Exploring Iceland by Campervan: Suggested 5-Day Itinerary
In the land of fire and ice, a campervan road trip offers an unparalleled adventure through Iceland's volcanic, rugged, and ethereally beautiful landscapes. The best time to embark on this journey is from May to September, with the peak season being June, July, and August.
During these months, the weather is most favourable, roads are mostly open, and you'll have access to Iceland's spectacular natural attractions. From April to September, most natural sites are accessible (weather permitting), and you can enjoy the Midnight Sun in June and July.
For those seeking a quieter experience and fairer prices, consider May and September. These shoulder months offer a happy medium: fewer tourists, more affordable campervan rentals, and generally good weather. You'll find campsites open and amenities available, though a few may start to close by late September.
If the Northern Lights are your priority, your only option is September to March, with January being the most favourable month. However, this means colder, darker days and more challenging road conditions, making campervan travel less ideal unless you're properly equipped. Most campsites are closed in winter, and only those with strong heating and winter tires should attempt a winter campervan trip.
When planning your itinerary, consider key factors such as campsite availability, rental prices, weather, and road conditions. Almost all campsites are open from May to September, with prices rising in July and August. Wild and off-road camping is prohibited; stick to designated campsites.
Vehicle choice is also crucial. Standard campervans are fine for paved roads, but for F-roads (mountain/unpaved roads), a 4x4 is necessary in summer, but these roads close in winter.
Some must-see destinations on your journey include the glittering Diamond Beach and Jokulsarlon, Europe's largest glacier, Vatnajokull. Reykjadalur Valley, a geothermal valley with soothing hot springs and heated river-hugging trails, is a recommended stop before returning to urban life.
For the final night of your itinerary, consider the Reykjavik Campsite, located next to the Laugardalslaug swimming pools. Reynisfjara Beach, known for its ink-black sand and lava-formed rock tower formations, is another must-visit on the south coast of Iceland.
Visitors are advised to book activities in advance with certified guides for Vatnajokull Glacier and Jokulsarlon. Seljalandsfoss, Gljufrabui, and Skogafoss are three impressive waterfalls located close to each other on the south coast of Iceland.
Arriving early at Fjadragljufur Canyon can help avoid crowds, and visitors should plan to spend around an hour walking the trail. Reykjavik, Iceland's capital, offers various sights such as the Hallgrimskirkja Church, National Museum, and Sun Voyager sculpture for visitors to explore.
Day 5 of the itinerary wraps up around the Reykjanes Peninsula and includes a visit to Raufarholshellir, a mind-blowing lava tunnel, and the Blue Lagoon, a famous tourist attraction. Visitors are advised to book their timeslot tickets well in advance for the Blue Lagoon.
Silfra is a unique location in Iceland where you can snorkel or scuba dive between the continents' tectonic plates. A campervan road trip in Iceland allows for maximum exploration, especially during the long summer days.
In conclusion, for optimal campervan road trips—balancing price, weather, and access—target May or September. If you want to experience the midnight sun and don't mind higher prices and crowds, go in June, July, or August. If the Northern Lights are your priority, consider September (mixed access) or winter months (but be prepared for more challenging conditions).
- To experience the Midnight Sun, book your campervan road trip between April and September, with the best time being June and July.
- For a quieter experience with more affordable campervan rentals and fewer tourists, consider traveling in May or September.
- If you're in pursuit of the Northern Lights, your only option is from September to March, with January being the most favorable month.
- When planning your itinerary, be mindful of factors like campsite availability, rental prices, weather, and road conditions, as most campsites are open from May to September, with prices rising in July and August.
