theMilesWeKeep

Planning the Ultimate Iceland Ring Road Adventure

January 6, 2026

A 6-Day, Full-Circle Itinerary

If you’re dreaming of an Iceland road trip that packs in glaciers, waterfalls, canyons, hot springs, and some of the most dramatic landscapes on earth—this Ring Road itinerary is for you.

This trip was intentionally full. Long days, early starts, and constant “pull over, we need to see that” moments. But if you’re someone who likes to maximize every mile (and every memory), this route delivers in the best possible way.

Below is the exact itinerary we followed, with planning notes, driving expectations, and what made

Day 1 — Arrival + South Coast Waterfalls

Arrive: 7:00 AM

After landing early in the morning, we picked up our car and immediately headed east to begin the Ring Road adventure. Jet lag fades quickly when Iceland starts showing off.

Stops:

Strokkur Geyser
Gullfoss Falls
Seljalandsfoss & Gljúfrabúi
Írarfoss
Skógafoss
Kvernufoss

Driving: ~5 hours total
Stay: Vik (Airbnb)

Planning notes:
This is a big first day, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Waterfalls come fast and often, and it’s impossible not to stop constantly. Wear waterproof layers—spray is unavoidable and worth it.

Day 2 — South Coast to Glaciers & Black Sand Beaches

This was one of our most visually diverse days—bakeries, cliffs, canyons, glaciers, and ice-covered beaches.

Stops:

Faxi Bakery
Dyrhólaey Cliffs (puffin spotting!)
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon (easy 1–2 mile hike)
Svartifoss (3-mile round-trip hike)
Sjónarnípa Viewpoint
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Diamond Beach
Múlagljúfur Canyon
Optional: Vestrahorn (weather permitting)

Driving: ~4 hours
Stay: Höfn (guesthouse)

Planning notes:
This day requires discipline—there is so much to see. Prioritize daylight and weather conditions, especially for glacier lagoon and Diamond Beach. Svartifoss is worth the hike if your legs allow.

Day 3 — Glaciers & the East Fjords

This day marked a shift—fewer crowds, quieter roads, and slower moments paired with jaw-dropping scenery.

Stops:

Vatnajökull National Park
Guided glacier hike
Vestrahorn & Stokksnes Beach
Djúpivogur Fishing Village
Djúpavogskörin Hot Pool
Seyðisfjörður Church
Drive through the East Fjords

Driving: ~4 hours

Stay: Egilsstaðir (Airbnb)

Planning notes:
Book glacier tours well in advance. The East Fjords are underrated—build in time to stop and just take it in.

Day 4 — Waterfalls, Canyons & Geothermal North

A day full of hiking, geological contrasts, and classic northern Iceland landscapes.

Stops:

Seyðisfjörður Church
Hengifoss Waterfall (2-hour hike)
Stuðlagil Canyon (short hike, incredible basalt columns)
Hverir Geothermal Area
Grjótagjá Cave
Hverfjall Crater (short but steep hike)
Goðafoss
Fosslaug Hot Spring (Hallandsnes 606)

Driving: ~4 hours
Stay: Akureyri (Airbnb)

Planning notes:
This is an active day—pace yourself. Bring layers and sturdy hiking shoes. Stuðlagil was a standout and worth every step.

Day 5 — North Iceland Back to Reykjavík

The longest drive day, but filled with unique stops and a well-earned transition back to city comforts.

Stops:

Kolugljúfur Canyon
Fosslaug Hot Spring
Guðlaug Hot Spring
Tokyo Sushi (yes, really)
FlyOver Iceland Experience

Driving: ~4 hours 45 minutes
Stay: Reykjavík (Airbnb)

Planning notes:
Break up the drive with hot springs—it makes all the difference. FlyOver Iceland is a fantastic way to reflect on everything you just experienced.

Day 6 — Blue Lagoon & Departure

Blue Lagoon: 7:00 AM entry
We intentionally saved this for the end—there’s something perfect about soaking, reflecting, and slowing down after circling an entire country.

Final Planning Tips for the Ring Road

Build flexibility into every day. Weather will change plans—embrace it.
Start early. Iceland rewards early mornings.
Pack layers and waterproof everything.
Expect longer days than Google Maps predicts. You will stop constantly.
Book accommodations and tours early, especially in summer.

Why the Ring Road Is Worth It

Driving the full Ring Road isn’t just about checking sights off a list—it’s about movement, momentum, and letting the country reveal itself mile by mile.

This itinerary is ambitious, unforgettable, and deeply rewarding. If you’re willing to commit to full days and open yourself to spontaneity, Iceland will meet you with memories you’ll keep forever.

And that’s exactly what The Miles We Keep is all about.