Iceland is a naturally formed country of stunning landscapes, geological formations, and an unparalleled culture. The beauty of this wild country is displayed in the places your camper van will stop for within Iceland. As you explore each stop on your journey, you’ll see each one in its entirety, from waterfalls to volcanic craters — none of which will prepare you for the amazing variety of terrain you’ll find in Iceland.
1. Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is a classic route, covering three must-see locations: Thingvellir, which is now a national park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the Geysir hot spring area. Thingvellir provides both historical values, as being the first place in which the Icelandic parliament was established, and splendid geology with the rift valley. The third tourist attraction is Gullfoss, which translates in English to a “Golden Falls”; this is, in fact, a two-tier waterfall. Geysir is the geothermal area to have active geysers, after which the world-famous Geyser is now named. These sites are perfect for orientation on any trip in a camper van.
2. Glacier Lagoon called Jökulsárlón
The black volcanic sand of the province cut against the blue tint of the icebergs provides a rather surreal outlook. Just a few miles down the road from Diamond Beach, you’ll find ice chunks scattered over the black sand, nearly resembling dropped diamonds in the sun. Boat tours are also available to the lagoon for visitors to see more and even see seals swimming on the ice. Iceland’s glaciers appear at their most beautiful, and you deserve this iconic location in your camper van itinerary.
3. National Park of Vatnajökull
Vatnajökull National Park has wooded waterfalls, glacial rivers, and unique volcanic formations. Here, many adventurers will find this park ideal as it offers many hiking paths and the park is also covered by glaciers, and visitors can get quite close to it. Selecting a camper rental in Iceland means that you would be able to be located close to the park and since its area is rather expansive, travel through its scenery at your convenience spanning several days. This proximity allows you to spend as much time admiring the beauty of the park, and unless you so wish, you do not have to race through the park to see some of its most exciting features.
4. Westfjords
If you’re looking for spectacular fjords, dramatic cliffs, and piles of wildlife, the Westfjords are the least accessible but also one of Iceland’s most beautiful and remote areas. There’s the Dynjandi waterfall, so named for its tiered structure, and Látrabjarg cliffs, where you’ll see puffins nesting in summer. Due to the isolation of the Westfjords, you can enjoy a true ‘away from the crowds’ experience. An opportunity for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying bustling lovely landscapes is exploring this region in a camper van.
5. Skógafoss Waterfall
Positioned to the South of Iceland, the Skógafoss waterfall is one of the largest waterfalls which is 60 meters high. The base of the waterfall is rather friendly, and people can be able to reach closer enough to feel the impact of the water. The waterfall has been provided stone staircase beside it that will take you to a balcony at the top of the waterfall where you can view the surrounding country view. It is also close to the Fimmvörðuháals hiking trail, which is very popular with tourists.
6. Peninsula of Snæfellsnes
Because of its variety of terrains, lava fields, beaches, and volcanic craters, the Snæfellsnes peninsula is also known as a miniature version of Iceland. The steep coast, black sand beaches, and deserted villages along the route offer good opportunities for attractive photo sessions and moments of solitude in contact with nature. It comes with gorgeous landscapes like the peninsula’s basalt columns at Gerðuberg and the stunning dramatic cliff stacks at Lóndrangar, plus unique geological formations. And if you visit there, you can walk scenic hiking trails along the rugged coastline to Arnarstapi and Hellnar’s charming towns, such as one with panoramic views of the North Atlantic Ocean.
7. Mývatn Geothermal Area
A quieter alternative to the Blue Lagoon is found near the nearby Mývatn Nature Baths, which have geothermal soaking in scenic surroundings. In addition, it has one active volcano, volcanic crests, caves, and Lake Mývatn, which is a beautiful tourist destination with its nature. One has the ability to travel in this way and is really able to be in close contact with these fabulous geographic landmarks in the region. Besides its geothermal attractions, the region around Mývatn is a paradise for birdwatchers, with many species nesting by the lake in summer. In addition to its proximity to the town center, the natural beauty of the area (there is also the Hverfjall volcanic crater to hike to or Dimmuborgir surreal lava formations to explore) appeal to outdoor enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Iceland in a camper van is no bargain for what you see of the country’s wonderful and dramatic landscapes, but it is the most flexible way of touring as you choose the pace. You either wander the country’s waterfalls or you enjoy in geothermal baths, and you either love or resent the experience of the camper van trip. An Iceland camper van rental will give you this extra convenience when you want to experience the full freedom of a road trip through this incredible country.
