Iceland Itinerary: 10 Days — Going Deeper

Iceland's dramatic landscapes and raw natural beauty can be sampled in a week, but ten days allows you to venture beyond the well-trodden Golden Circle and Ring Road highlights. This extended itinerary takes you to remote fjords, hidden valleys, and lesser-known geological wonders whilst still ensuring you experience Iceland's essential sites. The pace is deliberately measured, allowing time for weather delays and spontaneous discoveries that make Icelandic adventures truly memorable.

Days 1-2: Reykjavík and the Reykjanes Peninsula

Base yourself in Reykjavík for two nights, using one full day to explore the city's vibrant culture and another to thoroughly investigate the Reykjanes Peninsula. Beyond the famous Blue Lagoon (entry from 7,990 ISK), venture to the Bridge Between Continents at Sandvík, where you can literally walk between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

Drive to Krýsuvík geothermal area, 47km south of Reykjavík, where bubbling mud pools and steaming fumaroles demonstrate Iceland's volcanic activity without the crowds of Geysir. The lighthouse at Reykjanesviti, built in 1878, marks Iceland's southwestern point and offers dramatic coastal views. End your Peninsula exploration at Gunnuhver hot springs, named after the ghost Gunna who was allegedly trapped in the springs during the 17th century.

Days 3-4: The Golden Circle and Geysir Area

Rather than rushing through the Golden Circle in a single day, spend two days exploring this region properly. Visit Þingvellir National Park early morning to avoid crowds, spending time understanding its dual significance as both a geological marvel and the birthplace of Icelandic democracy. The Almannagjá gorge stretches 7.7km and provides excellent hiking opportunities.

Dedicate an entire afternoon to the Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall. Strokkur erupts every 5-10 minutes, reaching heights of 15-20 metres. At Gullfoss, take the less-travelled upper path for photographs without crowds. Stay overnight in Selfoss or the Geysir area to maximise your time.

Day 5: Landmannalaugar Adventure

Drive the 108km from Selfoss to Landmannalaugar via Route 26 and F208 (requiring a 4WD vehicle). This journey into Iceland's interior reveals the country's volcanic heart. Landmannalaugar, situated at 600 metres elevation, showcases rhyolite mountains in extraordinary colours—deep reds, vibrant yellows, and striking greens created by geothermal activity over millennia.

The day hike to Brennisteinsalda (Sulphur Wave) mountain covers 4km return and takes approximately 2.5 hours. The trail passes through lava fields, steaming hot springs, and provides panoramic views across the Fjallabak Nature Reserve. Relax afterwards in the natural hot springs (free) fed by underground geothermal sources. Return to Selfoss or continue to Vík for your next base.

Days 6-7: South Coast Immersion

Establish a base in Vík í Mýrdal for two nights, using this charming village as your headquarters for exploring Iceland's dramatic southern coastline. Day six focuses on the western attractions: Seljalandsfoss (where you can walk behind the 65-metre waterfall) and Skógafoss, equally impressive at 60 metres high and 25 metres wide.

Between these waterfalls, investigate the Kvernufoss hidden waterfall, a 30-metre cascade tucked into a narrow ravine just 1.2km from the Ring Road. Far fewer visitors discover this gem, making it perfect for photography and quiet contemplation.

Day seven explores eastward from Vík. Reynisfjara black sand beach showcases Iceland's volcanic heritage, with hexagonal basalt columns and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks. Drive to Dyrhólaey arch (120 metres above sea level) for coastal panoramas and puffin watching during summer months (May-August).

Continue to Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon, carved by the Fjaðrá river over millennia. The 100-metre deep canyon stretches for 2km and offers spectacular hiking along its rim.

Days 8-9: Westfjords Expedition

The Westfjords represent Iceland's most remote and dramatic region, requiring two full days to properly appreciate. Fly from Reykjavík domestic airport to Ísafjörður (45-minute flight, approximately 25,000 ISK), or budget a full day for the 450km drive via the Hvalfjörður tunnel.

Day eight explores the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, accessible only by boat from Ísafjörður (tours from 15,000 ISK). This uninhabited peninsula, abandoned by human residents in 1952, now hosts Arctic foxes, countless seabirds, and pristine hiking trails. The boat journey to Hornbjarg cliff reveals 534-metre vertical drops into the Greenland Sea.

Day nine investigates Dynjandi waterfall, the Westfjords' crown jewel. This seven-tiered cascade drops 100 metres in a series of falls, with Dynjandi itself measuring 60 metres wide at its base. The 15-minute hike from the car park passes six smaller waterfalls, each with distinct characteristics.

Visit Látrabjarg cliff, Europe's westernmost point, stretching 14km with heights reaching 441 metres. During summer, millions of seabirds including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills nest along these cliffs.

Day 10: Return and Reflection

Your final day allows for flexible exploration before departure. If flying from Keflavík, visit the Seltún geothermal area at Krýsuvík for a final encounter with Iceland's volcanic activity, or explore Hafnarfjörður's elf culture and lava formations.

Budget travellers can expect daily costs around 15,000-20,000 ISK including accommodation, meals, and activities. Mid-range travellers should budget 25,000-35,000 ISK daily, whilst luxury experiences command 50,000+ ISK per day.

Practical Considerations

This itinerary requires a 4WD vehicle for Landmannalaugar access and Westfjords exploration. Total driving distance approaches 2,000km. Weather can dramatically impact plans, particularly in the Westfjords and interior regions. Always check road conditions at road.is and weather forecasts at vedur.is.

Book accommodation well in advance, particularly in the Westfjords where options are limited. Many highland roads, including access to Landmannalaugar, close between October and May depending on conditions.

This deeper exploration reveals Iceland beyond the postcard images, showcasing the raw, untamed nature that defines this extraordinary island nation.

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