Best Reykjavik RV Itinerary for long term rv rental - Overview
This long-term RV rental itinerary from Reykjavik provides an immersive journey through Iceland's diverse landscapes, often covering over 2,000 km over 7-15+ days, with the shoulder seasons (May-June, Sept-Oct) being ideal for fewer crowds and good road conditions. Imagine yourself cruising along the iconic Ring Road, with stunning views of glaciers, volcanoes, and black sand beaches unfolding before you. For live availability and current prices, start with our RV Rental Reykjavik - Complete Guide 2026 guide. The recommended journey typically encompasses the Golden Circle, the scenic South Coast, the dramatic Eastfjords, the geothermal North, and the charming Westfjords or Snæfellsnes Peninsula, culminating in a full circumnavigation of the Ring Road. A minimum of 7 days allows for a taste of Iceland's highlights, but 14-15 days are recommended for a comprehensive exploration of approximately 2045 km, ensuring ample time for sightseeing and relaxation. Traveling at a slow pace, perhaps 100-150 km per day on average, lets you truly feel the place, connect to the culture, the food, and the scenery without rushing. The best time to visit and embark on a long-term RV rental is during the late spring (May-June) or early autumn (Sept-Oct) to enjoy milder weather, extended daylight hours, and fewer tourists than the peak summer months, also offering better road accessibility.
7-Day Classic Route in Reykjavik
This 7-day classic RV itinerary from Reykjavik focuses on Iceland's iconic South Coast and Golden Circle, ensuring manageable daily drives of no more than 150 km to allow for ample exploration and enjoyment. Planning a short but impactful trip is simple when you choose a well-thought-out route. For more detailed pricing options, consider checking our Weekly RV Rental in Reykjavik - Pricing 2026. * **Day 1: Reykjavik → Hveragerði (approx. 45 km)** * Highlights: Pick up your rented RV from a Bandana partner supplier like Touring Cars, explore Reykjavik briefly, then hike to Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River. * Sleep: Campsite in Hveragerði or Selfoss. * **Day 2: Hveragerði → Golden Circle (Laugarvatn/Flúðir area) (approx. 70 km)** * Highlights: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss Waterfall. * Sleep: Campsite near Laugarvatn or Flúðir. * **Day 3: Flúðir → Hella/Hvolsvöllur (approx. 70 km)** * Highlights: Secret Lagoon (Flúðir), drive through agricultural landscapes, Icelandic Horse Parks. * Sleep: Campsite in Hella or Hvolsvöllur. * **Day 4: Hella → Vík (approx. 90 km)** * Highlights: Seljalandsfoss (walk behind the waterfall), Skogafoss (climb to the top for panoramic views), Keldur Turf Houses (historic site). * Sleep: Campsite in Vík (e.g., Vík í Mýrdal Campsite). * **Day 5: Vík → Kirkjubæjarklaustur (approx. 70 km)** * Highlights: Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach with its basalt columns, Dyrhólaey viewpoint, Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon. * Sleep: Campsite in Kirkjubæjarklaustur. * **Day 6: Kirkjubæjarklaustur → Selfoss (approx. 120 km)** * Highlights: Explore Eldhraun Lava Field, a vast moss-covered landscape, then enjoy a scenic drive back along the South Coast. * Sleep: Selfoss Campsite. * **Day 7: Selfoss → Reykjavik (approx. 50 km)** * Highlights: Blue Lagoon (optional stop before returning your RV rental near Keflavík International Airport), return RV, explore more of downtown Reykjavik. * * Sleep: Last night in RV or hotel in Reykjavik.14-Day Extended Journey in Reykjavik
This 14-day RV itinerary from Reykjavik offers a comprehensive exploration of Iceland's Ring Road, averaging around 145 km per day to allow for extensive sightseeing and relaxation without rushing. Traveling slowly, about 100-150 km per day, allows you to truly immerse yourself in the culture and breathtaking scenery. This is a journey that will create lasting memories. * **Days 1-3: Golden Circle & South Coast (Reykjavik to Vík)** * Day 1: Reykjavik → Hveragerði (45 km). Hike Reykjadalur. Sleep: Hveragerði Campsite. * Day 2: Hveragerði → Flúðir (70 km). Golden Circle (Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss). Sleep: Flúðir Campsite. * Day 3: Flúðir → Vík (100 km). Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Reynisfjara. Sleep: Vík Campsite. * **Days 4-6: Southeast Iceland (Vík to Höfn)** * Day 4: Vík → Kirkjubæjarklaustur (70 km). Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon. Sleep: Kirkjubæjarklaustur Campsite. * Day 5: Kirkjubæjarklaustur → Jökulsárlón/Diamond Beach area (110 km). Explore glacier lagoon with a boat tour (optional). Sleep: Campsite near Jökulsárlón. * Day 6: Jökulsárlón → Höfn (80 km). Capture photos of Vestrahorn mountain, often called 'Batman Mountain.' Sleep: Höfn Campsite. * **Days 7-9: Eastfjords & Lake Mývatn (Höfn to Mývatn)** * Day 7: Höfn → Djúpivogur (100 km). Explore quaint Eastfjords villages, see Eggin í Gleðivík (sculpture). Sleep: Djúpivogur Campsite. * Day 8: Djúpivogur → Egilsstaðir (100 km). Visit Hengifoss waterfall, wander through Hallormsstaðaskógur National Forest. Sleep: Egilsstaðir Campsite. * Day 9: Egilsstaðir → Mývatn (160 km). Explore Námaskarð geothermal area, relax at Mývatn Nature Baths. Sleep: Mývatn Campsite. * **Days 10-11: North Iceland (Mývatn to Akureyri)** * Day 10: Mývatn → Húsavík (60 km). Enjoy a whale watching tour from Húsavík, the whale-watching capital. Sleep: Húsavík Campsite. * Day 11: Húsavík → Akureyri (90 km). See Goðafoss waterfall, explore the charming town of Akureyri. Sleep: Akureyri Campsite. * **Days 12-14: West Iceland & Return to Reykjavik** * Day 12: Akureyri → Hvammstangi (190 km). Explore the North-West, maybe some seal watching. Sleep: Hvammstangi Campsite. * Day 13: Hvammstangi → Borgarnes (140 km). Visit Grábrók crater, explore the historical sites around Borgarnes. Sleep: Borgarnes Campsite. * Day 14: Borgarnes → Reykjavik (70 km). Glymur waterfall hike (optional and challenging), return your campervan rental to Reykjavik.Recommended RVPlan Trip for Reykjavik
For a truly comprehensive long-term RV rental experience starting from Reykjavik, Avi Bandana highly recommends the "
Iceland - Full ring road
Iceland Golden Circle - South West
Iceland - North West
Must-See Stops Along the Way (Avi Bandana Picks)
Based on the recommended RVPlan trip, Avi Bandana's personal picks for must-see stops during your long-term RV rental in Iceland prioritize unique cultural and local experiences that deepen your connection with the island. These suggestions are designed to immerse you in the authentic Icelandic spirit, offering more than just typical tourist viewpoints. * **Traditional Visits**: Essential cultural and natural landmarks include Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site vital for Icelandic history and geology, and the iconic Golden Circle highlights like the powerful Gullfoss Waterfall and the active Geysir geothermal area. Don't miss exploring the historic Almannagjá gorge where ancient parliament assemblies were held. * **Local Industry**: Seek out opportunities to visit local fishing villages to witness traditional Icelandic livelihoods and explore small craft shops to discover authentic Icelandic wool products and artisan goods, supporting local communities. Towns like Djúpivogur in the Eastfjords offer a glimpse into the local fishing culture and unique art installations. * **Traditional Restaurant / Fine Dining**: Indulge in Iceland's culinary scene by visiting traditional restaurants, particularly those serving fresh local ingredients such as succulent lamb soup, freshly caught fish, or the unique Icelandic dairy product, skyr, offering a taste of authentic local flavors. In Reykjavik, look for charming eateries along Laugavegur or near the Old Harbour. For those who love to prepare their own meals, don't forget to check out our RV-friendly recipes playlist for delicious ideas on the road. These curated picks encourage you to delve beyond generic tourist spots, immersing yourself in Iceland's vibrant culture and breathtaking natural beauty.Daily Driving Distances & Drive Times in Reykjavik
Avi Bandana strongly recommends maintaining a leisurely pace for long-term RV rentals in Iceland, suggesting a maximum average of 100 miles (150 km) per day to fully absorb the stunning landscapes and account for frequent stops. While online mapping services might provide shorter estimated drive times, they rarely account for the frequent stops you'll want to make for photos, short hikes, or simply to take in the awe-inspiring scenery. Iceland's diverse terrain, including gravel sections on less-traveled routes and potentially challenging weather conditions (e.g., strong winds, sudden storms), often means actual driving times can be significantly longer than GPS estimates, making it crucial to avoid rushing. Drive slowly and carefully, and you can drive almost anywhere without issues. No need to stress - just use common sense and pay attention to road signs, especially those indicating wind speeds or F-road closures. For instance, driving from Reykjavik to Vík, a distance of approximately 187 km, typically takes 2.5-3 hours of pure driving, not accounting for stops at Seljalandsfoss or Skogafoss, which could easily add 2-3 hours to your day. Another example is the stretch from Vík to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, which is about 190 km and requires 2.5-3 hours of driving time before you even begin exploring the glacial wonders. A shorter but equally scenic drive from Akureyri to Mývatn, roughly 98 km, takes about 1.5 hours, allowing for plenty of time to explore the geothermal sites around the lake. Always factor in substantial extra time for photo opportunities, short hikes to waterfalls or viewpoints, potential road closures, and unexpected weather changes to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.Best RV Class for This Itinerary - Couple & Family Picks
Choosing the right RV class significantly enhances your long-term rental experience in Iceland, with Bandana offering a variety of options specifically suited for both couples and families from our trusted suppliers like Touring Cars and CampEasy. We are true RV specialists, not a travel agency side department, and we know these vehicles inside out. **For Couples: Class B - Camper Van** The Class B Camper Van is ideal for couples seeking agility, ease of driving, and fuel efficiency on Iceland's often winding roads. These units, with an average length of 5.4 meters, typically offer comfortable sleeping places for around 2-3 people (perfect for two adults, or two adults and a small child) and boast excellent fuel consumption, often ranging from 5-8 liters per 100 km, which is a significant advantage given Iceland's notoriously high fuel prices. Their compact size makes them easier to navigate on narrower routes and park in more restricted areas, especially when visiting smaller towns or popular viewpoints around Reykjavik. Examples include the `V3` (2 sleeping places, 11-13 L/100km fuel consumption) or a "Campervan for 2 - Automatic" (2 sleeping places). **For Families: Class C - Alcove** Families will find the Class C Alcove RV to be a perfect fit, providing ample space and comfort essential for longer journeys with multiple passengers. With an average length of 7.3 meters and designed with sleeping places for up to 6 people (comfortably accommodating 4-5 adults), these RVs ensure everyone has room to relax, dine, and sleep. While consuming slightly more fuel, typically between 9-14 liters per 100 km, the added living space, separate sleeping areas (including the popular alcove bed), and often larger amenities make them invaluable for family travel, especially during longer stays. For instance, a `MH4-5 - HEL` motorhome with 5 sleeping places or a `Group I` with 6 sleeping places would be excellent choices, featuring amenities like a 100-liter fresh water tank and 3-burner gas stove for cooking family meals. To further simplify your trip planning, explore Bandana's "Rent&Plan" service, which combines your chosen RV rental with a ready-made itinerary crafted by travel experts, providing full access to trip-planning software and removing the headache of detailed preparation.🎬 Video coming soon
Can you drive a motorhome to Iceland?
No, you cannot physically drive a motorhome *to* Iceland across land, as it is an island nation; however, you can either transport your own RV via ferry or, more commonly, rent one directly upon arrival in Reykjavik for your long-term Icelandic adventure. This is a common question, and understanding the logistics is key to planning your trip. **Ferry Option**: The only way to bring your own RV to Iceland is via the Smyril Line ferry from Hirtshals, Denmark, to Seyðisfjörður in East Iceland, a journey that takes several days and can be quite costly, with prices varying significantly by vehicle size and season. **Rental Option**: Most visitors opt to fly into Keflavík International Airport (KEF) and pick up a pre-booked motorhome rental in Reykjavik, which is the most practical and popular method for exploring Iceland by RV. This eliminates the complexities and expense of international vehicle transport, and Bandana partners with leading suppliers like McRent and Touring Cars right in Reykjavik. **F-Roads and Vehicle Types**: It's crucial to understand that many standard rental motorhomes are not permitted on Iceland's F-roads (mountain roads), which require specific 4x4 RV models. Always confirm F-road accessibility with your rental company if you plan to explore the highlands. These roads are typically gravel, unpaved, and may involve river crossings. **Driving Conditions**: Iceland's roads can vary significantly, from well-paved Ring Road sections to gravel roads and areas prone to strong winds, requiring careful driving and awareness of weather conditions. Always check road.is for current conditions before setting out, especially outside of summer.Can you park an RV anywhere in Iceland?
No, you cannot park an RV just anywhere in Iceland for overnight stays; strict regulations, enforced since 2015, require all motorhomes and campervans to spend nights at designated campsites or on private land with explicit permission from the landowner. This rule is in place to protect Iceland's fragile environment and ensure proper waste management. **Designated Campsites**: Iceland boasts a comprehensive network of well-maintained campsites equipped with essential facilities, including waste disposal (grey and black water), fresh water refilling stations, and often electrical hookups. Booking your spot in advance, especially during the peak season (June-August), is highly recommended as popular sites like Reykjavik Campsite can fill up quickly. Many campsites are open year-round, offering heated facilities even in winter. **Reykjavik-specific parking**: When visiting Reykjavik, it is advisable to park your RV at a designated city campsite, such as Reykjavik Campsite near Laugardalslaug (the city's main swimming pool), and utilize public transport, bicycles, or walking to explore the city center. Downtown parking for large vehicles is extremely limited, often restricted, and can be expensive on streets like Laugavegur or Hverfisgata. Drive slowly and carefully, and you can drive almost anywhere without issues. No need to stress - just use common sense and pay attention to parking signs. **Logistics of Waste and Utilities**: Campsites are the primary and legal locations for emptying grey/black water tanks, refilling fresh water, and connecting to shore power. Planning your long-term rental itinerary around these facilities is crucial for convenience and compliance. You can use RV PLANET (rvplan.net) to locate available campsites and their amenities along your route. Failing to adhere to these rules can result in fines and contributes to environmental damage, making responsible overnight parking a key aspect of RV travel in Iceland.Is boondocking allowed in Iceland?
No, boondocking (also known as wild camping or dispersed camping) is generally *not* allowed in Iceland for RVs and campervans, with the law explicitly requiring these vehicles to stay overnight only in official campsites or on private land with explicit permission. This regulation has been strictly enforced to preserve Iceland's unique natural beauty. **Legal Restrictions**: Since 2015, amendments to Iceland's nature conservation laws specifically prohibit overnight stays in motorhomes, campervans, and similar vehicles outside of designated campsites, established national parks (like Thingvellir or Vatnajökull), or private land where you have obtained explicit, written permission from the landowner. This ensures that environmental impact is minimized and services like waste disposal are properly utilized. **Environmental Responsibility**: These strict rules are in place to protect Iceland's incredibly fragile environment, prevent damage from unregulated parking, and ensure proper waste disposal, aligning with the country's strong cultural etiquette around respecting nature and pristine landscapes. Leaving no trace is paramount in Iceland. **Consequences**: Violations of these regulations can result in significant fines and legal penalties, underscoring the importance of planning your overnight stays at registered campsites, which are readily available throughout the country and offer necessary services. You can easily find and pre-book campsites via rvplan.net to avoid any issues. Adhering to campsite-only rules also helps manage tourist impact, preserves the natural beauty for future visitors, and provides access to essential services like fresh water and waste facilities, ensuring a more comfortable and responsible long-term RV rental experience.What is the most beautiful drive in Iceland?
While beauty is subjective and Iceland is full of breathtaking vistas, many travelers and Avi Bandana consider the drive along Iceland's South Coast, particularly the section from Vík to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, to be among the most beautiful, showcasing a dramatic array of waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glacial landscapes. This is truly a route where every turn offers a postcard-perfect view. **The South Coast**: This route features iconic stops like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, the basalt columns of Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, the Dyrhólaey natural arch, and the stunning icebergs of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach. The continuous visual spectacle makes it a top choice for a rented motorhome journey. **Other Contenders for Most Beautiful Drives**: The entire **Ring Road (Route 1)** offers incredible diversity over a long-term rental, from the rugged lava fields of the west to the dramatic Eastfjords and the otherworldly lunar landscapes of the North. For an even more comprehensive perspective, check out our "RV Rental Iceland - Complete Guide 2026". The **Snæfellsnes Peninsula** in West Iceland, often referred to as "miniature Iceland," boasts a concentrated array of diverse scenery, including picturesque fishing villages like Arnarstapi, black sand beaches, basalt columns, and the iconic Kirkjufell mountain, making it a truly captivating drive. The **Golden Circle**, though shorter and very popular from Reykjavik, is famous for its powerful waterfalls, erupting geothermal geysers, and historic Thingvellir National Park, making it a must-see for its concentrated natural wonders. For a long-term RV rental, dedicating sufficient time to explore these regions ensures you experience Iceland's most stunning vistas at a relaxed and immersive pace. Consider the flexibility offered by One-Way RV Rental in Reykjavik - Price Guide 2026 if you plan to explore one region more extensively.What You Shouldn't Miss
- **The Blue Lagoon:** While popular, a visit to the Blue Lagoon or the equally stunning Sky Lagoon for geothermal relaxation is a must-do before or after your RV journey near Reykjavik.
- **Hiking to Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River:** Just a short drive from Reykjavik, this accessible hike leads to a river where you can bathe in naturally heated waters-a unique and refreshing experience.
- **Snæfellsnes Peninsula Loop:** Dedicate 2-3 days of your long-term RV rental to circumnavigate this diverse peninsula, often called "Iceland in Miniature," featuring Kirkjufell mountain, black sand beaches, and charming fishing villages.
- **Glacier Lagoon Boat Tour at Jökulsárlón:** Witness massive icebergs up close in this stunning glacial lagoon in the southeast, often combined with a visit to the adjacent Diamond Beach.
- **Whale Watching from Húsavík:** Journey to North Iceland to the town of Húsavík, renowned as one of the best places in the world for whale watching, offering a high chance of spotting various whale species.
- **Local Hot Spring Pools:** Beyond the famous lagoons, seek out smaller, local geothermal pools (often called *sundlaugar*) in towns across the country for an authentic Icelandic social and bathing experience.
Looking for expert insights from Avi Bandana? Top 5 Adventures - recommendations from Avi Bandana
Avi Bandana, our founder, has personally traversed countless landscapes by RV. His recommendations are steeped in real-world experience, guiding you to hidden gems and essential experiences that go beyond the typical tourist traps. With Bandana, you're getting advice from someone who lives and breathes RV travel.
