We recently embarked on a 10-day camper van road trip around the country, and day one? Pure magic. Here’s a detailed look into our unforgettable adventure exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle, complete with tips, must-see attractions, and travel hacks you’ll want to bookmark.
We kicked things off in Reykjavik, Iceland’s quirky and colorful capital. After stocking up on groceries and essentials from Bónus supermarket, we loaded everything into our cozy camper van. Renting a camper van was by far one of the best decisions we made—it gave us the freedom to roam, cook our own meals, and fall asleep to the sounds of nature.
Before hitting the road, we made sure to purchase travel insurance. We used SafetyWing, which covered everything from trip interruptions to unexpected medical needs—a real lifesaver in a remote country like Iceland.
With snacks packed and Spotify playlists queued, we hit the open road with our travel crew—Ruth, Rob, and Javi—ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
Just 45 minutes from Reykjavik, our first official stop was Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is where Iceland’s first parliament, the Althing, was established over 1,000 years ago.
But Þingvellir is more than just historical—it’s geological. The park lies directly between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, offering visitors the surreal opportunity to literally walk between continents.
We spent a couple of hours hiking through the rift valley, marveling at the towering cliffs, icy streams, and lava rock formations. In early spring, patches of snow still dotted the landscape, adding to the surreal, almost lunar atmosphere.
Travel Tip: Don’t skip the Öxarárfoss waterfall and the Silfra fissure, where you can snorkel or dive in crystal-clear glacial water.
After leaving Þingvellir, we made our way to Laugarvatn Fontana, a geothermal spa nestled by a lake. While we didn’t splurge on a spa session, we came for a more unique experience: cooking lunch using Iceland’s natural geothermal heat.
Right by the lakeside, steam rises from bubbling geothermal springs. Locals have long used this area to cook food underground, and we decided to try it ourselves. With eggs, sea salt, and fresh sourdough on hand, we whipped up a quick egg salad picnic with jaw-dropping views.
Bonus Tip: Arrive before noon to join their traditional rye bread baking tour. The bread, slow-baked underground for 24 hours, is a local delicacy—and we were lucky enough to try a slice!
Next up was Gullfoss, Iceland’s legendary “Golden Falls.” This thunderous, two-tiered waterfall plunges into a dramatic canyon, and the sound alone is enough to make your jaw drop.
Gullfoss also has a rich history. In the early 1900s, plans were made to harness the falls for hydroelectric power. But thanks to the efforts of Sigríður Tómasdóttir, an environmental pioneer, the plans were scrapped and the falls were preserved.
Fun Fact: In summer, rainbows often form above the mist. We saw two!
A short drive away is the Geysir Geothermal Area, home to bubbling mud pots, steaming vents, and the active Strokkur geyser.
Unlike the now-dormant Great Geysir, Strokkur erupts every 5–10 minutes, shooting scalding water up to 20 meters into the air. We stayed for nearly 30 minutes just watching and filming its explosive spectacle.
Travel Tip: The visitor center nearby has clean restrooms, a gift shop, and hot coffee.
Our final Golden Circle stop was the stunning Kerið Crater. Formed around 3,000 years ago, this volcanic caldera is known for its vivid red slopes and aquamarine lake.
We hiked the rim, snapping photos from every angle. Unlike Iceland’s typical black volcanic rock, Kerið’s iron-rich soil gives it a Mars-like appearance.
Entry Fee: Around 400 ISK (about $3)—totally worth it.
🛁 Secret Lagoon – Soak in History
The next morning, we started day two with a visit to the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir, Iceland’s oldest man-made hot spring. Built in 1891, it offers a more rustic, authentic experience compared to the Blue Lagoon.
Surrounded by moss-covered rocks and steaming fumaroles, the lagoon feels like a scene out of Norse mythology. After a day of hiking, soaking in the warm mineral waters was bliss.
Pro Tip: Visit early to beat the crowds and enjoy a quieter soak.
While the Golden Circle is the perfect introduction to Iceland, we extended our journey to explore even more southern gems:
- Seljalandsfoss: A stunning waterfall you can walk behind. Bring a rain jacket—you’ll need it!
- Skógafoss: Towering and dramatic with a staircase that leads to panoramic views.
- Dyrhólaey Cliffs: Incredible coastal views and puffins in summer.
- Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: A mystical spot with basalt columns and sea stacks.
- Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon: A winding, moss-covered canyon that looks straight out of a fantasy film.
Van life in Iceland isn’t just a way to save money—it’s a lifestyle. We cooked breakfast by waterfalls, played cards in thermal steam, and fell asleep to the sound of howling wind and distant water.
Sure, the weather can be unpredictable. But with a warm camper van, the right gear, and good company, every twist and turn felt like a gift.
Van Life Essentials:
- Insulated mugs
- Layered clothing
- Offline maps
- Portable stove and utensils
From volcanic craters and erupting geysers to waterfalls and thermal springs, Iceland’s Golden Circle is more than a sightseeing route—it’s an invitation to wonder.
Whether you’re planning a short stopover or a full road trip around the Ring Road, the Golden Circle makes the perfect introduction to the country’s unique landscapes and legends.
So grab your raincoat, rent that camper van, and let the Icelandic magic begin.
Adventure awaits.
