Iceland Overland | The Great Aurora Quest
- Scandinavia
Durations
6 Days
Difficulty
Challenging, Moderate
Enjoy the Adventure
Experience the magic of Iceland in winter with this 6-day self-drive adventure designed for travelers seeking independence, adventure, and natural beauty. From chasing the Northern Lights across open skies to exploring frozen waterfalls, black sand beaches, and crystal blue ice caves, this itinerary combines iconic attractions with unforgettable seasonal highlights. With your own 4x4 vehicle, you’ll journey through the Golden Circle, South Coast, and glacier regions at your own pace, discovering the raw power and serenity of Icelandic nature in its purest form.
This trip is ideal for confident winter drivers and photography enthusiasts eager to witness Iceland’s landscapes under their icy, snow-draped transformation. Each day balances scenic drives with immersive outdoor experiences — ending most evenings with a chance to spot the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis.
Day-to-Day Itinerary
We have carefully planned out each day to give you the best possible experience. From exploring historic landmarks to tasting delicious local cuisine, each day is packed with adventure and excitement. Join us as we take you on a journey through some of the most fascinating destinations in the world.
Distance Covered: ~50 km
Focus: 4×4 pickup and first night of aurora hunting away from city lights.
Vehicle: A 4×4 is strongly recommended for winter conditions.
Arrive at KEF airport, pick up your 4×4 vehicle, and settle into your accommodation on the Reykjanes Peninsula. This area offers dramatic volcanic landscapes and less light pollution than the capital. After dark, head out on your first search for the Northern Lights.
Night Stay: Reykjanes Peninsula area.
Distance Covered: ~250 km
Time Taken: Full day of sightseeing
Terrain: Main roads, check for icy conditions.
Drive the essential Golden Circle route to see Iceland’s most famous landmarks in their winter coat. Visit Þingvellir National Park, the steaming geothermal fields of Geysir, and the partially frozen, ice-adorned Gullfoss waterfall. End the day at a rural hotel for another opportunity to witness the aurora.
Night Stay: Hella / Hvolsvöllur area.
Distance Covered: ~190 km
Time Taken: 5–7 hours with stops
Focus: Iconic South Coast scenery under winter conditions.
Journey along the South Coast. The day’s highlights include the iconic Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, which may be partially frozen into spectacular ice formations. Continue to the famous Reynisfjara black sand beach to see the basalt columns against the powerful winter waves.
Night Stay: Vík / Kirkjubæjarklaustur area.
Distance Covered: ~200 km
Time Taken: Full day with activities
Focus: Prime winter activities: Ice caves and Jökulsárlón.
Today features two of Iceland’s most sought-after winter experiences. Take a guided super jeep tour to explore a natural crystal blue ice cave in the Vatnajökull glacier. Afterwards, visit the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and Diamond Beach, an incredible location to photograph the Northern Lights if they appear.
Night Stay: Jökulsárlón / Höfn area.
Distance Covered: ~320 km
Time Taken: Full day with activity and driving
Focus: Glacier hiking and scenic return drive.
In the morning, join a guided glacier hike in the Skaftafell area to walk on the ancient ice of an outlet glacier. After the hike, begin the long but scenic drive back west along the South Coast, stopping for photos as daylight allows and keeping an eye out for the aurora after dark.
Night Stay: Hella / Selfoss area.
Distance Covered: ~120 km
Time Taken: Half-day with spa visit.
Conclude your winter adventure with a relaxing soak in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon (pre-booking is essential). The contrast of the warm water with the cold winter air is a memorable experience. Afterwards, drive the short distance to KEF airport for your departure.
Inclusions
We plan for all stays and meals. We arrange, if required, for accomodation on a twin-sharing or single basis, Inner Line Permits and associated fees, a basic First Aid Kit for fixed departures, certified guides and instructors including NOLS-certified guides, mechanic support throughout the trip.
Exclusions
- Flights: International flights to and from Keflavik Airport (KEF) are not included.
- Fuel: The cost of gasoline/diesel for the rental car is a significant variable expense and is not included.
- Food and Drink: Lunches, dinners, and any other meals or drinks outside of included breakfasts are not covered.
- Optional Tours: Any activities not explicitly listed as included, such as a boat tour on Jökulsárlón or whale watching, would be an additional cost.
- Personal Expenses: Any costs related to souvenirs, extra activities, or personal items.
- GST and TCS
- Insurance:
Vehicle Insurance Upgrades: While basic CDW is included, supplementary insurance like Super CDW (SCDW), Gravel Protection (GP), and Sand and Ash Protection (SAAP) is highly recommended for winter and is an extra cost.
Travel Insurance: Personal travel and medical insurance is not included. - Factors That Can Affect the Final Price*.
- Choice of Vehicle: Upgrading to a larger or more premium 4×4 vehicle will increase the cost.
- Accommodation Level: Opting for higher-end hotels or boutique stays instead of standard guesthouses will raise the price.
- Group Size: The price is calculated per person based on two people sharing costs. A solo traveler would have a significantly higher price due to bearing the full cost of the vehicle and single-room supplements. A group of four sharing a larger car would likely have a lower per-person cost.
- Booking Window: Prices for cars and accommodations can increase closer to the travel date.
(*The price range provided can vary based on several factors)
