9 Day Campervan Itinerary Iceland: The Ultimate Road Trip

Why Choose a Camper Van for Your Iceland Trip

There’s something special about exploring Iceland behind the wheel of a camper. Instead of racing between hotels or being tied to bus tours, you set the pace. With a camper van, your bed, kitchen, and storage travel with you, giving you freedom to chase the northern lights, stop at hidden waterfalls, or linger by a black sand beach without worrying about check-in times.

Our campers are all manual cars (not automatic) and designed for Iceland’s conditions. While we don’t offer 4x4s or Highland vehicles, our vans come with heating, insulation, and the option to add extras like bedding, Wi-Fi, or cooking kits. You’ll also get unlimited mileage, studded tires in winter, and free pick up at Keflavik International Airport. That makes your iceland trip as smooth and stress free as possible.

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Planning Your 9 Day Road Trip Around the Ring Road

A 9 day itinerary gives you just enough time to circle the ring road, explore the south coast, head up to the north, and finish with the Snæfellsnes Peninsula before returning to Reykjavík. This plan covers the big highlights—waterfalls, glaciers, national parks, and hidden gems—without feeling too rushed.

Here’s how we suggest breaking it down:

Day 1 – The Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon.
Days 2–4 – South Coast wonders, waterfalls, Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, Diamond Beach, and Vatnajökull National Park.

Days 5–6 – The north: Lake Mývatn, Goðafoss Waterfall, Akureyri, and whale watching.
Days 7–8 – The Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Bjarnarfoss Waterfall, Kirkjufell Mountain, and hidden gems like the famous black church.
Day 9 – Return to Reykjavík, soak in the Sky Lagoon, and wrap up your journey.

With 9 days, you’ll cover Iceland’s most iconic sights and still have time for spontaneous stops along the way.

Day 1: Golden Circle Highlights and Thingvellir National Park

Most travelers start their 9 day campervan itinerary Iceland with the Golden Circle. It’s close to Reykjavík and a great starting point for any road trip. This loop features three of the country’s most famous sights:

Þingvellir National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can walk between tectonic plates. It’s not just geology—it’s also the birthplace of Iceland’s parliament.
Geysir Geothermal Area – Watch Strokkur shoot water 20–30 meters into the air every few minutes.
Gullfoss Waterfall – A powerful two-tier waterfall that looks even more dramatic in summer months when the spray catches the sunlight.

Driving the Golden Circle in your camper van gives you flexibility. You can take a short hike in Þingvellir, enjoy the views from a viewing platform, or stop at hidden gems nearby before heading to your next destination.

Relaxing at the Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa

After a long first day of sightseeing, nothing beats soaking in the Blue Lagoon. This world-famous geothermal spa is just a short drive from Reykjavík and Keflavik, making it a perfect stop either at the start or end of your trip.

The warm waters, silica masks, and soothing steam rooms are an ideal way to ease into your journey. Booking in advance is essential, especially in the summer months. While the lagoon can get busy, many travelers say it’s absolutely incredible—and for good reason.

If you prefer something quieter, consider ending your itinerary at the Sky Lagoon in Reykjavík. Its infinity pool, steam room, and ocean views are a stunning finale to your iceland trip.

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Day 2: Exploring Waterfalls and the Famous Black Sand Beach

The second day of your 9 day road trip takes you further along Iceland’s south coast, where waterfalls and beaches dominate the landscape.

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall and Skógafoss

Your first stop is Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, where you can actually walk behind the curtain of water for a unique view. From there, it’s a minute drive to Skógafoss, another massive waterfall where rainbows often appear in the mist.

Both are easy to access, with a parking lot nearby, and short trails for a hike up to the viewing platform above.

Reynisfjara Beach and the Famous Black Sand Beach

No iceland trip is complete without a visit to Reynisfjara Beach, the country’s most famous black sand beach. Here you’ll find huge basalt columns, the dramatic Hálsanefshellir Cave, and waves so powerful that they demand caution.

Just outside Vík, the town where you’ll likely spend the night, Reynisfjara is one of those places that leaves you with jaw dropping photos and memories. It’s also a reminder of Iceland’s raw power—watch those sneaker waves.

Day 3: Discovering Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon and Diamond Beach

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

On Day 3, head east toward Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, a winding, moss-covered gorge that looks straight out of a fantasy movie. It’s a short hike from the parking lot to the canyon rim, with multiple viewing platforms offering breathtaking views.

The canyon is an unforgettable experience, especially in early morning when light fills the gorge. It’s one of those hidden gems that feels like stepping into another world.

Diamond Beach and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Continue toward Jökulsárlón, where icebergs float serenely before drifting onto the shore of Diamond Beach. The sight of ice crystals sparkling on the black sand beach is nothing short of magical.

Many travelers add boat tours of the lagoon here, gliding among the icebergs for closer views. Whether you’re standing on the sand or floating on the lagoon, this is one of the highlights of any 9 day campervan itinerary in Iceland.

Day 4: Vatnajökull National Park, Vestrahorn, and Stokksnes

Hiking and Glacier Adventures at Vatnajökull National Park

Day 4 is dedicated to Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier and some of Iceland’s best hiking. Skaftafell is the great starting point, offering trails to Svartifoss (a waterfall framed by basalt columns) and panoramic glacier views.

Here, a short hike can reward you with stunning views of the ice and mountains. The surreal landscape of lava, ice, and green valleys makes this park one of Iceland’s crown jewels.

Vestrahorn Mountain and Stokksnes Peninsula

A minute drive further east brings you to the dramatic Vestrahorn Mountain on the Stokksnes Peninsula. Known for its sharp peaks and mirrored reflections on the wet sand, this is a photographer’s dream.

The Viking Café here marks the entrance, and it’s also the start of a quirky viking village film set, another of Iceland’s lesser known gems. Grab a coffee, walk the trails, and soak in the absolutely incredible coastal scenery.

Spending the night near Höfn is ideal. It’s a small town famous for lobster dishes and a great place to recharge before your journey north.

Day 5: Lake Mývatn and Geothermal Wonders

From Höfn, you’ll continue along the ring road toward the north, eventually reaching Lake Mývatn. Known for its volcanic activity and rich birdlife, this area feels like stepping onto another planet.

Krafla Crater and Bubbling Mud Pots

Take a short drive to the Krafla Crater, where you can hike around the rim of a turquoise lake sitting inside an ancient volcano. Nearby, you’ll find bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles that showcase Iceland’s constant geothermal activity.

Hidden Gems Around Lake Mývatn

Beyond the well-known stops, there are hidden gems here too: lava formations at Dimmuborgir, caves filled with warm waters, and trails with stunning landscapes. Camping here puts you in the heart of Iceland’s wild north.

Day 6: Goðafoss Waterfall and Whale Watching

Goðafoss Waterfall

On your sixth day, your first stop should be Goðafoss Waterfall, the “Waterfall of the Gods.” It’s easily accessible from the parking lot, and the breathtaking views from the viewing platforms make it a must-see.

Akureyri – Iceland’s Largest City in the North

From there, continue to Akureyri, Iceland’s largest city outside Reykjavík. It’s a good base to stock up on supplies, enjoy restaurants, and take a break from camper life.

Whale Watching Adventures

Akureyri and Húsavík are the best places for whale watching. You can join boat tours that bring you close to humpbacks, minke whales, and sometimes even orcas. For many, seeing whales in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience of the 9 day journey.

Day 7: Snæfellsnes Peninsula and Snæfellsjökull National Park

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is often called “Iceland in miniature” because it packs glaciers, lava fields, beaches, and hidden gems into a single region.

Kirkjufell Mountain and Bjarnarfoss Waterfall

Your first stop is Kirkjufell Mountain, one of the most photographed peaks in the country. Just a minute drive away, you’ll find Bjarnarfoss Waterfall, cascading down mossy cliffs. Both offer jaw dropping backdrops for photos.

Snæfellsjökull National Park and the Famous Black Church

Next, head into Snæfellsjökull National Park, where you’ll see lava fields, sea cliffs, and glaciers. Don’t miss the famous black church at Búðir—one of Iceland’s most iconic and hidden gems. With a camper, you can explore at your own pace and stop wherever the views move you.

Day 8: Hidden Gems, Lava Fields, and Relaxing at Sky Lagoon

Lava Fields and Surreal Landscapes

Day 8 is perfect for exploring lava fields, taking a short hike to viewpoints, or finding lesser known gems like coastal caves. This region is full of untouched landscapes that feel far from the crowds.

Return to Reykjavík and Sky Lagoon

As you make your way back to Reykjavík, treat yourself to a soak in the Sky Lagoon. With its infinity pool, steam room, and warm waters overlooking the ocean, it’s the ideal way to relax after days on the road. Many say it’s the highlight of the entire trip, especially after driving thousands of kilometers.

Day 9: Wrapping Up the 9 Day Campervan Itinerary in Iceland

Your final day is about winding down and reflecting on your adventure. Whether you choose another visit to the Blue Lagoon, a short hike near Reykjavík, or just enjoying the city’s cafés, this is your time to take it slow.

Hand back your camper van at Keflavik, knowing you’ve completed an epic 9 day campervan itinerary in Iceland. With unlimited mileage, free pick up, and the ability to stop at everything from national parks to black sand beaches, you’ve experienced Iceland in the most flexible way possible.

Start Planning Your Own Trip

From Thingvellir National Park on Day 1 to Sky Lagoon on Day 8, this itinerary covers Iceland’s highlights: Golden Circle, Reynisfjara Beach, Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, Diamond Beach, Vatnajökull National Park, Lake Mývatn, Goðafoss Waterfall, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and more. Along the way, you’ll also uncover hidden gems, find cozy campsites, and discover why so many travelers call it the ultimate road trip.

With a camper van, you get freedom, comfort, and the chance to make your own trip unforgettable. So pack your gear, grab your keys, and let’s turn your dream iceland trip into reality.

FAQs About a 9 Day Campervan Itinerary in Iceland

How long does it take to drive the Ring Road in Iceland?

Driving the ring road without stops takes about 16–18 hours, but with a 9 day plan you’ll have time to see waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, and hidden gems without rushing.

Is 9 days enough for an Iceland road trip?

Yes, a 9 day road trip is ideal. It gives you enough time to complete the ring road, explore the south coast, visit Vatnajökull National Park, head north to Lake Mývatn and Goðafoss Waterfall, and still add the Snæfellsnes Peninsula at the end.

Can you see the northern lights on a 9 day campervan itinerary in Iceland?

Absolutely! With long nights in autumn and winter, your chances are high. Park your camper van away from city lights, check the aurora forecast, and you might see the northern lights dance above glaciers, beaches, or even your campsite.

Do you need a 4x4 for a 9 day campervan trip in Iceland?

No. Our campers are manual cars designed for Iceland’s main roads and well maintained routes. You won’t be driving F roads on this itinerary, so a standard camper is perfect.

What are the must-see highlights of a 9 day campervan itinerary in Iceland?

The big stops include the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, Reynisfjara Beach, Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, Diamond Beach, Vatnajökull National Park, Lake Mývatn, Goðafoss Waterfall, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula with Bjarnarfoss Waterfall and the famous black church. These are what make the trip an unforgettable experience.

We rented the Renault Trafic 3 from Iceland Campers to drive the Ring Road in winter, and the experience truly exceeded our expectations. The van proved to be an excellent choice for anyone looking for comfort, safety, and practicality while travelling in Iceland. One of the biggest highlights was definitely the heating system, which worked flawlessly throughout the entire trip. Even with freezing temperatures and long nights, the interior stayed warm and comfortable, which made a huge difference. The interior space of the van is another strong point. Well-organized and functional, it allowed us to store everything we needed in an accessible way while still keeping a cosy environment for sleeping and cooking. For two travellers, the Trafic 3 offers the perfect balance between external size and usable interior space. In terms of driving, the Renault Trafic 3 proved to be reliable and safe even in snow and ice. We completed the entire Ring Road without any issues — the van handled well, with good traction and stability, giving us confidence even on the most demanding roads. Another extremely positive aspect was the professionalism of the Iceland Campers staff. Always helpful, attentive, and ready to assist, from the pick-up moment to the end of the trip. They made the whole process simple and stress-free. Overall, the experience was extremely positive. We highly recommend the Renault Trafic 3 and Iceland Campers to anyone planning to drive the Ring Road, especially in winter. Reliable, comfortable, and supported by an outstanding team.

I rented a car from Iceland campres during my trip to Iceland. While I encountered a few minor issues, the company’s exceptional customer service truly stood out. They were highly responsive, addressing my concerns promptly and professionally. Their dedication ensured that my journey continued smoothly. I highly recommend [iceland campres] to anyone planning to visit Iceland. Their commitment to customer satisfaction makes them a reliable choice for car rentals in the region.

To start off, I contacted Iceland Campers about four months in advance by phone, and was immediately met by Eythor (the owner) on the other end. From that first call and all the way until the very last day of our trip, he was always available to answer our countless questions about everything related to a Ring Road journey in Iceland. I just want to give a huge personal thank you for your incredible work ethic and helpfulness. You are extremely service-minded, and it truly shows—it was both noticed and deeply appreciated. You really put our minds at ease throughout the entire trip! A few days before our departure, we realized that we had accidentally booked our van one day too early—both for the pick-up and the return. Luckily, this turned out not to be an issue at all. The van was still available for two more days after our departure, and Iceland Campers kindly let us adjust the booking by one day without any fees or problems. That was a big relief and speaks volumes about their flexibility. The trip itself was absolutely amazing. We truly got the full Iceland experience—everything from wild winds and heavy rain to stunning rainbows over waterfalls on sunny days. We saw it all: waterfalls, puffins, lava fields, mountains, and so much more! For our family of five (basically five adults), having a rental van was essential. We chose the Grand Camper, and it was perfect for us. Of course, traveling with soaked clothes after the rain wasn’t always ideal, but we managed just fine. The space inside was more than enough, and overall it worked out really well for everyone. Towards the end of our trip, we unfortunately had a flat tire in Vik. But, just as with everything else, the service was excellent. We were quickly guided on how to find the spare tire and the right tools to fix it. We were even offered help in the morning, but since we wanted to get going early, we managed to fix it ourselves without any problems. The prices are also very competitive, especially considering that Iceland Campers is still a smaller, family-owned company. That’s a huge plus in my book—without compromising on quality in any way. All in all, I can’t think of a single thing to complain about. This was truly a 5-star experience! Over the past few years, we’ve traveled quite a lot around Europe, and I’ve noticed that family-owned businesses are almost always the best option. If you’re deciding between Iceland Campers, a bigger rental company, or any other alternative—look no further. Even though I haven’t tried other companies in Iceland, I can confidently say that you can’t go wrong with Iceland Campers. Much love from Sweden and from my entire family—thank you once again for helping turn this trip into lifelong memories!

We had the best experience with this company. Communication was excellent, and the owners were incredibly helpful. Our trip was fantastic thanks to the comfort of the camper, which was fully equipped with kitchenware, a refrigerator, chairs, and tables that made our experience even more enjoyable. The staff's energy was outstanding from beginning to end, which is why we always recommend them. We would rent from them again a thousand times.

We simply notified them once we’d collected our luggage, and our driver arrived promptly—no waiting around in the cold with tired kids. He was incredibly helpful, loading all our luggage and assisting with our three little ones, making the transition smooth and welcoming. Upon arrival at their location, we were greeted by Eythor, the Director of Operations, who delivered one of the most thorough briefings I’ve ever experienced. He walked us through everything: operating the van, navigating Iceland’s unique roads (including those tricky roundabouts), parking fees, tolls, road conditions, and even recommended websites and resources for real-time updates. Eythor was patient beyond words, taking the time to answer every single question we had, which instantly built our confidence and trust in the company. Traveling from the USA, we weren’t familiar with Iceland’s driving and camping norms, but his guidance made us feel fully prepared. Since we were traveling with kids, we’d added a bunch of extras to our rental—car seats, chairs, a table, stove, gas, and more—and Eythor meticulously checked off every item to ensure nothing was missing. No surprises or shortages here! Right after the briefing, he led us to our van, which was spotless, perfectly cleaned, and fully equipped with everything we’d ordered. We hit the road without a single delay, unlike the horror stories we’d heard about dirty vans or last-minute holdups from other providers. Eythor didn’t stop there; he provided us with all the contact info and phone numbers we’d need for any issues during our trip—roadside assistance, emergencies, you name it. Thankfully, we never had to use them because our 9-day adventure went flawlessly. The van performed beautifully as we explored Iceland’s stunning landscapes, and the initial briefing was key to navigating the societal differences in driving and camping compared to back home in the USA. Iceland Campers’ attention to detail gave us the confidence to focus on making memories, not worrying about logistics. This company is an absolute must if you want a partner who truly sets you up for success. At the end of our trip, dropping off the van was just as seamless. We met Eythor and Charlie, who handled everything efficiently. Since we’d booked a hotel for our last night in Iceland (after spending most of the trip far from Keflavík), Charlie kindly provided transportation back to our hotel. But he went above and beyond—knowing we had one evening left, he shared fantastic recommendations for nearby restaurants and viewpoints, even driving me around to point them out and giving detailed overviews of the best foods and spots to enjoy with the family. It was such a thoughtful touch that capped off our vacation perfectly. Later that day, we received a confirmatory email from Iceland Campers ensuring all parks, tolls, and fees were squared away—no loose ends or surprises. This level of professionalism and follow-through is rare and truly sets them apart. In summary, Iceland Campers turned what could have been a daunting trip into an unforgettable, hassle-free adventure. Their team—especially Eythor and Charlie—treated us like family, and we’re already planning our next visit with them. Five stars—book with confidence!

Will book with Iceland Campers if we were visiting this beautiful country again in the future. Iceland is To go with them was such a good choice. The van was a very good car to drive. The van‘s front window broke because of a small stone from the road but we had the zero risk insurance so we didn‘t have to worry about it at all. We recommend this camper van rental without hesitation. Thank you Iceland Campers!