Iceland self-drives tours 2025

A self-drive tour is the easiest way to explore Iceland on your own terms. Instead of booking flights, hotels, rental cars, and activities separately, our packages combine everything into one seamless, stress-free booking.

Every package includes:

• Pre-planned routes – Expert-designed itineraries with must-see stops.
• Rental car with insurance – Choose from economy to 4x4 vehicles.
• Handpicked accommodations – Hotels or guesthouses, breakfast included.
• 24/7 local support – Assistance available during your trip.
   

Want more flexibility? You can personalize your self-drive tour by:

• Adding flights to and from Iceland.
• Upgrading hotels for extra comfort (depending on the package).
• Extending your stay with extra nights.
• Adding optional activities.
• Upgrading your rental car for more space or better winter performance.
   

If you can’t find the exact itinerary you’re looking for, our Iceland travel specialists can create a customized self-drive package tailored to your preferences.

Absolutely! If you like to travel at your own pace but don’t want to plan every detail, a self-drive tour is a great option. You get a pre-planned route and pre-booked hotels, but still have the flexibility to stop wherever and whenever you like. It’s perfect if you want structure without a strict group schedule—or the hassle of organizing everything yourself.

If you're short on time, you can still have an incredible trip by focusing on one or two regions. Drive the famous Golden Circle from Reykjavík, then head to the South Coast for black sand beaches and waterfalls. With a week, you can complete the full Ring Road—but expect long driving days. If you prefer a more relaxed trip, our longer self-drive tours allow you to take detours and enjoy optional activities such as horse riding, whale watching, geothermal bathing, and more. 

Yes! When booking online, you can select your rental car, accommodation level, and a few activities depending on your package.

For more flexibility, our Iceland specialists can help tailor your itinerary, add extra nights, or include activities such as glacier hiking, whale watching, horse riding among other.

Get in touch to explore your options and create a self-drive tour that fits your travel style.

Your choice of rental car depends on the season and your planned route:

• Economy car – Perfect for summer trips on paved roads like the Golden Circle.
• 4x4 SUV – Recommended for winter travel and exploring Iceland’s highland roads.
• F-Roads & off-road areas – Require a 4x4 and are only open in summer.

Not sure which vehicle suits your trip? Our team can help you choose the best option.

Gas in Iceland isn't cheap. Gas in Iceland isn't cheap. As of April 2025, gas prices hover around 315 ISK per liter ($2.25–$2.30). A full tank for a standard rental car will cost around $110 to $115—more if you’re driving a 4x4.

To cut costs, try to fuel up in cities like Reykjavík where prices tend to be lower. The GSMbensín app (https://gsmbensin.is/) helps you find current gas prices so you can avoid expensive stations when traveling to rural areas.

That depends on what you want to see—and how confident you are behind the wheel. Want the easiest driving conditions? Summer. Long days, open roads, and mild weather. Winter is best for northern lights, but icy roads can be challenging. Spring and fall? Fewer crowds, lower prices, but the weather can be unpredictable.

Iceland’s roads vary depending on your route:

• Paved roads (Ring Road, Golden Circle) – Well-maintained and easy to drive.
• Gravel roads – Can be rough, and a 4x4 is recommended for better control.
• F-Roads (mountain roads) – Only open in summer and require a 4x4.

Iceland’s weather changes rapidly—always check real-time road conditions at road.is before driving.

Yes! Driving in Iceland is different from driving in the U.S. or other countries due to its unique landscape and weather conditions. Here are the key things to keep in mind:

• Drive on the right side of the road.
• Headlights must be on at all times, even during daylight.
• Off-road driving is illegal and strictly fined—it damages Iceland’s fragile nature.
• Weather conditions can change rapidly—strong winds, fog, and sudden snowstorms are common.
• Check road conditions regularly at road.is before heading out.
• Speed limits: 50 km/h (31 mph) in cities, 80 km/h (50 mph) on gravel roads, 90 km/h (56 mph) on paved highways.
• F-Roads (mountain roads) require a 4x4 and are only open during summer.

Read our guide About driving in Icleand for practical tips. 

For official information, visit:

• SafeTravel – General driving safety in Iceland.
• Driving in Iceland - Everything you need to know when driving in Iceland
• Traffic Info – Live road conditions and weather updates.

Yes, but winter driving requires extra caution. Roads can be icy, and storms can affect visibility.

• A 4x4 rental is required for winter trips.
• Headlights must always be on, even during the day.
• Check real-time road conditions at road.is before heading out.

If you’re not comfortable driving in winter conditions, consider visiting in summer when roads are easier to navigate. Or join a guided group tour.

No, you do not need an international driving permit (IDP). A valid U.S. driver’s license is accepted for up to three months.

• Summer (June-August): Book 6-8 months in advance—this is Iceland’s peak travel season.
• Spring & Fall (April-May, September-October): 3-4 months in advance is ideal.
• Winter (November-March): 2-3 months is usually enough, but book early if you need a 4x4.

Since Iceland’s best hotels and rental cars sell out fast, we recommend booking as early as possible to secure your preferred itinerary.

Booking your Iceland self-drive tour is simple:

• Choose your itinerary – Select from our pre-planned routes or customize your own.
• Pick your rental car and accommodations – Choose from a range of vehicles and lodging options.
• Confirm your booking – Complete your secure online payment or contact one of our travel specialists for assistance.
• Receive your travel documents – We’ll send your itinerary, booking confirmations, and essential travel tips.
• Start your adventure – Pick up your rental car upon arrival and hit the road!

You can book online at any time or speak with one of our Iceland travel specialists for personalized recommendations.

Our packages include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) insurance. Optional additional coverage is available.