Thirteen days circling Iceland’s Ring Road compresses glaciers, black-sand beaches, fjords, and cliff colonies into a compact, small-group exploration. Expect intimate farm stays, boat tours through iceberg fields, and daily doses of dramatic geology. Read on for what to pack, where to stop, and how to make the most of each day.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Fog lifts off the black sand at dawn and the minivan's windows fog with breath and coffee as your small group stretches into another day on the Ring Road. You climb out at Seljalandsfoss to walk behind a curtain of water that seems to push at you; later, on the Westfjords' Latrabjarg cliff, wind grabs at your jacket and seabirds wheel above sheer rock faces like living confetti. Thirteen days of constant motion here feels less like transit and more like reading a country chapter by chapter—glaciers, lava fields, fishing villages, and geothermal ground that hisses underfoot.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
13 days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness — able to manage repeated short hikes (1–4 km) and long days of sitting during scenic drives.
Wildlife
History
Thingvellir is both a geological rift and the site of Iceland’s medieval Althing, where laws were proclaimed from open plains starting in 930 AD.
Conservation
Many sites are fragile—stick to marked paths to protect moss and lichens, and avoid bringing off-trail footprints into recovering lava fields; local guides work to minimize group impact.
Reserve your spot on the The Great Round Tour: Around Iceland in 13 Days today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for changeable weather
Iceland’s weather can flip within an hour; pack a breathable base layer, insulating midlayer, and waterproof shell to stay comfortable across hikes and drives.
Bring sturdy, waterproof footwear
Trails to falls and coastal jetties are wet, muddy, and rocky—waterproof hiking boots with good grip will keep you steady.
Plan for early light
Mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds at popular stops like Jökulsárlón and Seljalandsfoss—try to arrive within an hour of sunrise.
Respect bird cliffs and private farms
At Látrabjarg and farm stays keep distance from nests and livestock; stay on marked paths and follow guide instructions to avoid disturbing wildlife.
Waterproof hiking boots
Provides ankle support and traction on wet, cobbled or lava-rock trails.
Waterproof shell jacket
A breathable rain shell is vital against coastal spray and sudden showers.
Warm insulating midlayer (fleece/down)
Retains heat on cold mornings and during breezy cliff-top stops.
fall
Camera with wide-angle lens
Captures sweeping landscapes and aurora/sunrise panoramas—bring a tripod for long exposures.
summer