Best Camper Van Itinerary Iceland Starting in Keflavik

Between the well-maintained roads, postcard-worthy scenery, and vast potential for adventure, a campervan itinerary in Iceland makes perfect sense. With your home on wheels, there are no hotel bookings or rigid bus schedules holding you back. It’s just you and the open road unfolding ahead.

This journey begins in Keflavík, as most flights and travelers land here first. By starting near the airport, you bypass the commute to the capital and dive straight into the wild. From world-famous routes to remote, windswept landscapes, this week-long itinerary covers everything to master campervan travel in Iceland.

Why a Campervan Is the Best Way to See Iceland

Road tripping around Iceland in a camper van offers a level of freedom that hotels simply can’t match. When you rent a campervan, the pressure of a rigid schedule disappears. You won’t have to race across the country to meet a tight check-in. Instead, you can linger at a waterfall until crowds thin, chase the Northern Lights late into the night.

Beyond the flexibility, the savings can be significant. For budget-conscious travelers, it is the ultimate hack: your transport, accommodation, and even kitchen are all rolled into one. By shopping at local grocery stores and cooking on your own, you avoid high costs of eating out. Groups will find that the daily camper rental is often more cost-effective than paying for tour fees individually.

Plus, the freedom of the campervan can give you the opportunity to really make nature your home. With over 170 campsites in Iceland, you can wake up to a new, breathtaking view every single morning.

A 7-Day Campervan Itinerary Around Iceland

Starting your Ring Road exploration in Keflavík is a practical, time-saving move. As soon as you land at Keflavík Airport, you can grab your camper van at Konvin Car Rental and hit the road immediately. This seven-day loop maximizes your time in Iceland, taking you from volcanic wonders to serene fjords and everything in between.

Day 1: Arrival and the Golden Circle

After picking up your vehicle, the first stop on your campervan itinerary in Iceland is the iconic Golden Circle. It’s the perfect way to kick off a Ring Road adventure, packing three world-class attractions into a single afternoon.

Start at Þingvellir National Park, where you can take a short walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The two other main sites on this route are the Geysir Geothermal Area and the two-tiered Gullfoss Waterfall. If you have extra time, soaking in a hot spring like Secret Lagoon is the best way to wind down. Spend the night at the Selfoss or Hella campsite. 

Day 2: South Coast

Drive east to visit two iconic waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss, which features a path leading behind the falls, and Skógafoss, where a built-in staircase provides access to a viewpoint at the top.  After visiting the falls, head to the Reynisfjara black sand beach near Vík. For your safety, please monitor the beach's warning systems for potential sneaker waves.

It’s among the country’s most beloved beaches, with towering basalt columns and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks rising from the Atlantic. Once you toured the beach, head to a nearby campsite in Vík to enjoy coastal views from your camper van.

Day 3: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

The third day of your campervan itinerary in Iceland takes you to the crown jewel of the south: Jökulsárlón. Located within the vast Vatnajökull National Park, this lagoon is filled with massive icebergs that drift serenely toward the sea. 

Just across the road lies Diamond Beach, where huge ice chunks wash up on the jet-black sand like oversized gems. Spend your evening at a campsite near Höfn, famous for its local langoustine and adventure activities.

Day 4: East Iceland

As you cruise into rugged East Iceland, the landscape shifts into deep fjords and steep mountains. These winding coastal roads are the most tranquil part of your road trip. A must-visit stop is the charming village of Seyðisfjörður, famous for its vibrant rainbow-painted street and artsy atmosphere. If you’re feeling active, head toward Lake Lagarfljót for a short walk to the towering Hengifoss.

As you navigate the mountain passes, keep an eye out for wild reindeer. The East is the only region where they roam free. End your day at a campsite near Egilsstaðir to recharge for your journey into the North. Bonus: Egilsstaðir is home to the Vök Baths, too. 

Day 5: Mývatn and Goðafoss

Heading north, the terrain becomes otherworldly as you enter the Diamond Circle region of your campervan itinerary in Iceland. Before reaching the lake, take a detour to Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe.

Next, explore the Lake Mývatn area, starting with the "Dark Castles" of Dimmuborgir, a labyrinth of towering lava formations. Nearby, the Hverir geothermal area is a barren expanse of bubbling mud pots and steaming vents. After exploring the pseudo-craters of Skútustaðir, treat yourself to a soak in the Mývatn Nature Baths. Before finding a campsite in Akureyri or Reykjahlíð, make one final stop at Goðafoss, the "Waterfall of the Gods."

Day 6: The North to the West

After your morning coffee, continue west through the rolling hills of Skagafjörður, famous for its heritage and Icelandic horses. This day involves more driving as you head back toward the Reykjanes Peninsula, but the scenery remains stunning.

For a memorable detour, head to the Vatnsnes Peninsula via a scenic gravel road. Here, you’ll find Hvítserkur, a 15-meter sea stack that resembles a drinking dragon. This area is one of the best spots for seal watching in the country. Continue south to Borgarnes, a fantastic final base with several high-quality campsites.

Day 7: The Blue Lagoon and Keflavík

On your final day, make the scenic drive back toward the Reykjanes Peninsula. A soak in the enchanting Blue Lagoon is the ultimate way to soothe your muscles after a week of road tripping around Iceland. As the lagoon is only about 20 minutes from the airport, it serves as a stress-free finale to your adventure.

After returning your camper van to Konvin Car Rental, experts highly recommend spending your last night at Konvin Hotel. A warm bed and a hot shower provide the perfect "re-entry" before your flight home. To make your departure even smoother, the hotel provides a convenient morning shuttle directly to the terminal.

Tips for Your Campervan Itinerary in Iceland

When you’re hitting the road, it’s best to be as prepared as possible. Keep these practical tips in mind for an effortless journey through Iceland.

• Choose the Right Camper Van: For the Ring Road and Golden Circle during summer, a 2WD camper van is sufficient and budget-friendly. If you plan to explore the Highlands (F-roads) or are visiting during winter, a 4x4 is a must.
• Consider the Best Time of Year to Visit: For widespread road access and the midnight sun, visit during the summer (June–August). Plan for the shoulder seasons (September or March) for the best balance of dark skies and manageable road conditions.
• Monitor Road Conditions: Weather changes fast. Always check vedur.is for weather alerts and road.is for real-time updates on road closures or a slippery gravel road.
• Download Offline Maps: Cell service is surprisingly good even in national parks, but remote fjords can have dead zones. Download maps for offline use to ensure you never lose your way.
• Respect Camping Laws: Wild camping is strictly prohibited. Instead, park and stay at one of the designated campsites in Iceland. Most provide essential facilities like kitchens, Wi-Fi, and hot showers to keep you a happy camper.
• Check Campsite Seasonality: While there are over 170 campsites in Iceland, they are not all open year-round. Most rural sites operate only from May through September. If you are visiting in the off-season, plan your route around the campsites that remain open through the winter.
• Know the Rental Requirements: At Konvin Car Rental, the minimum age to rent most vehicles is 20 years old. You must have held a valid driver's license for at least one year. A physical credit card in the main driver’s name must also be presented upon arrival for the security deposit.

Hit the Open Road: Your Ultimate Icelandic Adventure Starts in Keflavík

There’s nothing quite like the freedom of a campervan itinerary in Iceland. By starting your journey in Keflavík with Konvin, you’re setting yourself up for a seamless, budget-friendly, and unforgettable road trip. From the picturesque South Coast to the wild north, the Ring Road is waiting for you.

FAQs About Campervan Itinerary Iceland

How long does it take to drive the South Coast of Iceland?

A direct drive from Reykjavík to the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon takes about five to six hours without stops. However, with sightseeing at waterfalls and beaches, most travelers find it takes a full 10 to 12 hours.

Is South Coast Iceland worth it?

Yes, it’s often considered the most spectacular region of the country because of its high concentration of iconic landmarks. It features a high concentration of Iceland's "heavy hitters," including Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and the Reynisfjara black sand beach.

How many days to spend in South Iceland?

While you can see the highlights in a long day trip, spending two to three days is ideal for a more relaxed pace. This allows enough time to include a glacier hike or boat tour without rushing through the coastal scenery.

What is the most scenic drive in Iceland?

The South Coast along Route 1 is widely regarded as the most scenic drive due to its dramatic diversity of landscapes. Alternatively, Route 93 to Seyðisfjörður is also praised as one the most breathtaking "short" drives in the country.

What kind of driver's license do I need to rent a campervan?

A standard B-class license (the same one you use for a car) is sufficient for most campervans. It must be written in the Roman alphabet and have been valid for at least one year.