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Traveling to South Iceland in the Summer (July), created so much extra time to see top tourist attractions with almost no one around (due to the sun never really setting). The Golden Circle may be the most visited area of Iceland, but that does not lessen the views or change how amazing your experience can be. We ventured to the more popular spots and found some more “off the path” scenes that became my favorite moments. We decided to only go as far East as Vik, to be able take our time in one area of Iceland. I hope one day we can go back and view more of the landscapes and small towns of this beautiful country.

After two days in Reykjavik, we took our rental car and set out for an amazing road trip around South Iceland (I highly recommend giving yourself the freedom of traveling by renting a car). Hoping our trip and experiences can help you as you plan days of adventures in the Golden Circle and beyond!

Experiencing South Iceland in the summer

Renting a car

As I mentioned, renting a car will give you the chance to see the sights on your own timeline, and is an experience within itself. Grab some snacks for the road, have a plan (with the flexibility of spontaneity) and head out on an EPIC road trip. We rented a car from Green Motion Car and had zero issues. Someone from the company picked us up at the airport to where they were located and soon enough we had our car. Since we were there in the summer, we knew we didn’t need to rely on 4 wheel drive but depending on when you are going, I would make sure to be prepared.

Tips to know for South Iceland in the summer

• Dress warm (even in the summer). Although we traveled in one of the warmest months, we still brought warmer jackets, boots and hats. As you can see from my photos, they were all used (it is still cold and also windy).
• FLIES. Perhaps this was just our experience but one hike we did there were flies everywhere and it was awful. If you can order a cheap net to go over a hat – it will be helpful.
• Cash vs. credit card – We took out cash at an ATM at the airport, but found that credit card was used pretty often (I always like to have cash on hand incase of emergencies, especially with driving around in a foreign country).
• If you are taking your time, visit the most popular sights past 10pm to avoid busses of people!
• Iceland with a view is an AMAZING resource for every season you travel in Iceland. Her instagram, blog, videos and facebook group are all helpful.

Accommodations in South Iceland in the Summer

Icelandair Hotel Fludir: This hotel was conveniently located for all our Gold Circle/South Iceland adventures and we also had breakfast and dinner there for our 2 night stay. Not worrying about where to eat was so convenient and we loved their dining space and all our meals!

The Barn (Hostel in Vik): You will come to find that Iceland can be pricey, and lodging in Vik was no exception. The Hostel although pricey for a hostel, was clean (we chose a private room and only shared a common bathroom), was a beautiful space and had a great kitchen to make your own meals if you needed. More importantly, the location was perfect! Close to downtown Vik and Black Sand Beach.

Our itinerary through South Iceland in the Summer

Day One

Pingvellir National Park

Our first stop on the Golden Circle. The “hike” to the famous waterfall is easy and we didn’t spend much time here. The National Park itself looked beautiful, but the waterfall was a bit underwhelming (sorry to be so honest)! Don’t let me persuade you to not go, as again it is a beautiful stop along your road trip.

Kerið Crater

Another popular spot in South Iceland, this volcanic crater lake was a nice place to sit and enjoy the start of our day as well as stretch our legs. When we arrived, it wasn’t too busy and you don’t need much time here. Be prepared to pay a small fee but worth the krona.

Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River

This hike was a workout but you are left feeling so accomplished at the end. The flies were pretty miserable all through this hike (unless there was some wind) so if you are traveling in the summer, be prepared. The hike consisted of hot springs all throughout the journey as well as fluffy sheep and beautiful views. Once you arrive to the the thermal river, you can change (there are not very private areas to do so) or wear your bathing suit underneath to hop in the warm weather. Bring a micro fiber towel to dry off, and be aware that it is muddy and rocky when you enter (instagram makes this look like a spa – it’s still the outdoors)!

Geysir Geothermal area

After checking into our Icelandair Hotel (above) and eating dinner, we headed to the Geysir Geothermal area around 9:30pm (still light out)! We saw the famous Strokkur (that is active every few minutes) and walked around to view the other hot springs.

Gullfuss Waterfall

Perhaps one of the main attractions in the Golden Circle, I was worried this spot would be crowded – but oh thank you to South Iceland in the summer! We arrived and found ourselves along this stunning feature of Iceland’s nature. Rainbows created by the sunlight and water, and what felt like a forever golden hour – it was truly stunning. This waterfall is easy to park to and the walk over is very easy as well.

Before heading home a little before midnight, we stopped to admire the famous Iceland ponies, and took in our first day on the road.

Day Two

Skálholtskirkja

A beautiful and historical cathedral in the South of Iceland. You can tour the grounds and for a small fee, visit their museum in the basement.

Faxi Waterfall

A stop that doesn’t get as much attention as the larger and more stunning waterfalls, but incredibly easy to access and a nice place to rest if you have the time (this place also has a small fee at the entrance of the park).

Fridheimar Greenhouse

Lunch here was another highlight of our time in South Iceland. Make reservations and get ready to eat tomato inspired everything (and cocktails).

Haifoss Waterfall

If you follow me on instagram, you know this was my absolute favorite moment in Iceland. We hiked down to the waterfall where we found ourselves alone and able to admire this epic fall. This takes some time off the main Golden Circle and you should be prepared for a few miles of rough terrain (4 wheel drive helps, or one with plenty of clearance).

The Secret Lagoon

Before calling it a day, we headed to the Secret Lagoon for some relaxation. The entry fee was pricey (3,000 ISK for adults), but we wanted to try at least one Hot Spring pool and they were closely located to the hotel.

Day Three

Seljalandsfoss

The fourth tallest waterfall in Iceland and a beautiful stop in Southern Iceland. You can walk behind it for a different view as well (bring a rain jacket)!

Skogafoss

DC-3 Plane Wreckage

An old Navy plane crashed (with everyone surviving) on the Black San Beach at Sólheimasandur has become a popular spot in this area. The walk out to the plane is long (there is a shuttle available if need for a reasonable fee), so put aside some time for this spot. Also, please respect the rules and do not climb on this plane! I saw so many people doing this, and it ruined the experience a little bit.

Visited Dyrhólaey (and saw Puffins in their natural habitat)!

 

Dinner and views in Vik

After checking into the Barn Hostel, we made our way to downtown Vik to eat some burgers and beers at Smidjan Brugghus and take photos of the beautiful downtown, iconic red church, and faraway coastal views.

  

Black Sand Beach

The sunny blue-sky, never ending summer days of Iceland were a perfect introduction to the country I have been waiting to visit for years.

Have you been to South Iceland in the summer? What were your favorite parts?

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