How to plan the perfect Iceland self-drive: Why car rental beats taking a tour

Going on vacation to Iceland is more than just a trip—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime journey into some of the world’s most dramatic landscapes. Towering waterfalls, volcanic craters, steaming hot springs, and black-sand beaches all await. While photos and videos capture moments, nothing compares to experiencing the freedom of exploring Iceland at your own pace.

And the best way to do that? By renting a car and setting out on a self-drive adventure. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a family, a couple, or a solo traveler, driving yourself allows you to go beyond the obvious, discover hidden treasures, and shape your own unique itinerary. Guided tours have their place, but when it comes to Iceland, nothing beats the flexibility of a self-drive.

Why choose a self-drive over guided tours?

Guided tours in Iceland can be convenient, especially if you don’t want to think about logistics. But they also come with restrictions: strict schedules, limited stops, and often crowded buses. Renting a car, especially with trusted local companies like Blue Car Rental, gives you full control of your time and experience.

Here are the key advantages:

• Flexible Timetable – Forget rushing through landmarks. You decide how long to stay at each stop.
  
• Unplanned Stops – Iceland’s landscapes are endlessly photogenic. Want to pull over for a rainbow above a waterfall? No problem.
  
• Access to Hidden Gems – Many places are off the main tourist trail and rarely included in group tours.
  
• Comfort & Privacy – Travel only with your own group, without strangers or crowded buses.
  
• Budget-Friendly for Groups – Splitting rental and fuel costs among family or friends often makes self-driving cheaper per person than tours.
  
• Adventure Spirit – Driving yourself means feeling like an explorer rather than a passenger.
  

Choosing the right car for Iceland

Your choice of vehicle matters, and it depends on when and where you plan to travel. Iceland’s roads and weather conditions can vary dramatically.

• 4×4 Rental Iceland – Essential for winter driving and any trip into the Highlands. A four-wheel-drive vehicle handles snow, gravel, and F-roads with safety and confidence.
  
• Compact Cars – Perfect for summer road trips along the Ring Road or shorter journeys from Reykjavík. Fuel-efficient and easy to park.
  
• Camper Vans – A smart option for budget-conscious travelers. With sleeping space and sometimes kitchen facilities, they combine car rental and accommodation.
  

Most visitors book their airport car rental at Keflavík, just steps from the arrivals hall, so they can hit the road right away. However, if you plan to spend a few days exploring Reykjavík first, renting a car later from the city may be more convenient.

Roads to know before you go

Driving in Iceland is part of the adventure. You’ll encounter a mix of road types, each with its own character.

• Route 1 (Ring Road) – Iceland’s main highway circles the island and connects most major attractions. It’s paved and open year-round.
  
• Gravel Roads – Found in rural and remote areas. Drive carefully, as gravel can reduce traction.
  
• F-Roads – Mountain and Highland tracks, open only in summer and accessible only with a 4×4. These rugged roads often cross rivers and lead to Iceland’s wildest landscapes.
  

Popular self-drive itineraries

With your own car, Iceland opens up in countless directions. Here are some of the most popular road trip routes:

1. Ring Road Adventure (8–10 Days)
   The ultimate Iceland road trip. Circle the island and see it all: Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, South Coast waterfalls, the East Fjords, North Iceland’s geothermal wonders, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. From volcanic craters to glacial lagoons, this route captures the full spectrum of Icelandic nature. Winter travelers should plan extra driving time due to snow and icy conditions.
   
2. Golden Circle & South Coast (4–5 Days)
   Ideal for shorter visits, this route includes Þingvellir National Park, the erupting geysers at Geysir, the mighty Gullfoss waterfall, Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and the famous Reynisfjara black sand beach. Optional detours include glacier hikes and visits to Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon.
   
3. Westfjords (5–7 Days)
   Remote, wild, and breathtaking. The Westfjords are less visited but full of rewards: the bird cliffs of Látrabjarg, Dynjandi waterfall, and countless hot springs. Expect steep roads and long drives, but also unmatched solitude.
   
4. Highlands (5–7 Days, Summer Only)
   A paradise for adventurers. With a 4×4, you can access colorful rhyolite mountains in Landmannalaugar, cross rivers into Þórsmörk, or hike around Askja volcano. This is Iceland at its rawest.
   

Driving tips for Iceland

To make your self-drive safe and enjoyable, keep these essentials in mind:

• Speed Limits: 90 km/h on paved roads, 80 km/h on gravel, 50 km/h in towns.
  
• Weather: Icelandic conditions change quickly. Always check road.is for closures and weather updates.
  
• Fuel: Gas stations become sparse in remote regions. Fill up whenever you can.
  
• Bridges: Many are single-lane. Yield to oncoming traffic.
  
• Sheep on Roads: Especially in summer, flocks often wander freely. Drive slowly near them.
  
• Lights: Headlights must be on at all times, day or night.
  

Best seasons for a self-drive

Every season in Iceland offers something different.

• June–August – Endless daylight, mild weather, and accessible Highland routes. Peak tourist season.
  
• September–October – Fewer crowds, stunning autumn colors, and the chance to see the Northern Lights.
  
• November–March – A snowy wonderland. Best for Northern Lights chasing and ice cave tours. A 4×4 is highly recommended.
  
• April–May – Spring brings powerful waterfalls and blooming landscapes, with fewer tourists than summer.
  

Road trip essentials

To make the most of your drive, pack smart. Essentials include:

• Offline maps or a reliable GPS device
  
• Waterproof clothing and warm layers for unpredictable weather
  
• Snacks and water for long drives
  
• Extra fuel if heading into remote areas
  
• First aid kit and emergency numbers saved
  
• Travel insurance that covers rental vehicles and roadside assistance
  

Self-drive vs. guided tours: A quick comparison

Ready to hit the road?

Renting a car in Iceland is about more than just transportation—it’s your key to adventure. With the freedom of a self-drive, you can chase waterfalls, soak in hidden hot springs, climb volcanoes, and discover landscapes that tours might skip entirely.

For peace of mind and local expertise, trusted providers like Blue Car Rental make the process easy, offering a range of vehicles, full insurance options, and 24/7 roadside assistance.

Don’t wait—start planning your Iceland road trip today and experience the journey of a lifetime on your own terms.