Our family-friendly road trip around Iceland — designed for curious kids and adventurous parents. Experience waterfalls, hot springs, and glacier views from the comfort of your RV (yes, with bathrooms!). The same Vanlife magic, just with a little extra space for everyone to stretch out and enjoy the ride.
Your adventure begins in Keflavík, where you’ll collect your van and start getting comfortable with life on the road. Today is all about easing in. You’ll head toward the Golden Circle, with time to stop at some of Iceland’s most famous sights along the way. Think geysers, waterfalls, and wide open landscapes that instantly feel very Icelandic.
There’s no rush today. Take your time, grab supplies, stretch your legs, and enjoy your first drive through the countryside. Tonight we’ll meet up at the campsite for our first shared dinner, a relaxed evening to get to know each other and settle into the week ahead.
Drive time: approx. 2 hours
Today you’ll follow the south coast, one of Iceland’s most scenic stretches of road. Along the way you’ll pass powerful waterfalls, green farmland, and views of glaciers creeping down from the mountains. There are plenty of chances to stop, walk, take photos, or grab a coffee.
As the day goes on, the road becomes quieter and more rugged as we head inland toward Þakgil. The campsite sits tucked into a dramatic canyon, surrounded by mountains and hiking trails. It’s a peaceful spot and a favorite for many, especially in the evening when things quiet down.
Drive time: approx. 3.5 hours
We continue east today with glaciers never far from view. The drive is filled with long stretches of road framed by ice, sand plains, and distant mountain peaks. Along the way there are optional stops for short walks, including viewpoints over glacier tongues and classic Icelandic waterfalls.
Skaftafell is a great place to stretch your legs, whether you choose an easy walk or something a bit more active. Tonight’s campsite sits close to nature, with plenty of space to relax after a full day on the road.
Drive time: approx. 3 hours
Today’s drive is calm and scenic, passing glacial lagoons, rivers, and big open landscapes where the sky feels especially wide. This part of Iceland is all about space and light, and it’s a great day for slow driving and spontaneous stops.
We end the day in Höfn, a small coastal town known for its views toward Vatnajökull glacier. It’s a good place to refuel, grab supplies, or enjoy a relaxed evening by the sea.
Drive time: approx. 2 hours
Today we head into the Eastfjords, following winding roads along the coastline. The drive is longer, but the scenery constantly changes, with fjords, mountains, and small fishing villages along the way. It’s a quieter side of Iceland that feels more local and less rushed.
Egilsstaðir is the main hub of the east and a comfortable stop after a full day on the road, with access to shops, services, and nearby nature.
Drive time: approx. 4 hours
Today’s drive from Egilsstaðir is shorter, but it feels like you’re heading somewhere truly remote. The road winds through mountains and open landscapes before dropping down toward the coast. It’s a beautiful drive, with plenty of chances to stop and take it in.
Borgarfjörður Eystri is best known for its puffin colony. This is one of the easiest places in Iceland to see them up close. A short walk brings you to viewing platforms where you can watch puffins nesting along the cliffs, often just a few meters away.
The rest of the day is slow and easy. Take a walk, enjoy the fresh air, or simply relax at the campsite and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this small Eastfjords village.
Drive time: approx. 1,5 hours
Today we leave the Eastfjords and head north, with a few great stops along the way. One highlight is a visit to Stuðlagil Canyon, where turquoise water flows between tall basalt columns. There are a couple of access points depending on road conditions, and we’ll choose the best option on the day.
After continuing north, the landscape becomes more volcanic as you approach the Mývatn area. If you’re in the mood to relax, there’s the option to visit the Mývatn Nature Baths, often called the Blue Lagoon of the north. It’s a great way to warm up and unwind after a day of driving.
We’ll end the day near Mývatn, with time to settle into the campsite and enjoy the evening at your own pace.
Drive time: approx. 3.5 hours
Today’s drive takes you along Eyjafjörður, one of Iceland’s longest fjords, with farmland on one side and the ocean on the other. Along the way, you’ll pass through Akureyri, often called the capital of the north. It’s a great place to stop for supplies, coffee, or a walk through town before continuing on.
For those interested, there’s the option to go whale watching from Hauganes, a well-known spot for spotting humpback whales during the summer months. Tours run regularly and are a great way to experience the fjord from the water.
We’ll end the day at the campsite in Hauganes that has a perfect seaside hot tub.
Drive time: approx. 1.5 hours
Today is all about the drive back toward Keflavík and wrapping up the trip. The route takes you through West Iceland, with changing landscapes along the way, from fjords and valleys to open farmland and long stretches of road that give you time to reflect on the journey.
You’ll want to allow plenty of time for the drive, fuel stops, and a final clean-out of the van before return. Once you reach Keflavík, it’s time to hand back the campervan and say goodbye to your home on wheels for the week.
After van return, you’ll be well placed for onward travel or an overnight stay near the airport.
Drive time: approx. 5–6 hours
