10-Day Ring Road Iceland Itinerary by Campervan

Thinking of doing Iceland right? This 10-day Ring Road Iceland itinerary by campervan is built for travelers who hate rigid plans and love real freedom. No hotel check-ins. No backtracking.

Just you, a camper, and the most jaw-dropping scenery you'll ever wake up to. We're talking waterfalls outside your window and boiling mud pots down the road. Every stop, drive, and campsite in this guide is made with campervan travelers in mind. If you’re still planning the trip, the first step is to rent a camper in Iceland—it’s the best way to experience the country on your terms.

So, if you're ready to explore Iceland the way it's meant to be done, let's map out a route that actually works in the real world.

Why Explore Iceland's Ring Road in a Campervan?

Hotels lock you in. Campervans set you loose. That's the difference. A 10-day Ring Road itinerary in a camper means no scrambling for bookings or racing to beat check-in times. You've got full control. Sleep next to a fjord, linger longer at that waterfall, or reroute when the weather shifts. Try doing that with fixed hotel stays.

General view of an Icelandic road with road signs on the right and a campervan carrying a bike on its back on the left.

You'll cut costs, too. With transport, bed, and kitchen in one, you dodge inflated hotel prices and overpriced restaurant meals. Stock up at a local grocery store, cook in your van, and spend the extra cash on experiences that actually matter.

And then there's the vibe. You're not stuck behind glass. You're in it. Breathing cold glacier air at breakfast. Watching the northern lights from your pillow. If you want Iceland raw and unfiltered, campervan travel is the way to do it.

Planning Your 10-Day Campervan Trip Around Iceland

Before hitting the Ring Road, you'll want a game plan that actually works for campervan travel. First, choose the right season. May through September gives you longer days and easier roads. Winter? Only if you've got nerves of steel and studded tires.

Next, pick your van wisely. Don't just go for looks. Think size, fuel type, included gear, and if you're covered for gravel damage. Trust us, Iceland has a lot of gravel. Plan fuel and grocery stops ahead of time.

Gas stations thin out in the East, and rural shops can get pricey. Bring your own bags, and stock up in bigger towns like Selfoss or Akureyri. Driving rules? Always keep headlights on. Stick to paved roads unless your van is 4x4. And no, you can't just pull over and sleep anywhere. Use campsites. They're everywhere and worth it.

A man wearing a cap and a red sweatshirt pulls the rope that holds the hood or trunk of the roof of his vehicle.

Lastly, download offline maps. Signal isn't guaranteed when trolls are blocking the towers.

Day-by-Day Campervan Itinerary

This 10-day Ring Road Iceland itinerary by campervan is made for travelers who want the freedom to explore without rushing. It includes manageable drive times, must-see stops, and camper-friendly campsites. Use it as your guide, or adjust as you go. Iceland rewards flexibility.

Day 1: Golden Circle & Secret Lagoon – The Perfect Campervan Kickoff

Distance: ~270 km (168 mi)
Drive Time: Around 4.5 hours (excluding stops)

Your 10-day Ring Road itinerary kicks off with a classic: the Golden Circle. Pick up your campervan right at Keflavík Airport from our depot. Before you get too excited and hit the road, take a minute to check what's actually in the van. Blankets, pans, cutlery... It's better to find out what's missing here than halfway to the Highlands.

Then, make a pit stop in Reykjavík to stock up at Bónus or Krónan. Get Skyr. Trust us. It's basically Iceland in a cup. Start your route at Thingvellir National Park. It's where the continents are literally pulling apart. Walk between tectonic plates, see the Law Rock, and snap a photo of Öxarárfoss. Then, head to the Geysir geothermal area. Strokkur blasts off every few minutes, and the surrounding landscape feels like a sci-fi movie set.

General view of Öxarárfoss waterfall in Iceland at sunset.

Next up, Gullfos. It's loud, powerful, and usually rainbow-drenched if the sun's out. Take your time here. Afterward, consider a detour for local flavor: Efsti Dalur for farm-made ice cream or Friðheimar for a tomato soup lunch inside a greenhouse. Wrap up your first day with a soak at the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir. It's the real deal. Steamy, rustic, and far less crowded than the tourist-heavy Blue Lagoon.

Crash for the night at Selfoss Campsite. It's camper-friendly, has hot showers, and a shared kitchen that's perfect for your first home-cooked van meal. Day one? Handled.

Campervan Tips for Day 1

Fill up in Reykjavík or Selfoss. You won't see another station for a while.
Restock in Selfoss if you missed anything. It's your last big supermarket stop for a bit.
Weather shifts fast out here. Secure your stuff and keep layers within reach.
Get to your campsite before it's pitch black. First-night setup always takes longer than you think.
Use the kitchen if it's too windy to cook outside. Warm food + warm room = happy camper.

Day 2: South Coast Highlights & Vík – Waterfalls, Black Sands, and Seaside Charm

Distance: ~160 km (100 mi)
Driving Time: 2.5 to 3 hours (excluding stops)

Counter-view of the Gljúfrabúi waterfall in Iceland with two tourists on a rock enjoying the waterfall very close to this hidden spectacle of nature.

Day two of your 10-day Ring Road Iceland itinerary by campervan brings some of the South Coast's most iconic sights. Start early at Seljalandsfoss. Yes, it's the one you can walk behind. Bring a rain jacket. You'll get soaked, and it'll be worth it. Just a short stroll north, duck behind a narrow canyon to find Gljúfrabúi. This waterfall is a hidden gem that feels like a secret garden.

Keep heading east to Skógafoss. It's massive, loud, and you'll probably spot a rainbow at the base. Climb the stairs if you've got the energy. Then, make a quick fuel or grocery stop in Skógar or Hvolsvöllur before the stations get fewer and far between.

Midday, detour to Sólheimajökull for a walk to the glacier's edge, or book a hike if you're up for it. Then, it's off to Dyrhólaey for ocean views, a lighthouse, and puffin spotting in summer. Reynisfjara Beach is next. Basalt columns, sea stacks, black sand. It's quite dramatic, to be honest. Keep your distance from the waves. They're no joke.

Roll into Vík in the afternoon. The town's quiet charm is a nice break. Grab dinner, visit the swimming pool, or just stroll around. From September to April, it's a great base for northern lights spotting.

End your day at Vík Campsite. It's got everything: hot showers, indoor cooking space, laundry, and proper campervan facilities. Plug in, recharge, and get ready for Day 3.

General view of Iceland's Vik campground with multiple tents and vehicles spread out across the grounds.

Campervan Tips for Day 2

Fuel up in Vík before heading east.
Always park into the wind. South Coast gusts can rip doors.
Don't turn your back on the sea at Reynisfjara. Ever.

Day 3: Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon & Skaftafell – Canyon Views and Glacier Adventures

Distance: ~147 km (91 mi)
Estimated Driving Time: 2 hours (excluding stops)

Day three of your 10-day Ring Road Iceland itinerary by campervan is packed with raw nature and epic trails. Leave Vík early and head east toward Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon. It's about an hour's drive, with winding views along the way.

Fjaðrárgljúfur is deep, narrow, and carved by glacial meltwater. Park at the lower lot and walk the trail along the rim. The views from above are unreal. Just check ahead. Access is sometimes restricted to protect the delicate ecosystem.

General view of Iceland's Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon during a partly cloudy day, showing the imposing rocks that form the canyon and the river that flows between them.

If the river is calm and it's summer, you can hike down into the canyon. Otherwise, stick to the marked paths. Bring snacks, water, and gear up with good shoes and waterproofs. No shops out here.

The road from Route 1 is gravel, so take it slow, especially if you're in a 2WD campervan. Most rentals aren't insured for F-roads. Pull into Kirkjubæjarklaustur for fuel and supplies. This is your last decent stop before things get remote again. Grab what you need, stretch your legs, then hit the road.

From here on out, the landscape feels like it's showing off. You'll drive through endless lava fields, cross glacial rivers, and get your first real look at Vatnajökull looming in the distance.

Once you reach Skaftafell, swing by the Visitor Center. Ask about trail updates, grab a map, and get the latest on the weather. Staff there are usually friendly and straight-up about what's worth your time.

Camp at Skaftafell's campsite with scenic views and hot showers, Wi-Fi, and laundry. No store on site, so come prepared.

Campervan Tips for Day 3

Fuel up in Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
Keep meals simple (no indoor kitchen).
Use the campsite laundry if you need a reset.
Dress for unpredictable weather.

Day 4: Glacier Lagoons and Diamond Beach

Distance: ~137 km (80 mi)
Estimated Driving Time: 2 hours (excluding stops)

Day four of your 10-day Ring Road Iceland itinerary by campervan is proof that Iceland just keeps showing off. Icebergs, black sand, and seals pretending they're not posing for your photos.

Start the day with a short drive to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. You'll see massive icebergs floating around like it's totally normal. If you want to get up close, book a zodiac or amphibious tour. Do it early, especially in summer. These boats fill up faster than your gas tank on a windy day.

Detail of one of the ice chunks that remain stranded on the black sand beach at Diamond Beach during sunset.

Cross the road, and you're at Diamond Beach. This place is ridiculous in the best way. Ice chunks sparkle on black sand like someone spilled a tray of frozen diamonds. It's a top-tier photo stop.

There are a couple of food trucks nearby, or you can cook lunch in your van. With that view, even instant noodles taste different. Next, stop at Fjallsárlón. Fewer people, more quiet. You'll get glacier views without bumping elbows with three tour groups.

On the way to Höfn, stretch your legs at Hofskirkja or pull over in the lava fields. Wrap it up in Höfn. Grab some lobster or make dinner at the campsite. Höfn Camping has everything. Showers, laundry, hookups, and enough space to breathe again.

Campervan Tips for Day 4

Fill up in Skaftafell or Höfn unless pushing your van is on the bucket list.
Get your groceries sorted before heading out.
The wind here is serious. Don't learn that the hard way.
Golden Hour is real. Use it before the fog rolls in.

Day 5: East Fjords and Seyðisfjörður

Distance: ~280 km (174 mi)
Estimated Driving Time: 4 to 5 hours (excluding stops)

General view of one of the Petra's Stone collections that can be visited in Stöðvarfjörður, Iceland.

Today is all about slowing down and soaking in Iceland's quiet side. The East Fjords don't shout for attention. They win you over with peaceful fishing towns, winding roads, and scenery that just keeps going.

Leave early from Höfn or Djúpivogur and take your time on the coastal route. It's curvy, yes, but every turn brings another photo op.

In Stöðvarfjörður, stop by Petra's Stone Collection. It's delightfully weird. One woman, thousands of rocks, and zero apologies. While you're there, check out the local craft shops. You'll find everything from wool sweaters to things you didn't know you needed until you saw them.

Roll into Egilsstaðir for fuel, food, and supplies. This is your last big hub before heading deeper into the wild. Take a short detour to Hallormsstaður forest or scan the waters of Lake Lagarfljót for that elusive lake monster everyone insists lives there.

If you've got energy, tackle the hike to Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss. Just be ready to climb. The views? Worth it. From Egilsstaðir, the drive to Seyðisfjörður feels like a movie. Climb over a misty pass, then drop into a fjord wrapped in waterfalls and painted houses.

Camp in town or backtrack to Egilsstaðir if it's full. Either way, end the day with a walk through Seyðisfjörður's colorful streets and let it all sink in. This is the kind of place that sticks with you.

General and water level view of what looks like an Icelandic camping site, as in the distance you can see blue-roofed cabins in a green and flat environment perfect for short stays.

Campervan Tips for Day 5

Fuel up in Egilsstaðir. Nothing reliable after that.
Grab groceries here, too. Don't count on the small towns.
Check the mountain pass before driving. Fog hits fast.
Park into the wind. These fjords don't mess around.

Day 6: Waterfalls, Nature Baths, and Lake Mývatn

Distance: ~250 km (155 mi)
Estimated Driving Time: 3 to 4 hours (excluding sightseeing)

Day six brings a change in scenery and pace. Start with Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe. It's raw, loud, and unforgettable. The west side is easier to access, especially if you're not in a 4x4. The east side brings you closer to the action but involves a slower, rougher drive.

Just upstream, take the short walk to Selfoss. It's calmer and wider, with a graceful flow that's totally different from Dettifoss's thunder. Plan about an hour for both. Bring water and snacks since there's nothing at the parking area.

General view of Iceland's Grjótagjá lava cave with its unique roof-like rocks and a beautiful blue lagoon covering the site.

Next, head toward the geothermal zone at Námafjall Hverir. This place looks like another planet. Mud pots bubble, steam vents hiss, and the sulfur smell is impossible to miss. Keep to the marked trails and enjoy the contrast.

If you're curious, stop by Grjótagjá. This is a lava cave with a hot spring and Game of Thrones fame. Swimming isn't allowed, but it's a cool stop.

Spend your afternoon around Lake Mývatn. Walk through the lava formations at Dimmuborgir and explore the crater-like formations at Skútustaðagígar. End your day at the Mývatn Nature Baths. Soak in the mineral water with views of the lake.

Camp nearby at Vogar Camping or Hlid Campsite. Both are close to the lake, offer electricity, showers, and are great bases for exploring the area at your own pace.

Campervan Tips for Day 6

Fuel up before you get here.
Buy groceries in Akureyri or Reykjahlíð.
Close your windows. The midges here don't take days off.
Drive slowly on gravel and keep an eye out for sheep.

Day 7: Húsavík Whale Watching and Akureyri

Distance: ~150 km (92 mi)
Estimated Driving Time: 2.5 to 3 hours (excluding activities)

General view of Húsavik in Iceland with multiple fishing boats in its bay, all docked.

Day seven of your 10-day Ring Road itinerary blends Iceland's wild marine life with city culture and cozy fjord views. Start your morning with a scenic drive from Lake Mývatn to Húsavík. The route takes about an hour, and the payoff is huge. Húsavík is known as Iceland's whale-watching capital for a reason.

Book your whale tour in advance if possible. The midday sailings give you time to enjoy the harbor and grab a bite before heading out. Sightings here are almost guaranteed, and humpbacks are the main stars.

Back on land, check out the Whale Museum, or enjoy a slow walk along the harbor. There's parking for campervans nearby and a few good spots to grab coffee or snacks before moving on.

Next, make your way to Godafoss. It's less than an hour from Húsavík and well worth the detour. You can view the falls from both sides. The eastern side has restrooms and a café, so it's a good place to break for lunch.

End the day in Akureyri. Explore the town's gardens, main street, and waterfront. Grab dinner at one of the local restaurants or cook something simple at Hamrar Camping.

Postcard taken from the Hamrar campground in Iceland with beautiful lavender flowers covering the entire site and a towering range of snow-capped mountains in the distance.

Campervan Tips for Day 7

Fuel up in Akureyri before moving on.
Stock groceries while you have big store options.
Use the laundry at Hamrar if needed.
Park with a disc if you stay in town.
Layer up; the north gets chilly.

Day 8: Tröllaskagi Peninsula and Hofsós Pool

Distance: ~292 km (57 mi)
Estimated Driving Time: Just under 4 hours (excluding stops)

Day eight takes you deep into the scenic and lesser-traveled Tröllaskagi Peninsula. Follow Route 82 as it winds past cliffs, ocean views, and small fishing villages. Dalvík is a quiet place to stop for coffee or a stretch. From there, you'll reach Ólafsfjörður through a short mountain tunnel. The harbor here is peaceful, framed by peaks.

Siglufjörður is next and well worth a longer stop. It's rich in fishing history and home to the Herring Era Museum. Park near the harbor and explore the colorful buildings, or grab lunch at a local café.

A river makes its way through the Icelandic peninsula of Tröllaskagi, with few buildings around but gigantic mountains.

Keep following the road west toward Hofsós. The town's geothermal pool is one of Iceland's most beautiful. Built above the fjord, it's simple but stunning. Take a swim or relax in the hot tub while soaking in the views across Skagafjörður.

Before you move on, make a quick stop at Grafarkirkja. This small turf church is Iceland's oldest and sits quietly in the landscape.

In the evening, drive through open valleys and past grazing horses as you head toward your overnight stop. Camp at Sæberg Campground if you want to soak in a geothermal tub by the fjord.

Campervan Tips for Day 8

Fill up in Akureyri or Siglufjörður.
Expect fog and wind along the coast.
Groceries are limited, so plan ahead.
Enjoy bakery stops for fresh snacks.

Day 9: Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Distance: 330 km (205 mi)
Driving Time: 4 to 5 hours, depending on how many stops you make

Black sand beach on the Icelandic peninsula of Snæfellsnes with the sea a bit rough and its waves breaking on its many rocks.

Day nine of your 10-day ring road itinerary packs in a lot of variety. Start with a walk on Djúpalónssandur, a black pebble beach surrounded by lava fields and sea cliffs. Look out for the rusted remains of a shipwreck and try your luck with the old lifting stones. Stay well back from the waves (there are sneaker waves that can pull you into the ocean).

Next stop, Lóndrangar. Two towering basalt stacks right on the edge of the sea. There's also a lighthouse nearby and a visitor center with restrooms if you need a break.

Then it's on to Arnarstapi. Walk the cliff path to Hellnar for views of sea arches, seabirds, and volcanic rock that looks like it belongs on another planet.

In the middle of the day, detour to Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge. It's steep and narrow with moss-covered walls. Waterproof shoes will help. Then stop by Búðakirkja, the famous black church, and Bjarnarfoss, an easy photo stop right by the road.

Later, hit Ytri Tunga. It's one of the few golden-sand beaches in Iceland and a good place to spot seals. If time's on your side, add a loop to Stykkishólmur for a seafood dinner or sunset views.

End your day at Hellissandur Campsite. It's quiet, clean, and close to the national park. You'll have hot showers, kitchen access, and one of the best night skies if the weather's clear.

General view of a sunset taken from Hellissandur Campsite in Iceland with a stunning sun reflected in the calm waters of what looks like an open sea.

Campervan Tips for Day 9

Fuel up in Ólafsvík or Stykkishólmur.
Pack for all kinds of weather.
Take it slow on gravel roads.
Use facilities, not the landscape.
Get to camp before dark.

Day 10: Back to Reykjavik via West Iceland

Distance: 250 km (155 mi)
Driving Time: Around 2.5 to 3 hours (not counting detours)

The last day of your 10-day Ring Road Iceland itinerary by campervan doesn't mean things slow down. West Iceland still has a few tricks up its sleeve. Start with coffee at your campsite and hit the road when you're ready.

Back on the road, keep an eye out for Gerduberg. Those tall basalt columns look too perfectly spaced to be real, but they are. It's a quick stop, worth the photo.

Before Reykjavik traffic creeps in, swing through Borgarnes or Mosfellsbær for fuel and supplies. Refilling here is way less stressful than scrambling in the city.

Aerial view of Iceland's Glymur waterfall surrounded by greenish vegetation on a sunny day.

If you've got time and some fuel in the tank (both yours and the van's), take a detour to Glymur. It's Iceland's second-tallest waterfall, and the hike gets you right up close. Expect river crossings, steep trails, and big views. Bring snacks, water shoes, and maybe a dry pair of socks for after.

Once you're back in Reykjavik, park the van and take a walk. Hit Hallgrímskirkja, grab a cinnamon bun on Laugavegur, or just stare at the Sun Voyager and pretend you're not thinking about your flight tomorrow.

If you're spending the night, Reykjavik Campsite has hot showers, laundry, and space to breathe.

Campervan Tips for Day 10

Top up your tank before the city.
Clean the van so you're not rushing in the morning.
Pack an overnight bag if you're flying early.
Use every last bit of campsite comfort before heading home.

Campervan Travel Tips for the Ring Road

Plan, but stay flexible. Weather changes fast. Have a rough route, but be ready to pivot. Some of the best places are unplanned.
Pick the right van. A standard camper does the job for the Ring Road. No need for a 4x4 unless you're heading into the highlands.
Fuel up often. Stations thin out quickly. Don't drop below half a tank, and fill up in bigger towns.
Check road and weather updates. Use Umferdin.is and the Icelandic Met Office daily.
Use campsites. They're easy to find, usually don't need booking, and have showers, kitchens, and charging points.
Stock up in town. Grocery stores are mostly in cities. Buy enough before heading into the empty stretches.
Travel responsibly. Stick to campsites, leave no trash, and keep Iceland wild.

General view of a motorhome parked in a wooded area with two folding chairs and a table outside.

Best Campsites on the Ring Road

Reykjavik Campsite – Big, central, and fully equipped. Great for starting or ending your trip with hot showers, laundry, and easy access to the city.
Selfoss Campsite – Ideal first-night stop after the Golden Circle. Spacious pitches, indoor kitchen, and clean facilities.
Vík Campsite – Close to Reynisfjara Beach and town amenities. Offers electricity, showers, and sheltered cooking space.
Skaftafell Campsite – Scenic and right inside Vatnajökull National Park. Perfect for hiking Svartifoss or exploring glaciers.
Höfn Camping – Well-maintained site with ocean views, good kitchens, and walking distance to restaurants.
Egilsstaðir Campsite – Reliable stop in the East for restocking, refueling, and recharging everything from your van to your phone.
Vogar or Hlid (Lake Mývatn) – Both offer easy access to geothermal sites and nature baths. Expect solid facilities and peaceful views.
Hamrar Camping (Akureyri) – One of the best-run campsites in the country. Clean, quiet, and close to Iceland's northern capital.

General view of an Icelandic campsite with multiple orange tents spread out in a rural setting surrounded by mountains and parked vehicles.

What to Pack for a 10-Day Iceland Campervan Trip

Layered clothing - Pack smart layers: thermal base, fleece or wool mid-layer, and a waterproof outer shell. Iceland's weather loves surprises.
Waterproof jacket and pants - Even if it looks sunny, bring them. Rain can hit fast and hard.
Warm hat, gloves, and a buff - Even in summer, mornings and evenings get cold.
Sturdy shoes - Hiking boots with ankle support and waterproofing will save your feet.
Swimsuit and towel - For hot springs and public pools. Quick-dry towels are your friend.
Headlamp or flashlight - Campsites can get dark, especially off-season.
Reusable water bottle - Iceland's tap water is clean, cold, and free.
Simple groceries and dry snacks - Food in remote areas is limited and pricey. Stock up early.
Sleeping bag or warm bedding - Nights can be chilly in a van. Don't rely on thin rental blankets.
Electronics and chargers - Don't forget a power bank and a car adapter. Outlets at campsites aren't always guaranteed.
Offline maps - Download your route ahead of time. Some areas have zero signal.
Toiletries and quick-dry towel - Basic showers are common at campsites. Bring your own supplies.
Insect repellent - Especially important near Lake Mývatn. Those midges won't show you mercy.

Several hiking backpacks lie on the ground in a rural setting creating a domino effect while a tent of the same bluish hue is seen behind.

Why This 10-Day Ring Road Iceland Itinerary by Campervan Just Works

Your 10-day Ring Road Iceland itinerary by campervan gives you the freedom to stop where you want, stay as long as you like, and see the best of Iceland without rushing.

From waterfalls and glaciers to hidden hot springs and wild coastlines, this route covers it all. Skip the hotel bookings and rigid tours. Rent a campervan in Iceland through us and take the road trip into your own hands.

Every day brings something new, and every night ends with views you won't forget. Ready to go? Your camper's waiting, and the road isn't going to drive itself.