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Vacations with Personality

RING ROAD HIGHLIGHTS

Self-Drive Tour

8 days / 7 nights
  • About Tour
  • Tour Itinerary
  • Whats Included
  • Important Info
  • Additional Fees
  • T&C
Languages English Duration 8 days / 7 nights Airline
At-A-Glance

Recommended For: First time visitors to Iceland, Instagram photographers, explorers, nature buffs
Interests: Natural wonders, geology, great photographic moments, Ring Road travel

Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
Departures: Daily

Recommended Car:

From May 1st. to September 30, 2024, in Comfort or Quality Accommodations (max 5 paxs):
- The car included on your reservation will be a VW Golf 2.6 or similar with Automatic Transmission, 5 doors, 5 seats - maximum 5 people - hatchback trunk for maximum 3 suitcases.

From May 1st. 2024 to April 30, 2025, in Quality Accommodations (from 6 - 9 paxs):
- The vehicle included on your reservation will be a VW Caravelle 9.4 or similar with Automatic Transmission, 4 doors, 9 seats - maximum 9 pax, 4 x 4 Full Size Van.

Here’s What You Get
• Discover flexible, stress-free travelling with pre-booked hotel nights and rental car, plus our comprehensive electronic road book.
• Enjoy our newly formatted Iceland Travel App with over a thousand interesting points of interest to help you plan your day.
• Take advantage of our many years of experience. We plan routes that combine driving with good time to explore each area.
• We focus on safety with the best cars and itineraries for road conditions in each season. We also have a 24-hour emergency line if issues arise during your visit.
• Plenty of time to cover all the major stunning attractions that Iceland has to offer along the Ring Road
• Visit both the southern and northern parts of Vatnajokull National Park
• Visit “must-see” natural wonders such as the Golden Circle area, the Glacier Lagoon and Myvatn nature reserve
• Add in the hidden wilderness beauty of Iceland’s highlands with a drive on the historical Kjolur track (generally open mid-Jun through August, 4WD vehicle needed)



Highlights
“Ring Road Highlights” is one of our bestselling car rental packages, giving you the chance to visit all of Iceland's main attractions in eight days. Discover the legendary natural wonders and magical landscapes that make Iceland so special.

. Departure flight onboard Play on a direct flight from Hamilton Airport to Keflavik Airport on selected flight class (*)
. One free personal item, one free Carry-on and one piece of checked included when booked on Play Value or Play Flex categories.
· Rented car in selected category.
· Accommodation on the selected room category and plan.
· 24/7 personalized assistance by our professional staff in destination.
· Option to buy local excursions and entrances to attractions.
· Return flight from Keflavik Airport to Hamilton Airport on a direct flight to destination.

Prices are per person, per car and room accommodation.

*Please note that some flight classes may already include either carry-on or checked bags on your price. Please make sure to check flight class on your booking before proceeding to pay for extras:
PLAY BASIC (B) – Personal item max. 10 Kg only. Carry-on, seats and checked bags can be added for a fee after bookings are paid in full.
PLAY BASIC PLUS (L) - Personal item max. 10 Kg + Carry-on max 12 Kg + Seat selection (middle to back of plane). Checked bags can be added for a fee after bookings are paid in full.
PLAY VALUE (V) – Personal item max. 10 Kg + Carry-on max. 12 Kg + 1 Checked Bag 20 kg + Seat selection (middle to back of plane excluding XL seats) + Priority boarding.
PLAY FLEX F) – Personal item max 10 Kg + Carry-on max. 12 Kg + 1 Checked bag max. 23 kg + Seat selection (excluding XL seats) + Priority boarding + Flight flexibility.



The Tour on Map Tour map image path

Itinerary

Tour day #1 photo
Día: 0 Departure from Canada
Arrive on time for your departure from Hamilton Airport to Iceland, 
Hop aboard your Play Airlines flight and brace yourself for the adventure!



Tour day #2 photo
Día: 1 Arrival and Reykjanes Peninsula
    Once you have landed at Keflavik Airport, please pick up your luggage and head through customs. Collect your rental car at the airport and proceed to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time in Iceland, we suggest that you take some time to explore the Reykjanes Peninsula (a UNESCO GeoPark site) before you head to Reykjavik.  

    Reykjanes is a great introduction to Iceland’s unique geology and volcanoes and the site of Iceland’s 2021, 2022 and 2023 eruptions. You’ll see unusual and stunning features around the peninsula, including craters, lava cliffs, and fissures. We recommend a stroll in the surreal Gunnuhver area where you can view quirky colorful mud pools and steam vents bubbling away. 

    Reykjanes is also home to the renowned Blue Lagoon, and you might enjoy the chance to relax in the soothing azure waters. Important: admission to the Blue Lagoon needs to be booked in advance. We can help you with that! 

    Drive along the southern coast of the Reykjanes Peninsula to the charming village of Hveragerdi for your overnight. This village is one of the few sites in the world located directly on top of a geothermal area and, because of its many greenhouses heated by hot water from nearby springs, it is often called the “flower village.”
     There are plenty of outdoor and wellness activities to enjoy here, and several restaurants with a unique local focus. Overnight in Hveragerdi. 

    Please note check-in for most hotels begins at 14:00 – 16:00 (2:00pm-4:00pm).
    Approximate distance: 100 km / 62 miles, with Reykjanes Peninsula 130 km / 81 miles



    Tour day #3 photo
    Día: 2 Thingvellir – Gullfoss – Geysir – South Shore
    Famous National Park – Lively Geysers – Scenic Waterfalls 

    Enjoy a day visiting the natural wonders of the Golden Circle region. Visit Thingvellir National Park, site of the ancient Icelandic Viking parliament and a jewel of nature. Here you can see the meeting point between the North American and Europe continents. Several walking trails and hiking trails take visitors to historical points of interest.

    Gullfoss is considered by many visitors to be Iceland’s most beautiful waterfall. Geysir is an active geothermal field with many bubbling steam vents and spouting hot springs, including the famous Strokkur geyser. 

    Drive along the south shore, viewing Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss, two amazing waterfalls that each have a special charm. 

    Next, visit the black sand beaches around Vik and the area’s Myrdalsjokull glacier. Depending on your schedule, you might enjoy a snowmobiling or ATV tour. In the area is also Dyrholaey*, a former island known for its excellent birdwatching, including puffins (puffins generally seen in Iceland between mid-May and early August).

    *Please note that Dyrholaey is closed during nesting season, from about the middle of May until late June.

    Overnight in the Vik area.
    Approximate driving distance: 395 km / 245 miles



    Tour day #4 photo
    Día: 3 Kirkjubaejarklaustur – Skaftafell – Jokulsarlon – Hofn
    Glacier National Park – Iceberg Lagoon – Europe's Largest Glacier 

    Start the day with a drive through Eldhraun, the strange-looking lava field created by one of Iceland’s most devastating volcanic eruptions.  

    Drive through the village of Kirkjubaejarklaustur, site of a medieval convent. Continue across black sand plains created by glacial activity. Explore Skaftafell, a green oasis nestled below the great Vatnajokull glacier.

    Skaftafell is part of Vatnajokull National Park, the largest of its type in Western Europe. Stop at the incredible Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon, a filming location for many Hollywood blockbusters. Also in the area is the Diamond Beach, a popular spot for photographers.

    Then head onwards to the charming harbor town of Hofn, also known as the lobster capital of northern Europe. Several restaurants feature these delicious langoustines in their menu.

    Overnight in the Hofn area.
    Approximate driving distance: 285 km / 177 miles


    Tour day #5 photo
    Día: 4 Hofn – Djupivogur – Reydarfjordur – Egilsstadir
    Narrow Fjords – Steep Mountains – Picturesque Coastline 

    Drive along the rugged coastline of the ancient Eastfjords, shaped by glaciers during the Ice Age. Each fjord has its own grandeur. The natural harbors in the fjords hold fishing villages that have clung to their historical charm. 

    If you enjoy curious art installations, make a stop in Djupivogur to view the intriguing seabird egg sculptures in the harbor. If you want to discover more about the area’s ancient geology and local life, we recommend a visit to Petra’s Stone Collection in Stodvarfjordur (summer months).

     If you’re feeling thirsty for a local brew, we recommend a stop at the Beljandi microbrewery in Breiddalsvik. The brewery was a community project, so you’ll get a feel for local life in the Eastfjords if you stop here. 

    Depending on your schedule, you might enjoy the opportunity to relax in the floating pools of a genuine hot spring lake at the Vok geothermal area near Egilsstadir town.

    Overnight in the Eastfjords area.
    Approximate driving distance: 265 km / 165 miles



    Tour day #6 photo
    Día: 5 Egilsstadir – Dettifoss – Husavik – Lake Myvatn
    Europe's Most Powerful Waterfall – Glacier-Carved Gorge – Whale Watching

    Today you will be in the northern area of Vatnajokull National Park. This region of the park has its own distinctive character. Less visited than the southern area, this area shows Iceland’s wild side to its fullest.

    Travel across the vast Modrudalsoraefi highlands and into the wilderness, passing the historical farm of the same name. The route takes you to the mighty Dettifoss* waterfall. A few moments here listening to the heavy thundering water against a surreal landscape is one of Iceland’s most amazing experiences. 

    Head through the park and its amazing canyon areas carved by the Jokulsar river.  Explore the impressive horse-shoe-shaped Asbyrgi canyon, said to be formed by the god Odin’s stallion. Several walking trails lead to beautiful viewing areas. 

    Drive around the fossil rich Tjornes Peninsula to the Husavik area. Husavik is known as the whale watching capital of Iceland, and we recommend taking a whale watching tour if time permits. Most recently Husavik became well-known as a filming location in the 2020 Netflix film Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga. 

    There is now even a Eurovision museum in the town! A great way to end your exciting day is with a relaxing swim in the warm sea waters of Husavik’s GeoSea Baths. After your Husavik visit, head to the Lake Myvatn area.

    * Visiting Dettifoss is not possible between October and mid-May

    Important: Please note Roads 864, 862 are closed in the winter and usually open in late May. Until these roads are open, please take the scenic Ring Road 1 to Road 87 and on to Husavik. Please also note that these are gravel roads, and you must heed warning signs in the area if road conditions are not good for driving. 

    Overnight in the Lake Myvatn area.
    Approximate distance: 315 km / 196 miles



      Tour day #7 photo
      Día: 6 Myvatn – Akureyri/Skagafjordur
      Bizarre Lava Formations – Volcanic Wonderland – Waterfall of the Gods

      Explore the highlights of the Lake Myvatn area, including the mystical volcanic formations at Dimmuborgir, the pseudo craters at Skutustadir, the colorful sulfurous slopes of Namaskard, and the Hverfjall volcanic crater. Perhaps you might relax with a visit to the azure blue Myvatn Nature Baths, where you can enjoy the soothing waters and the natural steam baths and sauna.

      Drive on to Godafoss, a lovely half circle-shaped waterfall with a connection to Icelandic Vikings. Continue on to Akureyri, the charming “capital” of North Iceland. 

      You can add some more hot spring to your trip with an optional visit to the Skogarbod (Forest Baths) near Akureyri. This new hot spring pool is situated in a small forest with pretty views of flat-topped mountains and Eyjafjordur fjord.

      Overnight in the Akureyri area or Northwest Iceland.

      Please Note: The Ring Road route today contains a toll tunnel. More information on the tunnel and fees applies.

      Approximate driving distance: 165 km / 103 miles



      Tour day #8 photo
      Día: 7 Akureyri – Borgarfjordur – Reykjavik
      Scenic Farmlands – Glacial Rivers – Charming Fjord

      Drive through the historical region of Skagafjordur, renowned for horse breeding. You might visit the old farmstead at Glaumbaer a great example of traditional Icelandic turf house architecture. A museum exhibit inside shows how Icelanders lived for centuries in houses like this.

      Then head across Holtavorduheidi plateau, entering the Borgarfjordur area. Visit the beautiful Hraunfossar lava falls and Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot springs. Near Deildartunguhver is Krauma, the intriguing “fire and ice” geothermal spa that uses water from the springs.
       
      Drive to Reykjavik, heading through a scenic fjord known as Hvalfjordur (the Whale Fjord). 

      Overnight in Reykjavik.
      Approximate driving distance: 490 km / 305 miles

      Alternative Route for Today: If you are traveling between mid-June and early September and have a 4WD vehicle you can travel across the barren wasteland on the Kjolur highland road to the geothermal wilderness oasis at Hveravellir before driving to Reykjavik. This historical route heads through a landscape of black sands, high mountains, and two magnificent glaciers. (If you take the Kjolur option, the alternative distance would be 410 km, or 255 miles, and about 6 hours.)

      Important information about Kjolur - Please note that a 4WD vehicle is needed for this unpaved mountain track - Car Category 5.0 or higher. The Kjolur track is generally open mid-June through mid-September, openings subject to weather and road conditions.



      Tour day #9 photo
      Día: 8 Departure
      Drive back to Keflavik International Airport. We recommend departing your hotel in Reykjavik no later than at least 3 hours before your flight departure. It takes approximately 1 hour to drive to the airport, and check-in will start 2 hours before your departure. 

      If you did not visit the Blue Lagoon earlier but have some free time today, you might want to use the opportunity en route to the airport. For this detour, please be sure to allow for at least 2-2,5 hours extra so you’ll have ample time at the lagoon. 

      Your rental car should be returned to the airport service area, which is located only 2 minutes from the airport building. A shuttle will then transport you to the departure hall.

      Approximate driving distance: 50 km / 30 miles

      Whats Included
      • Departure flight onboard Play on a direct flight from Hamilton Airport to Keflavik Airport on selected flight class (*)
      • Accommodation in a standard room for 7 nights
      • Icelandic-style breakfast (except arrival day)
      • Rental car for 7 days with unlimited mileage, CDW, theft protection and VAT
      • Free in-car unlimited Wi-Fi to help you navigate with your personal mobile device
      • Car pick-up/drop-off at Keflavik International Airport
      • Authorization for two people to drive the rental car during your trip
      • Our unique Iceland Travel´s App. 
      • Take advantage of one of Iceland's most experienced incoming agencies.
      • Customer care service during office hours
      • 24-hour Iceland Travel emergency line assistance while you are in Iceland 
      • Service fee and taxes
      • Return flight from Keflavik Airport to Hamilton Airport on a direct flight to destination

      *Please note that some flight classes may already include either carry-on or checked bags on your price. Please make sure to check flight class on your booking before proceeding to pay for extras:
      PLAY BASIC (B) – Personal item max. 10 Kg only. Carry-on, seats and checked bags can be added for a fee after bookings are paid in full.
      PLAY BASIC PLUS (L) - Personal item max. 10 Kg + Carry-on max 12 Kg + Seat selection (middle to back of plane). Checked bags can be added for a fee after bookings are paid in full.
      PLAY VALUE (V) – Personal item max. 10 Kg + Carry-on max. 12 Kg + 1 Checked Bag 20 kg + Seat selection (middle to back of plane excluding XL seats) + Priority boarding.
      PLAY FLEX F) – Personal item max 10 Kg + Carry-on max. 12 Kg + 1 Checked bag max. 23 kg + Seat selection (excluding XL seats) + Priority boarding + Flight flexibility.

      Whats Not Included
      • Breakfast on arrival day
      • Personal travel insurance (highly recommended)
      • Petrol/Gasoline
      • Tolls (tunnels, roads and o. Take advantage of one of Iceland's most experienced incoming agency there route tolls), unless specified. More information here.
      • Admissions and activities other than those noted in itinerary
      • Beverages, snacks, lunches, dinners unless otherwise noted in itinerary
      • Guaranteed early check-in (check-in time for most hotels in Iceland starts between 14:00 (2:00pm) and 16:00 (4:00pm)
      • Guaranteed late check-out
      • Any service not specifically listed under "Included"

      • You must be 20 years of age to rent a car, and 23 years of age to rent car Categories 5.0 or higher.
      • The driver must present a valid driving license held for a minimum of one year at the time of rental.
      • A valid automobile driver’s license from the US, Canada or the European Economic Area is required to drive in Iceland. A license from other countries can be used if it: a) has a valid license number, b) shows the license holder’s photograph, c) is printed in Latin alphabet characters and d) is valid at the time of travel. Otherwise, an international driver’s license is required.
      • A supplement may be charged if you overnight in Reykjavik on Culture Night (24 August 2024).
      • The northern lights are a natural phenomenon and sightings, therefore, cannot be guaranteed.
      • Changes to the packages will incur a service fee

      In case of emergency please contact our local Representatives:
      Iceland Travel:
      + (354) 585 4300
      info@icelandtravel.is

      • Vaðlaheiði tunnel
      Vaðlaheiði tunnel - Price List                                    Valid from 2. January 2024

      Vehicles under 3,5 tons                         from June 1st. 2024
      Single trip paid at veggjald.is / tunnel.is  1.850 kr 1.990 kr
      Single trip paid via bank transfer          2.400 kr 2.540 kr
      2 trips – each trip costs                  1.850 kr 1.990 kr

      . 11% VSK is included in tolls  
      . 24% VSK is included in the collection fee
      . The payment period for a single trip is 24 hrs. before or after traveling through the tunnel.

      ** VSK= VAT (value added tax)

      TERMS AND CONDITIONS FROM THE TOUR OPERATOR

      Please read and accept the following Terms and Conditions to continue with your purchase of any product offered by THE SPECIAL TRAVEL CORPORATION.
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      TERMS AND CONDITIONS FROM THE AIRLINE

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      TERMS AND CONDITIONS FROM THE DESTINATION MANAGEMENT COMPANY

      Please read carefully the Terms and Conditions applicable to the services offered by ICELAND TRAVEL (local Destination Management Company in Iceland).
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      Vacations with Personality