5 Days Self-Drive Tour with Pick Up – Northern Lights Adventure Camper´ Break

Thinking about Iceland’s rugged beauty, glaciers, waterfalls, and that famous Aurora Borealis? Then this 5-day self-drive camper tour might just be your perfect adventure. It combines the flexibility of a campervan with a carefully curated itinerary packed with iconic sights and unique experiences. From geothermal baths to ice caves, you’ll get a taste of Iceland’s wild side, all while chasing the elusive northern lights.

What we like most about this tour is how it balances structured activities with free exploration—giving you the freedom to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. Plus, the inclusion of a quality campervan, a detailed itinerary, and guided activities makes this a very appealing option for independent travelers. The price, around $1,081 per person, seems reasonable considering the range of experiences and the convenience of everything being pre-arranged.

A consideration? Since the tour involves driving yourself, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of adventure behind the wheel. Also, some costs like parking and optional activities are extra, which is worth keeping in mind when budgeting. This tour is ideal for adventurous couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want a flexible, immersive Icelandic road trip with the chance to see the Northern Lights.

Key Points

• Self-drive flexibility with pre-planned routes and activities ensures a balance of independence and guidance.
• Highlights include ice caves, geothermal baths, waterfalls, and the Northern Lights—covering Iceland’s most photogenic spots.
• Accommodation is in campsites, adding an authentic camping experience and saving costs on lodging.
• The campervan is well-rated, with reviews praising its reliability, comfort, and helpful supplies.
• Extra costs like parking, activities, and food aren’t included, so plan accordingly.
• Excellent reviews emphasize knowledgeable guides and stunning views, making it clear that the experience is both memorable and value-packed.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Keflavík to the Reykjanes Peninsula

Your Icelandic adventure kicks off with a complimentary shuttle from Keflavík Airport to the CampEasy office, just five minutes away. From there, you start exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula, famous for its geological activity. The first stop is the Bridge Between Continents, where you can stand with one foot in Eurasia and the other in North America—an image you’ll remember long after leaving.

Next, you visit the Gunnuhver Hot Springs, a geothermal area with bubbling mud pools and steam vents that showcase Iceland’s volcanic power. Reviewers highlight how vibrant the colors and textures are here, making it a photographer’s dream. The scenery is both otherworldly and educational, a reminder of the geothermal energy that powers much of Iceland.

The day finishes at Kleifarvatn Lake, the largest in the Reykjanes peninsula, with its tranquil waters and moss-covered lava fields. It’s a great spot for a short walk and some quiet reflection. This first day sets the tone with spectacular landscapes and geological marvels.

Day 2: The Golden Circle and More

Day 2 is a classic Iceland itinerary, covering some of the most celebrated sites. You start at Þingvellir National Park, where tectonic plates are drifting apart. This site isn’t just about geology; it’s historically significant as the birthplace of Iceland’s parliament. Reviewers note that the free visit is impressive, but parking fees are extra.

Later, you experience the Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths, where you join a unique Rye Bread tour—an activity praised for being both fun and delicious. Your dough is cooked right in the ground with geothermal heat, then tasted with a view of the lake. The warm waters of Fontana Bath are a perfect place to relax after the hike.

Geysir’s Strokkur geyser erupts roughly every 10 minutes, shooting water up to 15 meters, offering fantastic photo opportunities. From there, it’s on to the Gullfoss waterfall, where the powerful cascade drops 32 meters into a deep canyon, providing a dramatic finale to the Golden Circle.

The day concludes with visits to Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, two of Iceland’s most photogenic waterfalls. Reviewers repeatedly mention how stunning these sites are, with Skógafoss often described as awe-inspiring, especially when rainbows dance through the spray.

Day 3: South Coast Adventures and Ice Cave Exploration

Day 3 takes you further south to the village of Vík, with its black sand beaches and towering sea stacks. At Katla Ice Cave, you’ll go on a 4-hour guided super jeep tour into the glacier, a highlight praised for its “incredible marvel of nature.” Reviewers love how this activity combines lava and ice, creating a surreal landscape.

The Reynisfjara Beach with its basalt columns and the Dyrhólaey promontory with its birdlife and panoramic views are next. These sites, often featured in Iceland’s promotional images, offer dramatic scenery and a chance for some memorable photos.

The day ends at Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, which has been used as a filming location for Justin Bieber’s music video, and Systrafoss, a picturesque waterfall above Lake Systravatn. Reviewers appreciate the variety of landscapes, describing the canyon as “incredible” and the waterfalls as “beautifully accessible.”

Day 4: Glaciers, Icebergs, and Black Beaches

The day begins with a visit to Diamond Beach, where ice blocks wash ashore, glinting in the sunlight. It’s a landscape that looks straight out of a fantasy film. Then, at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, floating icebergs create a constantly changing scene, which reviewers say is “breathtaking” and “surreal.”

You spend the night in Selfoss, giving you a chance to relax after days of sightseeing. Many reviewers note that this is a good base for exploring the south coast further and comment on the tranquility of the town.

Day 5: Reykjavik Highlights and Departure

Your final day begins with a visit to the iconic Sun Voyager sculpture, a symbol of hope and adventure. Next, you explore Harpa Concert Hall for its striking architecture, and Hallgrimskirkja, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Reykjavik from its tower.

If time allows, many travelers recommend ending their trip with a soak at the Blue Lagoon—though this isn’t included in the tour, it’s a popular way to relax before heading home. The campervan is returned, and a free shuttle takes you either to Keflavík Airport or your hotel.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The combination of a self-drive option with carefully chosen attractions makes this tour quite special. Unlike guided bus tours, you get the freedom to explore at your own pace, with the security of a pre-arranged itinerary. Reviewers emphasize how the campervan itself is a major plus: comfortable, reliable, and well-equipped, with many noting that it handled Iceland’s varied terrain without issues.

The inclusion of guided activities like ice caving and the geothermal rye bread tour adds a layer of expertise and authenticity that many travelers find enriching. From the reviews, guides are praised for their knowledge, making complex landscapes easier to understand and appreciate.

Accommodation in campsites not only saves money but also immerses you in Iceland’s outdoor environment, providing a more authentic travel experience. Reviewers mention that the campsites are spacious, with many finding them comfortable and well-maintained.

Value for Money

While the upfront cost of roughly $1,081 per person might seem high, it includes a quality campervan, campsite fees, and many activities. Optional extras like parking, food, and optional activities are additional, so budget accordingly. Reviewers frequently highlight the overall value, noting that the convenience of a curated, flexible itinerary outweighs potential extra costs.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers comfortable with driving and seeking flexibility. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or solo explorers who want to customize their journey without sacrificing guided expertise. If you’re keen on authentic Icelandic experiences—ice caves, geothermal baths, waterfalls—and want the freedom of the road, this tour hits the sweet spot.

FAQ

Is the campervan reliable?
Yes. Multiple reviews praise the campervan’s comfort, safety, and ability to handle Iceland’s terrain, even on snow and ice.

Are meals included?
No, meals and beverages are generally not included, except for the activities like the rye bread tour, which is part of the itinerary.

What about parking fees?
Most parking fees are not included in the tour price. You might find certain sites like Þingvellir and Seljalandsfoss require parking payments.

Can children participate?
Yes. The minimum age for activities is 8 years, and the driver must be at least 20.

Are activities like ice caving guided?
Yes. The Katla Ice Cave experience is guided and includes a super jeep tour, which reviewers say is a highlight.

Is airport pickup included?
Yes. The tour offers a complimentary shuttle service from Keflavík International Airport to the campervan pickup point.

What should I bring?
Bring warm, layered clothing, especially if you plan to see the northern lights or visit glaciers. Basic camping gear is included, but check specifics with the provider.

Can I extend my stay or customize the itinerary?
This tour is pre-planned, but flexibility is built into the self-drive format. Extra activities or accommodations can be arranged separately.

How do I cancel if needed?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour start, with a full refund. Less than 24 hours’ notice, and the payment isn’t refundable.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day self-drive camper tour offers a well-rounded Iceland experience. It balances adventure, comfort, and independence, making it perfect for those who want to explore Iceland’s highlights on their own terms while having some guided experiences to deepen their understanding. The quality campervan and detailed itinerary reduce the hassle of planning, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery and chasing the Northern Lights.

If you’re someone who loves scenic drives, stunning natural features, and the freedom to explore without rigid schedules, this tour is a solid choice. It offers excellent value for money and a chance to create your own Icelandic story, from waterfalls and glaciers to geothermal marvels.

In summary, this tour is best suited for independent spirits seeking an immersive Icelandic adventure, with enough guidance to keep things smooth but plenty of room for spontaneity. It’s a solid investment for anyone wanting a memorable, flexible, and scenic journey through one of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes.