Ultimate road trip guide for the golden circle Iceland

Driving is one of the best ways to explore Iceland. The traffic free roads and easily found attractions make for easy driving route around the golden circle. Making the most of your trip depends completely on your route and how much you can see during the duration of your trip.

Ultimate road trip guide for the golden circle Iceland We hired a car from Green motion car rentals and were collected from the airport to retrieve our car near by. This saved us money on a taxi from the airport and then back to the airport upon our return.  Everyone generally stays in Reykjavik as their base for exploring the south of Iceland. It’s conveniently located at the waters edge within easy reach of waterfalls, geyser’s and craters. Reykjavik itself is the largest town in Iceland and also the capital city. Staying here makes for great food, nights out and high end shopping.  The Golden circle is located to the south of the island and covers arid 300km. The drive is easily manageable for one day and normally takes around 3.5 hours.

Top tip

On your way from Reykjavik head to Bruarfoss waterfall located 88km and 1.5 hours from Reykjavik. This large falls watches water fall down short falls and is an amazing sight.

Stop 1 – Geyser

Located 1.5 hours from Reykjavik this 100km drive is a scenic drive through the mountains. The first stop on the golden circle tour is Geyser national park. Follow the trails as you watch the geothermal geyser’s bubble to boiling point for an almighty eruption. Spirting out water up to 30 meters high every few minutes this is definatkey a unique experience and our favourite on the golden circle route. Follow the trails for the smaller geyser’s and geothermal streams that scatter the national park. Head to the coffee shop for refreshments amongst natural wooden furniture and take in the views of the surrounding mountains.   Stop 2 – Gullfoss waterfall

Only 15 minutes from Geyser national park is Gullfoss waterfall nicknamed the golden falls. This white water falls looks spectacular as the water plummets into the canyon below. Paths around and above are provided to take in the views from all angles.This is definatkey our favourite waterfall in Iceland.  Stop 3 – Pingvellir National Park

1 hour and 70km away from Gullfoss is Pingvellir national park. The national park offers sensational views, wildlife and tectonic plates to marvel. Gaze down at the water and get the reflection if you visit in the right season. Throw in a coin for good measure to join in with tradition.

Top tip

If you have your own car you have the ability to stop at other locations along the way. On the way back to Reykjavik we recommend a stop of Kerid crater. This volcanic crater costs 300ISK to visit and is well worth the extra time. 

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