Golden Circle & Highlands is a 4-day self-drive adventure that combines Iceland’s famous Golden Circle with the remote landscapes of Kerlingarfjöll. This 4-day summer self-drive journey is the perfect getaway that takes you from Reykjavík to some of Iceland’s most iconic landmarks, and into the heart of the highlands. The tour begins with time to enjoy the city before heading out on the classic Golden Circle route, where you’ll visit historic Þingvellir National Park, witness Strokkur erupt at Geysir, and feel the power of Gullfoss waterfall.
From there, you’ll continue inland along the Kjölur highland road to reach Kerlingarfjöll, a geothermal mountain range known for its vivid colors, steaming valleys, and panoramic views. Accessible only during summer, this remote area offers a striking contrast to the lowlands and a chance to experience Iceland’s interior wilderness. This tour operates seasonally from 15 June to 15 September, while the Kjölur highland road is open.
With a flexible route, detailed guide, and carefully selected stops along the way, this tour allows travelers to explore at their own pace while covering diverse and dramatic landscapes.
Highlights
Þingvellir National Park
Geysir Geothermal Area
Gullfoss Waterfall
Öxarárfoss Waterfall
Kerið Volcanic Crater
Friðheimar Tomato Farm
Kerlingarfjöll Highlands
Hveravellir Hot Springs
Itinerary
Pick up your rental car at the airport and take your time settling into the rhythm of Iceland. After checking into your hotel in Reykjavík, you’re free to explore the city at your own pace. Stroll through the colorful streets of the old town, stop for coffee at a cozy café, or visit Hallgrímskirkja church, Harpa Concert Hall, or the Sun Voyager sculpture. In the late afternoon, unwind with a warm soak at the Sky Lagoon, where ocean views and geothermal waters set the tone for your journey ahead. Overnight: Reykjavík
Time to experience Iceland’s most iconic travel route. Begin at Þingvellir National Park, where you can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates and explore the historic site of Iceland’s ancient parliament. Continue to the bubbling geothermal area of Geysir, then stand beside the mighty Gullfoss waterfall as it crashes into a rugged canyon. Along the way, enjoy a unique lunch at the Friðheimar tomato greenhouse, and, if you wish, end the day with a soothing soak in the warm waters of the Secret Lagoon. Overnight: Golden Circle / Geysir area
Venture into the raw beauty of the highlands with a drive to Kerlingarfjöll, a geothermal mountain range known for its vivid colors and steaming valleys. Hike through mineral-streaked hills, cross warm streams, and take in views that feel both otherworldly and untouched. On your return journey, stop at Hveravellir, a remote geothermal oasis where you can admire bubbling hot springs and fumaroles — and, if conditions allow, enjoy a soak surrounded by vast highland landscapes. After a day immersed in Icelandic wilderness, return to Reykjavík for your final night in the city, relaxed, recharged, and perhaps already planning your next trip. Overnight: Reykjavík
After a restful night in Reykjavík, your final day depends on your departure time. If your schedule allows, consider a scenic detour to the Reykjanes Peninsula, where you can see newly formed lava fields from recent volcanic eruptions, walk across the Bridge Between Continents, or visit geothermal hot springs. You might also choose to end your trip with a relaxing soak in the Blue Lagoon. Alternatively, enjoy a quiet morning in the city, browsing local shops, visiting a museum, or savoring one last coffee along the harbor, before heading to Keflavík International Airport to return your rental car.
Rental car (4WD) for 4 days
Accommodation for 3 nights
Breakfast at hotel
Detailed itinerary & travel tips
Taxes & service fees
Customer support & 24/7 helpline
Warm, waterproof clothing
Swimwear & towels
Driver’s license
Comfortable walking shoes
Camera or smartphone
Daypack for short hikes
Route map
Frequently Asked Questions
Flights to and from Iceland, fuel, parking fees, meals and drinks (aside from breakfast), entry fees (unless stated otherwise), personal travel insurance, and anything else that is not specified in the included section in the itinerary.
We handpick all accommodations with an emphasis on comfort, quality and location.
You’ll receive a personalized itinerary with a day-by-day overview, including driving directions, suggested stops, activity options, dining recommendations, and practical tips. It’s designed to guide you smoothly while leaving plenty of room for flexibility and discovery.
Yes. We offer flexibility to adjust routes, overnight stays, or add extra activities. Customization may add an additional cost.
Daily driving times vary, but most days include 2–4 hours driving, broken up by stops, sights, and scenic detours.
We’re happy to assist with booking optional activities, including snorkeling, diving, horseback riding, snowmobiling, river rafting, and others upon request.
We recommend pre-booking activities with limited capacity, such as spa visits, guided tours, or seasonal excursions. Everything essential for your trip — like accommodation and car rental — is included and confirmed before departure.
Driving in Iceland is generally safe and enjoyable, especially during the summer months. Roads on this tour include paved highways and well-maintained gravel roads. For the highland portion to Kerlingarfjöll (via the Kjölur route), a 4WD vehicle is required and included in your package. Signage is clear, and your itinerary provides helpful notes for each driving segment. Before setting out each day, be sure to check the weather forecast at vedur.is, as conditions can change quickly — particularly in spring, autumn, or winter. It’s also important to check road conditions and any alerts at safetravel.is. Support is always available if you have questions along the way.
Yes – if you’re traveling between September and late March, you may have the chance to see the Northern Lights. Their appearance depends on solar activity and clear skies, so sightings can never be guaranteed, but we recommend checking the aurora forecast and staying in areas with minimal light pollution during your trip.
• Cancellations made at least 48 hours before the scheduled departure receive a 90% refund. • Cancellations made between 48 and 24 hours prior to departure will receive an 80% refund. • Cancellations requested less than 24 hours before the tour starts are not eligible for a refund. • Accommodations must be cancelled 15 days in advance before the scheduled departure for all self-drive tours. • To confirm your itinerary, full payment is required at the time of booking. Please note that 20% of the total price serves as a non-refundable booking fee.
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