Iceland Explorer Self Drive Winter

Iceland Explorer Self Drive Winter

177 Views
9 Days From

$1259

$1219

Iceland Explorer Self Drive Winter

9 Days Starting and ending in Reykjavik, Iceland

Visiting: Reykjavik, Golden Circle, Vatnajokull National Park, East Fjords, Lake Myvatn, Akureyri, Borgarnes

Tour operator:

Indus Travels

Tour code:

IndTur799

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

Easy

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $1259 $1219 Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

NB: Prices correct on 13-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on the "Iceland Explorer Self Drive Winter" adventure, a thrilling self-drive tour through Iceland's most breathtaking winter landscapes. Begin your journey in Reykjavik and explore the Golden Circle's natural wonders, including the Gullfoss waterfall and the geothermal fields of Geysir. Marvel at the stunning Vatnajokull National Park and the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Traverse the majestic East Fjords, visit the powerful Dettifoss waterfall, and discover the unique beauty of Lake Myvatn. Experience the charm of Akureyri and the Troll Peninsula, and learn about Icelandic history in Borgarfjordur. This tour includes a 4x4 rental car, accommodation in standard hotels, and daily Icelandic breakfasts, ensuring a comfortable and unforgettable adventure.

Highlights

  • Aurora Reykjavik Northern Lights Centre

  • Gullfoss waterfall

  • Geothermal fields of Geysir

  • Vatnajokull National Park

  • Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

  • Dettifoss waterfall

  • Godafoss waterfall

  • Thingvellir National Park

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Reykjavik (Arrival) (-/-/-)

Location: Reykjavik

Accommodation Name: hotel

Upon arrival at Keflavik International Airport make your own way to the tour hotel.




Overnight at Reykjavik



Please note: Hotel check-in begins between 14:00 – 16:00 (2:00pm-4:00pm)

Day 2: The Golden Circle And The South Shore (B/-/-)

Location: Golden Circle

Accommodation Name: hotel in the Vik area

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your guide will meet you in the lobby of the hotel. Start your adventure by visiting the fascinating Aurora Reykjavik Northern Lights Centre. Youll get a great introduction to northern lights, how they are formed, and the folklore surrounding them. Youll also get tips about how to capture northern lights on film. Continue to the Golden Circle natural wonders. Explore Gullfoss waterfall, a spectacular sight in winter when frozen mid-cascade. Continue to the geothermal fields of Geysir with bubbling mud pools and the high-spouting Strokkur hot spring (and other geysers). Continue along the south shore and stop to admire the waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss before continuing to Dyrholaey and the black sand beaches of Icelands South Shore. Continue to the village of Vik




Overnight in the Vik area

Day 3: Vatnajokull National Park (Skaftafell Area) (B/-/-)

Location: Vatnajokull National Park

Accommodation Name: hotel in Southeast Iceland or in the Hofn area

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, visit the southern area of Vatnajokull National Park, named after Europes largest glacier. The total park area covers almost 14% of Iceland, making it the largest national park in Western Europe! Visit the national parks famous Skaftafell area, a site of outstanding natural beauty dominated by several magnificent glaciers. Visit Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, where you can enjoy the breath-taking sight of icebergs floating in the fantastic 180m (591 ft.) deep glacial lagoon (make sure your camera is loaded and ready!) Nearby is the dramatic beauty of the Diamond Beach, where shrinking icebergs settle on the black sands before they drift out to sea




Overnight in Southeast Iceland or in the Hofn area

Day 4: The East Fjords (B/-/-)

Location: East Fjords

Accommodation Name: hotel in the Eastfjords area

Meals Included: Breakfast

Get ready to enjoy some amazing views today! Drive through Almannaskard Pass, stopping to admire the majestic coastline. Continue to an area of towering mountains plunging vertically into the sea that forms the magnificent East Fjords. Keep your hand on your camera and keep an eye out for wild reindeer, which can sometimes be seen in the area during the winter months. You will also pass villages, each with its own special history and charm. One of these is the tiny village of Breiddalsvik. Here, youll visit the local Beljandi microbrewery and sample some of the beer. Youll meet one of the townsfolk and get a feel for life in a small town. Drive to Egilsstadir town, located near Icelands largest forest and a lake said to be home to a legendary (friendly) monster. Egilsstadir is also getting a name for itself for its excellent locally sourced cuisine. 




Overnight in the Eastfjords area

Day 5: Lake Myvantn Area (B/-/-)

Location: Lake Myvatn

Accommodation Name: hotel in the Myvatn area

Meals Included: Breakfast

Explore the empty vastness of the highland desert plateau Modrudalsoraefi, desolate and yet hauntingly beautiful in its winter snows, as you head towards the Lake Myvatn area. On the way, stop at Dettifoss, Europes largest and most powerful waterfall. Continue onwards to Namaskard Pass with its boiling mud pools and vibrant colors. We often feel like we are visiting another planet when we come here, and you may the same way. Its such a surreal experience! Please note: The visit to Dettifoss waterfall depends on weather and road conditions and cannot be guaranteed. Explore the natural beauty of the Lake Myvatn area, including the pseudo craters at Skutustadir and the Laxa Salmon River. You will probably see why this area, especially during the wintertime, has been so popular for movie makers




Overnight stay in the Myvatn area

Day 6: Akureyri And The Troll Peninsula (B/-/-)

Location: Akureyri

Accommodation Name: hotel in Northwest Iceland

Meals Included: Breakfast

Start the day by exploring the peculiar lava formations at Dimmuborgir after your breakfast. The name means “Dark Citadels” in Icelandic, and they certainly look as though were built by fantasy creatures. There are local legends that elves live here. Visit the magnificent Godafoss waterfall, one of the most important symbols of North Iceland. Afterward, drive to Akureyri, the colorful northern “capital” of Iceland. The town has charming buildings and a beautiful view of the Eyjafjordur fjord. After spending some time in Akureyri, continue along the coastal roads of Eyjafjordur and the Troll Peninsula. This is a beautiful drive along steep mountains with amazing views over the Arctic Sea and the black sand coastline. Enjoy a stop in Siglufjordur, a town set in a beautiful fjord of the same name. This town has some of the finest timber buildings in the country, beautifully restored to their original glory. Visit Siglufjordurs award-winning Herring-Era Maritime Museum. The museum recreates the atmosphere of the early 20th century when Siglufjordur was transformed into a frontier-like boom town, thanks to a large migration of herring. The museum will transport you back to that exciting time. Afterward, head along majestic mountains and narrow passes to Skagafjordur, considered to be one of the finest places in Iceland for horse breeding




Overnight in Northwest Iceland

Day 7: Skagafjordur – Borgarnes (B/-/-)

Manuel Nogales

Location: Borgarnes

Accommodation Name: hotel in the Borgarnes area

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, enjoy an introduction to the unique Icelandic horse breed with its special fifth gait, the tolt. Icelandic horses are very important to the countrys history. These gentle horses are known as the Icelandic peoples most faithful servants. Continue towards the village of Blonduos, built on both sides of the river Blanda. This is a part of Iceland known from the Icelandic literary work Vatnsdaela Saga. Cross the Holtavorduheidi plateau, taking you into West Iceland. Drive through Borgarfjordur, a region that has been getting international recognition for its diverse landscapes and its Viking history.




Overnight in the Borgarnes area

Day 8: Borgarfjordur – Thingvellir - Reykjavik (B/-/-)

Location: Reykjavik

Accommodation Name: hotel in Reykjavik

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today visit some of West Icelands beautiful natural wonders. Drive to Deildartunguhver, the most powerful hot spring in Europe. Stop to admire the beautiful Hraunfossar waterfalls, where brightly blue water rushes through black lava formations. Nearby is Barnafoss, a waterfall with a brilliantly blue color. Drive through the scenic and mountain-lined Hvalfjordur fjord to Lake Thingvallavatn, Icelands largest lake, and Thingvellir National Park. This UNESCO heritage site is where the worlds oldest continuing parliamentary government was founded in the 10th century. It is also the place where the North American and European tectonic plates meet. You will have the unusual experience of walking between two continents! Afterward, head to Reykjavik for a last night in the colorful capital city. 




Overnight in Reykjavik

Day 9: Reykjavik (Departure) – Usa / Canada (B/-/-)

Location: Reykjavik

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today drive back to Keflavik International Airport to drop of your car rental. We recommend departing Reykjavik no later than 3 hours before your flight.

What's Included

  • Accommodation in Standard hotels on twin sharing basis

    Stay in standard hotels with twin sharing basis as listed or similar.

  • 8 Icelandic style breakfasts

    Enjoy 8 Icelandic style breakfasts during your stay.

  • Pick up and drop off at Keflavik International Airport

    Pick up and drop off services at Keflavik International Airport are included.

  • Rental car type: 4x4 Manual transmission

    Rental car provided is a 4x4 Manual transmission (Nissan Juke 4WD Manual or similar).

  • Unlimited mileage

    The rental car comes with unlimited mileage.

  • Theft Protection

    The rental car includes theft protection, though unwaivable charges may apply.

  • Collision Damage Waiver Reduction (CDW)

    The rental car includes Collision Damage Waiver Reduction (CDW), though unwaivable charges may apply.

  • All currently applicable local taxes

    All currently applicable local taxes are included.

What's Not Included

  • Items of personal nature, tips & gratuities

    Expenses of personal nature, tips, and gratuities are not included.

  • Airport transfers

    Airport transfers are not included.

  • Optional tours and activities

    Optional tours and activities are not included.

  • Entrance fees

    Entrance fees to various attractions are not included.

  • Fuel and car deposits

    Fuel and car deposits need to be paid locally and are not included.

  • Items mentioned as being included

    Only the items specifically mentioned as included are covered.

Mode of Transport

Pick up and drop off at Keflavik International Airport with a rental car (4x4 Manual transmission) including unlimited mileage, theft protection, and collision damage waiver reduction.

Accommodation

Accommodation in standard hotels on a twin-sharing basis throughout the tour, ensuring comfort and convenience at each stop.

Videos

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of rental car is provided for the tour?

    The rental car provided is a 4x4 Manual transmission, specifically a Nissan Juke 4WD Manual or a similar vehicle.

  • Are there any meals included in the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes 8 Icelandic style breakfasts.

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    Accommodation is provided in standard hotels on a twin-sharing basis throughout the tour.

  • What is the starting and ending location of the tour?

    The tour starts and ends in Reykjavik, Iceland.

  • Is there any protection included with the rental car?

    Yes, the rental car includes theft protection and Collision Damage Waiver Reduction (CDW), though unwaivable charges may apply.

  • Are airport transfers included in the tour?

    No, airport transfers are not included in the tour.

  • What are some of the highlights of the tour?

    Some highlights of the tour include visiting the Aurora Reykjavik Northern Lights Centre, Gullfoss waterfall, the geothermal fields of Geysir, Vatnajokull National Park, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Dettifoss waterfall, Godafoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park.

  • Are entrance fees to attractions included in the tour?

    No, entrance fees to various attractions are not included in the tour.

  • What should I be aware of regarding fuel and car deposits?

    Fuel and car deposits need to be paid locally and are not included in the tour package.

  • Is there any guidance on how to capture the Northern Lights on film?

    Yes, during the visit to the Aurora Reykjavik Northern Lights Centre, you will receive tips on how to capture the Northern Lights on film.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.

  • If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?

    You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.

  • Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?

    In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.

Reviews of this operator

Terry Kratz (Google Reviewer)  

Thanks to Indus and Nicko...

13-Sep-2024

Thanks to Indus and Nicko Cruise for a great trip down the Danube. I had not been on a river cruise prior to this and found it a very relaxing way to travel and see some European highlights. The ship was superb. The staff served great meals, were friendly and accommodating. As far as the tours and city visits, they all gave us a reasonable amount of time and insight into the location we were visiting to come away with a sense that we had a good glimpse of the city and were able to spend some free time in the city as well. A special thanks to Dhruv our fearless leader from Indus who was a great organizer. Lastly - nice to meet all of you in our group. terry

Joyce Elyse Baumbach  

The tour organized by Indus Travels ...

16-Dec-2022

The tour organized by Indus Travels was flawless. Hotels, tours, and transportation all impressed me. We had a very relaxing time knowing what was happening at each stage. The scenery and activities were fantastic and did not disappoint. The highlight of the trip was definitely Galapagos Islands.

Indus Travel Reviews
Sirjirick Gibson (Google Reviewer)  

This is my fourth Indus...

20-Aug-2024

This is my fourth Indus trip coming up. I love the way the app works. I love the way the trips are organized and small groupings. I love the accommodations. I love the transportation it’s just top-notch service for individual traveler. I just completed my fourth trip with This and I have already signed up for my up-and-coming fifth trip with Indus travel. Once again, I have to say the service of this is absolutely top-notch service. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to travel and style and comfort. The organization of this is top-notch service from start to finish.. I have to say this sales management and associate team is absolutely amazing which basically allows me to continuously book my trips through end this. My travel life is to travel to as many countries as possible, and it will all be done through excellent job. I would like to give a special thanks to Rachel P. And Ravi., I have been involved with Rachel for the past five years and I will continue to travel within due to the fact that she makes this such a pleasant experience. Great job to her..

Neeraj Nauhwaar (Google Reviewer)  

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with...

07-Dec-2023

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with them visiting Cairo and a 03 Nights Cruise from Luxor to Aswan in May. All services were perfect since the time we arrived at the airport, we were met by a hospitable Indus Representative who helped us with the purchase of local SIM and currency exchange. He was always there in time to assist for transfers. The Amwaj Cruise which we took from Luxor to Aswan was a Gem. We had great guides and all sightseeing worked like a clockwork. We enjoyed visiting Karnak Temples, Temples of Edfu, Kom Ombo and the boat ride to see Phillae Temple. Evening entertainment on cruise were great and engaging. In Cairo and Aswan, we had ample leisure time to explore on own, the Pyramids were impressive and visiting Khan e Khalili was fun. Overall and impressive and enjoyable tour, Thanks to Indus Travels!

Dhruv R (Google Reviewer)  

Recently went on a Rhine...

09-Jun-2023

Recently went on a Rhine River Cruise, a first for me. I must say the experience was exceptional, their tagline says. The group I was with were some of the most fun and interesting set of people I've ever traveled with. The ground transportation arrangements were top notch and comfortable. Variety in menu that we were provided with in the cruise was astounding. I was a bit worried if they'd have much options for me as I'm a vegetarian. But they not only had options, the taste was something I'd savor for foreseeable future. There's a reason Rhine cruises are popular owing to it's serene and picturesque route. Guided tours were very informative and gave us a bit of an insight of German culture. We had good amount of time to explore the towns on our own too. Strasbourg and Cochem were my favorite stops. Luckily the weather worked in our favour and it didn't rain the way it was predicted originally. No one from our group wanted the tour to end. If this trip was any indication, I can't wait to book my next trip with Indus Travels.

Dennis V (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I travelled...

02-Jul-2024

My wife and I travelled with Indus on the essentials Portugal Spain Switzerland and Italy tour last October and had the time of our lives. The tour was very well planned we visited a lot of the highlights the countries had to offer. The tour went very smoothly with knowledgeable guides and courteous drivers. We would highly recommend travelling with Indus.

Gloria Parra (Google Reviewer)  

Indus Travel runs a highly...

04-Mar-2024

Indus Travel runs a highly professional organization. From customer service to brochures, bookings, tour guides, etc. and the consideration for their customers is superb. This was the first time I had travelled with Indus Travels. We took the Taste of Portugal Tour. Group numbers are small, accommodation comfortable and food excellent. The expert guide who accompanied us was outstanding - passionate, informative, engaging, and entertaining. This company is obviously at the heart of the itinerary planning, and attention to detail is second to none. I would highly recommend this company to anyone wanting a fun, relaxed, educational vacation with fine food - they will deliver! We will never forget this trip and we are already planning for another one to Wonders of Italy, Vienna, Budapest, and Prague.

Olivia  

Best of Italy

16-Nov-2022

Indus Travels did an excellent job planning the trip to Italy. We were on Best of Italy in Oct 2022. The tour was 5 stars all the way. The hotel accommodations were comfortable and clean & guides were top-notch.

Indus Travel Reviews
Kim Eisnor (Google Reviewer)  

We had an absolutely amazing...

12-Sep-2024

We had an absolutely amazing experience on our first ever river boat cruise. The itinerary and ports were incredible, the ship was beautiful, the food was great (especially Mario’s Grill), the excursions were excellent and the staff was lovely. We had such a memorable trip with our group and made lots of memories that will last a lifetime.

DJWalter Capote (Google Reviewer)  

We were looking for a...

07-Oct-2023

We were looking for a customized, small group tour. We took a chance on Indus without knowing much about the company. We just returned from our trip to Greece and are more than highly please and satisfied with our experience. They planned an amazing itinerary, booked amazing hotels, hired knowledgeable tour guides and arranged high quality transportation services. Everyone went above and beyond to please us. We are already planning a trip for next year (2024) and will definitely use Indus to do so.

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Thursday - Friday

Jan 23, 2025 - Jan 31, 2025
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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$41

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Apr 10, 2025 - Apr 18, 2025
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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Thursday - Friday

Apr 17, 2025 - Apr 25, 2025
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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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