Iceland Self-Driving Guide

1. Trip Duration
• 3–4 days: Golden Circle + Blue Lagoon
• 5–6 days: Golden Circle + South Coast (waterfalls, black sand beach, glacier lagoon)
• 7–10 days: Ring Road (entire Iceland loop)
• Add 1–2 extra days: Snæfellsnes Peninsula (Kirkjufell Mountain)

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2. Car Rental Recommendations
• General Ring Road: Sedan / SUV (2WD is sufficient)
• Highland F-road: Requires 4x4 and water-crossing skills; not recommended for beginners
• Must-have insurance: Gravel insurance, sand and ash insurance

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3. Driving Tips
• Speed limits: Urban areas 30–50 km/h, gravel roads 80 km/h, paved roads 90 km/h
• Headlights must be on, seat belts for all passengers
• Caution: Single-lane bridges, strong crosswinds, roadside sheep; avoid sudden stops for photos

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4. 8-Day Ring Road Itinerary

Day 1: Reykjavik + Blue Lagoon
Day 2: Golden Circle (Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfall)
Day 3: South Coast waterfalls + Black Sand Beach
Day 4: Vatnajökull Glacier + Glacier Lagoon
Day 5: East Fjords
Day 6: Mývatn Nature Baths + Dettifoss Waterfall
Day 7: Akureyri + Seal Coast
Day 8: Snæfellsnes Peninsula → Reykjavik

Post by Shihou | Aug 25, 2025