Top Stops for Camper Van Travelers on the Reykjanes Peninsula

If you’re exploring Iceland, there’s a good chance a campervan is at the top of your list. Camping is a fantastic way to experience the island, allowing adventurous travelers to embrace life on the move.

For first-timers, the Reykjanes Peninsula is an ideal place for a camping trip. For one, it’s well-positioned near the Keflavík International Airport (KEF). That means you can cruise straight to your first destination after picking up your camper at the nearby Konvin Car Rental. Reykjanes is also home to a vast range of iconic Icelandic landscapes, from milky-blue geothermal waters to steaming lava fields.

Not sure where to start? Here are the best attractions to explore on your Reykjanes Peninsula campervan trip.

Top Reykjanes Peninsula Campervan Stops

1. The Bridge Between Continents

The Bridge Between Continents is a footbridge spanning a gaping fissure where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. It’s one of the few places on Earth where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge is visible above sea level. For campervan travelers, the site has a large, free parking lot that’s easy to navigate even with a large motorhome. It serves as the perfect kick-off to your Icelandic adventure, allowing you to literally walk between two continents.

2. Gunnuhver Hot Springs & Reykjanesviti

A short drive from the bridge takes you to the Gunnuhver geothermal area, home to Iceland’s largest mud pool. It’s named after "Gunna," a ghost said to have been trapped in the vents by a local priest centuries ago. Just up the hill, you’ll find Reykjanesviti, Iceland’s oldest lighthouse. Views of the Atlantic waves crashing against the cliffs make it a stunning stop on a Reykjanes Peninsula campervan tour. This is also a prime spot for northern lights photography if you're visiting during winter.

Camper Tip: The parking lot at Gunnuhver is spacious and connected to Reykjanesviti by a short, well-maintained gravel track.

3. Brimketill Lava Rock Pool

Next on your campervan exploration of Reykjanes Peninsula is Brimketill, a natural pool carved into the basalt cliffs by ocean erosion. While it appears like a tempting crystal-clear hot tub, don’t be fooled; it’s actually ice-cold sea water. 

A designated metal viewing platform allows you to feel the refreshing spray of the waves from a safe distance. For campervan travelers, it’s an ideal 30-minute stop. The parking area is just a few meters off Route 425, making it an effortless addition to your road trip.

4. Fagradalsfjall & Sundhnúkur Volcano Viewpoints

One of the most fascinating features of the Reykjanes Peninsula is its ongoing transformation. Since 2021, a series of eruptions has created vast, steaming lava fields that look like Iceland being reborn.

For campervan rentals, the best way to see the “new” lava is to use paid parking lots along Route 427. From here, you can hike toward the Fagradalsfjall site to see the 2021 craters. Expect restricted access near Grindavík due to the more recent Sundhnúkur eruptions. However, the fresh lava flows are clearly visible from several safe pull-offs along the southern coastal road.

As always, check SafeTravel.is before heading out. Volcanic activity in this southwestern tip of the Ring Road area can change conditions quickly.

5. Blue Lagoon

Among Iceland’s many geothermal gems, the Blue Lagoon is the most celebrated. Soaking in the mineral-rich, milky-blue water is a quintessential bucket-list experience, especially post-flight or after a rugged road trip. Remember, pre-booking your Blue Lagoon admission is a must. The parking lot is spacious and ready to accommodate Reykjanes Peninsula campervan traffic.

6. Seltún Geothermal Area

At Seltún, you’ll see the earth stained by the rich mineral deposit from all the geothermal activity in this area. In this area you are surrounded by boiling mud pots and hissing steam vents, which many people often remember by its “eggy” sulfuric smell. 

Well-maintained boardwalks wind through the area, allowing visitors a closer look at the intense geothermal energy. Stay on the paths, as the ground here is unstable and the water is scalding.

7. Lake Kleifarvatn

Just a few minutes from Seltún lies Lake Kleifarvatn, the largest on the peninsula and among the deepest in Iceland. Surrounded by rust-colored hills and black-sand beaches, it feels worlds away from the busy airport area. 

No visible rivers or springs flow in or out; instead, the water is maintained purely by underground currents. There are small pull-offs along Route 42 where you can safely park to enjoy a quiet lunch with a view.

8. Garður Old Lighthouse

Finally, the last stopover of your Reykjanes Peninsula campervan journey is Garður. Located at the very tip of the peninsula, it offers wide-open horizons where the sky meets the sea. In wintertime, this is one of the best spots to catch the Northern Lights from the comfort of your van. 

There are two lighthouses here: the historic old one and the newer, taller companion. From here, it’s an easy drive to the international airport and Konvin Car Rental to drop off your camper rental.

Optional: Konvin Hotel

After spending days in your Reykjanes Peninsula campervan, wind down with a comfortable night at the modern Konvin Hotel. Located just a short drive from KEF, it’s the perfect transition from “van life” back to total comfort. Enjoy a final Icelandic meal at the in-house restaurant or a drink at the bar before collapsing into a cozy bed.

For those with early flights, Konvin makes departure easy with a morning shuttle to the terminal. It’s the perfect way to ensure you’re refreshed and organized before you head home.

Pro Tips for Exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula via Campervan

Traveling by campervan gives you unparalleled freedom, but the Reykjanes Peninsula has a few quirks that every camper should know. Keep your trip smooth and your budget intact with these practical tips.

• Always Consider the Wind: This peninsula is notoriously windy. When parking your van, always face into the wind to prevent gusts from catching your door and bending the hinges.
• Master the "Half-Tank" Rule: Don't let your fuel drop below half a tank. Distances in Iceland can be deceptive, and you don’t want to be searching for a station in a remote area.
• Stick to Designated Campsites: Wild camping is illegal in Iceland. Use official campsites in Iceland like those in Sandgerði or Garður for access to essential facilities like electricity, water, and waste disposal.
• Watch Out for "Sneaker Waves": At coastal stops like Brimketill, never turn your back on the ocean. Even on calm days, "sneaker waves" can surge much higher and faster than expected. Always stay on the designated viewing platforms.
• Pack for Wind and Cold: Even in summer, the southwestern tip of Iceland can be chilly. Bring waterproof layers and sturdy boots; you'll need them when the sulfuric mist from the Gunnuhver hot springs hits you.

An Icelandic Adventure in Reykjanes With Konvin

When traveling in a campervan, the Reykjanes Peninsula lets you experience Iceland’s wild soul. The peninsula is a fantastic starting point before you head off to the famous Golden Circle or beyond. By renting a camper at Konvin Car Rental, you get to chase incredible Icelandic landscapes at your own pace. And with Konvin Hotel as your reliable home base, your journey is guaranteed to be as comfortable as it is unforgettable.

FAQs About Reykjanes Peninsula Campervan Trips

Where to park a campervan in Reykjavík?

Overnight camping is only permitted at the Reykjavík Eco-Campsite in Laugardalur. For daytime visits, you can use designated "P" parking lots, but pay close attention to height restrictions in parking garages.

Is a campervan in Iceland worth it?

Yes, it is highly recommended for travelers who value flexibility. It also gives visitors the ability to cook their own meals while saving on expensive hotel costs.

Is boondocking allowed in Iceland?

No, wild camping in any motorized vehicle is illegal in Iceland. You must stay at a designated campsite or on private land with the owner's explicit permission.

How much does it cost to rent a camper van in Iceland for a week?

Prices depend on the vehicle you’re planning to rent. Check Konvin Car Rental for different campervans and cars for rent in Iceland.

How long does it take to drive the Reykjanes Peninsula in a campervan?

The pure driving time for the main loop is about three hours. However, most travelers take a full day to enjoy the various stops.

Do I need a 4x4 campervan for the Reykjanes Peninsula?

For the main attractions listed in this guide, a standard 2WD campervan is sufficient. If you plan on exploring Iceland via the interior F-roads during summer, a 4x4 is required by law.