and settling into our rooms, we headed straight to bed. A new country, a fresh landscape, and a group full of anticipation, our real Icelandic adventure was just hours away from the beginning.
Day 2: Chasing waterfalls, craters & seals
We kicked off our first full day in Iceland with an early breakfast at 7:00 a.m. By 9:30, we had taken our first group photo, our official “before the adventure begins” snapshot, and were ready to hit the road. Spirits were high, and the Icelandic landscape was already starting to show us its magic.
Our first stop was the iconic Kirkjufellfoss, one of the most photographed waterfalls in Iceland, located just beneath the dramatic Kirkjufell mountain. Many recognize it from Game of Thrones, and seeing it in person was surreal. We took plenty of photos, walked around the area, and soaked in the beautiful surroundings.
Next, we stopped for a quick burger lunch at Sker Restaurant before continuing to explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The afternoon was packed with raw natural beauty and geological wonders.
We visited the Saxhóll Crater, a 100-meter-high volcanic crater formed in a lava field over 3,000 years ago. A metal staircase leads to the top, offering panoramic views of the lava plains and surrounding mountains, a reminder of Iceland’s volcanic power. Our journey continued through Hellissandur, a small village known for its colorful street art and peaceful vibe. Then we made a brief stop at the Lóndrangar Viewpoint, where two dramatic basalt rock pinnacles rise out of the sea. These formations, shaped by centuries of erosion, are believed by locals to be the dwellings of elves, and standing in front of them, it wasn’t hard to imagine why.
Not far from there, we explored Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge, a deep, narrow crack in the cliffside with an almost hidden entrance. Inside, a small stream flows through mossy rocks and steep canyon walls. It felt like entering another world, wild, quiet, and untouched.
Later in the day, we passed through Arnarstapi, a coastal village with dramatic cliffs, rock arches, and walking paths along the ocean. The views were stunning, with waves crashing against the basalt formations below. From there, we visited the Búðakirkja, the famous black church standing alone in a lava field. The contrast between the dark wood and the surrounding landscape made it one of the most atmospheric spots of the day.
Our final stop was at a remote beach known for seal spotting. At first glance, it seemed empty, but after walking further along the coast, we spotted several seals resting on the rocks. They were relaxing quietly in the water. We kept a respectful distance, took some photos and videos, and tried not to disturb their peace. In truth, we were the intruders in their calm little corner of Iceland.
As the sun began to set, we headed toward our accommodation for the night at Hotel Stafholt, located in Borgarnes. On the way, we made a quick dinner stop, shared stories from the day, and arrived at the hotel ready for a good night’s rest.
Day 3: Tectonic plates, hot springs, and more waterfalls
We started the day with breakfast at 8:00 a.m. and hit the road around 9:00, eager to see everything on our itinerary. Our first stop was Þórufoss, another waterfall featured in Game of Thrones. While it was peaceful and pretty, it didn’t quite steal the show compared to the waterfalls we had seen and the ones still ahead of us. We made a quick 15-minute stop for a short walk and a few photos before moving on.
It’s worth noting that several natural attractions in Iceland now charge a small entrance or parking fee, something visitors should keep in mind when planning.
Our next highlight was walking between two continents, literally. We visited the tectonic rift between the Eurasian and North American plates, located in Þingvellir National Park. Here, you can walk through Almannagjá, a dramatic fissure formed by the continental drift. Nearby is the Öxarárfoss waterfall, which flows right through the rift. This picturesque waterfall isn’t the tallest, but its location within the park and its historical significance make it a must-see.
We continued exploring Þingvellir, one of the most historically and geologically significant places in Iceland. This is where the world’s first parliament, the Althing, was established in 930 AD. We walked past the Prime Minister’s summer residence, a small Protestant church, and down toward Lake Þingvallavatn, the largest natural lake in Iceland. This is also a famous spot for snorkeling and diving between tectonic plates, especially at the Silfra fissure, where the water is crystal clear and visibility reaches up to 100 meters.
Our fourth stop was the stunning Brúarfoss, known for its vibrant blue waters. The waterfall isn’t the easiest to access, but the walk through a scenic trail is well worth it. The color of the water here is something truly unique icy blue.
From there, we made our way to the Geysir Geothermal Area, home to the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every 5–8 minutes, shooting hot water up to 20 meters into the air. It’s one of those places where you feel the energy of the Earth beneath your feet. All around, steam vents and bubbling mud pools give the landscape an almost lunar appearance. While only Strokkur erupts regularly now, the entire area is alive with geothermal activity.
Right across the street, we took a break for lunch and tried the local tomato soup, which turned out to be one of the tastiest meals of the trip. Warm, comforting, and full of flavor.
Recharged, we made our way to one of the most iconic waterfalls in Iceland. Also known as the “Golden Falls,” Gullfoss got its name because, on sunny days, the mist from the falls often creates beautiful rainbows. The waterfall itself is massive, plunging in two stages into a deep canyon. The sound, the scale, and the raw power of the water make it an unforgettable sight.
On the way back to our next accommodation, we made a quick stop at a supermarket to pick up some food. Our hotel for the night was Laxa Lodge, located in the quiet area of Hella. Surrounded by nature, it offered a peaceful atmosphere and, best of all, a shared kitchen.
That night, we cooked dinner together, shared stories, laughed around the table, and enjoyed the feeling of community. After a full day of adventure, it was the perfect way to wind down and recharge for the next leg of our journey.
Day 4: Skógafoss, black beaches, and a bit of drama
After breakfast, we hit the road even earlier, by 8:30 am, to make the most of the day ahead. Our first stop was one of the top waterfalls in Iceland, Skógafoss. Towering and powerful, it left us in awe. We walked right up to its base to feel the mist on our faces and snap some epic photos and videos. Then, we climbed the path to the viewpoint above, which offered a stunning panoramic view over the cascade and the surrounding valley.
Next, we made our way to the Sólheimajökull Glacier, one of the most accessible glacier tongues in southern Iceland. Though we only saw a small part of it, a kind of “tip of the iceberg”, we knew that behind it stretched an enormous frozen mass connected to the larger Mýrdalsjökull Glacier. It was a humbling reminder of nature’s scale.
Our third stop was the Dyrhólaey lighthouse, perched on a cliff with an incredible vantage point over the black sand beaches below. From up there, the views were dramatic, rolling waves crashing into jet-black sands, surrounded by sea stacks and rock arches sculpted by time and wind.
We then drove down to walk on the infamous Reynisfjara black beach. It was surreal, deep black sand, towering basalt columns, and thunderous waves. We’d been warned to stay cautious, as the waves here can be dangerous and have sadly caused several accidents in the past.
Our next stop was Vík, where we stocked up on supplies, refueled the vans, and got ready for the next leg of the journey. However, just as we were about to leave, one of our vans ran into trouble. The fuel pump malfunctioned and triggered safe mode, limiting our ability to drive. After contacting the rental company, we were told there was no service center nearby and we’d need to wait 3–4 hours for a replacement van from Reykjavík.
Thankfully, we were in a well-equipped area, so while waiting, we explored the less touristy side of the black beach, near a memorial for German sailors. We also climbed up to the hilltop church above Vík, where we found not only a peaceful cemetery but also some of the best views over the entire coastline and the village below.
Back in Vík, we grabbed burgers at a cozy diner to pass the time. Just before the new van arrived, we made a final stop to grab a black crust pizza for the road, because comfort food was much needed after this unexpected hiccup.
That night, we drove east to our next accommodation at Arnanes Country Hotel, near Höfn. It was the first place on our itinerary where we stayed two consecutive nights. After a long and tiring drive, topped with the day’s challenges, we arrived late, checked in, took hot showers, and headed straight to bed, ready for whatever Iceland had in store next.
Day 5: From Diamond Beach to Vestrahorn
After a well-deserved night of rest following the previous day’s van troubles, we started the day bright and early with a rich breakfast buffet at 7:00 am. By 9:00, we were back on the road, determined to catch up on the highlights we missed the day before due to the mechanical issue.
Our first destination was the famous Diamond Beach, one of the most surreal places in Iceland. Here, shimmering icebergs, broken off from the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier, float through the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, drift out to sea, and are carried back by the waves, landing on the shore like scattered diamonds on black velvet. The contrast between the crystal-clear ice and the jet-black sand creates a breathtaking scene. You can even join a boat tour in the lagoon, weaving among the floating icebergs for a closer view of this glacial wonder.
Next, we visited the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon itself, a place that feels almost otherworldly. The massive chunks of ice floating silently in the icy blue waters make it one of Iceland’s most iconic sights and one of the best spots for photography in the country.
We then continued to Vestrahorn, one of the most dramatic and photogenic mountain landscapes in Iceland. But before heading to the black dunes, we made a stop at the Viking Village, a wooden film set originally built for a movie that never happened. While the movie wasn’t shot, parts of it were later used in The Witcher series. Interestingly, one of the turf-roofed buildings there is a historic structure, preserved from earlier centuries. Just outside the village, we even stumbled upon real whale bones, scattered near the shore.
A short drive away, we reached one of my favorite spots of the trip, a secluded black sand beach lined with soft dunes and framed by the towering Vestrahorn Mountain in the background. The landscape felt almost alien, like walking on another planet. The sand was soft and silky, almost desert-like, and the peaceful isolation made the moment feel truly magical.
Later, we made a quick detour to another nearby beach known for its frequent seal sightings, though this time we weren’t lucky enough to spot any. As the day began to wind down, we visited a smaller, lesser-known waterfall called Skútafoss, hidden in a quiet valley. It may not be as grand as the others, but its peaceful setting made it feel like a secret gem.
To wrap up the day, we had dinner featuring a traditional Icelandic lobster soup, served with warm, homemade bread. It was the perfect comfort food after a day full of adventure and fresh coastal air. Back at the hotel, we still had energy to spare, so we gathered as a group in the lounge. One of our friends had brought a guitar, and soon the room filled with music, laughter, and sing-alongs. It was a perfect ending to a beautiful day in Iceland, reminding us that some of the best memories come from the simplest moments.
Day 6: Glacial Adventures, waterfalls and northern lights
This day in Iceland started with an early wake-up call. By 7:00 AM, we were already having breakfast, and by 7:30, we were on the road. The reason for our early start? One of the highlights of our entire itinerary was the glacier hike on Vatnajökull, the largest glacier not only in Iceland but in all of Europe.
We had to be at the meeting point by 9:00 AM, where the guided activity began. After receiving our gear – including crampons and helmets and a safety briefing, we boarded a shuttle that drove us to the base of the glacier. From there, our real adventure began.
The whole experience, including transport and prep time, lasted around 3 hours. The actual hike on the glacier took a little over an hour and was mesmerizing. Walking on pure ice with crampons crunching beneath our feet, we were surrounded by endless white landscapes. We traversed natural crevices carved by the glacier’s slow movement and learned fascinating facts about how these icy giants shape the land beneath them. The landscape was wonderful, and we stopped several times for photos and videos to capture this once-in-a-lifetime moment.
After the hike, we returned to our vans and continued our journey. Our next stop was one of Iceland’s most photogenic locations, the Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, made famous after Justin Bieber filmed his “I’ll Show You” music video there. The canyon, about 100 meters deep and two kilometers long, offers dramatic views and a trail along its edge that makes for a beautiful walk.
Next, we returned to the area around Skógafoss, but this time we parked on the eastern side to explore a lesser-known gem known as Kvernufoss. This enchanting waterfall is hidden in a narrow gorge, and after a short 15-minute hike, we were rewarded with the sight of its powerful cascade. The best part? You can walk behind it, though prepare to get sprayed, especially with the strong wind blowing that day.
Not far from there, we made another iconic stop at Seljalandsfoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. This one also allows you to walk behind the curtain of water, offering a magical and wet perspective. A short walk to the right of Seljalandsfoss brought us to a hidden gem, the Gljúfrabúi waterfall. Tucked inside a narrow canyon, you need to wade through a shallow stream to reach it. Inside, the waterfall was crashing down over a giant rock, and some of us climbed on top of it for a dramatic photo opportunity, though we got soaked in the process!
After all that adventure, we returned once again to our hotel in Hella to check in and dry off. Later, we enjoyed a buffet dinner at a nearby guesthouse, sharing stories and laughs from the day. In the evening, we gathered again for some board games.
Just when we thought the day was over, we were surprised by a knock on the door, the Northern Lights were visible! We all rushed outside, wrapped in coats and excitement, to witness this magical phenomenon. For about ten minutes, we were blessed with a vivid display of green dancing lights, painting the sky in a way that words can hardly describe. It was the perfect way to end a long, unforgettable day in Iceland.
Day 7: Exploring Reykjavík
After the adventure-filled days we had in Iceland, day 7 started at a slower pace. We enjoyed a relaxed breakfast at the hotel, taking our time since the more physically demanding activities were now behind us. We hit the road around 10:00 AM, heading first to a fascinating natural attraction which was the Kerið Crater. The crater is a 3,000-year-old volcanic crater lake located in the Grímsnes area in south Iceland. What makes it unique is its vivid red volcanic rock and the turquoise water that fills the crater. It’s believed to be a caldera formed after a volcanic eruption and partial collapse, and it’s one of the few volcanic craters in the world filled with water. We took a short walk around the rim, soaking in the contrasting colors and snapping some incredible photos.
From there, we continued straight to Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland. Even though Iceland is all about raw nature and dramatic landscapes, we were curious to get a feel for urban life in this Nordic country. We parked the vans and set off on foot to explore the city’s highlights.
Our first stop was Hallgrímskirkja, the iconic Lutheran church that dominates Reykjavík’s skyline. Designed by Guðjón Samúelsson and completed in 1986, this striking structure was inspired by Iceland’s basalt lava flows. We admired its futuristic façade, and some of us took the elevator up to the tower for panoramic views of the city.
We continued our walk through the colorful streets, strolling along Rainbow Street (Skólavörðustígur), one of the most Instagrammable spots in town, and then down to the waterfront where we admired the Sun Voyager sculpture, a modern steel structure that resembles a Viking ship and symbolizes hope, discovery, and freedom.
In the afternoon, we grabbed a casual lunch at a local spot before heading to Perlan, one of Reykjavík’s top attractions. Located on a hill overlooking the city, Perlan is a futuristic glass dome that houses an interactive science and nature museum. Inside, we walked through a real ice cave, watched a breathtaking Northern Lights show in the planetarium, and learned about Iceland’s volcanoes, glaciers, and geothermal wonders through state-of-the-art exhibits. It was the perfect way to reflect on everything we had experienced over the past week.
As night fell, we all got ready for our evening out. Our destination? Hús máls og menningar, a cozy cultural venue in downtown Reykjavík that operates as both a bookstore café and a live music venue. To sweeten the night, we made one last stop at a special place at Loukoumas, a dessert shop owned by a Greek. We indulged in warm, syrupy loukoumades (Greek-style doughnuts) that brought a delicious touch of home to our Nordic journey.
Just when we thought the day was over, we checked the aurora forecast and noticed that there were mild chances of seeing the Northern Lights again. Fueled by excitement, we jumped into the vans and drove to a lighthouse a short distance outside the city to escape light pollution. Unfortunately, the aurora borealis was quite faint that night, but just being out there under the vast Icelandic sky was a serene experience. Afterward, we returned to our rooms to rest, feeling grateful for yet another memorable day in Iceland.
Day 8: Whale Watching & Blue Lagoon
Our final day in Iceland began, once again, with breakfast at the hotel, our last one before saying goodbye to Reykjavík. Shortly after, we made our way to the harbor, ready for our whale-watching tour.
Unfortunately, the weather had different plans. The wind had picked up, the sea was choppy, and quite a few of the group started to feel seasick. Despite scanning the waters with hope, no whales made an appearance. But the day wasn’t without its magical moments, we were lucky enough to see dolphins playfully leaping through the waves, which lifted our spirits and gave us something to smile about.
After the boat tour, we returned to the hotel for checkout, leaving our luggage in the hotel’s storage room so we could enjoy our final walk around the city without any weight on our backs. We wandered through Reykjavík one last time, sipping coffee and grabbing a bite in cozy local cafés. The city might not compete with the raw nature of Iceland, but it certainly has its own charm and atmosphere.
With hearts full and phones packed with photos, we retrieved our bags, packed up the vans, and hit the road toward our final destination, the world-famous Blue Lagoon.
Nestled in a lava field in the Reykjanes Peninsula, the Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa renowned for its vibrant milky-blue waters rich in minerals like silica and sulfur. The lagoon is man-made but filled with natural geothermal seawater from a nearby power plant. Though the outside temperatures were close to freezing, we barely hesitated. As soon as we stepped into the steaming hot waters, the cold was forgotten.
Our tickets included a free drink from the swim-up bar, smoothies, juices, and a complimentary silica mud mask, known for its purifying and rejuvenating effects. Surrounded by black lava rock, mist rising from the water, and the chill air kissing our faces, it was truly the perfect way to end our Iceland adventure.
After unwinding to the fullest, we showered, got dressed, and regrouped for our final meal in Iceland. We found a cozy spot in Keflavík, just a short drive from the airport. Over traditional dishes and laughter, we shared our favorite memories, from glacier hikes and waterfalls to northern lights and volcanic craters.
Finally, it was time to head to Keflavík International Airport. With our bags in tow and our hearts full, we checked in, passed security, and prepared for the journey home.
Day 9: Back home
We took our first flight back to Munich. Everyone was half-asleep, the plane took off without delay, and before we knew it, we were landing for our short layover. After about an hour of waiting, we boarded our second flight to Athens, still wrapped in the warmth of all the experiences we had shared over the past nine days. Everything ran smoothly, from the flights to collecting our luggage.
Once we arrived in Athens, it was time to say goodbye. We hugged, exchanged stories and laughs one last time, and parted ways, until the next adventure.
Another unforgettable group trip had come to an end. A journey full of epic landscapes, powerful emotions, and new friendships. Iceland left its mark on all of us, from the glaciers to the geysers, and from the northern lights to the healing waters of the Blue Lagoon!
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