Iceland is not just a destination; it is another planet. Glaciers, volcanoes, and jet-black beaches create a landscape that feels prehistoric. However, planning a trip here—especially in winter—is tricky. The daylight hours are short, and the weather changes every 10 minutes. You need a precise online trip planner to chase the Northern Lights safely.
Unlike the city breaks in our London Guide, Iceland is a road trip adventure. This Iceland route planner focuses on the South Coast and the Golden Circle, optimizing your driving times so you don't get stuck in a snowstorm in the dark.
Before You Go: Winter Logistics (Read Carefully)
- Driving: If you rent a car, you must get a 4x4. Check road.is every morning for road closures. If you are not confident driving on ice, book guided tours instead.
- Daylight: In winter, you only have 4-5 hours of light (11 AM to 4 PM). Plan your driving for the dark hours and your sightseeing for the light hours.
- Clothing: Layers are key. "There is no bad weather, only bad clothing." You need waterproof pants, not just a jacket.
Day 1: Arrival & The Blue Lagoon
Land at Keflavik Airport and head straight to relaxation.
The Blue Lagoon
It is touristy, but it is famous for a reason. Soaking in the milky blue geothermal water surrounded by black lava fields is surreal. Pro Tip: Book your slot for your arrival or departure day as it is near the airport, saving you a long drive from Reykjavik.
Evening: Reykjavik Downtown
Check into your hotel in Reykjavik. Walk down Laugavegur street, visit the Hallgrímskirkja church (the one that looks like a rocket), and grab a hot dog at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur (Bill Clinton ate here!).
Day 2: The Golden Circle (Classic Route)
This is the essential loop that covers the most famous geological wonders.
Stop 1: Thingvellir National Park
Walk between two continents. This is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are pulling apart. It is also a filming location for Game of Thrones.
Stop 2: Geysir Geothermal Area
Watch the Strokkur geyser erupt 20 meters into the air every 6-10 minutes. The smell of sulfur (rotten eggs) is strong, but the sight is worth it.
Stop 3: Gullfoss Waterfall
The "Golden Falls" is massive. In winter, the edges freeze into glittering ice sculptures. It is windy here, so cover your face.
Watch: The Golden Circle Experience
Day 3: The South Coast (Waterfalls & Black Sand)
Drive east on Route 1. The scenery here is dramatic and constantly changing.
Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss
First, visit Seljalandsfoss, the waterfall you can walk behind (wear a raincoat!). Then, head to Skógafoss, a thunderous curtain of water. Legend says there is a chest of gold hidden behind it.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Near the village of Vík, you will find the world-famous black sand beach. The basalt columns look like a church organ carved by nature. Safety Warning: Never turn your back on the ocean here. "Sneaker waves" are deadly and can pull you in instantly.
Day 4: Ice Caves & Glaciers
This requires a guide. You cannot do this safely on your own.
Crystal Ice Caves
In winter, meltwater channels under the Vatnajökull glacier freeze into bright blue crystal caves. Taking a Super Jeep tour to explore inside a glacier is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The blue color is so intense it looks photoshopped.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
See massive blue icebergs floating in the lagoon before they drift out to sea and wash up on "Diamond Beach," sparkling against the black sand.
Day 5: The Northern Lights Hunt (Aurora Borealis)
You might see them on any night, but dedicate your last night to a serious hunt.
How to see them?
You need three things: darkness, clear skies, and solar activity (KP index).
- DIY: Drive away from city lights (Grotta Lighthouse is a good close spot).
- Tour: A guided tour is better because they track the cloud cover and will drive you 2-3 hours to find a clear patch of sky. If you don't see them, most companies offer a free try the next night.
Iceland Food Guide: Expensive but Unique
- Icelandic Lamb Soup (Kjötsúpa): Hearty, warming, and relatively affordable.
- Skyr: A thick, yogurt-like dairy product. High in protein and delicious with berries.
- Fermented Shark (Hákarl): Only for the brave. It smells like ammonia. Wash it down with Brennivín (Black Death) schnapps.
🇮🇸 Chase the Lights!
The Northern Lights are elusive. To maximize your chances, book a guided Northern Lights Tour with professional photographers. Also, the Blue Lagoon requires booking weeks in advance. Secure your slots below.