I traveled to Iceland already four times. In 2013 (Ring Road), 2014 (Laugavegurinn Trail), 2015 (Highlands) and 2017 (Westfjords). Even that I saw a lot of amazing places of this small island, I can not say that I am already finished. There are still places in the highlands that I want to discover. In one point of time I will be back.
General
It is easy to get around in Iceland with speaking English. Even that English is not the native language in Iceland, everybody is speaking it because for example in TV shows and movies are not synchronized – translation can be found in subtext but language stays the original.
Transportation
Iceland has a good infrastructure when it comes to the ring road and the limited cities this country has to offer. For first time Iceland visitors who want to enjoy the ring road, it is not a problem to do this individually with renting a normal car. Direct pickup at the airport’s possible. Be aware that it is not allowed to drive with a none 4×4 wheel drive on F roads or unpaved roads. Do not ignore the signs this could end it massive car damage.
When it comes to the F road and roads that leads into the highlands of Iceland it is necessary to rent a 4×4 wheel drive. Even not all the roads can be accessed with a normal 4×4 wheel drive, some roads are only for super jeeps. Be also aware that roads can get really tough and river crossing are daily business.
If self driving is not an option, Iceland has a good bus system that can be used even to come to the highlands: https://www.re.is/. Main bus station is in Reykjavik. Shuttle from the Keflavik airport to Reykjavik can be booked at the airport or over the website.
Accommodation
There are several options available, hotels and guest houses in cities and town or camping. For camping, you do not need a reservation. When considering camping, bear in mind that the weather in Iceland can be everything sun, rain, wind and snow even in the summer months. In case you are traveling in the high season Jun/Jul/Aug it is necessary to pre-order hotels or guest houses.
Money
In general all the places take credit card. Take in consideration that Iceland is of the most costly places in Europe, accommodation, food, transportation, car renting will take a lot of money. The visit of national parks and hiking in general is free.
Hiking
Iceland is a nature and hiking paradise. There are tons of day hikes possible in the several national parks and waterfalls, as well as multi day hikes from hut to hut e.g Laugavegurinn Trail. There is nothing more a hikers’ heart could ask for.
Travel Duration
This really dependent what you are aiming for:
– Ring Road with day hikes: 10-12 Days
– Westfjords: 10 Days
– Highlands with Spengisandur: 10 Days
Hi there! This article couldn’t be written much better! Looking through this post reminds me of my previous roommate!
He always kept talking about this. I’ll forward this information to him.
Pretty sure he will have a great read. Many thanks for sharing!