Reykjavik is Iceland's capital city and the starting point for our adventure. Spend the morning exploring the city's unique architecture and eclectic shops. In the afternoon, head to Silfra, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to snorkel or dive between two tectonic plates. The crystal-clear water and otherworldly colors make this a nature lover's dream.
Take a scenic drive to Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO heritage site featuring a rift valley caused by the separation of two tectonic plates. Drive on to the Geysir hot spring area to witness the geysers erupt into the air every few minutes. Finally, visit the Gullfoss waterfall to experience the power of Iceland's nature firsthand.
Start the day by walking along Iceland's famous black sand beach at Reynisfjara, with its dramatic cliffs and basalt columns. Drive on to visit the Svartifoss waterfall, surrounded by black hexagonal columns of basalt. End the day with a stop at the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, where you can watch chunks of ice break off and float away from the glacier.
Relax and rejuvenate at the Blue Lagoon, a natural geothermal pool with mineral-rich waters that are soothing to the skin. Spend the afternoon exploring Reykjavik's many museums and restaurants. Don't miss a visit to the top of the Hallgrímskirkja church for panoramic views of the city.
Travelers will need to rent a car to explore Iceland's natural wonders. A 4x4 is recommended for the rocky terrain. Expect to spend approximately $300 for a 3-day rental. Keep in mind that Iceland has unpredictable weather, so it is important to check road and weather conditions often. Gas is also expensive, at around $7 USD per gallon. Plan your route carefully to minimize travel time and costs.
If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, known as "Iceland in Miniature" for its diverse landscape. If you have less time, skip the Reynisfjara beach stop on the South Coast tour. It is a bit out of the way and can be crowded with tourists. Instead, spend more time exploring the other two destinations on the tour.
Iceland's main international airport is Keflavik International Airport (KEF), located 50km southwest of Reykjavik. Airlines that offer direct flights to KEF include Icelandair, Delta, United, and WOW Air. From the airport, you can take a bus, rental car, or taxi to Reykjavik, which is about a 45-minute drive away.