road trip camping car islande

• Kuku Campers English Version for Campers in Iceland
• Kuku Campers French Version for Campers in Iceland
• Kuku Campers German Version for Campers in Iceland">
• Kuku Campers Spanish Version for Campers in Iceland">
• Kuku Campers Italian Version for Campers in Iceland">

WE HAVE SIMPLY BEEN GOING KUKU SINCE 2012

• Free Shuttle to KúKú office
• KúKú office
• 08:00 (8:00 am)
• 09:00 (9:00 am)
• 10:00 (10:00 am)
• 11:00 (11:00 am)
• 12:00 (12:00 pm)
• 13:00 (1:00 pm)
• 14:00 (2:00 pm)
• 15:00 (3:00 pm)
• 16:00 (4:00 pm)
• 17:00 (5:00 pm)
• 18:00 (6:00 pm)
• Free Shuttle to KEF airport
• KEF airport car drop off
• 00:00 (12:00 am)
• 01:00 (1:00 am)
• 02:00 (2:00 am)
• 03:00 (3:00 am)
• 04:00 (4:00 am)
• 05:00 (5:00 am)
• 06:00 (6:00 am)
• 07:00 (7:00 am)
• 07:45 (7:45 am)
• 08:45 (8:45 am)
• 09:45 (9:45 am)
• 10:45 (10:45 am)
• 11:45 (11:45 am)
• 12:45 (12:45 pm)
• 13:45 (1:45 pm)
• 14:45 (2:45 pm)
• 15:45 (3:45 pm)
• 16:45 (4:45 pm)
• 17:45 (5:45 pm)
• 19:00 (7:00 pm)
• 20:00 (8:00 pm)
• 21:00 (9:00 pm)
• 22:00 (10:00 pm)
• 23:00 (11:00 pm)

VOLCANO UPDATES

Stay up to date regarding volcanic activity in Iceland 🌋

KuKu Deals for you !

Great tips for an epic van life adventure! 🔥🌋

KuKu Shuttle 🚌

Every hour from 8 AM to 6 PM, from Keflavik Airport to our office. Free service

Winter Adventures ❄️

Yes, yes, traveling in winter with KúKú is possible 🚐🤘

Campervan Iceland

You can totally control your trip in Iceland by travelling in minivan or 4WD camper. Campsites all around the country are open all year round so you can stop if you want at any place. Not having to worry about having to be somewhere for the night. Simply drive to your nearest campsite and enjoy your stay.

Kuku Campers has been in operation since 2012 so we are loaded with experience. Our staff is seasoned campervan travelers willing to give you pointers to make your stay even more enjoyable. They even know the secret filming spots of famous Game of Thrones series.

Road side assistance

We are in cooperation with mechanics all around the country, so you are in good hands in case something happens on your journey. These farmers sons can fix almost anything, as they are used to having to manage out there…far away in the land of ice.

Many customers ask us how we can have so low prices and the reason is simply that we are smart in running our company and our campervan are fully equipped without any unnecessary extra stuff- if you want it you can either bring your own or rent it from us.

Unlimited miles

With us yes! You can drive as much as you want while renting campervan in Iceland. However, we would like to point out that it does not give the best experience to only see Iceland through the camper window. Make sure you spend some time outside to breath in the fresh air.

A Campervan

Dacia Dokker or similar

Manual transmission

AA Campervan

Renault Kangoo or similar

Automatic transmission

With Heater

AA EX Campervan

Experienced Renault Kangoo or similar

AB Campervan

B Campervan

Renault Trafic or similar

B EX Campervan

Experienced Renault Trafic or similar

BA Campervan

Automatic Transmission

C Campervan

Renault Master or similar

C EX Campervan

Experienced Renault Master or similar

CA Campervan

Mitsubishi 4x4 or similar

E Campervan

Toyota HiAce 4x4 or similar

EA Campervan

Mercedes Vito 4x4 or similar

Volkswagen Crafter - 4x4

Dacia Duster 4x4 or similar

Subaru Forester 4x4 or similar

Dacia Duster 4x4 with roof top tent or similar

Reviews and Kudos

Don’t believe us just read, here you have a sample of the reviews and kudos we got over the years – and we keep ‘em coming. tell us how kuku you were.

Cezary Woźniak

Adam Alfieri

Callum breslin.

L. Schwartz

Simão Ferreira

Rob Streeter

Ottó Velkei

Hiking in iceland: full guide to the best trails and treks.

Iceland is all about nature, and what better way is there to discover it than hiking? If you are into discovering all the best trails and trek Iceland has to offer, look no further! Our KuKu staff has gathered all the info you need to start your trip. We will go over all the basic things you need to know, from the necessary equipment to all the most beautiful trails to visit, one day hikes and multi-day treks.​

The ultimate guide to camping in Iceland

Are you considering going camping in Iceland? Here we will cover the all the things you need to know about camping in the land of fire and ice, the do's and don'ts, what to expect, the weather factors, what you should wear and more!​

9 days road trip off the beaten tracks in Iceland

Looking forward to plan your campervan road trip in Iceland but don’t know where to start ? Don’t worry, be sexy… we’ve got you covered. In this article you will find a 9 days off the beaten tracks itinerary around the Southwest areas of Iceland. If you’re not the type to like crowded places, this not so touristic itinerary will be perfect for you ! ​

What is needed to rent a camper?

What you need is a valid credit card and driving license (valid at least 1 year ) of course, to rent a Kúkú Camper. Also, you need to be 20 years old or older ;) However, if you are really funny, we might make an exception…

P.S. You can drive a camper on a standard driving license!

Do I need an international driver’s license to drive in Iceland?

You don’t need to apply for international driving license , but if you want to have 2 licenses then go ahead, we won’t stop you!

Can I add an extra driver? What does it cost?

In Kúkú Camper additional drivers are for FREE . We’d rather that you share the driving as sometimes you might get tired or would like to have a glass of wine or two with your fancy made dinner. So, you can add free extra drivers once you are here!

What is included in campervan rental rates?

We have no hidden fee policy, which means you have basic CDW insurance, Vat and extra driver included. Also, we will provide you with all the kitchen essentials like a pot, frying pan, mini stove, plates, bowls, cups, cutlery, tea towel and even washing up liquid!

Do the campervans have toilets and showers?

Are the camper vans equipped with winter tires during winter.

Yes, all of our Kuku Campers will be equipped with winter tires during winter season. Camper will have awesome winter tires when it is required.

Do you offer automatic campers?

Yes, we do! In all shapes and sizes. Our Category AA is an automatic drive for two and a half… Category BA is an automatic drive for 3. And for 5 persons we have our Kukulicious Category CA . Our Category F are our highland automatic campers ready to take 4 persons into the wild. Where elegant Category EA will take 3 persons. The Category I and Category J would be Kuku´s 4x4 automatic drive for 2 person including the ultimate Category D .

Are any of your campers allowed on F-roads?

Absolutely, if you rent a campervan which has a 4WD you are good to go! Our category D, E, EA, F, G, H, I, J are 4x4WD campers and are suitable for F-road adventures. However, they cannot enter F-88, F-210, F-249 . The three F roads are extreme! The rivers are very deep & very strong. There is also spots of quicksands. We care for your safety! That’s why we have prohibited campers on them roads.

Can I drive off road?

Off road driving is prohibited because the soil and vegetation is very sensitive to all traffic. Even hikers can cause permanent damage to the land, which may recover only slowly or not at all.

Do you offer roadside assistance?

We are in cooperation with mechanics all around the country, so you are in good hands in case something happens during your journey. In case of any serious emergency call National Emergency Number: 112.

The Best Prices on Campervan Rental in Iceland

Kuku campers offer a top selection of campervans ideally suited to travels around Iceland. We are proud to offer competitive  camper rental prices , excellent service, and a wide choice of vehicles to ensure your experience of our country is as comfortable as it is exhilarating.

Our fleet offers a selection of the best campervan rentals Iceland has on offer, accommodating from two to five people at the best prices possible.

All our Iceland camper rental vans, like those at our  Colorado branch , have comfortable mattresses as well as all the basics you’ll need. These include simple kitchen units equipped with enough cooking equipment and utensils to throw a party, a gas burner, and even dishwashing soap in case you want to have a foam party!

We also offer  regular seasonal specials  where you can get useful items to ensure you make the most of your stay. The best part about us is that we may be Kuku but we care about our travelers. If we hear of a road closure or storm coming Iceland’s way anywhere, we let our customers know straight away. It’s all part of ensuring you get the best experience possible when you hire a campervan from Kuku Campers.

We’re just kukuliciously awesome and committed to going where no man has gone before to provide the best service and prices on campervans Iceland has to offer.

Best Campervan Fleet Options in Iceland

While we’ve modified  our vehicles  to suit camping in Iceland, we also provide the most awesome variety of van rental Iceland has to offer. So, if you aren’t brave enough to try out camping during this trip to Iceland, we can still help you with a kitchen on wheels for the ultimate convenience.

Even if you’re overnighting at a hotel during your stay, our  Renault Master  offers awesome extra storage space and plenty of seating for day trips around the countryside or lengthy travels between destinations. Our car fleet options include vehicles with both automatic and manual transmissions and our vans are decorated with the coolest graffiti in the country, although it can happen that you end up with a plain white one – probably because the painter got drunk and lost interest. (We don’t judge).

Insurance and Extras Included in Your Rental

Apart from everything you need for a comfortable stay, all our campervans come with a few extras to ensure safe travels.

Our standard Collision Damage Waiver insurance comes with every one of our vans, including the 4×4 vehicles. While the lessee is responsible for damages up to 3000 Euros, we don’t need a security deposit if you have a valid credit card.

If you’d like extra peace of mind during your trip, we can offer  complimentary insurances  over and above the CDW. We know you’ve traveled a long way to enjoy all the joys that camping in Iceland has to offer. That’s why we don’t expect you to bring everything you need along with you.

We offer a good range of creature comforts for hire with your campervan rental such as:

• Sleeping bags, camping mats, and pillows
• Camping chairs and tables
• Blankets and towels
• Camp cookers are included in campers but not the gas
• Gadgets like Wi-Fi routers so you can brag to all your friends on Instagram
• GPS if you feel you’ll get lost on the one and only highway we have

We’ll even rent you an acoustic guitar to ensure you make the most of nights around the campfire or woo an Icelandic Viking lady with your lyrical talents. Check out our awesome  rental prices on extra gear  so you know what you don’t need to pack for your trip. Ohhhh and during winter, we kit out our campers with awesome knobbly tires to compensate for the extra rough going.

Experiencing the Campervan Lifestyle in Iceland

There are many good reasons to choose the campervan lifestyle above all others in Iceland. Some of our favorites are:

It’s a Cheap Way to Travel

Thanks to the recent tourist boom in Iceland, many hotels, inns, and car hire companies have adjusted their prices in line with international rates. That means a campervan is by far the cheapest place to lay your hat in Iceland. Why rent a car and a bed when you can pay once and get both?

You’ve Got Options

Iceland’s weather is as temperamental as it gets. When storms threaten, it’s easy to head for cover inside your campervan. There’s no running around like a headless chicken to pack your tent before the storm hits, no wet equipment to cart around, and no cold, windy sleepless nights.

Freedom to Explore

You can go almost anywhere you want and do whatever you please when you rent a camper, especially our four-wheel drive. Why waste your precious time and money on tours and excursions when you can choose your own itinerary?

You Hardly Ever Need to Book Anything

Once you’ve picked up your camper in Iceland, you hardly ever have to book your spot at a campsite. It’s best to check ahead with your intended stopover, but most campsites welcome drive-ins. Our Icelandic campsites are simply awesome with good facilities and modern amenities.

Eat on the Run

Who wants to dress up for dinner and arrive at set times to eat while they’re on vacation? A campervan gives you the freedom to eat when and what you want to. From inside candlelight dinners to frying a lamb steak on the BBQ or picnicking alongside one of our gorgeous waterfalls. The only limit is your imagination.

Making Things Easier During Your Trip

While the campervan lifestyle is a great option for the true adventurers out there, Iceland isn’t for ninnies. Here are some survival tips from those who’ve been there: so grab a pen and prepare to take some notes!

• Rent the best camper Iceland has available – (hint, hint) a Kuku campervan hire is it!
• Hire only the equipment you need
• Bring waterproof shoes and clothing
• Bring or hire a rechargeable battery pack – or ten if you’re obsessed with taking photos
• Get extra  gravel insurance  on the vehicle – to protect yourself from them crazy Icelandic stones!
• Budget for camping fees, you can’t camp anywhere in Iceland anymore
• Do your grocery shopping in Reykjavik before you hit the road
• Stock up on booze at the airport duty-free shop
• Don’t buy drinking water, the tap water is magnificent here
• Bring a flashlight – although the sun doesn’t quit in summer, the days can be short in Iceland
• Our website has lots of blogs and information about camping in Iceland and we have several maps available to help you plan your trip. That way you know what you’re in for and what to pack. 
• Never be afraid to ask questions if you’re unsure – we have heard it all before – we really have!

Campsites in Iceland

You can go camping at any designated campsite in Iceland. Please don’t stop off anywhere you like for the night. It’s prohibited and harmful to our fragile environment. Nobody comes here to look at used toilet paper and rubbish, so please ensure you keep it tidy during your trip and only do your thing in designated toilets – or dig a hole if you really have to go!

Some of the best places to spend the night in Iceland during the summer are:

• Vatnajökull National Park
• Egilsstaðir
• Hellissandur
• Úlfljótsvatn near Lake Thingvallavatn

We’ll be happy to advise you on our top picks for the best camper Iceland trips available. You can also check out our Winter Adventures page for  campsites that are open  at this time of year.

The Best Outdoor Activities in Iceland with a Campervan

There are so many things for adventurous souls to do in Iceland it will make your head spin. It’s impossible to cram it all into one trip, so put these top Kuku-approved activities at the top of your list:

• Surfing at Thorli, Sandvik, or Grindavik
• Go whale watching in Reykjavík, Akureyri, and Husavík
• Horseriding tours  on one of our unique and awesome Icelandic horses
• Take part in some of the annual  events and festivals
• Relax at the warm waters of  Fontana Spa  or the stunning Blue Lagoon 
• Take a dip in any of the famous  hot springs  of Iceland
• Go  ice hiking
• Hire a bike  and go exploring
• Visit the  dormant volcanoes
• Snowmobiling at Langjökull Glacier
• Admiring the  Northern Lights  from any angle
• Snorkeling and diving with  dive.is

That’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to making the most of your travels around Iceland. We’ll be happy to advise you about the best things to do when you pick up your camper van.

Taking the Ring Road in Your Campervan

Any campervan Iceland road trip begins on the Ring Road. This unassuming 1300-kilometer strip of asphalt, known simply as Route 1, is your gateway to all the wonders of Iceland. It makes its way around the entire country and is the best-known route for exploring Iceland.

That means you can access all of Iceland’s best attractions from this arterial route, as well as several other side trips like:

• The South Coast which is a good year-round destination
• The  Golden Circle
• Snæfellsnes peninsula
• The Westfjords

Some of the other highlights along the ring road include:

• Waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss
• Jökulsárlón (Glacier Lagoon)
• Vatnajökull Glacier and National Park
• Akureyri and Dettifoss

There are no rules about how to travel the Ring Road, apart from Icelandic road traffic laws, that is. You can go in any direction you want, take as long as you like, and take as many detours as you fancy.

It’s important to get hold of a map and plan your route, though. You don’t want to miss out on any of Iceland’s coolest spots. Prepare for unplanned stops and lots of delays due to awesome photo opportunities.

There are plenty of fuel stations along the Ring Road but it always pays to fill up at every opportunity, since you’ll have more freedom to explore when you know you have a full tank of gas.

Heading for the Highlands in a 4×4 Campervan

Every true adventurer wants to take on Iceland’s Highland F-roads.  Many of these roads are really challenging, taking you through rivers and steep, rugged terrain. So, you shouldn’t even think about heading out that way without a 4×4 camper from Kuku Campers.

Another thing to bear in mind is that these tough tracks are closed during the winter and spring, so you can only explore the Highlands during summer, from June or July each year.

The Highlands takes up about 40% of Iceland’s total land area, so they’re filled with little-known treasures and secluded spots far from the tourist crowds. Think glaciers, vast volcanic deserts, waterfalls, rivers, and hot springs.

No one has ever cultivated or inhabited the Icelandic Highlands, so they’re as untamed as they come. So, call on your inner Viking and set off on a quest of discovery!

You don’t want to miss out on the chance to explore this lovely region, so please hire a 4×4 campervan for your trip. You’ll be missing out on some of Iceland’s most scenic places if you don’t.

What Are You Waiting For?

If you’re looking for an expensive, luxurious way to see the sights, Iceland campervan rental is not for you. However, you can’t beat an authentic, laid-back Kuku Campers experience if you want to see the country at its best.

Check out our  Facebook page  and  Instagram , or  YouTube channel to see what we’re all about. Stop dreaming of your Icelandic adventure and book now! We can’t wait to welcome you to our beautiful and exciting Land of Fire and Ice.

Welcome to Happy Campers

Camper rental in iceland.

Don’t be a tourist. Be a Happy Camper. Combine transportation and lodging in one Happy campervan in Iceland to make your adventure simple, easy, and fun.

• Most experience
• Eco-friendly
• Family business
• 2,000+ 5-star reviews
• Highest safety standards
• Most travel resources

Our Campers

Happy 1 (NEW)

Happy 1 Auto

Renault Trafic

Happy 2 – 3pax

VW Crafter or similar

Happy 4×4 – 3pax

VW Transporter

Happy 4×4 XL

Nissan NV200 or similar

Renault Master

Happy 4×4 EX

Check out our variety of extras and insurance options that you can book with any campervan from Happy Campers

Happy App + WiFi

The Happy App is an all-in-one solution that comes installed on a tablet in your van. The app serves as a GPS, itinerary builder & library, WiFi hotspot with unlimited data, weather warning system, emergency service assistant, and more. Free with new vans but €10/day for EX-categories.

Sleeping Bag

Make your adventure extra warm in the colder months (Sep – Apr) by renting a sleeping bag. In the summer, most customers are comfortable with the bedding included in the camper van rental, but if you tend to be cold, we suggest renting a sleeping bag any time of year.

Premium Plus

0 Self-risk / deductible on all of our insurances for maximum protection and peace-of-mind. Also includes free services such as vehicle lockout, incorrect fueling, and dead battery assistance.

Take all available insurance in one package and get a better price.

Gravel Protection

Gravel Protection covers damages to the entire front of the vehicle (including the windshield, headlights, and hood) caused by gravel hitting the car. This type of damage can occur when gravel is thrown into the air by the tires of another vehicle.

Nothing makes us happier than firing up the BBQ after a long day of exploring Iceland. If you are a fellow grillmeister, rent our portable gas grill, which comes with everything you need for grilling, including utensils and a propane tank.

A 12V/230V inverter (Europe) or 12V/110V (American) will allow you to charge your electronic devices using the 12V “cigarette lighter” socket in the car. It also adds a couple of USB chargers to the car, which can be convenient to charge your phones and other devices.

Camping Chair

A camping chair can make your trip a little extra special. You can sit in the perfect spot and watch one of our beautiful sunsets or bundle up and gaze at the stars. Be sure to check out our camping table for rent, too.

Our simple camping table makes it easy to enjoy a meal outside, or even inside in our larger vans. The collapsable table is simple to store in the van and lets you enjoy your meal, play cards, do the plank, or whatever makes you Happy.

Extra Driver

Would you like to make your trip more relaxing by having more than one driver? It’s only fair that you get to enjoy the views from the passenger seat a bit, too. Just bring a valid driver’s license for all drivers and you’re all set.

Child Car Seat

We welcome all adventurers, big and small. We have child seats of all sizes available for rent so that all family members can stay safe and comfortable on the road. All chairs have been inspected and we do not use expired chairs. Safety first.

Coffee Press

For coffee lovers like us, the Bodum coffee press & thermos is as important as warm clothes. Just bring coffee and you’re ready to brew and drink fresh coffee every day while on the road. Caffeine is great, isn’t it?

Make your adventure easier by renting a GPS from us. You can change the language settings so you get directions in your own language (although we recommend keeping the keyboard in Icelandic so you can spell street names correctly).

Happy Iceland eBook

Get our ultimate Happy Iceland eBook when you book a Happy Campers van. This is where we share all of our knowledge in one place. Our eBook covers every important topic about traveling in Iceland so you’re super prepared even before you get here.

This is the ultimate recycling station. Departing travelers leave their unused camper products for arriving travelers to enjoy, absolutely free. Stock up on the camping basics in our Free Zone.

Gas Canisters

We’re the only camper rental that includes cooking gas for up to 12 days (4-5 canisters). Not only do you save money but more importantly, you don’t have to spend time shopping for it when you run out during your trip.

For that extra bit of camping fun, pick up one of our yard games at the office for free. We got you covered with things like Kubb, frisbees, bocce ball, and more.

A Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is mandatory in Iceland and we included it for free with every booking. This means that we waive the right to hold you fully liable for damages. Your maximum liability, or deductible, would be €2,500 (~$3,000), even if you total a €60,000 van.

TPL Insurance

Third Party Liability (TPL) Insurance covers damage to property your accident caused, excluding the van itself. It also covers injuries to others, including your own passengers.

Extra Blankets

Grab as many extra blankets as you need to stay warm and cozy during your trip.

Extra Cookware

Need an extra plate, can opener, or pot? Grab as much extra cookware as you need for your trip.

As a part of our mission to provide the best winter #vanlife experience, we make sure that all of our vans are equipped with studded winter tires, a shovel, starter cables, and an ice-scraper. We also include an extended winter orientation at the office.

24/7 Dropoff

Is your flight super early or late? No problem! Return the van anytime and head over to the airport. We’ll take care of the check-out process the following morning. Automatically applied to all bookings with the dropoff time outside of business hours.

Bluetooth Speaker

Bring the party wherever you go with this JBL Bluetooth speaker.

Trekking poles

Planning on going some epic hikes? Rent our simple trekking poles and make the hike a bit more enjoyable.

Take the party to the next level with one of our Happy Guitars.

Safety Equipment

Safety always comes first, so we include a fire extinguisher and first aid kit in all camper rentals.

Luggage space is valuable, so you can just rent one of our (black) beach towels for your entire trip. Check out our higher-quality Happy Campers towels for purchase at the office as well.

The Super Collision Damage Waiver covers the same things as the CDW, but lowers the deductible from €2,500 (~$3,000) to €600 (~$700)

Sand & Ash Insurance

This insurance covers you in case of damage from ash and sand. Although rare, it is actually more common than most people realize and requires expensive repairs. Sandstorms are common in the highlands, and we live on an active volcanic island where anything can happen.

Theft Insurance

Protects you from liability in case the van or other included items get stolen. This only covers Happy Campers rental items, not personal items.

Scratch & Dent Insurance

Don’t worry about smaller scratches or dents (less than 3 cm) by getting the S&D insurance. Zero (0) deductible on this type of damage will give you that peace-of-mind.

Adblue is used to clean up diesel emissions and we take that seriously. We guarantee that your van is stocked with Adblue for your trip.

Tire Insurance

If you damage a tire so that it needs to be replaced, you are not responsible for the cost. Just change to the spare tire, call our service phone, and we will guide you through the process of getting a new tire and you won’t pay anything.

Clothesline

Don’t let damp clothing and towels ruin your camping experience. This lightweight, foldable clothesline is the perfect solution for quickly drying your damp laundry.

Why Happy Campers

Happy Campers is a family-run camper van rental in Iceland. We take pride in our camper vans and take no shortcuts when designing and building them. We are the oldest and most experienced campervan rental in Iceland , so you know you’ll be in good hands when you join the Happy Campers family.

Rent a camper van from Happy Campers with a few clicks, and spend the rest of your time doing what you came here for – exploring Iceland. It’s simple, it’s easy, it’s fun!

We are Iceland’s oldest campervan rental, so we have the experience to ensure that your trip is a success. We’re old in years but young at heart.

Happy Campers is committed to minimizing the carbon footprint not only for our own happiness and love for Iceland but to make sure that our travelers can travel in Iceland with a clear conscience.

We’re a family business and when you rent a Happy van, you’ll be joining our even larger family of travel- and Iceland lovers.

Our campervans are designed to be the perfect travel companion in Iceland. You will not find a more carefully designed, colorful, quirky, and efficient vans in Iceland.

We take safety seriously and bet that you won’t find these safety features elsewhere. Iceland demands that. Be sure to rent a safe camper for the unpredictable Icelandic conditions.

We want you to get the most out of your Iceland trip. That’s why we created the Happy App with itinerary builder, a large video library, free eBook, the Happy blog, the Happy Challenge, a newsletter, and more. When you book with us, you’ll be getting more than just a campervan.

Our goal at Happy Campers is to make the most of your trip in Iceland. We do this in many ways but perhaps most importantly, we make sure that you have all the tools, tips, and information you need before your trip. Check out our blog, extensive guides, itinerary builder, and enjoy even more after booking a van, including our eGuide.

When you book a Happy Campers van, you will get access to Iceland’s most powerful trip builder app. Create your perfect itinerary with our trip builder or browse our pre-built itineraries. The app also includes other neat features, such as WiFi, weather warnings, booking services, and much more.

Have you heard of the Happy Challenge? This is where you can visit some or all of our favorite attractions and win up to 30% off your rental price, not to mention a permanent place on our Happy Wall of Fame.

As a Happy Campers customer, you’ll get access to exclusive coupons and deals from over 40 trusted partners. We only work with companies we have tried ourselves and would genuinely recommend to our travelers. Take us up on our recommendations and get up to a 20% discount.

Happy Campers hosts the Iceland Camping Community on Facebook, where over 6,000 Happy Campers share their best tips, experience, and questions. A customer or not, we would love for you to join the community.

Our most useful resource is our Happy Campers map. The map includes every single campsite in Iceland and is categorized into summer, winter, and hybrid campsites. Each campsite has information about prices, facilities, and more.

Are you a professional blogger, photographer, filmmaker, influencer, or other content creator? We have a long history of successful collaborations with content creators traveling to Iceland so why not send us a line and see if we can work together?

8 Reasons Why You Should Visit Iceland in April

We offer a 100% refund up to 24 hours before your rental, no questions asked.

You can rent a campervan if you have a valid driver’s license, are at least 18 years old, and have a credit card with at least EUR 2,500 credit limit.

Prepaid credit cards and debit cards are accepted if the customer purchases  the Premium+ insurance or the Happiest Bundle .

Yes, Happy 3 , Happy 3 EX and Happy 4×4 XL can fit up to 5 people.

We take all major credit cards and offer the following payment options:

• Standard deposit: Pay 30% now and 70% when you pick up the van
• Pay 100% now

Prepaid credit cards and debit cards are accepted if the customer purchases the Premium+ insurance or the Happiest Bundle .

100% refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the start of your rental.

It’s the Happier version of Netflix. Start binge-watching travel videos.

Iceland Camper Van Rental Rent a Camper, or Motorhome

- home is where you park it.

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Just a moment! Some great campers coming up.

Our camper vans

Fiat Doblo Maxi

Fiat Doblo Maxi Automatic

Renault kangoo camper.

Dacia Duster 4×4 Roof top tent

VW Caddy Camper (Manual)

Jeep Renagade Camper

Vw caddy camper (automatic).

Renault Trafic 3

Renault trafic 3 (automatic).

Renault Master 5

VW California 4×4 (Automatic)

Toyota Hilux 4×4 Camper

Crosscamp 2 Flex 541

VW California Beach 4WD 2024 model

Crosscamp flex 541.

Crosscamp Lux 600

JEEP Wrangler 4xe

Why choose rent.is, book now - pay later.

Booking your camper rental in Iceland couldn’t be easier, Just book – and pay nothing until you arrive in Iceland. How nice is that !

Happy Customers

Please read testimonials, reviews and camper stories that our costumers have sent us. They tell the whole story about there experience, renting a Icelandic Campervan

Biggest campervan rental in Iceland

We are proud to own and operate the largest Camper rental in Iceland. We have the perfect Campervan for you, wether you just plan to drive ring road or visit the Highlands

Learn more about us

Service line

Wether you have questions or need help, contact us by phone or WhatsApp any time, always.

Heating System

You will not experiance cold in your Campervan. Most of our campers are equipped with Webasto heating system for cold nights. How cool (warm) is that !

Frequently asked questions

Do we have to check weather forcast every day during winter.

It is not necessary but it is easy to visit road.is for updates

How easy will it be to change my booking?

You simply send email to [email protected] with your request

Do you offer vehicles service all around the country?

Yes we do. Simply call +354 567-3000 for road assistance

Does all Camper rentals include unlimited milage?

Yes, all campers come with unlimited mileages so you are free to drive as much as you want

What is included in my campervan rental?

• Sleeping room and seats for 2 ,3, or 5 people depending on camper rented

• Double bed (140 x 200 cm / 4’7 x 6’6 in)

• Two Sleeping bags, sheets & pillows.

• Heating system for those chilly nights.

• Chairs & camping table.

• Camping Griddle & Gas.

• Pots, Pans, dishes & cutlery.

• Radio/CD/MP3/USB.

• Unlimited km/miles & CDW Insurance.

• A water canister

When we visit Iceland, what campsite do you recommend to choose to stay over night?

Please check out our blog about  Campsites in Iceland

Is campervan Iceland same company as Rent.is?

Campervan Iceland is a booking agency and Rent.is is the camper provider

Where can i find Icelands most cheap grocery stores?

We highly recommend to shop in  Bonus  . They are by far the cheapest option and located all over Iceland

What people are saying about us

Im giving five star for rent.is company. We had a best experience with them. We were picked up from the KEF AirPort to the office, then a man showed us everything what we need to know about how van working, everyone were so kind. The Van was managed with all the things, we needed for our 8 days journey around Iceland. We bought pack which came with kitchen cutlery and dishes, fridge, connection of electricity, table, chairs and sleeping bags.

We rented a camper van with Rent.is for two people for 6 days in Iceland. It was a small one but was amazingly well equipped, with everything you need to cook and eat, and with a heater working on a second battery, which was great for the cold nights.

Snagged a VW Caddy for our 7 day trip in Iceland. No issues at all, quite comfortable and reliable. The staff were friendly and helpful, they have a free shuttle service to and from the airport, and they’re open 24 hours for those early morning drop offs. I’m looking forward to going back to Iceland and I’ll definitely rent from them again.

Camper stories

Read about real stories that our costumers have sent us. All kinds of people from all around the world, driving around in all kinds of campers from Rent.is. Each Camper story is full of useful information with a lot of pictures and recommendation for new travellers ..check it out !

Nat & Lewis Iceland CamperStories

Another lovely CamperStories from Scotland. Nat & Lewis camped in the wild, had sites for themselves and could not get enough of their camper van trip in Iceland.

Kay and Andy’s Excellent AdVANture

Meet Kay & Andy! They found Iceland to be full of wonderful surprises & they loved traveling the Ring road in a Camper Van rental!

Wanderlust in Iceland

Colleen & Diego satisfied their wanderlust by going on a camper van trip around Iceland. This is their entry for the CamperStories competition. A great story with a lot of information about driving around Iceland.

Read more interesting adventurous Camper Stories

Before you place your Camper Iceland booking, why not take a peek into our fantastic blogs?The information are very useful for all who are renting Campervan in Iceland. For example: Where are all the swimming pools? Campsite in Iceland? Highland driving? Hot Springs in Iceland? Plus you find the best Travel guide for your Campervan rental Iceland, for all part of Iceland..check it out !

Campsites in Iceland

When traveling to Iceland, it is important to do research.  One of those things is everything about camping and where to camp. There are multiple…...

How to Pack Lightly for a Week

Ask anyone what they dread most about a trip, and they’ll most likely say packing. Making sure you have everything you need, especially for an…...

East Iceland Travel Guide

Too many people turn back to Reykjavík after they have reached Jökulsárlón, the famous glacier lagoon and skip exploring the wonders of East Iceland. Also…...

Read more interesting blogs

A Trip You’ll Never Forget

Iceland is a dream destination for a good reason. It’s one of the most unique vacation spots in the world. You experience an alien-like landscape full of geysers, beautiful mountains, and scenic views. And there’s no better way to explore this beautiful Nordic island than with a camper van. Iceland can be explored at your own pace and on your own terms, all while avoiding the crowds. While venturing into the Icelandic wilderness, you will stay rested and well-fed with living and kitchen quarters. At Rent.is, we have a wide range of campers that are fully equipped to provide you with optimal comfort.

Why Camper Vans?

One of the more popular ways to explore the breathtaking sights of this Nordic island is with a camper van. Iceland travelers from all over the world are witnessing the benefits of driving and living in campers.

For one thing, if you find reliable camper van rentals in Iceland, you can explore the country at your own pace. Therefore, feel free to make an itinerary suitable for your preferences.

What’s more, while in the remote parts of the island, you don’t have to worry about finding lodging, thanks to your camper van rental. Iceland can be bravely explored with the peace of mind of always having shelter, warmth, and a comfortable bed to get you rested for the next day’s adventure.

Intimately connecting with Iceland is a true traveler’s desire. With the camper, you are steps away from exploring its beautiful terrain. Better yet, you have front row seats to soak it all in. A camper simply eases your access to bond with the country’s nature up close and personally.

There are countless year-round campsites located along all roads around Iceland, so you don’t have to be strict about your schedule. You and your family are free to drive your Iceland van camper to the nearest campsite when you are ready to end the day. 

Visiting Iceland

Even though Iceland camper van rentals are the best way to explore Iceland, you may still have questions. For example, what main attractions can you look forward to while cruising?

Well, in Iceland, the list of things to see once you hit the open road is truly endless.

For some, the biggest highlight may be the geothermal baths and pools. These natural healing hot tubs are found throughout the country. Simply drive up, dive in, and chill out. Stay as long as you wish, thanks to the freedom of having a camper van. Iceland, and a relaxing hot spring bath, awaits.

Others may find the Northern Lights to be a must-see. From autumn to mid-spring, visitors travel long distances to watch these rare breathtaking lights dance across the night sky. Just have your camera ready to capture it all.

Still, some find the most joy interacting with the most majestic creatures on Earth, Icelandic whales. Seeing the towering mountains rising high above the landscape serves as the perfect backdrop for this adventure.

By choosing to rent a camping car in Iceland, you experience all of the above and much more.  As mentioned before, there isn’t a more special place on Earth.  You are sure to find at least a few things that will take your breath away, whether you’re out on the road or exploring the areas near the capital of Reykjavik. Camper van rentals are simply the best way to make your trip much more memorable.

Rent.is: Iceland Experts

We’ve covered why it makes sense to rent a camper van in Iceland. We also highlighted which stunning sights to look forward to during your visit. Now let’s go over the main reasons to choose Rent.is for your motorhome rental. Iceland has plenty of other companies offering similar services, after all. So why should we provide you the camper van for your unforgettable adventure?

First, we are a local and small company located near Keflavik International Airport, just 45 minutes away from Reykjavik. We take pride in providing each of our customers with the best solution for every situation.

Eleanor, our representative, greets all of our customers. She is dedicated to making sure your needs are met, including assisting in travel documents and insurance. Meanwhile, Baldur, our shop manager, maintains the campers. He ensures they are all in top shape. Then, he customizes them according to the demands of Icelandic touring and customer feedback.

Over the years, our Iceland camper rental vehicles have provided countless customers with unforgettable experiences. You can read about some of the best on our dedicated stories page. We hope to help you have the Icelandic vacation of your dreams.

We will meet you as soon as you land. Upon arrival, all the information that you need to ensure you have the best trip possible is provided, including the best route to take based on what you want to see. Not to mention, we will always be available in case you need our help.

Few places match the awe-inspiring experience of exploring Iceland’s locations in a location camping car. Iceland has so much diverse beauty that you need to discover it at your own comfort and pace. However, to ensure a smooth and worry-free trip, choose reliable caravan rentals in Iceland with high-quality vehicles and the necessary assistance.

At Rent.is, our goal is to satisfy each and every customer that we serve. That includes you. Contact our team today to get started booking your camper van rental! Reykjavik and the rest of Iceland will be an experience that you’ll never forget.

ALL OUR PRICES INCLUDE: CDW, TP, GP AND SCDW INSURANCE

+354 539 0605

CAMPER RENTAL ICELAND

Everything you've ever wanted for the Campervan Iceland trip,

with insurance already included!

OUR CAMPERS

Price, quality, comfort, reliability… They have it all!

OUR  MOTORHOMES

The perfect combination of comfort and mobility for your Iceland road trip. Choose your favorite and hit the road!

FREE Premium Insurance

Every one of our rentals comes with CDW, SCDW, TP & GP insurances to give you peace of mind from day one. Want VIP coverage? Take a look at our Platinum Plan!

Unrivaled Campervan Selection

We care about our customers and want you to find the perfect Iceland camper rental for your trip! We’re absolutely certain that you’ll find your ‘steed’ within our vehicle fleet!

24/7 Customer Service

Our campervan rental experts in Reykjavik are available all day, every day, and have been brightening the Iceland sky for over a decade. We’re here to help!

WHY CHOOSE CAMPERVAN REYKJAVIK?

Campervan rental in iceland.

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with our premium campervan rental service in Iceland. Traverse through Iceland's breathtaking landscapes, from the volcanic highlands to icy glaciers, all from the comfort of your own home-on-wheels. Rent a campervan in Iceland to enjoy unparalleled freedom and flexibility, allowing you to explore at your own pace. 

Our fleet is tailored for every traveler – whether you’re a solo adventurer or traveling with family. Experience the Northern Lights, hidden waterfalls, and geothermal springs with the ultimate convenience. Choose us for and start creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Camper or Motorhome?

We’ve got a wide selection of campervans and motorhomes to fit every budget and travel style. Taking an Iceland road trip is the adventure of a lifetime, and your vehicle is a huge factor in making sure you have an unforgettable experience. Here at Campervan Reykjavik, our local staff of experienced travelers is ready to help you pick the vehicle that is perfectly matched to your needs and preferences.  

With eleven different models to choose from, you’re sure to find a campervan Iceland that is exactly what you’re looking for. We’ve got diesel and manual vehicles and even campers with 4-wheel drive and roof tents. Whether you looking to drive and sleep two people or travel with your whole family, we’ve got you covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

Book your campervan rental before coming to Iceland by using our secure online payment system. All you need to do is:

Select the vehicle and the extras that you want

Leave a small down payment to secure your reservation

Collect your Reykjavik camper rental and pay the remaining balance

We accept credit card payments with Visa, MasterCard and American Express for the online reservation process.

1. How do I pay for my camper rental?

If you want to rent a camper with us, you’ll need:

To be at least 20 years of age (+25 for motorhomes)

A valid ID or passport

An original driving license (issued at least 12 months ago)

A valid credit card of one of the passengers

2. What do I need in order to rent a campervan?

Your Campervan Reykjavik rental package includes:

Unlimited Mileage

PAI (Personal Accident Insurance)/Third party liability insurance

Premium Insurance (CDW, SCDW, TP & GP)

Winter tires (from November to April)

24% Local VAT

3. What does the rental price include?

Yes, in most cases you do! The amount is equivalent to the insurance policy’s self-risk, i.e., for the basic CDW insurance it comes to 350,000 ISK.  For more information, drop us a message and we’ll get back to you with the conditions that apply to the vehicle you have chosen.

4. Do I need to leave a deposit?

Yes, absolutely. There aren’t as many campsites open during the winter months, but there are plenty to choose from all year round!

5. Are campsites open during the winter?

Why renting a camper is the best way to explore iceland.

Imagine waking up to the serene sounds of nature in a new, breathtaking location every morning. With our campervan rentals in Iceland, you're at the helm of your own voyage through some of the most spectacular landscapes on earth. The freedom to explore Iceland's geysers, waterfalls, and volcanic beaches at your own pace is invaluable. A campervan allows you to adapt your itinerary on the fly, staying longer at spots you love and skipping crowded tourist traps.

Our fully equipped campervans provide comfort and convenience, making them your mobile home away from home. From the rugged fjords in the west to the sprawling glaciers in the south, your Iceland adventure awaits. Choose to rent a campervan in Iceland and experience the true essence of unrestricted travel. Unleash the spirit of adventure and make every moment count with the ultimate road trip across this majestic land.

Iceland’s Highlands and 4x4 Camper Rental in Iceland

If you plan on visiting Landmannalaugar or the Icelandic Highlands during your trip, you'll need to know about 4x4 camper rental in Iceland . Our wild backcountry is only accessible during the summer months when the F-roads  (mountain roads) are open. For much of the year, these paths are impassible due to unpredictable road conditions and constantly changing the weather. Once the snow melts and the roads are deemed safe again by the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration, certain types of vehicles are allowed to pass.  

F-roads are special because they are unpaved, gravel roads that require a 4x4 vehicle. Whether it's a Land Rover or camper rental, Iceland’s laws make it mandatory that you have an all-wheel drive. The good news is that 4WD camper rental in Iceland is entirely possible, you just have to reserve the right model. When you book your camper, inquire with your camper van rental company about the 4x4 camper options available. After all, you want to be able to go anywhere and everywhere, right?  

An Iceland VW camper rental model like the Transporter gives you the best of both worlds. Not only are you traveling with your cooking and sleeping facilities, but you can also drive in the Highlands during the summer. Just watch out for those unbridged rivers. Much of Iceland's interior is completely untouched, which means there are some shallow river crossings. I highly suggest you avoid these because the chassis of a camper is much lower than that of an SUV and no rental insurance  covers water damage.  

If you want to explore the interior part of the country, then your camper van rental in Iceland needs 4x4 control. It's also a pretty good idea if you plan on driving in the winter as the roads will be icy and you will encounter slick conditions. 

CHECK OUT OUR HELPFUL BLOG OF ICELAND

Read our Iceland travel blog and prepare your journey!

Get your iceland camper rental.

Unlock the full potential of your Icelandic holiday with our superior camper rental services. Explore Iceland's stunning landscapes, from moss-covered lava fields to crystal-clear glacial lakes, all on your own terms. Rent a camper in Iceland from us and enjoy the journey as much as the destination. 

Our Vehicles provide the perfect blend of comfort and adventure, making them ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Don't just take the standard tourist routes and create unique memories by venturing off the beaten path. Book with us now and gear up for an extraordinary journey across the land of fire and ice.

The best camper rental 

Rent a camper in Iceland and set off on a journey through enchanting landscapes, rugged coastlines, and serene fjords. Our campervans are equipped with everything you need for a comfortable and hassle-free journey. 

From spacious sleeping areas to fully equipped kitchens, your travel comfort is our priority. With our campervan rental in Iceland, you're not just renting a vehicle, you're unlocking an unforgettable adventure filled with freedom, adventure, and awe-inspiring sights. Book your dream trip today and take the first step towards an epic Icelandic road trip.

A Complete Travel Guide to Selfoss Waterfall in Iceland

Mulagljufur Canyon: A Hiker’s Paradise in Iceland

The 9 Top-rated Iceland Souvenirs

CAMPERVAN REYKJAVIK

Vanlife Iceland

Guided Van-Life adventures exploring the best of Iceland during a 7-day road trip

Experience the magic of the midnight sun, Icelandic nature and great friends during one week of Vanlife.

For 20-45 year olds.

What is Vanlife Iceland?

Vanlife Iceland is a guided road trip around Iceland. We gather 15-20 vans of like-minded explorers and adventure around the famous ring road.

During 7 days we cover the best Iceland has to offer combined with the magic of living in a home on four wheels.

Vanlife Iceland is a unique experience, created by local experts and adventure travelers. Join us this summer!

Highlights of the week

Created by local experts

Ása Steinars  is our local Iceland, not many people know the countryside better than she does. Born and raised in Iceland, Ása has left no mountaintop, waterfall or hot spring unexplored and she’ll be leading us on this journey to show us her best-kept Icelandic secrets.

Leo Alsved  is the adventure master and experience creator. He has spent the last 10 years creating everything from big sailing festivals to boutique ski events deep in the Arctic. His close friends have learned that whenever Leo host an event, they show up and enjoy the ride.

2024 Events

15-22 & 20-27 June

Bookings are open

10-17 & 18-25 August

14-21 & 22-29 September

Few vans left

Every event is hosted by two amazing guides. They will be first at the campsite every day to welcome you with open arms, cold beers and hot BBQ’s.

We curate our guides from local experts and great friends, all masters at hosting events and creating unforgettable experiences.

Closer to the start of the event we will let you know who will be your guides for the week. Please note that Ása & Leo will join some events but not all of them.

Mahoooosive thanks to Asa and Leo for preparing an awesome trip, opening the treasure chest that is Iceland to us✨, and most significantly, inspiring us to seek adventure; even when it seems it’s not possible❤️🙏

What a wonderful group of souls to clamber around blue hues and campfires with 🔥. Missing you all already! ✨💙✨

Asa & Leo what an epic adventure week you pulled out of the 🎩 THANK you from the bottom of my hearts 🧡 I feel so damn grateful for being a part of this very special tour and to all of you other amazing adventures keep rocking the 🌍 in all your unique ways 🤟🧡  I’m still blown away of all the love, beautiful wild nature, grounded talks and adventure on another level 🙏 I know we’ll meet again one way or another 🧚‍♀️

Aftermovie from 2022

Whispers from good times in the past. Here’s a recap from an amazing week of Vanlife, and the first-ever event we hosted.

Film made by  Cat Koppel

How it works

Gather your friends and book a van. We got sizes for 2, 3 & 4 people. Prices start at €680/person.

Here you get your van and start driving. We follow the ring road that circumnavigates all of Iceland.

By day we explore Iceland. Drive on your own or follow Ása & Leo to their favourite spots, you decide.

We set up a camp each evening and gather everyone. Expect BBQ, bonfires, music and good vibes.

We got a sunset whale watching tour, pop-up bars, secret hot springs and much more planned for you.

We will be 15 vans filled with explorers from all over the world. We can guarantee you’ll make many new friends and create memories for a life time!

“I love the freedom of the van while exploring Iceland. The route was perfect, great organization and most of all a fantastic group of people!”

– Tim, Germany

What’s Included

• Camper van of your choice
• Campsite Fees
• BBQ & Bonfires
• Local expert guides
• The Iceland Adventure Map
• Airport Transfer

Not Included

• Flights to Iceland
• Travel Insurance
• Extra Activities
• Food & Drinks

Our itinerary around Iceland

Day by day, this is some of the stuff we will be up to. 

Pick up your campervan and hit the road. Our frist camp site is about 2h drive away but there’s plenty to explore on the way. We recommend going for a hot spring hike and visit some waterfalls on the way. It’s also a good idea to stock up on some food and drinks for the van.

We explore the south coast and all its waterfalls. You’ve got a smörgåsbord of amazing nature just by the road. It’s all simple access and a few hikes available if you want to. End the day in Vik on the famous black beach or perhaps go for a tandem paraglide flight in the sunset!

We continue east into Vatnajökull natural park and the glacier territory. Stop at the famous glacier lagoon and walk between icebergs on Diamond Beach. We highly recommend the glacier hike. It’s an incredible experience walking on the ice, seeing the ice falls and climbing through cracks with ice axes and crampons.

Wake up in a remote camp site after a night around the bonfire. We continue east towards Höfn, the lobster capital of Iceland. On the way go for a hike to Svartifoss or chill in the hot springs in Hoffel, or both. We will also visit Stokknes, a beautiful black beach before lobster dinner in Höfn.

Welcome to the beautiful East Fjords of Iceland, surrounded by high mountains and water all around. We camp in Seydisfjördur, the most picturesque fjord of Iceland. This is also home to an amazing sushi restaurant serving fresh fish from the local fishermen, a great spot for dinner.

The day starts with a drive through the biggest volcanic desert in Europe. Endless black lava fields before you reach the ocean and Husavik on the other side. On the way there’s of course a hot spring to bath in as well as a geothermal area. We finish the day with whale watching and dinner.

It’s the last day before heading back to Reykjavik. We have a few more hot springs to explore and option to go horse back riding on Iceland horses through a beautiful valley. Then we gather for the last night together, BBQ at the camp site and hang around the bonfire. A magical week has come to an end but feel free to stay a few days in Reykjavik before flying out.

Prices start at €1190/person

A look inside the van

Your home for the week. Fully equipped with a kitchen, heater and a comfy bed.

Vanlife is the best kind of life. Anywhere you go, your home follows. You’ve got a kitchen for food, a fridge for cold drinks, a bed for naps and always a warm jacket when you need it.

A guide to vanlife in iceland

Everything you need to know before hitting the roads in Iceland

What to pack for travel in Iceland

Cooking in your van – a few tasty recipes

Good things to know when traveling in Iceland

If your question is not covered in the below answers, please contact us on  [email protected]

Your booking with Vanlife Iceland is fully refundable up until 1 October.

• Before 1 October 2023: 100% refund offered
• 2 October – 1 January:  70% refund of total booking value
• 2 January 2024 – 100 days before the event: 50% refund of total booking value
• 99 days before the event: No refund
• Extra activities are non-refundable

*All refunds are subject to 6% transaction fee

During your week in Iceland, an estimate for what you’ll spend is something like this:

• Fuel – €250 per van
• Food – If you buy food in a supermarket and cook in the van, estimate around €100/person for the week.
• Dinner at a restaurant – From €40pp incl one drink.
• Extra activities – These cost usually €60-130 depending on what you choose to do. They are all optional but come highly recommended to try at least some.
• Drinks – We’ll be spending most of our evenings at the campsite. We recommend picking up alcoholic drinks at tax-free before you enter Iceland. A beer at a bar is about €8 and a cocktail €15.

We do not sell solo spots, only vans and it’s up to you as a guest to find someone to travel with (if you want to).

Our small vans are great for one person and we usually have solo travelers joining us in them.

If you pick a bigger van, the price is always for full occupancy. Meaning that if a van costs €1000/person and can host 2 ppl, then the total price of the van is €2000. This doesn’t change if you book it as one person or two.

Our events are for anyone who wants to live in a van for a week and explore Iceland together with a group of great people.

We are open-minded, love to meet new friends and inclusive to everybody.

Our events are designed for 20-45 years old

Yes, we stay at campsites each evening that have bathrooms and showers available for all guests. So you will have access to showers daily and we will also visit many hot springs during the week so it’s easy to stay fresh during Vanlife Iceland.

The way Vanlife Iceland works is that our guides recommend our favorite spots each day. Then it’s up to you to explore as you like.

We don’t have a set itinerary you have to follow and we encourage you to explore and find your own adventure.

If you want to follow our guides, that’s of course ok too. Every evening we all gather at the campsite. We set up a BBQ, bonfire and music and enjoy the evening together.

Vanlife Newsletter

We will notify you for important updates only. Like when we launch bookings or if a new volcano erupts in Iceland. No spam, we promise

All trips above are being booked through Vanlife Iceland, and operated by them.

Vanlife Iceland brand and concept is owned by Communia ltd. A private limited company registered in London (63-66 Hatton Garden, EC1N 8LE, United Kingdom). Contact us on [email protected]

Want to travel to Iceland outside of the dates offered by Vanlife Iceland? Book your own van for a self drive with Camp Easy now.

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How do I know which vehicle to choose?

Picking the right vehicle is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning your Iceland road trip. As fellow travelers, we get it. It’s important to know your travel style and preferences before deciding which vehicle best suits your needs.

Whether it’s a luxury motorhome for a family of four or a campervan for a young couple making their way around the world, Motorhome Iceland has something for everyone.

Check out our wide selection of campers, 4x4 campers and motorhomes to hit the road in style. Your home on four wheels will give you freedom and flexibility during your travels.

Let our teams of local experts help you decide what fits you best.

Our customers have spoken

Not sure whether to pick us for your Iceland road trip? Our customer reviews speak for themselves!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum age to rent a motorhome in Iceland?

To rent a motorhome in Iceland you must be at least 25 years old and to have held a full license valid for at least one year.

What is the cost of renting a motorhome in Iceland?

That depends on the season, the model and the rental period you choose. You can rent an RV in Iceland with us for as little as 31,000 ISK per day!

What are the insurance requirements for renting a motorhome in Iceland?

Every one of our motorhomes comes with basic CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) insurance, which is required by law. For a worry-free trip around Iceland, we recommend upgrading to our Platinum Insurance Plan (includes SCDW, GP, TP & SAAP insurances) for only 5,900 ISK per day.

What are the camping regulations in Iceland?

Wild camping is strictly forbidden in Iceland. You can only camp in designated areas, such as campsites. Some only remain open until mid-September, so make sure to check their official closing dates.

What are some tips for renting a motorhome in Iceland?

Always book your vehicle in advance to ensure availability and to get the best price. While driving, keep in mind that motorhomes are large and heavy vehicles, so proceed with caution and keep an eye out for any restriction signs in town centers. Stick to paved roads (no F-roads or gravel roads).

The Motorhome Iceland Blog

We have the BEST PRICES on the market and the MOST RELIABLE car fleet in Iceland. We’re here to make your road trip unforgettable!

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Explore Iceland with us

We love Iceland, we live here and we know it like the back of our hand. Now it’s time for you to discover the island’s magic. Let us show you around!

Why Iceland?

Iceland, a land of unmatched natural beauty and adventure, stands as an ideal destination for a motorhome journey. Its spectacular landscapes are a major draw, featuring some of the most stunning vistas on earth. The country's varied terrain offers an unforgettable experience as you drive through. Moreover, Iceland's compact size makes it perfect for motorhome exploration. You can traverse diverse landscapes, ranging from the rugged Westfjords to the tranquil South Coast, all within a single trip.

The summer brings the magic of the Midnight Sun, a time when the sun never fully sets, while winter offers the chance to chase the elusive Northern Lights. These natural phenomena provide unique experiences for visitors. Iceland is also home to fascinating wildlife, including puffins, seals, reindeer, and occasionally the Arctic fox. The warmth and hospitality of the Icelandic people further enhance the travel experience. Friendly locals are always ready to share their rich culture and ensure that your visit is as rewarding as possible.

Renting a motorhome in Iceland

Renting a motorhome in Iceland is the ultimate way to immerse yourself in the country's stunning landscapes and unique culture. With a motorhome, you have the freedom to create your own adventure, explore at your own pace, and truly connect with Iceland's natural beauty. Our motorhomes are equipped with all the essential amenities, ensuring you have a comfortable and convenient journey. You'll find everything you need, from a well-appointed kitchen for preparing your meals to cozy sleeping areas for a restful night's sleep.

One of the greatest advantages of motorhome travel in Iceland is the flexibility it offers. Forget about rigid itineraries and hotel check-in times – your home on wheels is with you wherever you go. Whether you want to explore the famous Ring Road, venture off the beaten path, or wake up to breathtaking views at some of Iceland's stunning campsites, renting a motorhome provides you with the means to make your Icelandic adventure truly unique and unforgettable. Discover Iceland on your terms and experience the freedom and comfort of a motorhome.

Discover Iceland with us!

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Camper Rental Iceland

New campers and best rental prices.

Being that we are LOCALS , we possess a wealth of savviness and know-how necessary for any traveler to quickly adjust to the lay of the land-- fast and safe.

+30 Select Campers

One of our many talents is in how we go about our vehicle selection process. We have scoured the market for the ideal vehicles for Iceland’s beautiful and diverse terrain. Our vehicles are a great match for any traveler that is here for leisure or discovery!

+10000 Customers

There’s something to say about having a great concept: customer service and excellent vehicles. Our customers love us! That’s why they keep coming back and choosing us for their travel needs.

H24 Support

We’re different than most vehicle website providers because we have a top tier-24 hour-7 day a week, customer service center. Whether you have questions about your booking or got lost while on your trip--we are here to help.

Have you ever whitewater rafted under pristine conditions or been face-to-face with age old geysers? Iceland has it all! Whether you’re taking a break from the mundane 9-to-5 hustle of work or on a honeymoon adventure, we can help you pick out the perfect vehicle. A lot of our customers travel during the winter season too so check out our FAQ page to see if other like minded people can give you answers to your deepest questions.

RV orientated Travel blog for Iceland

How cool is this? We’ve compiled stories from previous renters, travel experiences and advice that will help you on your journey. Whether you want to woefully be surprised and discover trails, sights, and venues on your own or you’d like to visit wildly popular items on the list, at least you have the option. A blog with the RV traveler in mind for Iceland adventures. Amazing!

Best Campsites in Iceland

List with the best campsites in Iceland divided into regions. Full features and opening times are provided for those who would like to wonder around Iceland.

Driving tips in Iceland

Driving Tips for Iceland travelers planning on crossing the country. Information about type of roads, special conditions in Iceland as well as general tips for a safe driving.

Top things to do in Iceland

This article points Top things to do in Iceland. We describe the beauty of the chosen places and show the reason why you should definitely visit them.

Iceland Ring Road

What to do around the Ring Road. We give you an idea of what you should think before heading off the road and you should be aware when you are already there.

So, Iceland huh?

In this digital age, more and more people are deciding to disconnect and leave the mega city lifestyle behind in order to journey through nature at a more personal level. If you have this yearning, as we did when we set up our company, we would love to help you on this adventure. All of the campervan or motorhome rentals can conveniently be picked up near the Keflavik Airport upon your arrival.

Renting RVs in Iceland--Iceland on the Go!

There’s no more rewarding feeling than planning a getaway, arriving at the airport with a backpack and picking up the keys to your home on wheels, during your stay in Iceland. A new world with dazzling spectacles and magnificent nature await you. Imagine the feel of the keys to your new campervan--it’s the feeling of pure freedom and adventure. You’ll be able to have the conveniences of home while on this trip. Camping, the mobile way!

Throughout the many years we have had honeymooners, families and best friends deciding to leave the city behind, drop all worries and embark on a life changing trip through raw nature and staggeringly brilliant sights.

We understand that this is not a common trip for many, but it’s sure as heck worth it. Testimonials from past and recurring customers fill us with joy because they say their trips have altered their mindsight, reset their moods and given them different perspectives on life and what is important.

Renting a Camper for traveling through Iceland’s beautiful landscape

AM ehf is the company that we have chosen to work with to provide stellar motorhome and campervan rental services in Iceland. Picking up and turning in your vehicle rental is easier than ever since our service is located a stone’s throw from Keflavik International Airport or you can choose to pick it up in downtown Reykjavik. Whatever your preference, we can work with you.

Iceland is renowned for it’s famous campsites that are strategically placed in wonderful areas of the country. Overnighting at this campsites is a phenomenal way to meet new friends and fellow like minded travelers. Iceland has wonderful nature and local wildlife, but it also has capricious weather--so if you’re ever in an area where it begins to rain or storm, just hop back into your vehicle and head to a better area. Having the convenience of a mobile living space with a kitchen, shower and toilet gives you 100% autonomy on your road trip from Heaven!

Within a brief span of time you can travel from beach areas to active volcano sites. Glaciers are a must see. No photograph of them can capture these awe-inspiring and truly beautiful gems of mother nature. You have to get out of your car, nature walk and view first hand the jewels of Iceland such as the Vatnajökull Glacier .

Any time is a good time to travel to Iceland since there’s a different feel about the countryside and landscape. During the summer you’ll have access to more wildlife watching and beautiful wild flower gardens along the Ring Road whilst during winter the pristine waters, geysers and volcanos are a luxury to the eyes. Our vehicles are winterized for a worry-free travel experience!

Most of our Mini campers, campervans and motorhomes offer comfortable and spacious accommodation for up to 6 travelers. Depending on your trip type, number of travelers and journey goals, we can help you customize your vehicle. Like to cook more while you travel, need a vehicle with larger viewing windows, or bringing children that need interior play space: no problem. We have such a diverse fleet of vehicles that can effortlessly be adjusted to your travel needs.

Sometimes it takes some time to get out of one’s comfort zones. We understand this concept. All of our vehicles are manageable to drive and require only a standard driver’s license from your home country. They drive like cars but feel like home .

Our customer service specialists are team players and they’re here to assist you.

Bienvenue à GO Campers en Islande

Location de campervans à petits prix.

• Keflavik Office - Airport Shuttle service
• Keflavik Office
• Keflavik Hotel - Shuttle service
• Reykjavík Office

Découvrez nos campers en Islande

Go smart camper 2-pax.

Go SMART Camper

Go ICELAND Camper 2-pax

Go ICELAND 2.0 Camper

Go SMART Camper 2-pax Automatique

Go 4x4 TOP Camper 2-pax

Go LITE Camper 3-pax

Go LITE Automatic Camper 3-pax

Go BIG Camper

Go Big Automatic camper 5 pax

4x4 Camper 2-pax

Go 4x4 Explorer Camper

Go 4x4 Cruiser Camper

Go 4x4 WRANGLER Camper 4-pax

Go 4x4 camper 4 pax

Go 4x4 LUX Camper

Extra equipment

Check Availability

• Notre agence
• Aéroport de Keflavik - Navette

Nos clients témoignent

Scott- Allemagne

"Tout était comme annoncé, Benedikt et tous ses employés étaient très gentils et serviables, même au préalable avec un contact par e-mail. Le camper était super! Nous sommes allés avec le Go BIG Camper qui était parfait pour 2 personnes (on peut facilement se glisser à plus) et beaucoup d'espace pour les bagages. Le camper se roulait à merveille, le chauffage marchait bien (ce qui est important!) et le lit était tout à fait douillet.

Je les recommande vivement et je les utiliserai à coup sûr à nouveau une fois que nous reviendrons.

Et un Camper est absolument l'idéal pour voir l'Islande! "

Renee Grogan - Australie

"Nous avons loué un camper 4x4 chez Go Campers en Septembre 2014, et nous ne pouvions pas être plus heureux. Le camper a été fabuleux, très bien équipé avec exactement tout ce dont nous avions besoin, et un 4 tractions "propre" qui nous a permis de rejoindre des lieux de grande renommée en confiance. L'équipe de Go Campers était sensationnelle - si utile, si amicale, et elle a rendu toute notre expérience fabuleuse. Je recommande Go Campers à tous ceux qui cherchent à louer un Camper en Islande. Merci encore les gars, vous êtes extra!"

Pourquoi choisir Go Campers ?

Nous sommes des voyageurs, comme vous

Nos conseils pour découvrir l'islande en van, guides de voyage, blogs et conseils.

Les 10 meilleurs endroits pour voir les aurores boréales en Islande

Si vous êtes en Islande entre septembre et avril, vous vous demandez peut-être s'il existe un endroit dans le pays qui offre de meilleures chances de voir les aurores boréales. La vérité est qu'il n'y a pas un endroit meilleur qu'un autre. Les aurores boréales apparaissent partout pendant cette période.

Le Cercle d'Or en 10 jours

Le Cercle d'or est idéal pour les escapades spectaculaires et inoubliables. Et si nous vous recommandons toujours de prendre votre temps en voyageant, nous comprenons aussi que tout le monde ne peut pas rester en Islande pendant deux semaines. Pour les campeurs qui souhaitent faire le cercle d'or en 5 jours, nous avons tout prévu.

Circuit Autonome - La route de la côte arctique

Au cours de l'été 2019, l'Islande a dévoilé sa toute nouvelle route touristique, l'Arctic Coast Way. S'étendant sur 900 km de la côte nord immaculée de l'Islande, c'est l'occasion idéale pour les voyageurs en van de sortir des sentiers battus.

F requently A sked Q uestions

Trouvez les réponses à la plupart de vos questions sur la location de campervan en islande dans la section faq, politique d'annulation.

Si vous annulez votre réservation avec plus de 24 heures de préavis avant le début de la location, nous vous rembourserons intégralement la réservation.

Lisez notre mise à jour sur le COVID19 .

N'hésitez pas à contacter l'équipe Go Campers si vous avez des questions.

Où se garer/camper pour la nuit ?

Nous vous conseillons d'utiliser les campings ici en Islande. Ils sont nombreux et disposent de bonnes installations telles que des douches, des cuisines et même des salles à manger intérieures à certains endroits.

Il n'est pas non plus nécessaire de faire une réservation; présentez-vous quand vous le souhaitez.

Voici une carte avec tous les campings en Islande et les campings ouverts toute l'année.

Si vous n'avez pas accès aux campings, vous devez demander l'autorisation de camper pour la nuit auprès du propriétaire du terrain sur lequel vous prévoyez de rester car il n'est pas légal de camper sauvage.

Dans un parc national, vous devez utiliser le camping. La conduite hors route est illégale en Islande et veuillez ne pas jeter ou laisser quoi que ce soit derrière vous.

Toutes les mesures à la frontière islandaise en raison du COVID-19

VEUILLEZ NOTER - Toutes les mesures à la frontière islandaise en raison du COVID-19 ont enlevées à partir du 25 février 2022 .

Pourquoi devrais-je louer un campervan quand je voyage en Islande ?

L'Islande est un pays aux paysages magnifiques, des fjords épiques le long de la côte à l'intérieur volcanique et montagneux.

C'est un pays construit pour les voyages en voiture. Mais les locations de camping-cars en Islande sont trop volumineuses et les locations de voitures omettent l'hébergement ; les camping-cars sont un choix parfait.

Louer un camping-car en Islande se trouve également être le moyen le plus abordable de voyager à travers le pays. Un camping-car pas cher en Islande vous permet d'économiser beaucoup d'argent.

Comment choisir le meilleur camping-car pour un road trip en Islande ?

Go Campers propose une variété de camping-cars différents pour votre voyage en Islande, des vans basiques et abordables pour 2 personnes aux plus grands camping-cars 4x4. La chose la plus importante à considérer est l'endroit où vous prévoyez de voyager.

Pour beaucoup, la Ring Road est le choix évident. Pour cela, n'importe quelle location de camping-car fera l'affaire.

D'autres voudront peut-être s'aventurer dans les hautes terres islandaises, où vous aurez besoin d'un camping-car 4x4 pour affronter les routes accidentées qui traversent l'intérieur du pays.

Quelle est la meilleure période de l'année pour visiter l'Islande en camping-car ?

L'été est la période la plus populaire pour visiter et explorer l'Islande, car c'est à ce moment-là que le temps est le plus stable. Mais l'hiver n'est pas mauvais !

Avec une forte chance de paysages enneigés avec les aurores boréales irisées qui scintillent au-dessus, une aventure totalement différente attend ceux qui louent un camping-car en Islande en hiver.

De part et d'autre de l'été et de l'hiver, les intersaisons sont aussi une période fantastique pour voyager.

Les prix sont encore bon marché, le temps est varié et intéressant et les foules ne sont pas encore arrivées.

Que dois-je savoir avant de conduire une voiture en Islande ?

Conduire un camping-car en Islande est une bête différente. Les conditions météorologiques dramatiques ici peuvent changer rapidement, avec des vents forts, des tempêtes de neige, de la pluie et du brouillard.

Le Ring Road est également spécial en ce sens qu'il s'agit de l'autoroute principale du pays et qu'il n'y a qu'une seule voie dans chaque sens.

Il existe même des ponts à une voie sur les rivières glaciaires - vous pouvez probablement commencer à voir que l'Islande est différente. Avec un peu de prudence et un œil constamment sur la météo, conduire en Islande ne devrait pas poser de problème.

Peut-on se passer d'une voiture lorsqu'on voyage en Islande ?

Il est possible de voyager en Islande en utilisant les transports en commun, mais vous rateriez toutes les expériences incroyables que l'Islande a à offrir. Avec l'un de nos camping-cars pas chers, vous êtes libre de voyager où vous voulez, quand vous voulez.

Ai-je besoin d'un camping-car 4x4 en Islande ?

Un camping-car 4x4 en Islande est nécessaire si vous prévoyez de voyager dans les hautes terres du pays.

Il s'agit de la région intérieure du pays, traversée par les routes F accidentées où les seuls véhicules autorisés sont les 4x4.

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Le guide du camping-car en Islande

Autor: Annika Ziehen

Envie de découvrir le pays de feu et de glace ? Ne te pose plus de questions et planifie ta virée camping-car en Islande ! Loue un petit van aménagé chez nous et démarre un road trip plein d’aventure !

roadsurfer GmbH / Thomas Grüner

Avant d’atteindre cette énigmatique île du Nord, l’idéal pour tes vacances en Islande est de te lancer au départ du Danemark. Malgré la longueur du trajet, le chemin en vaut la peine car l’Islande offre aux voyageurs un spectacle enthousiasmant avec sa nature intacte, ses innombrables chutes d’eau, ses paysages aux contrastes fascinants et ses sites incroyables.

Notre guide du voyage « L’Islande en camping-car » répondra à toutes tes questions concernant les plus belles routes de l’île et tout ce dont tu as besoin pour une expérience de voyage réussie.

Loue un van aménagé dès maintenant Trouve un spot dès maintenant

Comment se rendre en camping-car en Islande ?

Pour rejoindre l’Islande en camping-car, tu dois d’abord prendre le ferry de la Smyril Line depuis le Danemark. Une fois par semaine, un ferry part depuis Hirtshals, fait escale aux îles Féroé, puis continue jusqu’à Seyðisfjørður, en Islande.

Pour une cabine à deux lits et le transport d’un véhicule d’une longueur maximale de 7 mètres, le prix minimum de la traversée en ferry avec un camping-car est de 840 euros l’aller-retour, pour une durée d’environ quarante heures. Tu dois effectuer ta réservation à l’avance, car les emplacements pour véhicules aménagés sont limités.

Depuis le nord de l’Allemagne

• Tu peux choisir de te rendre à Hambourg par avion ou en prenant le train depuis la France – sur place, tu peux louer un véhicule aménagé roadsurfer par exemple et continuer ton voyage sur les routes. • Depuis Hambourg, tu peux rejoindre Hirtshals en prenant l’E45. Le trajet fait bien 500 km. • Sinon, tu peux également choisir de te rendre à Berlin depuis la France. Depuis Berlin, l’idéal est de prendre l’E45 et l’A24 en direction du Danemark. Le trajet jusqu’au Danemark fait près de 800 km.

Depuis la France

• Il est bien entendu possible de partir en van ou fourgon aménagé directement depuis la France – il faudra alors traverser l’Allemagne pour se rendre au Danemark. Compte au moins une journée de voyage pour effectuer ce trajet depuis l’Alsace par exemple (et plus si ton voyage commence plus dans les terres françaises). Le point positif : les autoroutes allemandes sont gratuites.

Ta maison à chaque coin de rue !

Ton van roadsurfer est la maison sur roues idéale. Il n’y a pas de road trip parfait sans une belle aire de camping sur lequel admirer la vue, depuis ta fenêtre panoramique. Notre conseil : découvre maintenant des emplacements chez l’habitant exceptionnels ainsi que des campings exclusifs dans toute l’Europe sur roadsurfer spots !

L’Islande en camping-car – Ce qu’il faut savoir lorsqu’on conduit

• La limite de vitesse pour les camping-cars légers est de 50 km/h en ville et de 80 km/h hors agglomération.
• Il est formellement interdit de circuler en dehors des routes désignées.
• Le taux d’alcoolémie autorisé est de 0,5 g/L.
• Les enfants de moins d’1,50 m doivent être installés dans un siège adapté à leur âge.
• Au volant, il n’est permis de téléphoner qu’avec un kit mains libres.
• En Islande, du 1er novembre au 15 avril, les véhicules doivent obligatoirement être équipés de pneus hiver, avec une profondeur des sculptures d’au moins 3 mm. Tous nos camping-cars sont équipés de pneus toutes saisons avec marquage M+ S.
• En Islande, tout conducteur doit rouler toute l’année avec les feux de croisement allumés, même pendant la journée.
• “Bifreidastaedi bönnud” désigne une interdiction de stationner. Il est également interdit de garer son véhicule près d’une ligne jaune discontinue, 15 mètres avant/après un arrêt de bus et 5 mètres avant/après un carrefour.
• En cas d’infraction au code de la route, la police peut exiger le prix de l’amende directement sur place.

Les plus beaux circuits pour camping-cars en Islande

5 jours en camping-car dans le cercle d’or.

Le Cercle d’Or est sans doute l’un des circuits les plus réputés en Islande et couvre la région la plus connue du pays. Même si tu peux facilement le parcourir en une journée, prends suffisamment de temps pour explorer Reykjavik et profiter des merveilles de la nature le long du chemin.

Jour 1 – Reykjavik

• Laugardalur est un super espace naturel pour partir en randonnée ou faire du vélo, particulièrement sympa pour les familles.
• Prends un moment pour admirer l’impressionnante façade de l’église Hallgrímskirkja.
• Sur la plage géothermique de Nauthólsvík, de l’eau chaude composée d’un mélange d’eau de mer et d’eau thermale t’attend.

⛺︎ Camping : Campsite de Reykjavík

Jour 2 – Parc national de Thingvellir

• À Thingvellir, depuis le point de vue de Hakið, viens saluer les plaques tectoniques eurasienne et nord-américaine.
• Passe voir la cascade d’Öxarárfoss, un lieu incontournable du parc.
• À Silfra, tu peux faire du snorkeling ou de la plongée bouteille entre les plaques tectoniques.

⛺︎ Camping : Camping Thingvellir

Jour 3 – Vallée géothermique de Haukadalur

• Visite le geyser de tous les geysers – il n’entre plus en éruption aussi souvent qu’avant, mais il reste le geyser le plus important au monde.
• Même si le Strokkur n’entre en éruption que jusqu’à 20 mètres de hauteur, il offre tout de même un super spectacle et reste le geyser le plus actif d’Islande.

⛺︎ Camping :  Camping Geysir

Jour 4 – Cascade de Gullfoss

• Ne rate surtout pas la cascade de Gullfoss, le site qui a donné son nom au Cercle d’Or. Elle dévale un canyon spectaculaire et accidenté sur 32 mètres.

⛺︎ Camping : Camping Uthlid

Jour 5 – Reykjavík

• En guise d’adieu, profite du confort et de la chaleur du Blue Lagoon.

8 jours en camping-car le long de la Route Circulaire (Route 1)

Prolonge encore un peu le circuit du Cercle d’or et tu atterriras sur la route circulaire, sans doute le road trip le plus célèbre d’Islande. La route est plutôt bien entretenue mais, en hiver, elle est n’est quasiment plus praticable qu’avec un véhicule quatre roues motrices.

Le circuit démarre à Reykjavik, avant de passer par le parc de Thingvellir, la vallée de Haukadalur et la cascade de Gullfoss ; le tour se poursuit avec la découverte de quelques autres incontournables de l’Islande, puis se termine par le retour vers la pittoresque capitale du sud.

Jour 1 – Cascade de Seljalandsfoss

• • Non seulement la cascade de Seljalandsfoss est impressionnante avec sa chute de 66 mètres de haut – et tu ne manqueras certainement pas d’être trempé(e) au contact des embruns – mais c’est aussi l’une des rares cascades au monde que tu peux admirer de l’arrière. Un petit sentier te permettra de passer de l’autre côté des filets d’eau – un spectacle inoubliable, surtout lorsque le soleil de minuit brille !

⛺︎ Emplacements où camper : Hamragarðar

Jour 2 – Skógar

• Premier arrêt : Skógafoss ou, en français, “chute d’eau de la forêt”. Même s’il ne reste plus grand-chose de la forêt, cette cascade reste l’une des plus belles d’Islande.
• Si tu as de l’endurance et l’envie de marcher, lance-toi ensuite sur le sentier de trekking Laugarvegur, long de 54 km.
• Au musée en plein air Byggðasafnið í Skógum, tu pourras admirer des maisons historiques islandaises de caractère.

⛺︎ Camping : Camping Skógar

Jour 3 – Sólheimasandur & Reynisfjara

• Sur la côte sud, deux incroyables plages de sable noir t’attendent. Arrête-toi d’abord à Sólheimasandur : sur la plage, tu trouveras une épave d’avion morbide et fascinante, l’un des endroits les plus photographiés d’Islande.
• Rends-toi ensuite à Reynisfjara, sans doute la plage la plus célèbre de son genre. Les pointes de Reynisdrangar, nées selon la légende d’un combat de trolls, sont particulièrement captivantes.

⛺︎ Emplacements où camper : Vík tjaldsvæði

Jours 4 & 5 – Skaftafell & Parc naturel du Vatnajökull

• Le parc national est un terrain d’aventure pour les voyageurs épris d’espaces naturels. Pars en randonnée sur le glacier, découvre la cascade de Svartifoss, entourée de ses colonnes de basalte noir, ou observe les nombreuses espèces de plantes et d’oiseaux qui vivent dans le parc. Les spécialistes du centre d’accueil des visiteurs t’aideront à planifier ton excursion.
• Des phoques et des panoramas impressionnants t’attendent ensuite à la lagune du glacier Jökulsárlón, qui jouxte le parc national.

⛺︎ Camping : Skaftafell Camping

Jour 6 – Egilsstaðir

• Pars en randonnée pour rejoindre Stórurð et ses Rochers Géants qui se dressent dans l’eau turquoise du glacier.
• Suis le sentier de la Géante, où tu passeras devant 3 grands amoncellements de rochers.

⛺︎ Camping : Camping Egilsstadir et centre d’accueil des visiteurs Egilsstadastofa

Jour 7 – Reykjahlið

• Les fans de Game of Thrones doivent absolument visiter la grotte de Grjótagjá et ses eaux chaudes fumantes, lieu qui a déjà servi de décor à la série.
• Si tu as trouvé le Blue Lagoon trop bondé, rends-toi aux “Mývatn Nature Baths”, qui sont l’équivalent du nord de l’Islande.
• Observe les impressionnants Skútustaðagígar, des pseudo-cratères au bord du lac, qui sont entretemps devenus des zones humides.

⛺︎ Camping : Camping Systragil

Jour 8 – Akureyri

• Rends-toi à Húsavík – c’est l’un des meilleurs endroits pour observer les baleines en Islande.
• Pars visiter Gásir, une place de commerce médiévale. Si tu viens ici en juillet, on te souhaitera la bienvenue à la fête médiévale.
• Kjarnaskógur est une destination idéale pour toute la famille, avec tous types d’activités : pistes de VTT, aires de jeux, sentiers de randonnée et barbecue.

⛺︎ Emplacements où camper : Camping Hamrar

6 jours en camping-car dans le nord de l’Islande

Si tu viens d’arriver en Islande, l’itinéraire parfait est celui du nord. Culture, espaces naturels et autres curiosités t’attendent sur la route. Si tu as envie d’en voir plus, tu peux poursuivre ton voyage en campervan sur la route circulaire.

Jour 1 – Seyðisfjørður

• Découvre les Tvisongur “Sculptures Sonores” de l’artiste allemand Lukas Kühne.
• Gravis en 24 heures les 7 sommets qui entourent Seyðisfjørður et obtiens le titre de “Seyðisfjörður Mountain Viking”.
• Balade-toi jusqu’à Brimnes et admire sur la côte le joli phare couleur orange.

⛺︎ Camping : Camping Seydisfjordur

Jour 2 – Hverarönd

• Au bord du Mývatn, jette un œil à l’impressionnant et effrayant chaudron de sorcière de Hverarönd. Dans cette zone à haute température, tu verras des fosses de boue bouillante et des colonnes de vapeur. Mais attention : reste impérativement sur les chemins indiqués !

⛺︎ Emplacements où camper : Camping Vogar

Jour 3 – Hauganes

• Pars repérer des baleines en bateau avec la plus ancienne entreprise islandaise d’observation de ce mammifère.
• Si tu trouves qu’il fait un peu frais, n’hésite pas à prendre un bain dans les bassins d’eau chaude de la plage noire de Hauganes.

⛺︎ Camping : Camping Hauganes

Jour 4 – Siglufjörður

• Au Héðinsfjörður, le fjord le plus au nord du Tröllaskagi, profite de super promenades ou sorties de pêche.
• En hiver, ne manque pas de skier ici – la région est considérée comme la meilleure station de ski d’Islande.

⛺︎ Camping : Camping Siglufjörður

Jour 5 – Hofsós

• La piscine de Hofsós est l’une des plus prisées du pays, grâce à sa vue imprenable sur l’île de Drangey et le fjord.
• Admire les fascinantes formations basaltiques de Staðarbjargavík, la supposée capitale de la population d’elfes !

⛺︎ Emplacements où camper : Camping Hofsós

Jour 6 – Halbinsel Vatnsnes

• Avec un peu de chance, tu pourras apercevoir des phoques dans la baie d’Illugastadir.
• À Hvammstangi, apprends-en plus sur ces adorables créatures marines en visitant le Centre Islandais du Phoque (Icelandic Seal Centre).
• Visite le Troll Hvítserkur, un rocher de basalte en forme de troll de 15 mètres de haut, qui surplombe la côte.

⛺︎ Camping : Camping Illugastadir

Voyage en camping-car en Islande – Coûts & Conseils

Si tu veux voyager avec ton propre camping-car en Islande, ton permis de conduire français suffit. Sur Veðurstofa Íslands ou sur www.safetravel.is , tu pourras suivre la météo islandaise en anglais. Si tu prévois un voyage en dehors des mois d’été, tu dois absolument vérifier la météo et l’état des routes de façon régulière.

Il y a environ 200 campings dans le pays. La plupart sont ouverts du début de l’été jusqu’en septembre, mais il en existe aussi quelques-uns où tu peux camper toute l’année. Le camping sauvage avec sa propre tente est certes autorisé dans les hauts plateaux et à distance des emplacements référencés, mais la question du stationnement libre en camping-car est un peu plus complexe. En cas de doute, tu devrais toujours demander l’accord du propriétaire du terrain ou, pour être tout à fait sûr, te rabattre sur un emplacement officiel.

Les prix en Islande sont plutôt élevés. C’est aussi le cas des prix au restaurant et même au supermarché. C’est pourquoi nous te recommandons la location d’un modèle roadsurfer avec cuisine, pour que tu puisses faire tes courses en toute flexibilité sur la route, ce qui te reviendra moins cher.

Conduire en Islande pendant l’été permet de profiter de la lumière du jour non-stop. Le mois d’août en particulier est une super période pour voyager mais, si tu as le sommeil léger, n’oublie pas d’ajouter un masque de nuit à ta liste de matériel de camping.

En Islande, même quand le soleil brille, les températures restent généralement assez fraîches pour nous : pense bien à mettre sur ta liste un coupe-vent, un ciré, de bonnes chaussures et quelques pulls chauds. Mais n’oublie pas non plus ton maillot de bain pour te baigner dans les nombreuses sources d’eau chaude qu’offre l’Islande !

Même si roadsurfer te propose de superbes vans aménagés, fourgons aménagés et camping-cars pouvant accueillir un chien, pour ton voyage islandais en van, il vaudra mieux laisser ton fidèle compagnon à la maison. En effet, tu as non seulement besoin d’une autorisation spéciale pour le faire entrer dans le pays, mais ton animal doit aussi être placé en quarantaine à l’arrivée.

Besoin de plus de conseils ?

Les Jeux Olympiques en camping-car

Recette camping végétarienne : frittata de pommes de terre, légumes et parmesan

Comment choisir la hauteur de son camping-car ?

Permis de conduire pour les camping-cars : tout savoir

Tourisme et voyage aux États-Unis – la checklist de voyage dont tu as besoin

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Camping in Iceland 2023: Important Tips + Campsites Map

Ever feel like you need a bit of freedom in your life, maybe an adventure to shake things up in a good way? A place full of nature, warm people, and sights to keep your spirits up?

Camping in Iceland may be just the thing for you. No need to imagine waking up to a beautiful sunrise in a spectacular fjord, experiencing the midnight sun or the northern lights, and soaking in a hot spring when you can visit Iceland and experience the magic yourself.

Find out more as you navigate this guide containing everything you need to know about camping in Iceland. 

Why Camp in Iceland

Do you need reasons to go camping in Iceland?

To connect with nature. Iceland is a place of many geologic wonders unique to the Nordic nation, if not marvelous in scale. This includes but certainly not limited to glaciers, lava fields, waterfalls, geothermal pools, hiking trails, hot springs, and black beaches. 

Iceland has a population of 387,758 people as of January 1, 2023, with 139,875 living in  Reykjavik (Reykjavíkurborg). The least populated is Árneshreppur, located in the Westfjords, with 47 people.

Expect Iceland’s top tourist spots like the Golden Circle and South Coast to live up to their reputation as tourist magnets during peak season. There can be fewer people and plenty of nature to see in Iceland if you go by less touristy spots or the proverbial roads less traveled. 

To experience Iceland like no other. Relatedly, camping in Iceland gives you the best seat with a panoramic view of the great Icelandic outdoors. It’s an immersive activity that not only lets you take in nature but also meet tourists and locals.

Field camping is what some have described as the experience of camping in Iceland. It is field camping underneath the stars, mountains towering above, great expanses of land, forested areas, streams, rivers, waterfalls a walk away—some campsites are on farms where one can see sheep, horses, etc. 

Plenty of activities like horseback riding, hiking, fishing, swimming (in nearby public pools), and exploring the town await.

To save money. This article published in 2022 talked about a 11-day holiday costing the family £10,000 (they did realize savings from a 4×4).

If you factor in inflation, the hotel rates, food prices, and fees of experiences then would have gone up by now. Cost is a huge factor, and it’s a good enough reason to consider camping in Iceland in the first place. 

Is it cheaper to camp in Iceland, then? 

Camping in Iceland is not entirely free, even if you stay in a free campsite which is rare itself. It is however cheaper to camp in Iceland than to stay in a hotel overnight. 

Between spending $100 a night for a hotel room and approximately $60 (ISK 8.000) at the Skaftafell campsite which is part of Vatnajokull National Park) for having access to space with electricity and facilities like hot showers for up to six people, you may be able to stretch your money doing the latter.

The cost of gas is what you’ll need to take into account for your road trip. For reference, check the prices of diesel and petrol in Iceland here . 

Top Things You Need to Know before Camping in Iceland

Let us be clear on some key points before getting into the finer details of your trip. 

The Icelandic weather is unpredictable even during the summer.

As they say, if you don’t like the weather [in Iceland], just wait for five minutes. There’s another one and this speaks of being prepared all the time: There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes.   

Wind is a top concern especially when you are driving. There have been many reported instances of the wind ripping car doors out of one’s hands. The wind can be so strong on any given day, even when you think it isn’t. 

It pays to have insurance, so discuss it with your campervan rental company.

Always check the weather and its forecast . Keep an eye on road conditions, which you can monitor here . Also let someone know where you are going. Rent a 4×4 for winter driving or if you plan to access F-roads.     

Drinking water

It is safe to drink water from the tap in Iceland. That includes sinks found at most campsites where you can easily refill your water bottle. Water from streams and rivers in Iceland is also safe to drink.

However, hot water in Iceland is not for drinking. While it could meet the standards for drinking water , you’d rather not drink water from the hot tap intended for bathing. Plus it might smell funny, as the hot water contains hydrogen sulfide causing the “rotten eggs” smell. 

Camping conduct

The Traveller’s Code of the Environmental Agency of Iceland offers a good list of things to remember when traveling around Iceland. Keep these in mind as early as now:

• Leave camping and picnic sites as you would wish to find them.
• Never bury litter or leave it lying around.
• Never light open fires on vegetated land.
• Never dislodge stones or build Cairns.
• Keep water clean and safeguard springs and pools.
• Keep vegetation undamaged.
• Keep wildlife undisturbed.
• Never damage geological formations.
• Respect the tranquility of the countryside.
• Never drive off roads.
• Keep to marked footpaths when requested.
• Respect conservation rules and warden’s instructions.

How to Camp in Iceland

Let’s go over your options for camping in Iceland. 

Tent Camping 

Camping in a tent is a classic way to camp in Iceland. It’s setting you up closer to nature and most ideal during the summer months—ensure that your tent can hold up against the wind. 

Compared to car and campervan camping, tent camping can give you more freedom in terms of where to camp. Before you plan to wild camp, understand the rules and restrictions. 

Car Camping

Renting a car makes getting around Iceland convenient. As for the actual camping, it’s possible to sleep in the vehicle (or a rooftop tent) or set up a tent in a campsite.

This range of options gives renting a car an edge. It’s also a cheaper option than a campervan or motorhome, and unless you venture into rougher roads, a standard car will do for driving around the Ring Road. 

Campervan Camping

A camper van, motorhome, RV, and the like upgrade the experience of traveling and camping in Iceland. It’s like a home away from home if you consider the amenities that come with the campervan (and other camping equipment you can rent). 

Ranging from budget-friendly to luxury, the campervan can be as spacious or well-furnished as you want it to be. More importantly, it’s a reliable shelter from the weather and suitable for camping anytime of the year in Iceland.

Best Way to Go Camping in Iceland

The price of accommodation in the country has gone up considerably in the last few years. Therefore, the locals are starting to turn their attention to camping in Iceland. 

Since the weather is also ever-changing, conventional camping with a tent isn’t for everyone, not even in the summer. Some camping sites around Iceland are staying open throughout the year, too. 

This is why you need a campervan.

The services around the main roads in Iceland are also getting better and better. This includes the less-traveled routes, such as Ring Road 2, the new Westfjords ring road, which is a spectacular drive in itself and definitely worth doing.

Campsites in Iceland range from basic to luxury considering the amenities being offered. Combine that with in-camper features and extras, camping in a campervan can be a cozy and satisfying experience.

Budget for food per person could be 2,075.55 kr, according to crowdsourced data on Numbeo. The figure is an estimate, but the list of foods can be a good reference point. 

A campervan is furnished with a gas stove, kitchenware, and dinnerware. Preparing your  own meals saves money, plus shopping at Iceland’s grocery stores (find budget supermarkets) in Iceland introduces you to what locals would eat. 

Even when you don’t really cook, a cooler (also on a camper) is pretty handy to store must-try Icelandic snacks from sweet to savory . 

Travel with a group.

A campervan can fit a couple with a kid for a much-needed family vacation in Iceland. It can accommodate up to four people, anything beyond that would require renting a motorhome. 

The latter is bigger and more furnished and thus commands a higher price. Compare our budget camper for two adults rented out at 99 EUR a day versus a two-berth motorhome of 203 EUR.

Travel as lightly as possible.

Majority of the things that you’ll need to enhance the experience of camping are pretty much on the camper: gas cooker, bedding, heating system, radio, and more. Bringing a tent becomes an option, and so is a warm sleeping bag or sleeping pad. 

It would be a challenge to travel with those things on your back. It’ll be less trouble storing your camping gear in your car rental. But when the conditions outside are hardly optimal (remember Iceland’s weather is unpredictable), you’ll have a warm camper to come home to.

Where to Camp in Iceland

Presenting the Cozy Campers Iceland Campsites Map!

Updated as of 2023, our map is intended to help travelers, including tent campers and those in campervans, looking for information about campsites in Iceland. Each campsite description contains the biggest questions that people ask such as its opening times, facilities or amenities, pricing, and contact details. 

How to use the Cozy Campers Iceland Campsites Map: 

• Access our map of Iceland campsites on Google Maps here . 
• Tick any of the boxes found on the side bar to begin your search. 
• You can click on the tent icon or the items under the dropdown box, as ticked. The icon color is based on when the campsite is open—all year round, summer, parts of winter, and those located in the Highlands. If you are planning to use a CampingCard, we have a dedicated section of its participating campsites.
• Clicking the icon or item will open the information tab of the campsite. There you’ll find the general description of the campsite, facilities or amenities available, pricing, and location. We also included the website and contact number of the campsite. 

We strive to make a complete guide of campsites in Iceland and keep our map as accurate and updated as possible. 

What are the best campsites in Iceland?

Locals love camping in Iceland! We are happy to tell you that it is totally worth it, and we know because it seems that we never get tired of Iceland ourselves (we live in Iceland, by the way). It always continues to surprise us. 

It’s hard to recommend camping sites out of the hundreds of camping grounds in Iceland. We do have our favorite campsites, so check them out:

Is it legal to camp anywhere in Iceland? 

No, it is not permitted to camp anywhere in Iceland. Known as wild camping, this practice is not only illegal but heavily discouraged due to its impact on the environment and people.

You can’t set up camp in national parks in Iceland. You also can’t park your vehicle anywhere to camp for the night. By vehicle, it includes tent trailers, camper vans, motorhomes, and any car with a rooftop tent. 

Park and set up camp for the night in organized campsites only. Iceland has many campsites open during the summer, winter, or throughout the year, and some are located near the vicinity of national parks. 

Is wild camping allowed if you go tent camping?

You may be permitted to pitch a traditional tent in a place subject to certain restrictions. Iceland’s Environmental Agency has outlined the specific scenarios when camping in a tent outside organized Icelandic campsites is permissible. 

In South Iceland, too, it is allowed to pitch your tent in the wilderness , as defined.

There can be a lot to the rules about wild camping that it’s wiser to just stay in the designated campsites whether you are tent or camper van camping. It’s best to know the laws on camping in Iceland on national and local levels. 

What are protected areas? Is it illegal to camp there?

Find the protected areas and their camping restrictions on this list .

When do you need permission to park? 

On the website of the Environmental Agency of Iceland, the rules of using tents are outlined. There it says that you need to ask for permission when you camp near places of human habitation or farms, if you intend to camp for longer than one night, or if the land is cultivated.

Iceland has identified 120 protected areas, which are classified according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s guidelines. It is also illegal to camp in an area classified as protected . 

If you intend to park your campervan outside organized campsites or urban areas you must always ask permission. Refer to the restrictions on marked camping grounds which are in a protected area, like Þingvellir National Park.

The only time you are permitted to camp other than a designated campsite is when you ask permission to do so in privately owned land.

When you leave the camping ground, please do not leave anything behind. Iceland’s nature is very fragile, and we must all help to protect it.

Are campsites free in Iceland? 

Most campsites have fees. There is a base fee for persons 16 years old and older, and children accompanied by adults can get in for free. 

The fee could cover access to the campsite’s amenities including hot/cold water, showers, toilets, sinks, and kitchen facilities. WiFi is sometimes included in the fee or available in a nearby restaurant. 

Generally speaking, Icelandic campsites charge fees for electricity (hookup) and washing machines and dryers. 

There is one known free campsite in Iceland. Gata campsite or Gata free camping does not have a basic fee—you can donate, but you’ll have to pay to use the facilities.

How do you pay for your camping spot? 

Camping in Iceland campgrounds is as straightforward as showing up at the camping area, finding your camping spot, and paying for it.  

Not all the campsites in Iceland accept the same payment methods. But here are three major ways to pay for your camping spot:

• Cash . Also prepare coins for the washing machine, dryer, and shower.
• Credit or debit card . Bring cards with a chip and PIN in Iceland, as remote gas stations may require one.
• Camping card . CampingCard is valid at participating campsites. Present the card when paying for the night.

Do you need a CampingCard? 

According to CampingCard, a person could pay 1.000 – 2.000 ISK for a night in a camping site. 

Iceland Camping Card costs 179 EUR and offers a total stay of 28 nights for a family composed of two adults and four children under 16 years old.  

But when is the purchase worth it?   

• If you want to simplify or skip calculating campsite fees every time. Note that the CampingCard does not include the lodging tax (accommodation tax) and fees for amenities.  
• If you are traveling in areas where the participating camping grounds are located. As of this time, it gives access to more than 30 campsites located in West Iceland, Westfjords, North Iceland, East Iceland, and South Iceland. 
• If you are traveling and camping in Iceland within the period of 1st or 15th of May to 15th of September. The CampingCard is not applicable for winter camping in Iceland and will expire every 15th of September, around the last days of summer campsites before they close.

When to Go Camping in Iceland

Camping in the land of fire and ice gives you two choices. 

Summer Camping

Summer is undoubtedly the most opportune time to go camping in Iceland with its warm and long days. The sun never sets at least during the Midnight Sun phenomenon, which means more light to sightsee and explore Iceland. 

What is summer like in Iceland? 

Despite being the warmest time in Iceland, it is still cool . In Reykjavik, the average temperature in July is 12.5°C. The nice weather also means attractions are open and roads, including F-roads leading to the Highlands, are passable.

From hiking, whale watching, to attending festivals, there’s plenty to see and do while camping.   

The downsides to summer camping in Iceland are the crowds and the prices that come with peak season.  

Winter Camping

Winter camping in Iceland rewards intrepid adventurers with the spectacle of the northern lights.  The crowds are no longer around, so you can have more peace and quiet to yourself. Plus, the prices are lower this time around. 

The biggest challenges to winter camping in Iceland are:

• The weather. Icelandic winters are known to be mild. Nonetheless, the weather during the winter can change dramatically and drastically. What to look out for are wind, precipitation , and snow. Days are also shorter in the winter. 
• The road conditions. Consequently, driving around Iceland during winter would be more challenging. F-roads are closed during the winter, and some roads may be impassable. Some businesses also halt activities for the time being. You have to be careful not to be stranded in an uninhabited place without supplies.

A campervan equipped for winter travel is the right fit for this undertaking. Do check with campervan rental companies for their winter rentals.  At Cozy Campers, we value your safety and recognize the risks of extreme weather conditions, so we are closed on 20 December to 1 February.

Do you need to book campsites in Iceland in advance?

Most campgrounds in Iceland don’t require reservations. They also operate on a first-come, first-served basis. 

That being said, you may need to book online when it’s the high season, which is June to August. Securing your spot requires booking and paying for it first at certain campsites. Also check with campgrounds ahead of your travel to ensure they are open for the season. 

Are campsites open all year round? 

Quite a number of Icelandic campsites are open throughout the year, or as the weather and road conditions permit. Check our map to find out which campsites are open when you visit. 

Majority of campsites in Iceland are open during the summer or around April to mid-September. Camping is at its peak during the months of July and August. 

Then it’s northern lights season in late September to March but also the coldest time in Iceland. Some campsites and places are not accessible during wintertime because of snowfall. 

Camping grounds, if they are open in the winter, tend to have limited operating times and facilities. Some closed campsites do allow campervans to park in their parking lot in wintertime for free but without access to facilities. 

What to Bring to Your Iceland Camping Trip – A Packing List 

To give you an idea on what to pack if you go camping in a campervan, here’s what a budget camper on Cozy Campers includes:

• Gas stove with 1 free gas can
• Cookware and kitchenware
• Sink with running water
• Refrigerator or cooler
• Linens, pillows, and duvet
• Heating system
• Bluetooth radio/speakers
• Extra battery 
• 3x USB +12v charger
• Tablet + free WIFI 

What you would need to bring with you:

• Travel documents
• Driver’s license and cards 
• Clothing for layers, swimwear and outdoor activities 
• Jackets 
• Socks and shoes / hiking boots 
• Hat / beanie 
• Scarf for winter 
• Backpack 
• Toiletries 
• Toilet paper
• Towels 
• Sunscreen 
• Sleeping mask for summer 
• Insect repellent
• Food and snacks (e.g., chocolates, energy bars)
• Reusable water bottles
• Fire starter 
• First aid kit 
• Rain gear 
• GPS and map 
• Charging cables for devices
• Camera and lens kit 
• Travel adapter for Europe 
• Camper upkeep like resealable bags, paper towels, and garbage bags 

Wear waterproof and windproof shoes, clothes, and backpacks, regardless of the season. Also thermal everything, as they say, when it comes to winter clothing. Summer nights in Iceland can still be cold, so warm clothes remain a must.  

Camping equipment and essentials for tent camping:

• Tent and extra stakes  
• Sleeping bag
• Sleeping pad
• Camping pillow  
• Fleece blanket 
• Camping dinnerware
• Head torch, flashlight, extra batteries
• Camping chairs and table

You can also rent tents, sleeping bags, and other campaign equipment in Iceland.  

Are you all set for your camping trip in Iceland? Remember these points:

• Camping in Iceland lets you connect with nature and enjoy the sights in a cost-effective manner. 
• Tent camping and car camping are options for camping in Iceland. Campervans make camping in Iceland easy, fun, and affordable. A camper provides you with a safe place to stay every night, while you follow the good weather wherever it takes you. It can be any of the great hiking trails one day, the geothermal pools the next day. 
• Camp only in designated campsites or with permission by the landowner. Use our map to find camping sites near where you are headed.
• The weather is a major factor when considering camping in summer or winter. Always keep in mind the weather and road conditions. 
• Most Iceland campsites are open during the summer months. A few campsites are open parts of winter and still a number are open throughout the year. Inquire ahead. 
• Pack according to the season and intended activities and ever mindful of Iceland’s weather.  
• Be safe. Travel with a full tank and sufficient food supplies. Contact 112 in case of emergencies.   

Opening hours

Everyday 09:00-18:00

• Pickup after 17:30 is considered AFTER HOURS
• Drop off after 17:00 is considered AFTER HOURS

Closed 23.Dec-31.Jan

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Road trip en camping car autour de l’Islande !

Des volcans, des glaciers, des paysages lunaires, les célèbres geysers, mais aussi une capitale à taille humaine, chaleureuse et accueillante : l’Islande, c’est tout cela, et bien plus encore !

Pour un voyage en Islande, rien ne vaut un véhicule et même un camping car ou un campervan ! Ils vont vous offrir une liberté appréciable, pour partir à la découverte à votre rythme. Et gros avantage, vous pourrez aussi dormir presque où vous le souhaitez !

Un road trip en Islande, l’île volcanique

En Islande, la trace du volcanisme est partout présente. C’est pourquoi un voyage sur cette île unique s’apparente à une véritable leçon de géologie à ciel ouvert. Vous assisterez aux reflets des icebergs à Jökulsarlon, vous admirerez la calotte du Snaeffels, toute blanche, ou vous plongerez dans les paysages toujours verdoyants qui entourent les célèbres lac Myvatn et Langisjör.

L’Islande est un pays aux multiples couleurs, aux plaisirs contrastés. Vous aimerez les sources d’eau chaude et les bains délicieux qu’ils vous réservent, mais aussi la randonnée sur les glaciers, les maisons multicolores de Reykjavik, ou les pauses chaleureuses dans les cafés. Quelle que soit l’excursion que vous choisirez en Islande, elle sera toujours spectaculaire !

Mais il faut aussi savoir prendre son temps, sur une île qui invite à la contemplation et où le ciel comme les couleurs, changent tout le temps. Un véritable spectacle en cinémascope, que vous apprécierez pleinement grâce à un voyage en camping car en Islande. Si vous préférez louer une voiture, vous pouvez également vous tourner vers des sociétés spécialisés tells que Carigami .

Location de camping car en Islande

Les voyageurs arrivent en Islande par le terminal de Reykjavik. C’est là que vous pourrez, si vous le souhaitez, louer un camping car, de manière à pouvoir visiter l’île en toute liberté. La meilleure solution consiste à réserver votre véhicule avant le départ pour profiter du meilleur prix.

Selon vos projets et votre nombre, vous n’aurez pas besoin du même type de véhicule : un campervan suffira pour les couples, un 4×4 campervan pour ceux qui veulent explorer les Hautes Terres et un camping car pour les personnes désirant avoir un bon confort.Les routes sont bonnes et vous pourrez vous garer aisément.

Le camping car vous affranchit de la recherche d’hébergements. Vous pouvez parfaitement rouler tout seul, sauf si les pistes des régions les plus reculées vous font peur, auquel cas, mieux vaut avoir recours à un guide qui fournira le véhicule. Comparez bien les prix et les solutions, car la location de voiture peut être assez onéreuse sur l’île. Pour économiser et conserver plus de flexibilité, vous pouvez aussi combiner différentes locations.

Voyage en Islande : les principaux circuits

La région de Reykjavik est idéale pour commencer votre road trip en Islande. Vous y admirerez les geysers du Cercle d’or , le parc national de Thingvellir, classé au patrimoine mondial de l’UNESCO, mais aussi Gullfoss et Geysir, accessibles à la journée en voiture de location.

Les fjords de l’ouest sont l’une des destinations les plus authentiques de l’île. Ces majestueuses échancrures dans la mer se parcourent aisément avec une voiture de location. Vous pourrez enchaîner par le nord, en poursuivant toujours votre road trip le long de la route qui fait le tour de l’Islande.

Prenez ensuite la direction du nord est, avec Dettifoss ou la caldeira d’Askja (accessible seulement avec un 4×4 (camping car pickup ou campervan 4×4).

Parmi les sites incontournables figurent le célèbre Lagon Bleu, Reynisdrangar, Hornstrandir ou encore les falaises de Latrabjarg. Mais si vous choisissez un voyage en camping car en Islande, c’est aussi pour parcourir l’île au gré de vos envies.

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L'itinéraire idéal d'un road trip de deux semaines en Islande

Êtes-vous à la recherche de l'itinéraire parfait de 2 semaines en van en islande ne cherchez pas plus loin, sara et michael de trip over life ont créé l'itinéraire de voyage parfait de 14 jours pour vous et votre kuku camper nous visiterons le cercle d'or, admirerons de nombreuses cascades, partirons en randonnée à Þakgil et landmannalaugar, plongerons dans des piscines thermales et des bains à remous, visiterons mývatn, akureyri, seyðisfjörður, snæfellsnes et mangerons de délicieux plats locaux. es-tu prêt allons-y .

Prets a decouvrir l'Islande avec votre camping car ? Commencez a planifier !

Vous souhaitez debuter le planning de votre road trip en Islande sur la Ring Road mais ne savez pas par ou commencer ? Don't worry, be sexy... Kuku est la pour vous aider !

Dans cette article vous trouverez les meilleurs conseils pour vous guider dans votre voyage en Islande, les meilleurs endroits a visiter avec votre campervan pour passer des vacances inoubliables ! 

Êtes-vous à la recherche d'inspiration pour planifier votre itinéraire de 2 semaines en van aménagé en Islande ? Ne cherchez pas plus loin, Sara et Michael de Trip over Life , ont créé l'itinéraire parfait pour un road trip en camping-car de deux semaines, et ici ils partagent leur itinéraire de voyage avec vous, afin que vous aussi puissiez profiter d'un voyage au top avec votre van KuKu !!!

Nous visiterons le Cercle d'Or , verrons de nombreuses cascades, partirons en randonnée à Þakgil et Landmannalaugar, plongerons dans des piscines thermales et des bains à remous, visiterons Mývatn, Akureyri, Seyðisfjörður, Snæfellsnes et mangerons de délicieux plats locaux.

Et pour commencer, voici la carte à ne pas perdre !

Étape numéro une : louer votre van aménagé chez Kuku Campers !

Les campings cars et vans sont connus pour être la meilleure façon d'explorer notre beau pays , alors qu'est-ce aue vous attendez ? C'est votre tour de louer le camper parfait et à bas prix avec l'entreprise de location la plus grande et surtout la plus sexy du pays ! 

Jour 1 – Commençez avec le cercle d'or

Après avoir récupéré votre camping-car avec KuKu Campers et fait vos provisions, dirigez-vous vers le premier arrêt du Cercle d'Or ; le  Parc national de Thingvellir ! Le parc a été inscrit au patrimoine mondial en 2004, c'est l'un des trois endroits en Islande qui en font partie. Le parc se situe dans une zone de fissures qui traverse l'Islande, car le pays est connu pour être en plein sur la dorsale médio-atlantique. A Þingvellir, la plaque eurasienne et la plaque nord-américaine se séparent et cela se voit très bien dans le paysage.

Le prochain arrêt est le lac du cratère Kerið , avec ses pentes riches en fer rouge et son eau aigue-marine aux couleurs vives en raison des minéraux des roches qui s'infiltrent dans l'eau. Le dernier arrêt de la journée est Geysir , Strokkur et la zone géothermique de Haukadalur . Vous pourrez vous promener dans la région, observer différentes curiosités géothermiques et observer l'éruption de Strokkur toutes les 5 à 10 minutes.

Le camping optimal pour cette première nuit est le camping Skjól , à seulement 3,5 km de Geysir. Le camping propose des douches, des lavabos, un tuyau d'arrosage et une pizzeria dans l'auberge du camping, si jamais vous vous sentez trop fatigué pour cuisiner après cette première journée de route.

Jour 2 – Fin du Cercle d'Or et Lagon secret

Le premier arrêt de la journée est Gullfoss (la cascade dorée), le dernier arrêt sur le Cercle d'Or , et se trouve à seulement 5 minutes en voiture du camping d'hier soir.

Après Gullfoss, il est temps de plonger dans notre première expérience des sources chaudes islandaises ; le Secret Lagoon , n'oubliez pas la réduction KuKu ( voir ici ). Ici, vous pourrez vous détendre au son du geyser dans la plus ancienne piscine d'Islande, qui date de 1891.

Après un plongeon dans le Secret Lagoon, dirigez-vous vers la cascade Hjálparfoss , qui constitue une halte parfaite pour un pique-nique. Après Hjálparfoss, dirigez-vous vers Stöng , l'arrêt parfait pour les passionnés d'archéologie, qui comprend une grande ferme et une église recréées de l'ère viking/du Moyen Âge.

Si vous conduisez un van 4x4, vous pouvez parcourir la route de Stöng, au pays de conte de fées de Gjáin . Si vous n'avez pas un 4x4, vous pouvez parcourir les 1,5 km du parking de Stöng à Gjáin en 30 minutes environ (à pied).

Depuis Gjáin (si vous conduisez un 4x4), vous pouvez vous rendre à Háifoss , la troisième plus haute cascade d'Islande, haute de 122 m. Si vous ne conduisez pas un 4x4, votre option pour atteindre Háifoss serait de vous rendre à l'auberge Gljásteinn Hólaskógur et de parcourir les 5,7 km jusqu'à Háifoss en environ 1 heure et 20 minutes de marche.

Le camping choisi pour la nuit est le camping Árnes à environ 50 minutes en voiture de Háifoss. Le camping propose des douches, des lavabos et un espace couvert avec des tables de pique-nique.

Jour 3 – Landmannalaugar et Seljalandsfoss

Il est crucial de commencer tôt la journée car le trajet du camping d'Árnes à Landmannalaugar prend environ deux heures et n'est accessible qu'aux vans 4x4 . Ce guide comprend une randonnée d'une journée à Landmannalaugar, beaucoup de gens choisissent de faire un trek de plusieurs jours à Landmannalaugar et des installations de camping sont disponibles. Mettez maintenant vos chaussures de randonnée et préparez-vous un déjeuner, traversez le camping et dirigez-vous vers le sentier escarpé du mont. Bláhnjúkur (« montagne bleue »). Après une ou deux heures de randonnée, en fonction des arrêts photo et de votre expérience, vous arriverez au sommet et profiterez d'une vue imprenable sur les couleurs étonnantes des montagnes environnantes.

Plutôt que de faire demi-tour et de revenir sur le même itinéraire, nous vous recommandons de faire une randonnée en boucle . Descendez la montagne de l'autre côté en direction du champ de lave, après une heure, vous atteindrez la rivière au fond. Traversez la rivière et entrez dans le champ de lave de Laugahraun. Suivez le sentier qui monte et traverse le champ de lave, puis longe la rivière en direction du camping. Cela prendra environ une heure, ce qui fait que la durée totale de la randonnée est d'environ 4 à 5 heures .

Ensuite, dirigez-vous vers Seljalandsfoss via la route F-225 (Seljalandsfoss est facilement accessible juste à côté de la rocade n° 1 si vous ne conduisez pas un 4x4). À Seljalandsfoss, vous pouvez marcher jusqu'à et derrière la cascade, qui offre une perspective unique, en particulier au coucher du soleil.

Dirigez-vous ensuite vers la cascade de Gljúfrarbúi , voisine moins connue de Seljalandfoss. Vous n'aurez besoin que d'environ 15 minutes pour vous aventurer dans la grotte où la cascade se vide. Un arrêt photo préféré pour nos campeurs KuKu, mais portez des vêtements imperméables , ou vous serez trempé.

Le camping de ce soir est le camping de Skogar et comme son nom le suggère, il se trouve juste devant la magnifique cascade de Skogafoss , autant dire qu'en termes de vue pour prendre le petit dej dans votre campervan, on fait difficilement mieux !

Jour 4 – Plages de sable noir, cascades et glaciers

Émergez tranquillement de votre Kuku van et dirigez-vous vers la cascade de Skógafoss , elle mesure 25 mètres de large avec une chute de 60 mètres. Le terrain menant à la cascade est plat, il est donc facile de marcher jusqu'à la base. Vous pouvez également monter l'escalier raide jusqu'à la plate-forme d'observation à côté de la cascade et profiter de la vue d'en haut. Vient ensuite une autre cascade :  Kvernufoss . Elle est accessible en franchissant les marches au-dessus de la clôture et en suivant le sentier situé à l'arrière du musée de Skógar. Un véritable joyau caché a tel point que vous pourriez même avoir la cascade pour vous tout seul !

Le glacier Sólheimajökull est le prochain arrêt qui est un endroit populaire pour une promenade guidée sur le glacier (psstt .. KuKu est ami avec les Icelandic Mountain Guides, et donc les clients de KuKu bénéficient d'une réduction sur des circuits sélectionnés ).

Le prochain arrêt est Dyrhólaey , une réserve naturelle connue pour son abondance d'oiseaux et notamment de macareux , en été plus particulièrement. Il y a deux parkings et deux zones à explorer. La zone supérieure est l'endroit où se trouve un phare avec de belles vues sur le sable noir de la côte sud. Une grande partie de la zone inférieure est protégée pour la réhabilitation de la flore et de la faune, mais des sentiers pédestres tout au long.

Ensuite, nous partons pour la fameuse plage de Reynisfjara , plage de sable noir célèbre pour ses colonnes de basalte et ses cheminées marines. La plage elle-même a été élue par National Geographic comme l'une des dix meilleures plages non tropicales du monde ! Mais cette plage n'est pas un endroit pour se baigner , car le courant est fort et peut entraîner les gens mortellement dans l'Atlantique.

Le camping choisi pour la nuit est le camping Þakgil , un favori pour beaucoup de nos clients KuKu. Le camping est niché dans une vallée entourée de belles falaises verdoyantes et moussues. Les installations sont bien entretenues, toilettes, douches et salle à manger à l'intérieur d'une grotte naturelle, ils offrent également un grill et une cheminée.

Jour 5 – Journée de randonnée à Þakgil

Cette journée est consacrée à la randonnée sur les sentiers autour de Þakgil , qui vont de 12,5 km à 13,5 km avec différents dénivelés. Toute la journée peut être consacrée à l'un de ces sentiers, et si vous êtes ici en milieu de semaine, vous ne verrez probablement pas beaucoup d'autres randonneurs. Comme cet endroit est plus un joyau caché avec les habitants qui ont tendance à camper davantage le week-end qu'en milieu de la semaine.

Nous vous suggérons de rester à nouveau au camping Þakgil, mais si vous voulez prendre une longueur d'avance sur les activités de demain, vous pouvez vous diriger vers le camping de Kirkjubaer  situé idéalement près de notre prochain arrêt.

Jour 6 – Parc National de Skaftafell et Jökulsárlón

Comme beaucoup d'autres jours en Islande, nous vous suggérons de commencer la journée tôt et de vous diriger vers Fjarðarárgljúfur , un canyon très profond et étroit qui s'est formé à la fin de la dernière période glaciaire et rendu célèbre dans un clip de Justin Bieber.

Ensuite, dirigez-vous vers le centre d'accueil des visiteurs de Skaftafell dans le parc national de Vatnajökull , pour vous diriger vers Svartifoss, la prochaine cascade de l'itinéraire. Svartifoss avec ses colonnes de basalte a inspiré la célèbre église Hallgrímskirkja à Reykjavík. Le parc dispose de nombreux sentiers de randonnée allant de 3,7 km à 29,8 km de facile à difficile, pour aller à Svartifoss prendre le sentier nr. 2.

Ensuite, visitons la lagune glaciaire de Jökulsárlón et la plage de diamants . Si vous avez de la chance, vous apercevrez des phoques nageant parmi les icebergs. En face de Jökulsárlón se trouve la plage de diamants - suivez simplement les morceaux d'iceberg alors qu'ils flottent vers la mer. Le contraste entre les icebergs et la plage de sable noir est vraiment magnifique.

Le camping d'aujourd'hui est le terrain de camping Haukafell , qui est plus petit et plus privé que les autres terrains de camping à proximité. Le camping est entretenu par le groupe forestier local et propose des toilettes, un lavabo de camping mais aucune douche.

Jour 7 – Montagnes incroyables et sources chaudes

Nous vous recommandons fortement de commencer la journée à Stokksnes/Vestrahorn , un point de vue situé sur un terrain privé réputé pour sa vue imprenable sur les montagnes, particulièrement spectaculaire au lever du soleil !

Après avoir pris de belles photos à Stokksnes, il est temps de faire un plongeon matinal à Djúpavogskörin , un joli bain à remous géothermique juste au sud de la ville de Djúpivogur. Après le plongeon, nous partons voir d'autres cascades, Fagradalsfoss et Hengifoss . De Hengifoss, traversez le col de montagne jusqu'à Seyðisfjörður et profitez en chemin de vues à couper le souffle.

Si vous conduisez un camping-car 4x4 en été, vous pouvez emprunter la route menant aux barricades de neige sur la montagne Bjólfur, pour une vue imprenable sur la ville de Seyðisfjörður.

Le camping Seyðisfjörður est le camping choisi aujourd'hui et est situé au centre-ville de Seyðisfjörður. Les installations du camping offrent des toilettes, des douches, un coin cuisine intérieur, un évier de camping extérieur et des installations de lavage de voiture sur place.

Jour 8 – Randonnée à Seyðisfjörður et Stórurð

Comme le camping est en plein milieu de Seyðisfjörður , vous avez soit eu le temps de vous promener la nuit dernière dans cette ville portuaire artistique, soit vous pouvez commencer la journée avec les principales attractions. La ville a quelques endroits très populaires pour les photos, comme la route arc-en-ciel devant l'église de la ville et découvrez la sculpture sonore de Tvísöngur. À première vue, la sculpture sonore "Singing Concrete" ressemble à un groupe de bunkers, mais les cinq dômes représentent la tradition islandaise d'harmonie à cinq tons. Chaque dôme a sa propre résonance qui correspond à un ton dans l'harmonie à cinq tons et fonctionne comme un amplificateur naturel de ce ton.

Sortez maintenant de Seyðisfjörður pour la randonnée Stórurð ("Les rochers géants"). Il y a quelques parkings à partir desquels vous pouvez embarquer pour la randonnée vers Stórurð. Nous vous recommandons le parking avec le stand d'information Stórurð et les toilettes (voir plan). Nous vous recommandons de prendre une carte au kiosque d'information et d'emporter beaucoup de nourriture, d'eau et de couches, car vous pouvez facilement passer 6 heures ou plus sur la randonnée. Le paysage est vraiment incroyable, lac glaciaire bleu laiteux avec d'énormes rochers.

Après une longue journée de randonnée, en direction du camping Borgarfjörður eystra , à quelques minutes en voiture de Stórurð, c'est plus que pratique pour les campeurs fatigués. Ils offrent des toilettes, des douches, une machine à laver, une salle à manger avec des tables et des bancs et des équipements de cuisine.

Jour 9 – Krafla et lac Mývatn

Depuis le camping Borgarfjörður eystra, il y a 3 heures de route jusqu'à la première cascade de la journée, Dettifoss , la cascade la plus puissante d'Europe. De Dettifoss, vous pouvez marcher 20 minutes en amont jusqu'à la cascade de Selfoss . La troisième et dernière cascade de la journée est Hafragilsfoss , à 2 km de Dettifoss.

La prochaine destination est la région de Krafla , qui est une caldeira de 10 km de large avec une zone de fissure de 90 km. Les points forts de cette région sont le champ de lave de Leirhnjúkur et le cratère Víti qui a un lac vert au milieu. Le prochain arrêt près de Krafla est la zone géothermique de Námafjall , où vous pourrez admirer des fumerolles fumantes et des marmites de boue colorées bouillantes.

Le dernier arrêt de la journée est les bains naturels de Mývatn pour une autre expérience de bain thermal/de source chaude, comparable au célèbre lagon bleu.

Le camping pour la nuit est le camping Mývatn / Bjarg , à quelques minutes en voiture des bains naturels de Mývatn et un terrain de camping populaire avec des champs herbeux situés sur les rives du lac Mývatn. Les installations offrent des toilettes, des douches, des équipements de cuisine, un service de blanchisserie, une location de vélos et une boutique de souvenirs.

Jour 10 – Akureyri et Goðafoss

Nous vous recommandons de commencer la journée tôt pour devancer la « foule » car nous sommes dans une zone touristique populaire, le premier arrêt étant la grotte de Grjótagjá . Une grotte pittoresque et paisible contenant de l'eau thermale (dans laquelle il n'est malheureusement plus possible de se baigner). La prochaine destination est Dimmuborgir (« villes sombres »), un grand champ de lave avec des formations rocheuses uniques et des grottes volcaniques. Nous vous recommandons de parcourir le sentier en boucle de 2,4 km appelé sentier Church Circle, car ce chemin passera devant la formation rocheuse la plus célèbre : Kirkja ou "l'église".

La cascade de Goðafoss est la prochaine sur notre agenda et est située juste sur la rocade, il est donc impossible de la manquer. Après Goðafoss, ou la cascade des Dieux, nous nous dirigeons vers Akureyri , la deuxième plus grande zone urbaine d'Islande. Vous pouvez facilement passer le reste de la journée à visiter Akureyri, visiter l'église d'Akureyri, vous promener dans Lystigarðurinn qui compte des milliers de plantes différentes et déguster la célèbre glace Brynja.

Le camping choisi pour la nuit est le camping Hofsós en raison de la proximité de la piscine communautaire primée de Hofsós. Le camping est tranquille avec un grand terrain herbeux et une vue sur la montagne voisine. Le camping propose des toilettes, une douche et un grand lavabo de camping extérieur.

Si vous préférez rester plus longtemps à Akureyri et profiter de plus de temps en ville, offrez-vous un dîner en ville. Akureyri compte de nombreux restaurants les plus renommés d'Islande. Nous pouvons recommander le camping Hamrar Kjarnaskógur juste à l'extérieur d'Akureyri.

Jour 11 – Se baigner à Hofsós et goûter à l'Islande

Commençons la journée par un autre plongeon, cette fois plongeons nos orteils dans la piscine de Hofsós , célèbre pour sa piscine à débordement et sa vue sur l'océan. Après le plongeon, il est temps de se diriger vers la péninsule de Vatnsnes jusqu'à Hvítserkur , une cheminée marine située au nord-ouest de la péninsule. Vous pouvez soit le voir d'en haut, à quelques pas du camping-car, soit descendre jusqu'à la plage et vous rapprocher de vous.

Il est maintenant temps de faire une halte culinaire, le restaurant Geitafell, réputé pour ses fruits de mer frais islandais , après quoi vous pourrez à nouveau reprendre la route pour le déssert. Sous forme de glace à la crèmerie Erpsstaðir – les Islandais ne sont jamais trop rassasiés pour une glace !

Avant de nous diriger vers Kirkjufell , le dernier arrêt de la journée, nous faisons un court arrêt à Berserkjahraun , un champ de lave incroyablement joli, puis à Kirkjufell, probablement la montagne la plus photographiée d'Islande. C'est juste incroyablement beau au coucher du soleil, mais si vous voulez avoir un bon endroit pour prendre des photos, nous vous recommandons d'arriver tôt !

La nuit sera au camping d'Ólafsvík , ils offrent des toilettes, des douches et plusieurs bons sentiers de randonnée dans la région.

Jour 12 – Péninsule de Snæfellsnes

Snæfellsnes a tellement à offrir que cela pourrait facilement être un itinéraire de trois jours, mais pour profiter des points forts des plages et des magnifiques phares que la péninsule a à offrir, dirigez-vous vers la plage de Skarðsvík , qui est un peu différente de la plage de sable noir islandaise typique. – vous verrez ce que nous voulons dire. Le phare de Svörtuloft , le phare d' Öndverðarnesviti , le cratère de Saxhólar , la plage de Djúpalónssandur , le phare de Malarrif , les falaises de Lóndrangar , le village d' Arnarstapi et le point de vue de Hellnar où vous pouvez vous arrêter pour admirer la vue côtière. D'autres arrêts sur le chemin sont la pittoresque église noire; Búðakirkja avec le dernier arrêt de la journée étant un arrêt de fondue à Landbrotalaug .

Ensuite, il est temps de se diriger vers le camping du jour : Akranes Campground , et nous vous recommandons de vous installer dans la zone plus petite et plus privée au bord de l'eau. Le camping propose des toilettes et des douches.

Jour 13 – Glymur vs. randonnée à Kerlingarfjöll

Le plan initial de cette journée était de se rendre à la cascade de Glymur , la deuxième plus haute cascade d'Islande. La cascade est située au fond du fjord de Hvalfjörður et la randonnée dure environ 3,5 heures. Et le sentier sud est-il recommandé car vous avez une meilleure vue sur la cascade. Pour la randonnée, des chaussures appropriées sont nécessaires et préparez-vous à patauger dans la rivière.

Mais quel est le plaisir de voyager si vous ne pouvez pas improviser un peu ? C'est ce que nous avons fait ce matin, lorsque nous avons décidé de nous diriger vers l'intérieur des terres jusqu'à Kerlingarfjöll dans les highlands et de faire une randonnée à Hveradalir. Pour vous y rendre, vous avez besoin d'un van 4x4 , et si vous planifiez cette randonnée à l'avance, vous pouvez avancer Kerlingafjöll au jour 2, après Gullfoss, car Kerlingarfjöll est à environ 2 heures de route de Gullfoss. Kerlingarfjöll est une magnifique chaîne de montagnes pleine de couleurs et d'activité géothermique. À Hveradalir (vallée des sources chaudes), vous serez émerveillés, il y a des rivières géothermiques et des mares de boue sous les montagnes enneigées.

Si vous n'avez pas de 4x4, vous pouvez vous rendre à la cascade de  Skorhagafoss , petite c'est vrai, mais parfaite pour se ressourcer au calme quelques insants autour d'un pic nic par exemple, si le temps le permets.

Si vous préférez une option un peu plus palpitante pour passer la journée, vous pouvez aussi rouler vers Silfra afin de vivre l'expérience unique d'une plongée entre deux continents, surtout étant donné que l'entreprise chargée des tours de snorkelling est l'une de nos Kuku friends ! Foncer trouver nos réductions just ici : Dive.is discounts

Vous pouvez choisir de camper a   Laugarvatni , juste à coté de   Laugarvatn Fontana  (au cas ou vous seriez tentés de faire une dernière trempette avant la fin du voyage ou juste pour vous relaxer un peu avant de reprendre la route), mais vous pouvez aussi vous avancer sur le programme de demain en allant au camping de Faxi .

Jour 14 – Reykjavík et le Blue Lagoon

Il est maintenant temps de se diriger vers Reykjavík , en chemin, nous faisons un arrêt rapide à la cascade Faxi . Reykjavik a beaucoup à offrir, quelques-uns des points forts de la ville sont Hallgrímskirkja , Sólfarið (sculpture du Soleil Voyager), la salle de concert Harpa , Laugavegur la principale rue commerçante ainsi que d'innombrables musées en ville, allant des musées d'art au musée phallogique.

Un moyen idéal pour terminer votre voyage de deux semaines en Islande est le Blue Lagoon , la pré-réservation est obligatoire, et profitez de votre soirée dans les saunas et détendez-vous lors de votre dernière nuit en Islande.

Le dernier endroit pour la nuit est le terrain de camping Grindavík, qui propose des toilettes, des douches et une grande cuisine intérieure.

Envie de plus ?

Pour un plan quotidien plus détaillé, y compris les heures de conduite, le temps de randonnée, des conseils, des astuces, des faits amusants et enfin et surtout d'autres photos INCROYABLES de Sara et Michael de leur voyage - vous pouvez vous rendre sur leur blog de voyage pour l'intégralité de leur voyage en camping-car en Islande ici .

Réservez maintenant !

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The Ultimate Guide to RVing in Iceland

Homepage Blog Driving in Iceland

Posted Jan 09, 2023 in Driving in Iceland

Posted Jan 09, 2023

We strongly believe that the best way to explore the island is via RVing in Iceland . There’s no better way to immerse yourself in the majestic scenery and not miss any of the attractions and activities that you find all over.

 If you want to know if RVing might be something to consider for your trip to Iceland, this guide will detail the different types of RVs. We'll tell you the pros and cons of RVing in Iceland, the best time to go RVing. Furthermore, we'll give you tips and trips to make your RV vacation the trip of a lifetime! 

Why Should You Consider RVing in Iceland?

Some attractions and activities on the island are also quite remote. So, if you want to explore the island properly, you don't have much of a choice. You'll either rent your own transport or spend thousands on tours.

Many consider RVing a unique experience. The main reason why this is a favorite among visitors is that it takes care of your biggest expense on the island: accommodation . And the less money you need to spend on accommodation, the longer you can extend your Iceland adventure.

RVing in Iceland also allows you to be in control of your own Iceland itinerary . Even if you have millions just lying around to spend on guided tours, you’ll still be a slave to the tour’s time schedule.

The Pros and Cons of RVing in Iceland

Even though we just shared the reasons why visitors tend to opt for an RV on their Iceland trip, there are still pros and cons attached. To help you see if an RV might be the right fit, we created this quick overview:

• You can go wherever you want. There is no one telling you where the next stop should be (unless you’re traveling with your children, of course).
• You can stop and go whenever you want . There’s no reason to constantly look at your watch, so you don’t get left behind.
• You will save a TON of money on accommodation . Especially in Iceland, where you can purchase a  Camping Card for only €159. This allows a family of 2 adults and up to 4 children to stay at a variety of campsites across the island for 28 nights!
• You can pack WAY more than with a rental car . Even though this will probably not include things such as clothes, things such as food, etc. are no longer an issue.
• Because of the mere size of an RV, there are certain routes and roads that simply are not suitable to travel .
• Although you save a ton on accommodation, there might be some extra costs in other areas, such as fuel and rental insurance.
• RVs take a little know-how . You’ll need how to dump RV waste, how and where to top up fluids, etc.
• If you are traveling with a big family, an RV can quickly become too small. But then again, so does a tent. Which merely leaves you with a house rental or multiple hotel rooms.

Should I Get a Manual or an Automatic for RVing in Iceland?

You get both manual and automatic transmissions in various makes and models of RVs. However, manual RVs are the most common option in Iceland . Most companies only rent manual RVs , and finding an automatic one is almost impossible. Still, It’s been interesting to note that the preference and demand for automatic RVs have been steadily increasing over the years. And with this demand, so has the increase in manufacturing.

The reason for this shift is purely from a comfort angle. Driving an automatic RV is easy. Most have the latest RVs have a kick down function that automatically shifts down a gear if you press down hard on the gas. This causes an acceleration burst that is ideal when overtaking other vehicles or climbing a hill. Automatics do not just leave you at the mercy of your vehicle.

There are still ways to manually change gears, whether a button or a lever. The only difference is that you don’t need a clutch to do so. Without the clutch control, this actually reduces the risk of wheelspin. The most cited reason for still using a manual RV is control. Some people still want to feel that they are controlling the entire driving process. To be fair, having proper gears can help with controlling the engine braking . This difference can especially be felt when towing things as well as traveling in the mountains.

Should I get a 2WD or a 4WD for RVing in Iceland?

We get asked this question a lot (most of the time by those who will be RVing for the first time during their Iceland vacation). The good news is that you don’t really need to worry about this unless you intend to visit some of the more remote regions of the island.

Most RVs are All-wheel drive, since the size itself calls for traction on all four wheels. Yet, this does not mean these RV are all-terrain . If you are thinking about heading down the “road less traveled”, you must check other 4WD RV options. But in these instances, we suggest that you take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions regarding RV rentals . Have a chat with your rental agency about your planned routes first. As locals, they may advise against it, as many of the roads in Iceland that require 4x4 will be too narrow and rough for an RV . 

The Best Time to Go RVing in Iceland

Technically, you can go RVing in Iceland throughout the year. Each season offers its own unique experiences and attractions . But, unless you are an experienced RV driver, you might find the winter road conditions to be quite daunting. So, in terms of your nerves and safety, winter might not be the best option for beginners . You might also want to consider daylight hours.

Depending on the routes you would like to take and the number of things you want to do and see on your RV road trip in Iceland , mid-winter with its 4-hour daylight every day might also not be suitable. In terms of road-tripping, you need to decide beforehand which regions of the island you would like to visit and what things you would like to do and see.

This is because there are certain roads and routes that close during the colder months. This is especially true when it comes to the Highlands and the Westfjords. You will also not be able to experience certain things during certain specific seasons. For example, you will not be able to experience a  Midnight Sun in the winter months. Likewise, you will not be able to experience the Northern Lights or explore the ice caves mid-summer. 

Some of the Best Campsites for an RV in Iceland

If you are left wondering which campsites are the best for camping in an RV, the following are considered to be top-rated when RVing in Iceland:

• Skogar Campsite (Southern Iceland)
• Skaftafell Campsite (Southern Iceland)
• Hellisandur Campground (Western Iceland)
• Husafell Campsite (Western Iceland)
• Bjarg Campsite (North Iceland)
• Siglufjördur Campsite (North Iceland)
• Latrabjarg Campsite (Westfjords)
• Bildudalur Campsite (Westfjords) 

What to Pack for RVing in Iceland

People often wonder what to pack for their first RV adventure on the island. That is why we have created this handy packing list that you can use as a guide:

• Long, waterproof coat (during winter trips)
• Waterproof jacket
• Fleece or woolen sweaters
• Waterproof pants
• Casual pants
• Shorts (if visiting in the summertime)
• Thermal vests
• Thermal leggings
• Warm, woolen socks
• Warm gloves
• Warm hat (we recommend using a beanie)
• T-shirts and long-sleeve shirts
• Hiking boots (doesn’t matter if you’re planning on going hiking or not)
• Casual shoes
• Bathing suits (for hot spring days)
• Quick-drying towel
• Flip-flops (for the hot springs and public changing rooms)
• Warm clothes/sleepwear to sleep in (anything from a warm and comfy tracksuit to an onesie will work)
• Insect repellent
• First-aid kit
• Sleeping mask (when visiting during mid-summer with its extreme daylight hours)
• Backpack (suitable for day outings as well as hikes)
• Toiletries & Medication (just remember to check flight restrictions first, so you don’t have to leave things behind at the airport)
• Electronic devices; chargers, cables, an adaptor, a power bank, etc. 

Helpful Tips and Tricks for RVing in Iceland

If this is your first time RVing in Iceland, the following are some helpful tips and tricks to make your trip easier: 

You Will Need to be Flexible During the Winter Months

Having an incredibly strict itinerary during the winter months when RVing in Iceland is madness. Except for the fact that you will already have to adjust certain road trip routes according to the closed roads and routes . You will also be dealing with some extreme weather conditions. Such conditions tend to cause canceled tours, closed attractions, and sudden road closures. If your itinerary and time schedule are not flexible enough, something like this might not just rock the holiday boat, but completely sink it. 

Safety First

In terms of the local saying that “you can experience all four seasons in a day in Iceland” irrespective of the season you’re visiting. Keep the extreme weather and sudden road closures that come with winter into account . Always keep a close eye on the Iceland weather forecast and the Iceland road conditions . This way you won’t drive into a nasty surprise, and you also won’t be disappointed having to turn back at a closed attraction or road.

Be Realistic

It doesn’t matter how much you want to RV in Iceland and drive the Highland F-roads , it’s simply not possible with a big RV.

Stick to the Designated Roads and Parking Spots

It is highly illegal to stop next to the road or DIY your own off-road route in Iceland. This is not just to ensure your safety, but also to protect the sensitive ecosystem. Driving “off-road”, especially in places where you find Icelandic moss, can cause damage that will take decades to be restored.

Ask About the RV Extras

At most rental agencies, you’ll find added accessories and RV gadgets that can be rented at an additional cost. Depending on what you’re planning to do and the routes you’re planning on taking, some of these can be extremely handy. Always enquire at your rental agency what they have available.

Don’t Go Overboard With Groceries at the Start of Your Journey

Since Iceland is notorious for its remote regions, many tend to go a bit overboard. They almost buy enough groceries for their entire trip at the beginning of their journey! This will simply result in you having to chuck away a lot of food that has gone bad along the way. 

There are plenty of cities, towns, and gas stations on-route where you can stock up . The places in Iceland that are extremely remote and might be a bit of a stock concern are generally places that an RV can’t go anyway.

Bring Downloadable or Hard-Copy Maps

Although you will find phone, GPS, and WiFi signal all over the island, we do recommend that you bring downloadable or actual hard-copy maps with you. This is simply to ensure that you don’t end up getting stuck or lost if you find yourself without a signal or if something goes wrong with your tech.

Don’t Just Rely on the RV Bedding

Your RV will obviously come with a bed and bedding, but it does tend to get quite chilly at night (especially if you’re planning a winter visit). That’s why we highly recommend that you bring your 4-season sleeping bags with you as well. 

RVing in Iceland; the Experience of a Lifetime

There are very few places in the world where you will be able to drive past fjords and volcanos in daylight at 00:00. Or open your RV door and have a view of a glacier. All this and more is what you can expect from RVing in Iceland. There might be a few mindset adjustments to be made, and you might have to learn a new thing or two. Still, renting an RV in Iceland might be the most adventurous and cost-effective way to explore the island.

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Ultimate California Road Trip Itinerary: From the Pacific to the Redwoods!

Are you looking for the best California road trip itinerary to explore the most beautiful places in the Golden State? Our 10 days in California itinerary will take you from the rugged coast and beautiful beaches to the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevadas. Hike the Mojave desert, sleep underneath a yucca tree, and visit the lowest place on the continent while you road trip in California. Read our 10 day California Road Trip guide now. You may also like our post on 20 Best Road Trips in the USA .

Welcome to our ultimate California road trip planner!

We created this planner to help you plan the perfect road trip around California and it contains all the essential information you need to plan your trip today including budget and costs, what to eat, where to stay, etc.

Here you will find recommendations for a variety of California itineraries as well as get more information on California road trip must-see attractions including the Golden Gate Bridge, Big Sur, Yosemite, and Los Angeles.

Our mission? To make sure you have a blast in California!

Also Read: Portland to San Francisco Road Trip Itinerary California To Texas road trip planner Best Things to do in Washington State

California is our favorite destination ever.

I have been enamored with California long before I visited it.

California, San Jose, and the West coast are randomly thrown around in conversations in India – because everyone knows someone working in Silicon Valley – and you can’t help but know about this slice of America.

Growing up, I knew more about Cisco, Apple, Google, and Yahoo (remember when everyone used Yahoo?!) than San Francisco, Yosemite, and Big Sur.

And Disney – because everyone knows Disney!

California has such a unique history.

The oldest, tallest, and widest trees live here and guess what, they have been around since prehistoric times – yes, even dinosaurs lived among the redwood trees!

One of the lowest, aridest, and hottest places on earth is right here in California in Badwater Basin.

And as for scenic places: California has so many of them!

We love Big Sur and its rocky coast, the wildflower super blooms, blue Lake Tahoe, Mono Lake and its tufas, unique shapes of Joshua trees!

There are so many things to see in California road trip that the list just goes on!

Also Read: 24 Best Places to Visit in California in winter

Dotted Globe contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read my full  Disclosure  here. Thank you!

And that’s why in our California road trip itinerary of 10 days, we take you around all these unique and beautiful places in the Golden State.

Our California 10 day road trip itinerary is perfect for driving around dreamy landscapes of yellow poppies, orange orchards, purple foliage, and lush green vineyards.

We have divided this California roadtrip itinerary into 4 essential stretches as per the geographic features of the state – yepp, we are that geeky – and you can customize it as you want. 

Best waterproof walking shoes for California beaches

If you are a beach person like me, then extend the Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary to 10 days.

If you are a mountain lover like my hubby, then take a 10 day road trip from San Francisco to Yosemite.

Pick your favorite area and stay there as long as you want. Or follow our California in 10 days itinerary exactly as described!

As always, we have also included suggestions for if you have more or less time.

Whatever you chose, you are going to have the time of your lives – because this is California!

“Every time I come, I’m still amazed at the breadth California has. Big Sur, Yosemite, the desert… I love it.” – Theo James, the English actor

Best of California Road Trip 10 Days Itinerary

We, like most people, have seen California in bits and pieces rather than in one go.

We first visited California almost a decade ago and did San Francisco, Los Angeles, and the theme parks.

Second time around, we visited Death Valley National Park on a road trip from Vegas.

Then I lived and worked in the Bay area in tech (oh, the irony!) and that’s when we explored the California National Parks, North Coast, and the Sierra Nevada side of the state.

Our most popular posts: 22 Best City Breaks in the USA The Best Things to do in New York on your first visit Ultimate List of Best Places to visit in the USA

Most recently, we did the San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip along the gorgeous Pacific Coast Highway – oh and also road-tripped Southern California and Disney with the kids.

On our next trip – we plan to do the North Coast and Redwoods Scenic Highway AGAIN.

Yeah – that’s how much we love California – have been to many destinations several times and still can’t have enough.

The best way to tour California is obviously by driving. The state is beautiful but huge and it’s not easy planning California trip that covers all the major attractions with limited time in hand.

And planning a California road trip with kids is even more difficult – how do you prioritize between theme parks and natural attractions?

And that’s where we rush in – your knights in shining armor – delivering the ultimate 10 day California road trip itinerary. 

Our California trip planner is more like going on a series of best California road trips – each more gorgeous than the previous.

Also, we follow this road trip along two of California’s most popular routes: south on the SR1 or Pacific Coast Highway and then back north along the scenic SR 395 through Eastern California .

That’s what makes our itinerary the absolute best California driving trip planner!

You can also call it the California National Parks road trip because we will be visiting the most popular of them on an epic road trip.

We hope you enjoy it as much as we do!

Stretch 1: Down The Pacific Coast – 4 Days

Often enough, when someone talks about a California driving holiday, this stretch along the Pacific Coast Highway is the one they actually mean.

Constantly ranked among the top scenic drives in the world, the coastal drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles is the best of both worlds.

It combines the urban getaways of California’s two largest cities with the natural panoramas of Big Sur and the Pacific. 

If you have limited time, we would recommend spending 3 to 4 days along this route.

If you want to focus only on this coastal road trip, then just drive south on a road trip from San Francisco on SR1.

Take your own time to enjoy roadside stops like Carmel-By-The-Sea, Morro Bay, and the stunning Big Sur.

Hike or camp and explore nature.

Here’s our suggestion for this stretch of 10 day California itinerary planner.

San Francisco – 1 Day

Start with our San Francisco road trip planner.

San Francisco is our favorite city to start a 10 day California trip.

The city is quite easy to fly into; the 3 airports of San Francisco, San Jose, and Oakland are located close by and many airlines have deals to the Bay area.

We would recommend spending a minimum of one day in San Francisco before picking up your rental car and driving south.

Or you can rent a car before, see SF, and then drive the PCH.

You can also start your 10 day road trip from Los Angeles, in that case, adjust your plans accordingly.

Read this now! Whatever you do – don’t casually park your car at an empty garage in San Francisco. Car Break-ins in San Francisco are very common, as we discovered to our ill-fortune . On our latest trip to San Francisco, we had parked in a garage two blocks away from Pier 39 and came back to find the rear glass broken and both our children’s suitcases gone!  We had to spend quite some time to sort the issue and it left a sad memory on an otherwise awesome road trip around California in 10 days. We would recommend parking at your hotel while taking a cab or the tram to explore the city. 

San Francisco has many names – SF, San Fran, Fog City, the City by the Bay, Frisco (though don’t say that in front of locals) or simply, the City – going back to the days of the Wild West when there was nothing much in Northern California but the city.

San Francisco is colorful, vibrant, and bohemian.

It’s amongst our favorite US cities – right there at the top along with New York , Chicago , and New Orleans.

There are quite a few things to do in San Francisco: unsurprisingly most of them begin at or near the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, San Francisco’s gigantic urban park.

Begin your visit at the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center near the southern end of the bridge.

Learn interesting facts and see construction relics from the building of the Golden Gate Bridge before visiting the bridge itself.

Next walk across all 1.7 miles of this engineering marvel and icon of America.

The views of the bay from the bridge are beautiful and you feel an indescribable thrill while walking across it.

Definitely the highlight of your California travel itinerary!

Up for more adventure?

Bike the Golden Gate!

We have done it twice – most recently with our 3 yrs and 6 months old kids – it is a superb experience.

We love biking across to Sausalito, exploring the quaint town, and taking the ferry back to San Francisco.

You can also bike to the redwoods if you have more time.

Read our ultimate guide to biking the bridge here.

If not biking, then use the rest of your day to explore San Francisco’s highlights: Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39, Lombard Street, and Ghirardelli Square.

If you want to spend more time in San Francisco, see the Painted Ladies – those famous SF houses shown in Full House!

You can also check out the city from the Twin Peaks.

The Golden Gate Park is perfect for a stroll.

Ride the cable car to Chinatown and have some dumplings and noodles for lunch.

Spend an afternoon admiring the beautiful architecture of the Palace of Fine Arts or visit the prison of Alcatraz Island.

Visit the beautiful redwood trees at Muir Woods National Monument or whale watch and hike at Point Reyes.

San Francisco is a beautiful city and you can easily spend a couple of days there as a part of your 10 day trip to California.

Read our San Francisco posts now to plan this part of the trip: San Francisco 3 to 5-day itinerary ideas 17 Best Things to do in San Francisco on your first visit

The area around San Francisco is also full of activities and tourist attractions.

Here are some suggestions if you want to spend a few more days exploring around the Bay Area during your California itinerary of 10 days:

Napa & Sonoma 

Take a day trip from San Francisco to Napa Valley along the Silverado Trail.

Sonoma County is also a great place to visit for wine lovers.

You can tour the many vineyards, taste local wines, dine at Michelin starred restaurants, and visit famous tasting rooms.

If you happen to visit in the fall, you will see beautiful fall colors in the vineyards and be able to attend grape stomping. 

San Jose is popular with millennials and those working in Silicon Valley.

You will find plenty of trendy nightclubs and bars in San Jose.

If you enjoy shopping, check out the high fashion brands on Santana Row.

For outdoor lovers, a hike to Mission Peak is a must while families will love the Winchester Mystery House.

Silicon Valley

If you love tech then you need to visit Silicon Valley.

It boasts the largest concentration of geeks and nerds – and as a fellow geek, I say it quite fondly!

Start your visit at the Computer History Museum to know everything about the machine that changed our lives.

Then see Google’s Android lawn sculptures in Mountain View or the garage where Hewlett Packard began in Palo Alto.

Visit Stanford University’s sprawling campus as well as Facebook and Apple!

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip – 2 Days

On to the next part of the 10 day road trip in California.

After seeing San Francisco, drive south along the SR1 or Pacific Coast Highway.

Over the next 2 days, you will follow the coastal route to Los Angeles while making plenty of stops along the way.

Check the coastal communities of Half Moon Bay and Davenport before reaching Santa Cruz.

If you have kids, spend some time at the Santa Cruz Beach and Boardwalk.

Next visit Monterey and Carmel by the Sea. Hike in Point Lobos or walk the coastal bluffs at Garrapata State Park.

On the way, you will see secret beaches, hidden coves, and beautiful views. 

As you begin driving PCH1 while following our 10 days in California itinerary, you understand why artists settle here, photographers and writers both wax lyrical about this region, and why the drive is called the most beautiful in the world.

We recommend staying somewhere in the vicinity of Carmel Highlands for the night.

The next day, rise early for the star attraction of the drive: the 90-mile long rugged, wild Big Sur.

Big Sur is 6 hours from Los Angeles and you have a big day ahead.

It is really hard to describe Big Sur.

Rocky cliffs, foaming waves, spring wildflowers, lighthouses, migrating whales, turquoise water, redwood trees: Big Sur has everything.

It is gorgeous in a wild way.

In Big Sur, you will find amazing state parks, some of California’s best hiking trails, iconic beaches, and tons of marine life, including otters, elephant seals, and dolphins.

Some areas of Big Sur can be closed at any given time of the year due to floods or landslides – so we recommend checking out the PCH status before your 10 days road trip California.

Read more about all the attractions including the beautiful McWay Falls in our post One day in Big Sur . 

Other attractions of the Pacific Coast Highway drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles include Monterey’s famous 17-mile drive, the seaside towns of Pismo Beach and Morro Bay, the famous Hearst Castle, Santa Barbara, and the beaches of Malibu.

For the purposes of this California Itinerary of 10 days, we would suggest 2 to 3 days on PCH.

However, if you have more time then the PCH is easily a 4 day to week-long road trip in itself.

To read more about all the awesome stops on PCH and planning a detailed itinerary, check out our article on Planning a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway . 

Also Read: Top 10 Convertible drives in the USA

Los Angeles – 1 Day

While San Francisco and Silicon Valley are for tech lovers, Los Angeles is for Hollywood fans.

How long to stay in Los Angeles is a tricky question.

If you only have one day in Los Angeles, start by seeing the famous Hollywood sign and then visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame to take selfies with your favorite stars.

Also, see the Kodak Theatre (now Dolby Theatre) which hosts the Oscars and tour the movie star homes on Rodeo Drive.

If you have more time to explore Los Angeles, we suggest starting with lunch at the Santa Monica Pier.

Then visit the Griffith Observatory and see Los Angeles from above.

Or you can take a behind the scenes VIP studio tour at one of your favorite studios: pick from Warner Brothers, Paramount Pictures or Sony!

You can also check out the beautiful exhibits at the Getty Center or the beautiful modern art at the Broad.

LA also has many other top museums and a large number of attractions – read our post on Best Things to do in Los Angeles for more ideas.

For more help in planning your day, read our Los Angeles itinerary for first-time visitors .

Here are some suggestions to explore the area beyond Downtown Los Angeles:

No California family road trip is complete without a trip to Disney.

Both of California’s Disney Parks are located close to Los Angeles in Anaheim.

On the best California vacation itinerary, you have to meet Mickey, Goofy and other beloved cartoon characters!

Kids also get to meet Disney’s princesses in full attire at the parks.

To plan a California family vacation itinerary including a trip to Disney, read our Disney posts .

Universal Studios

To understand all about movie-making, see movie sets, and enjoy thrilling rides visit Universal Studios.

This theme park has really cool attractions and the Studio Tour will take you through sets based on Shutter Island, Jaws, King Kong, and more.

Harry Potter fans will love visiting Hogwarts and taking thrilling rides based on the books and movies – and is a must-visit if you are spending 10 days in California.

Channel Islands National Park

For a unique experience, customize our itinerary for California 10 days and visit the remote Channel Islands.

Comprised of 5 islands, the park has excellent wildlife, sea caves, and lots of natural beauty.

You can take a ferry to the park from Ventura.

Optional: San Diego – 1 Day

From Los Angeles, you can venture on the next part of California 10 day itinerary or extend your trip down the coast by visiting San Diego.

Not many people know that San Diego is the oldest city on the West Coast.

It has beautiful Spanish Colonial architecture and lots of history. 

Read our post 22 Best Things to do in San Diego now to know more about this beautiful city.

If you have one day, you can visit the Historic Old Town and understand the Mexican and Wild West roots of the city.

Next, visit the famous Balboa Park with its beautiful architecture, renowned museums, and the San Diego Zoo.

Round off your time in the city by exploring the historic Gaslamp Quarter and its Victorian architecture and trendy eateries, hotels, and pubs.

This area is perfect for ending the day with dinner and drinks.

If you have more than a day, visit the famous San Diego Sea World and see the dolphins in action.

San Diego is home to many beautiful beaches; the Mission Beach boardwalk is very popular.

Other things to see include Mission San Diego, Sunset Cliffs Park, and the bustling waterfront area of Seaport Village.

If you have more time on 10 day itinerary California, check out the dramatic sculptures in the desert city of Borrego Springs.

Related: For more California road trip ideas, check out our post on 12 Best California road trips

Stretch 2: Through The Arid Californian Desert – 2 Days

Continue on the California road trip route planner through deserts of southern California.

While most people associate California primarily with the coast and then with the dense redwood forests, the state is also renowned for its unique desert landscapes.

Most of these parts of southern California have a desolate beauty.

It is full of desert cities like Palm Springs which offer unique tourist attractions for visitors.

In this post, we focus our California 10 days itinerary on exploring two of the region’s national parks: Joshua Tree National Park and Death Valley National Park.

Joshua Tree National Park – 1 Day

Located partly over the Colorado desert and the Mojave desert, Joshua Tree National Park is named after the iconic Joshua tree.

This is a type of Yucca tree that is twisted, scraggly, and found only in the Mojave desert of California.

The easily recognizable tree looks even more dramatic in the desert landscape and bare rock formations of Joshua Tree National Park.

The national park is one of the most underrated California road trip destinations.

Its unique vistas have drawn photographers and artists to the park for decades.

Read our post on One Day in Joshua Tree to plan your trip.

There are many things to do in Joshua Tree and its otherworldly landscape.

One of the best ways to see Joshua Tree is by driving around the paved road in the park.

Campsites in Joshua Tree are spectacular and hikes through Yucca trees and cacti adventurous.

The Hidden Valley Trail is a short mile-long trail that offers great desert landscape views.

The park has many popular geological rock formations that are used for rock climbing.

The park also has a dark night sky and is good for stargazers, astronomy enthusiasts, and night sky photographers.

Wildlife and birding opportunities around the park are also numerous.

Read more in our post 24 Best Things to do in Joshua Tree National Park .

While deciding how to plan a trip to California, we recommend keeping more time aside to explore the many attractions surrounding Joshua Tree.

You can easily include them on a South California road trip from San Diego to Joshua Tree in this order: San Diego – Anza Borrego – Galleta Meadows – Salton Sea – Palm Springs – Joshua Tree.

Here’s some more information about these desert experiences that are worth adding to your itinerary if you have the time.

Salton Sea 

The Salton Sea is an inland lake created by flooding from an irrigation canal of the Colorado River that carries water to the Imperial Valley in 1905.

Several resort communities were built along the new lake.

However, the lake has no discharge and as a result, the water became unusually saline causing the death of marine life.

As a result, the communities were abandoned and are extremely popular with ruin photographers.

If you have teens, then definitely include Bombay Beach ruins in your California vacation itinerary – they will love to see random objects lying on the beach.

Today, the Salton Sea shoreline is filled with deteriorating structures and RV communities.

The Salton Sea is also located directly on top of the San Andreas fault and geothermal activity including mud pools are present along the coast.

The Salton Sea State Recreation Area is popular for birding, boating, picnicking, and camping. 

Palm Springs

Palm Springs, located in the Colorado desert region, is one of the biggest Californian desert cities.

If you want a relaxing vacation, then Palm Springs is one of the best California ideas.

One of its main attractions is the Palm Springs aerial tramway which takes you up Mount San Jacinto and offers great views of the surrounding area.

Palm Springs also has many great museums, boutique stores, restaurants, and resorts.

It is one of the most popular winter vacation destinations in the USA.

If you plan to visit Palm Springs, then check out our post on 30 Best Things to do in Palm Springs, California.

Anza Borrego and Galleta Meadows Sculptures in Borrego Springs

While California has many beautiful state parks, few know about its largest – Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

This park is at its most beautiful in the spring when the cacti flower and the desert landscape comes alive with colors.

Anza Borrego Desert State Park is just two hours away from San Diego and can be seen on a San Diego Joshua Valley road trip.

In nearby Borrego Springs, you can see the unusual Galleta Meadows Estate sculptures.

These sculptures created by artist Ricardo Breceda are free to visit and beautiful works of art.

By driving all over the land you can spot dragons, serpents, wooly mammoths, and other fantastic creatures.  

Also, read our post on Planning the ultimate Southern California itinerary.

Coachella Valley Preserve 

Coachella’s Thousand Palms Oasis is a unique chance to see the oasis environment in the middle of the desert.

The oases directly sit on fault lines and the water seeping through the faults has given life to California Fan Palms and other big palms in the arid desert.

Wildlife including sheep, goats, bobcats, etc, also can be spotted at the oasis.

Entry to the reserve is free and it has many hiking trails plus offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

There are also other hiking areas close to Coachella Valley Preserve including Indian Canyons where you can hike through slot canyons. 

Death Valley National Park – 1 Day

Comprising of areas of the Mojave desert and the Great Basin desert, Death Valley is vastly different than Joshua Tree National Park.

For the most part, Death Valley is devoid of vegetation and is home to a variety of geological formations including the badlands, sand dunes, and the famous salt flats.

Death Valley also has the distinction of being the lowest point in North America and is also one of the hottest and driest places in the country.

No trip to Death Valley National Park is complete without visiting the Badwater Basin salt flats.

The salt flats, at 282 feet below sea level, are the lowest place in North America.

Death Valley National Park has many scenic drives that are perfect for exploring around the park.

Mesquite Flats Sand Dunes are good for taking a stroll, exploring the desert plants, viewing animal tracks, and sunrise/sunset photography.

The park has many interesting geological formations.

Death Valley also has a dark night sky and is great for stargazing and photographing the Milky Way.

Read our post on 14 Best Things to do in Death Valley National Park for more information.

We know you are planning to roadtrip California, but we can’t talk about Death Valley without mentioning Las Vegas.

Las Vegas is also a great city to begin your road trip to California.

The distance between Vegas and Death Valley is just over 2 hours and the route is quite scenic.

In fact, it is one of our favorite road trips from Las Vegas.

You can see the Sin City and then go on a road trip through California – an epic Las Vegas Los Angeles San Francisco trip, if you will!

Or you can also go on a memorable Las Vegas Grand Canyon road trip from California.

For Las Vegas travel inspiration, read our post on 52 Best Things to do in Las Vegas .

Stretch 3: Up Through The Sierra Nevada – 4 Days

After seeing Death Valley, take a road trip on California’s Scenic Highway 395.

This road trip is scenic whether you do it from north to south or like we recommend here, from south to north.

The best time to see the aspens turn yellow here is in fall.

The total distance from Death Valley to your final destination of Yosemite is 4 hours when the Lee Vining road to Yosemite is open in the summer.

However, we recommend keeping aside 4 days for this road trip as it has some of the most underrated road trip destinations in California including the Manzanar National Historic Site, Alabama Hills, Ancient Bristlecone pine forest, Bodie Ghost Town, etc.

For more information on these Route 395 stops, see this article .

For the purposes of this itinerary, we focus on the popular attractions of Mammoth Lakes, Yosemite, and Lake Tahoe. 

Route 395 will take you high up into the Sierra Nevada mountains, known for their spectacular beauty.

The Sierra Nevadas are home to many national and state parks including the mighty Yosemite and crystal clear high mountain lakes.

For the rest of your Californian road trip, you will be exploring the High Sierras and its many breathtaking attractions.

This is a welcome respite after the desert landscapes of Death Valley and Joshua Tree and depending on when you visit you will be able to see beautiful meadows, wildflowers, fall foliage, and even snow!

Mammoth Lakes And Mono Lake – 1 Day

Contrary to their name, Mammoth Lakes is not a lake but a winter ski town in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Mammoth Mountain is the main winter skiing area with a variety of ski runs.

In summer, it is a favorite with mountain bikers and hikers.

The town does have several beautiful lakes that are accessible only in the summer but none of them are named Mammoth.

The area has beautiful alpine meadows with wildflowers in spring and natural hot springs for some R&R.

In one day, we recommend taking the roughly one hour drive around the Lakes Basin and visiting all the lakes.

You can hike, picnic, kayak, and fish in whichever lake you like.

Or maybe just hang up a hammock and read a book by the lake.

Nearby Mono Lake is a saltwater lake surrounded by unique towering limestone formations called the tufa.

The lake visitor center has great information about the formation of the lake and the tufa while the short South Tufa trail is great for exploring the surrounding area.

The trail takes you along the lakeshore and among the tufas.

We suggest stopping here for an hour or so; Mono Lake accepts National Park Pass for entry.

On the way from Mammoth Lakes to Mono Lake, you will pass by June Lake and Devils Postpile Monument.

June Lake Loop Road is a great place to see the fall colors while the Devils Postpile National Monument is a unique geological formation of basalt columns.

Rainbow Falls, a 31m plunging waterfall, is another popular attraction of the monument.

Past Mono Lake, take the Lee Vining Road into Yosemite.

The official name of the road is Tioga Pass Road and it is closed in winter and spring (usually November to May) due to snow.

In that case, you can’t really visit Yosemite from the eastern side.

To know alternative routes in winter, check here . 

Yosemite National Park – 2 Days

Best known for its giant sequoia trees, bald granite cliffs, and spectacular waterfalls, Yosemite National Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Yosemite along with Yellowstone National Park and Grand Canyon National Park is known as the ‘Big Three’ and receives over 4 million visitors each year.

Yosemite is a must-stop on any Ca road trip itinerary.

The best time to visit Yosemite National Park is from the summer to fall when Tioga Pass Road is open.

We suggest spending 2 days in Yosemite National Park to hike, drive along scenic roads, and see the major attractions. 

On your first day, start by taking a Yosemite Valley Tour.

The Yosemite Valley is surrounded by the bald granite cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome.

Most of the waterfalls including Yosemite Falls are also located in the valley.

The Valley is also where most of the park services including accommodations, shuttle buses, etc are located.

The Valley has hiking trails for all difficulty levels that lead to stunning views of Yosemite.

Lower Yosemite Falls hike is a short and easy trail that goes to the base of the falls.

Touring the Yosemite Valley via the free shuttle bus is the easiest way to see the national park.

However, if you are visiting in summer (especially long weekends) it can get very crowded – so plan to start early in the morning.

The Valley Visitor Center has great information and exhibits about the history and geology of Yosemite, plus it is a good place to get souvenirs, postcards, and magnets.

The aptly-named Mirror Lake reflects Half Dome peak and is beautiful to visit.

However, it dries up towards the end of summer and is best seen in spring/summer. 

Another must in the Valley if you’re visiting in summer is Glacier Point.

Located along the valley rim, it can be reached only by car or private tour.

The views from Glacier Point are stellar. It is also the base for many of Yosemite’s rim hikes.

We suggest spending one day exploring the valley. Yosemite also offers paid guided tours if you prefer them.

On the next day, you can go up the Tioga Pass road if it is clear of snow.

This is your chance to experience Yosemite devoid of the crowds.

The shuttle bus will take you up the Tioga Pass road to Tuolumne Meadows.

To see Yosemite’s giant sequoia trees, visit the Mariposa Grove.

This area is also accessible by the park shuttle.

End your day by visiting Ansel Adams Gallery in Yosemite Village.

Photographer Ansel Adams’s stunning black and white photos of Yosemite are a great reminder of how Yosemite looked over half a century ago.

Lake Tahoe And Emerald Bay – 1 Day

If you continue along Route 395 from Yosemite, you will reach lake Tahoe.

Note: Route 395 itself does not reach Lake Tahoe, so you will be following 207 from the Nevada side. 

The deep blue water of Lake Tahoe surrounded by snow-clad mountain peaks of the Sierra Nevadas is one of California’s iconic images.

Located on the California-Nevada border, Lake Tahoe is a popular travel destination for Californians throughout the year.

In winter it is popular for snowshoeing, skiing, and sledding.

Summer in Lake Tahoe is made for biking and camping.

In fall, the area around Lake Tahoe comes alive with spectacular fall foliage and is one of the top fall drives in the country .

South Lake Tahoe or the California side is best for enjoying the outdoors and nature with family while the Nevada side has lots of casinos and is more touristy.

Crystal clear waters of Lake Tahoe (CC 2.0 – Christian Abend )

The drive around Lake Tahoe is 72 miles long and takes about three hours.

It is highly scenic and one of the best road trips in California.

Much of the shoreline of Lake Tahoe is public and the views of the lake from the drive are stunning.

The lake looks a pretty shade of blue during the day and taking a beautiful picture of the water is a highlight of your visit.

An essential stop along the drive is the Emerald Bay State Park.

The drive here is spectacular and the views of the turquoise lake are lovely.

There are many other ways to enjoy Lake Tahoe.

You can take a helicopter tour or enjoy watersports on the lake.

The Sierra Nevada mountain ranges are an absolute delight for outdoor and nature lovers.

What you will see in these 4 days is just the tip of the iceberg.

The High Sierras have many beautiful alpine valleys, lakes, ghost towns, waterfalls, and hiking trails worth exploring.

If you can spend more time in the Sierra Nevada, then here are some other must attractions:

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks 

These are the two other national parks located in the High Sierras.

The giant sequoias surround you as you drive the park roads creating a surreal and unique experience.

The twisting and turning roads here are not for the faint-hearted (hint: carry some Dramamine!).

Both national parks have great hiking trails and lots of wildlife.

John Muir Trail

While it is not possible to hike in a short time, John Muir Trail deserves a special mention.

This is a long-distance trail in the Sierra Nevada and passes through Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks.

It is as renowned as the Appalachian or the Pacific Crest Trail. 

Bodie Ghost Town

The old mining ghost town of Bodie is an hour away from Mammoth Lakes.

Preserved as a state park, the town is full of historic saloons and deserted buildings.

While Sacramento is not in the Sierra Nevada mountain ranges, the city is on the way while returning to San Francisco from Lake Tahoe and makes for a great addition to our California road trip itinerary recommendations.

One of the top attractions in Sacramento is the California State Railroad Museum.

Stretch 4: Along The Wild North Coast

There are many things to do in Northern California including national parks, scenic drives, beautiful coastal towns, and more.

You will need another 5 days minimum to fully explore the Northern part of the state.

Hence, we do not recommend covering the North Coast if you are following this California Road Trip Itinerary for 10 Days – you simply won’t have time.

The best way to explore this region is to plan a separate road trip in the northern part of the state, the details of which you can read here in our post, Ultimate Northern California road trip itinerary .

California’s North Coast is less visited, unspoiled, and partially unexplored compared to the famous central Coast and the crowded southern coast.

The prehistoric coastal redwood trees grow in groves along the road all the way up to Oregon.

Hwy 1 ends at Leggett where it joins Hwy 101.

While the road follows the coast, for the most part, it turns inward in the area of the Lost Coast.

The remote Lost Coast as the name suggests is devoid of major highways and remains the ultimate adventure for a 10 day trip to California.

However, the coast is not the only unique thing about Northern California.

The northern part of the state is also home to geothermal activity.

You can climb lava tunnels at Lava Beds National Monument and see volcanic craters, domes, mud pools, etc at Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Here are a few attractions of the region:

Redwoods National and State Park

The Redwoods National and State Parks were created to preserve the old-growth redwood forests.

The Redwoods are the tallest living trees on Earth and also among the oldest.

The National Park and state parks are also home to a number of endangered animals including spotted owl, species of sea lions, etc.

The unique environment of the dense redwood forests by the coast has resulted in the park being designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Seeing the Redwoods covered in fog during winter or spring is a surreal experience.

Point Reyes

Point Reyes National Seashore, located in Marin County, preserves a large swath of northern California’s coastal wilderness.

Most popular attractions at Point Reyes include Alamere Falls on Wildcat Beach and Point Reyes Lighthouse.

Other attractions include the endangered tule elk herd that can be seen around Tomales Point, Native American redwood houses, earthquake trail, and dramatic cliffside beaches.

Avenue of the Giants

Avenue of the Giants is an over 30 miles long scenic highway that passes through the Humboldt Redwoods State Park and its mighty coastal redwood trees.

Roadside attractions include tunnels cut into redwood trees, giant groves, and unique roadside attractions like a house created from a single redwood log and a Redwood RV.

We suggest hiking in the Redwood groves to experience the truly gigantic trees.

The quaint seaside town of Mendocino is quite different from the coastal towns on the Central Coast.

It reminded me of Maine and the coastal upper East coast due to its Victorian mansions painted in pretty pastel colors.

The town is a historical landmark and very pretty to wander and explore.

Nearby Mendocino Headlands State Park and Russian Gulch State Park are worth a visit.

Nearby Fort Bragg is no fort but a lumber town on the North Coast.

The famous ‘Glass Beach’ of which I’m sure you have seen pics floating around on social media is in Fort Bragg.

The beach is a part of MacKerricher State Park, a state park with amazing views of the undeveloped headlands, beaches, and tide pools.

Another popular attraction in Fort Bragg is the Skunk Train – a railroad built to haul timber logs from the redwood forests.

Other attractions on the North Coast include the pretty Victorian towns of Ferndale and Eureka, Del Norte Redwood State Park, and the seaport community of Crescent City.

More 10 Day California itinerary ideas for slow travelers

You can use our California road trip planner to customize your itinerary based on your interests. 

If you can only spend 10 days in California, then seeing all the above attractions can be overwhelming; here are a few suggestions for those who like slow travel.

California coast road trip itinerary

One great option is to go on a 10 day pacific coast highway trip or 10 day west coast road trip.

That way you can spend more time in the cities of San Francisco and Los Angeles while seeing Big Sur at a leisurely pace. 

On this San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip in 10 days, you can tour the lighthouses, hike the trails, picnic on the beach, visit the wineries of the Central Coast, and enjoy nature – seriously the best road trip in California. 

You can even do the San Francisco to San Diego road trip in 10 days.

In that case, we would recommend keeping aside 2 days each for the 3 major cities and spending the rest of the time in the Big Sur region. 

This San Francisco 10 days trip lets you enjoy the beauty of the coast while visiting the Sierra Nevadas and the desert later.

California National Parks itinerary

California has 9 national parks – all of them are unique and make for an exciting California National park road trip. 

You can visit either the most popular ones or all of them, depending on how much time you want to spend in each park. 

We would suggest starting from Los Angeles, then seeing Joshua Tree and Death Valley before visiting Kings Canyon and Sequoia. 

Then see the beautiful Yosemite Valley. From Yosemite, head north to Lassen and then finally see Redwoods parks before returning to San Francisco. 

You can also see Pinnacles and Channel Islands if you have the time, to complete the national parks in California road trip. 

You can also use this route for creating your own California RV trip itinerary, since most national parks have RV campgrounds. 

Northern California road trip itinerary

Another great option for those who like slow travel is to plan a Northern California itinerary for 10 days. 

Start your road trip from San Francisco and drive along the less visited North Coast and see the majestic redwood trees. 

Drive along the Redwoods Scenic Byway before turning towards the mountains and exploring the caves at Lava Tubes National Monument. 

Visit Mount Shasta on your way to Lassen Volcanic National Park and end your trip in Sacramento, a couple of hours away from San Francisco. 

For more information on how to plan a California road trip focusing on the northern part of the state, read our in-depth post on Northern California road trip .

If you have less time: California itinerary 7 days

If you can’t spare 10 days, then we also have suggestions for 7 day California road trip routes. 

With only 7 days in california, we would recommend focusing on one region and exploring it at a leisurely pace. 

Of course, you can opt for a 7 day southern California itinerary or a 7 day California coast road trip along the PCH, but you can also consider some unique road trip ideas in California which explore its most popular attractions. 

Here are our favorites if you want to see the best of California in a week:

7 day road trip from San Francisco to Yosemite

If you are wondering how to spend a week in California but still see the most popular attractions, then this itinerary is for you. 

Start your road trip in San Francisco, see the Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown, Mission District, Fisherman’s Wharf etc in two days. 

Then spend a day in Napa Valley and nearby Calistoga before seeing Sacramento.

In Sacramento, see the state capitol and the railroad museum then make your way to Yosemite National Park. 

Take a tour of the Yosemite Valley and see the famous El Capitan as well as the many waterfalls.

Enjoy the panoramic view from the Tunnel View Outlook. 

Then depending on the season, visit the Tuolumne Meadows area.

Return to San Francisco to complete 7 day road trip in California.

North California coast road trip

This California 1 week itinerary is perfect for slow travel. 

Land in San Francisco and take a day or two to explore it’s many attractions.

Then rent a car and drive north. 

Part of this road trip is on the Pacific Coast Highway 1 till Legett, after which you will be driving along the famous Redwood scenic byway. 

For your first stop, explore the beautiful Point Reyes.

See the lighthouse and the shipwreck, then eat oysters in Tomales Bay. 

Drive along the Avenue of the Giants and pass through the Redwood tunnels. 

Hike in the prehistoric Fern Canyon and visit the glass beach at Fort Bragg, then last stop at Eureka or Crescent City to finish the California coast 7 day itinerary.

7 Day Southern California trip itinerary

For this ca road trip planner, begin your trip with a day or two in San Diego or Los Angeles and then wind your way around Southern California’s desert attractions. 

See famous Joshua Tree and Palm Springs.

Enjoy the fantastic landscape of the Mojave desert and drink a delicious date shake.

See the sculptures in Borrego Springs. 

Then visit Anaheim and enjoy the theme parks.

There are also many things to do in Anaheim besides Disney. 

7 Day California Coast Road Trip

This is one of the most popular california driving holidays itineraries.

Follow this California road trip itinerary 7 days along the world famous Pacific Coast Highway. 

See the major cities of San Francisco and Los Angeles.

Explore the charming mountain side towns of Pismo Beach and Morro Bay. Learn to surf and spot the elephant seals. 

Spend some time hiking and enjoying the wild, rugged vibe of Big Sur.

Take a tour of the Point Sur Lighthouse and hike down to Keyhole Rock. Go whale watching. 

If you have more time: California road trip itinerary 14 days

This two week california driving itinerary is perfect for long summer vacations, when most parts of the state including the High Sierras are completely accessible. 

Just use our main California trip planner, but add in all optional ideas including San Diego and the beautiful northern coast. 

Then see the Lassen Volcanic National Park area and visit the beautiful Burney Falls from Redding.

Spend some time in Mount Shasta and head back to San Francisco to complete California 2 week itinerary.

We hope you liked our California road trip blog.

Now you have everything ready to plan your perfect California trip itinerary, so make the most of it.

Did we miss any hidden gems in the Golden State?

Which part of the road trip did you enjoy the most? Let us know in the comments!

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Home » Blog » Epic Big Sur Road Trip Itinerary: Explore California’s Pacific Coast

Epic Big Sur Road Trip Itinerary: Explore California’s Pacific Coast

I had heard stories about California’s famous Big Sur road trip and always wondered if it would live up to the hype. But after visiting all I can say is… you need to put this road trip on your bucket list! Visit California’s rugged Pacific coast, drive down Big Sur along Highway 1, see some of the gorgeous California state parks, and I promise this will be a trip you will never forget.

This Big Sur road trip guide and itinerary will help you plan the best trip down the California coast. Whether you have 1 day or 1 week, there are endless ways to experience the natural beauty of this unique area.

Disclaimer : This blog post may feature some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). It’s one of the ways I can keep producing free guides and resources for my readers. Learn more about my affiliate policy  here . Thank you for the support!

Epic Big Sur Itinerary: Explore California’s Pacific Coast

Road trips can be an amazing adventure, but there are often a ton of things to plan! In this guide, I’m going to help you determine where you should go, what to pack, how long you should visit Big Sur, and share my favorite parts of my Big Sur road trip. I’m even sharing my recommended itinerary for a day trip to Big Sur, as well as a longer, multi-day road trip along the coast.

What is Big Sur?

You’ve probably heard people talk about Big Sur, but maybe you’ve always wondered what it actually is. Big Sur is most well known as California’s most scenic drive. Highway 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway, connects the towns of Carmel-By-The-Sea and San Simeon across a 90 mile stretch of gorgeous, undeveloped coastline with incredible views of the Pacific Ocean. The Pacific Coast Highway alone has amazing views, but adventure enthusiasts love Big Sur for the miles of hikes through redwood forests, craggy cliffs, stunning beaches, and many amazing California state parks.

How To Get To Big Sur

If you’ll be traveling from the greater California area, you are likely best off driving from home. If you live further away you will need to fly to one of California’s major cities. San Francisco is the closest major city, but Los Angeles is another option as well. Big Sur is a 90-mile scenic drive, so you’ll definitely want to rent a car. If you have the time and the means, I highly recommend making your trip to Big Sur part of a larger West Coast road trip! Consider visiting Yosemite National Park and Redwood National Park while you’re on the west coast.

From San Francisco to Big Sur

The easiest way to get to Big Sur is by flying into San Francisco. I recommend using Skyscanner to find the best rates on flights, and then renting a car through Kayak . It’s about a 2 hour drive from San Francisco to Carmel at the north end of Big Sur.

From Los Angeles to Big Sur

Alternatively you could fly into Los Angeles, rent a car and drive to San Simeon, the southern end of Big Sur. The drive from Los Angeles to Big Sur typically takes about 4 hours, although that definitely depends on traffic in the LA area. Keep reading for the reasons why I recommend starting your Big Sur road trip from the north side in Carmel.

Best Time of Year to Take a Big Sur Road Trip?

This part of the California coast stays pretty mild all year, so you can definitely visit Big Sur year-round. Visiting in the spring months is probably the best time to visit since it’s not too hot yet. Plus, you’ll see incredible wildflowers in bloom if you visit in April! The crowds are typically the busiest during the peak season in summer, so consider a fall visit in October or November. You’ll get incredibly mild temperatures and avoid the busy season.

How Long Does it Take to Drive Big Sur?

It is possible to drive Big Sur in one day, but many people like to spend longer exploring the area. These are the most common ways to take a Big Sur road trip:

• Start and finish in Carmel-by-the-Sea but only drive as far as McWay Falls (78 miles of driving)
• Start in Carmel-by-the-Sea and finish in Morro Bay (120 miles of driving)
• Start and finish in Carmel-by-the-Sea, including driving the entire Big Sur Coast and taking the inland route on the way back (268 miles of driving)
• Start and finish in Carmel-by-the-Sea, including driving the entire Big Sur Coast and taking the coastal route on the way back (240 miles of driving)

In an ideal world, you would spend a week meandering down the coast and stop at every single viewpoint. But I know that’s not possible for most people. So in this guide, I will provide a suggested itinerary for a Big Sur day trip and suggestions on how you could extend for more days.

Which Direction Should You Drive Big Sur?

Either direction works, but if you want the BEST Big Sur views then I recommend driving north to south . So if possible, start your Big Sur road trip in the Carmel-By-The-Sea area. As I touched on above, you can drive Big Sur on just a day trip or you can spend a week (or more) exploring this area. The options really are endless and that’s one of the reasons Big Sur is such a quintessential USA road trip.

Big Sur Road Trip Tips

Many travelers have Big Sur on their bucket lists, for good reason. But it can tend to get crowded, especially at some of the most famous viewpoints and areas with limited parking. If you have the flexibility, try to plan your visit to Big Sur during the week to avoid most of the crowds.

The beauty of the Big Sur coastline is that it feels truly remote, and in a lot of ways, it is! Phone service is inconsistent at best, so don’t plan on relying on your smartphone for GPS. Download offline maps ahead of time so you’ll always have them handy, even when you lose service. Gaia GPS is my favorite way to save and download hiking and off-road maps for access when I don’t know if I’ll have service. One of my favorite Gaia features is the cellphone coverage maps, so you can plan where you’ll need those downloaded hiking maps!

Since you’ll be traveling a fairly remote stretch of coastline, there are limited amenities. With limited restaurants and stores, you should bring food and water. On road trips, I always pack a reusable water bottle , a larger water jug for refilling, and a cooler with plenty of yummy snacks. It’s a good idea to fill up your gas tank before you start your drive to avoid that pesky low fuel light popping up when you’re in the middle of nowhere.

Insiders Tip : Poison Ivy is aplenty on a lot of trails in the Big Sur area. Keep your eyes peeled, and even better, keep your skin covered to avoid the risk of rash!

Big Sur Road Trip Itinerary

The coastal scenery is truly gorgeous along Big Sur and the California coastline. With craggy cliffs and pounding waves, it’s dramatic, but it’s also quite fragile! The coastal ecosystem is consistently eroded by weather, waves, and unfortunately, human visitors. You should always observe and respect all posted barriers and roped-off areas. Practicing Leave No Trace principles while traveling is one of the most important ways we can preserve the natural world where we love to adventure.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel is the cutest little oceanside village. There are some great restaurants and shops so this can be a good place to begin your road trip. Fuel up for the day with the scones from Tuck Box. They’re SO tasty!

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

One of many state parks in the area, Point Lobos is a must-visit whether you have one day or a week! With incredible wildlife and miles of hiking trails along the coastline, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is the perfect first stop on your road trip. There is a $10 entry fee for this reserve and you can purchase this upon entry.

From the southernmost parking lot, take the short Bird Island Trail to a coastal overlook and a small white sand beach in China Cove. The water in China Cove is an incredible emerald green color and the cove is surrounded by eroding cliffs. Keep an eye out for harbor seals, sea lions, sea otters, cormorants, gulls, pelicans, and herons.

Garrapata State Park

Continue down Highway 1 to Garrapata State Park. Another incredible coastal park, Garrapata is tucked into the base of the Santa Lucia Mountains and features both rocky coastline and stunning redwood canyons up in the hills. Even if you’re pressed for time, I recommend hiking the Garrapata State Park Bluff Trail. Less than a mile round trip, you’ll get incredible views of Soberanes Point to the south and panoramic views of the Pacific ocean. If you visit in spring, you’ll be treated to incredible wildflowers all along these trails.

It’s also worth checking out the Soberanes Point Trails, which you can connect onto from the Park Bluff Trail for a longer hike. The trails here have lots of options to make loops of different distances. For an added bonus, climb Whale Peak and get a great view of the Pacific Ocean!

GarraPata Beach and Calla Lily Valley

The famous Calla Lilies typically bloom from mid-Feb to mid-March and can be accessed via a short walk along the Garrapatta Trail . Be mindful that it’s a really small area and it can get VERY busy on weekends. Be respectful of other people and do not trample or pick the flowers.

While you are down exploring the Calla Lilly Valley, be sure to stroll onto Garrapata Beach . This is a beautiful spot to watch the sunset!

Bixby Creek Bridge

Probably Big Sur’s most iconic landmark, the Bixby Bridge is a 279 foot tall concrete bridge that connects the rocky cliffs on the highway. With the Pacific Ocean to the west and the long stretch of coastline into the distance, this is a great spot to take photos, particularly at sunset. But it is definitely a popular location, so plan accordingly!

Pfeiffer Beach

The highlight of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, another incredible state park on the California coast, is Pfeiffer Beach. The coastline here is beautiful any time of the day, but sunset is particularly magical. A few weeks each winter, a natural phenomenon perfectly lines up sunset through Keyhole Arch, resulting in a magnificent light show (and a photographer’s dream!) Pfeiffer Beach is also known for its purple sand, or at least it appears that way in certain light.

Continue down the Pacific Coast Highway to McWay Falls, but be sure to stop at the Big Sur Taphouse on your way. Their fish tacos are DELICIOUS and the outdoor patio is a vibe!

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and McWay Falls

About halfway down the Big Sur coast lies Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, another incredible state park with both coastal and forested trails. You’ll find another Big Sur icon here, McWay Falls, an 80-foot waterfall that cascades right onto the beach! The waterfall is spectacular year-round and this spot provides a unique viewpoint of the waterfall, the white sandy beach, and the crystal clear ocean. This state park also has a $10 entry fee, but I definitely think this one is worth it too. Where else can you see a waterfall into an ocean?!

Insiders Tip : The best view of McWay Falls is usually from the roadside! The main viewing platform is currently undergoing renovations, so you’re actually best off viewing the falls from the roadside vantage points as you approach the main parking lot. Just be careful of traffic as you walk along the road!

Must See Stops on a Big Sur day trip

Because Big Sur is relatively accessible from San Francisco, it is a popular day trip. If you only have 24 hours (or less) to visit, here are my most recommended suggestions for your adventure listed from north to south on the Pacific Coast Highway.

• China Cove walk at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
• Walk part of the Garrapata State Park Bluff Trail to Painters Point
• Stop and view Bixby Bridge
• Experience McWay Falls

Exploring Big sur with multiple days

Maybe you’re lucky enough to have multiple days to explore the Big Sur coast. You should definitely still visit the spots I mentioned above, but here are my suggestions to add on a few more days of hiking, scenic drives, and exploring.

• Hike Soberanes Canyon, a longer hike through redwood forests
• Stop to see the Calla Lilies and Garrapatta Beach
• Stop at Andrew Molera State Park
• Walk along Pfeiffer Beach
• Explore Limekiln State Park and Limekiln Falls
• Stop at Sand Dollar Beach
• Enjoy Salmon Creek Falls
• Stop by Piedras Blancas Light House
• Spot seals at Elephant Seal Vista Point 
• Visit the famous Hearst Castle

If you have the time, I definitely recommend making your Big Sur road trip part of a larger Pacific Coast trip. Head up north to spend some time in Redwood National and State Parks and visit some of the tallest trees in the world.

Where To Stay in Big Sur

Big Sur would be a great adventure to rent a camper van . We drove our California coast road trip in our Sprinter Van , so I can definitely recommend visiting Big Sur as a van trip. This is a good way to save on your accommodation budget too. RVs are great, too, but Highway 1 can be pretty narrow and windy which could end up being stressful in a large RV.

There are plenty of hotel and resort options in the Carmel and Monterey areas, just north of the Big Sur coastline. For something a little different, you can book private vacation rentals through VRBO, too! Here are some adorable rentals in the area that I would love to stay in on my next trip:

• LittleHouse in the Redwoods : gorgeous private house rental perched in the hillside right among the redwoods
• Oceanfront Big Sur Cottage : cozy and romantic cottage with stunning ocean views
• Coastal Cottage : charming oceanfront cottage with room to relax inside and outside. Walkable to local shops!
• Carmel Valley Studios : private cottages with cozy decor and amazing valley views

Big Sur also has tent camping options for those who prefer a more rugged experience. Some popular campgrounds are Ventana Campground , Pfeiffer Big Sur Campground , and Big Sur Campground & Cabins . There are limited free camping locations along Big Sur. Use our guide to learn how to find the best free camping in the USA .

What To Pack for a Big Sur Road Trip

What you pack for your Big Sur road trip will depend on what time of year you choose to visit. For example, if you visit during winter you will need to pack more layers and wet weather gear. Whereas if you visit during summer then a sun hat is a must!

This packing guide is also tailored towards people who enjoy hiking. If you don’t plan to hit the trails, simply leave off the hiking-specific items when using the guide. For those choosing to camp, I have an entire guide and packing list for car camping essentials , so make sure to check that out!

Don’t forget to use code RENEE15 to get 15% off your first Backcountry.com order! (some exclusions apply) Click here to shop my favorites .

Hiking shoes:

If you’re visiting in summer then a pair of trail runners or lighter hiking boots should do the trick, such as the La Sportiva Bushido II Trail Running Shoe . If visiting during the winter months or if you plan to hike muddy trails, it’s best to bring a pair of waterproof hiking boots. The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boots are a great choice. We also have a guide on all the best hiking shoes , so don’t forget to check that out when shopping for new hiking boots!

Merino wool socks :

Wool socks are the best for preventing blisters and also letting your feet breathe. Recommended hiking socks .

Hiking pants, leggings, shorts, Skorts , Dresses:

I generally reach for leggings and I have also been loving skorts lately, but choose whatever feels comfortable and practical for you! Recommended hiking pants ; hiking shorts ; hiking skort , hiking dress , hiking leggings .

Quick-dry top :

Merino wool tops are my favorite due to their breathability and odor resistance. Recommended short-sleeve hiking top ; long-sleeve hiking top .

Day pack/hiking backpack :

Choose something with hip and chest straps for optimal comfort and practicality. Recommended backpack .

When taking short walks or exploring roadside stops I often prefer to opt for a small hip pack instead of a backpack. Just something to fit my phone, lip balm , sunglasses , and any other essentials. Recommended hip pack .

Trekking poles :

Optional but I personally swear by them for hiking! Recommended trekking poles .

Mid-layer :

Perfect for chilly mornings and evenings. So opt for something lightweight like a fleece or pullover. Recommended mid-layer .

Insulated jacket :

You will want something warmer for chilly days and during the mornings and evenings when visiting in summer. Recommended insulated jacket .

Rain jacket :

The weather can change quickly along the coast, and Big Sur is known for getting quite windy! Be sure to pack a rain jacket and/or windbreaker, even during summer. Recommended rain jacket , recommended windbreaker .

Casual clothes :

Pack some casual and/or nicer outfits if you plan to eat out at restaurants. This is of course optional though! Check out my Favorites page on Backcountry for some recommendations.

Navigation :

When driving, have Google Maps or Maps.Me handy. For hiking, carry a physical map and a compass , and download offline maps onto your phone. I use Gaia GPS – click here to get 20% off a Premium membership!

Emergency beacon :

Optional, but can give you and your loved ones some peace of mind when hiking or traveling without phone service. Recommended emergency device .

Headlamp + batteries :

For hiking in the dark, camping, or in emergency roadside situations. Recommended headlamp .

Drink bottle + Water Jug:

Pack a reusable water bottle and you could also consider using a water bladder inside your backpack when hiking. I like to keep a larger water jug in my car so that I don’t have to rely on finding water fillup stations. Lastly, I also like to hike with a lightweight water filter to ensure I don’t get sick when drinking from streams.

Bring along either a cap, bucket hat, or wide brim hat to protect your face from the sun. Recommended cap ; bucket hat ; wide brim hat .

Sunscreen :

Self-explanatory. This one is reef safe and doesn’t contain any chemicals that will harm you or the environment. Don’t forget a lip balm with sunscreen too.

Sunglasses :

Polarized sunglasses are best for eye protection.

First aid items :

Always carry a small first aid kit with essential items like blister plasters and emergency supplies. Recommended lightweight first aid kit .

Phone + driver’s license/ID :

Always best to keep these on you in case your car is broken into. Recommended lightweight wallet (or you can simply use a small binder clip!)

Camera + batteries :

Optional but trust me, you will want a camera to capture these beautiful parks! Check out the camera gear I use to capture my travel photos and the camera bag I pack it all in!

There aren’t a lot of places to buy food along Big Sur, so you might want to pack a cooler and bring along your own food and drinks. For a cooler, you can opt for a small/day trip size, or a larger cooler that’s more conducive to car camping and longer road trips. Recommended day trip cooler ; larger cooler .

Every road trip requires snacks! Bring whatever your favorite snacks are or factor in time to stop at a grocery store / gas station. My go-to snacks .

Reusable coffee mug :

If you enjoy drinking coffee then it’s best to bring along a reusable mug or tumbler. Recommended mug ; insulated tumbler .

Reusable utensils :

Similar to above, having your own travel utensils / cutlery is a great way to cut down on single-use plastics when ordering take-out food.

National Parks Pass :

If you’re going on a larger road trip and planning on hitting some of California’s incredible national parks, make sure to pack your park pass if you have one already! If not you can buy one when you arrive at the parks or online before you go .

Road trip playlist + Podcasts:

Don’t forget to download some good tunes and podcasts for your road trip. For music, check out my playlists on Spotify . For podcasts, we have an entire guide on the best road trip podcasts !

Want more packing & gear tips?  Check out our guides on what to wear hiking , car camping gear essentials , how to plan a national parks trip , and the best hiking shoes .

Final Thoughts on Planning a Big Sur Road Trip

I have so many amazing memories from my Big Sur road trip, and I hope this guide helps inspire you to plan one soon. Let me know what your favorite parts from your Big Sur road trip are in the comments below!

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One comment on “ Epic Big Sur Road Trip Itinerary: Explore California’s Pacific Coast ”

You dropped this post at the most perfect time – my husband and I were in Big Sur this last weekend (4/1-4/4) and were able to reference this awesome itinerary for all the must see spots. Thank you for the great tips and recommendations. We loved Pfeiffer Beach and China Cove. We were able to see multiple Harbor Seal pups and their moms which was incredible!! I hope we can visit again some day sooner rather than later.

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An Iconic California Coast Road Trip Itinerary (45 Epic Stops!)

Post Summary: 45 Epic California Coast Road Trip Stops (Northbound!)

Did you know that California’s Highway 1 is one of the most popular west coast road trips in the United States?

It makes perfect sense. California’s rugged coastline, gorgeous sunsets, and nostalgic adventure feel have drawn us in more times than we can count!

If you’re hoping to plan your own road trip down the famous Highway 1, you’ve come to the right place. From the Redwoods all the way down to the sunny beaches of San Diego, there are so many amazing stops to see!

In this post, we’re sharing our favorite stops along Highway 1 for the ultimate California coast road trip. We hope this post encourages you to create your own adventure in California and explore this beautiful coast! 

After reading this guide on how to plan a trip to the California coast, you’ll be ready to have another epic western US adventure.

The Ultimate California Coast Road Trip (All The Best Stops)

Where do i begin northbound or southbound.

Where to start your California Coast road trip is completely up to you!

Starting south and driving northbound is probably the most common way to travel Highway 1 because of the easy access to airports and rental cars to begin your journey.

There are easy southern starting points like San Diego or Los Angeles. Northern California starting points are a little more difficult – you’ll have to begin in Medford, Oregon, or Redding, California and drive a few hours to the coast to begin.

However, if you’re driving from Portland or Seattle and following our Pacific Coast Highway road trip or our Oregon Coast Road Trip , you’ll find that going southbound isn’t much of a problem!

For the sake of this post, we’re sharing stops in the order of someone going northbound!

Want To Take On The Entire Pacific Coast Highway?

We’ve got lots of information about the ultimate Pacific Coast Road Trip and tons of advice for your journey . Here are some posts to get you started on planning your next road trip on Highway 1!

• The Ultimate Pacific Coast Road Trip (Washington To California)
• 10 Amazing Road Trip Planner Tools + Apps For Your Best Trip Yet
• How To Pull Off A Day Trip To Big Sur, California
• Adventurous Things To Do In And Around San Francisco
• 30 Necessary Road Trip Essentials You Need To Be Packing

The California Coast Road Trip – Northbound (Beginning in San Diego!) 

San diego area stops.

To get a taste of SoCal, visit San Diego! San Diego is one of the most beautiful places in California, and it offers visitors gorgeous views, lots of fun attractions, and a diverse array of activities and experiences.

Here are some of the most popular (for good reason!)–and our favorite–places to go in San Diego:

La Jolla is one of the most popular attractions in San Diego! This is because of its cute and high-end shops, delicious restaurants, and tons of amazing places to stay.

If you love animals and long walks, you’ll want to visit the La Jolla Cove and the La Jolla Coast Walking Trail to see all kinds of coastal creatures!

The beaches in La Jolla are also top-notch for ocean kayaking (where you can go into sea caves!)! There are also tons of opportunities to go snorkeling/swimming, and relaxing.

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Looking to be close to town while still having adventures in nature? Check out Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve !

In the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, you’ll find tons of hiking trails (both popular and more secluded), unique foliage specific to this area, lots of wildlife, gorgeous Pacific Ocean views, and lovely corners to find solitude and relaxation.

Some of our favorite things about Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve are the beautiful cliffs, blooming wildflowers native to Southern California, and the Torrey Pines State Beach .

A day use fee to the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve costs between $10-25 , depending on what vehicle you drive. The gates open at 7:15AM, though the park is busiest from 10AM-1PM everyday!

Just north of San Diego , Encinitas is another perfect stop on your California coast road trip.

Here, you’ll find lots of great beaches to relax or play, including Cardiff State Beach , Swami’s Beach , and Moonlight State Beach !

For a full stay in Encinitas, take a day at LEG O LAND California (just 15 minutes north of Encinitas in Carlsbad, CA)! You can also stroll through the San Diego Botanic Garden , and grab a bite to eat at the famous restaurant, The Taco Stand .

San Clemente

For cute California vibes, you must stop in San Clemente, California!

San Clemente boasts top-notch relaxation and picnicking at the San Clemente State Beac h . There is also fun hiking/strolling along the 2.3-mile San Clemente Beach Trail , great surfing, epic sunset views on the San Clemente Pier , and tons of cute shops and restaurants.

Orange County Stops

Orange County is the place to go if you’re looking for epic outdoor adventures. From surfing their iconic waves to exploring the gorgeous bluffs and canyon trails, there’s so many amazing places to go in Orange County!

Here are some of our favorite things to do:

Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach is full of amazing opportunities to hit the beach, explore the coast, and stroll around downtown. With their weekly summer art walks, this is a perfect stop for people who love locally-made goods.

Looking to stay on a budget during your California Coast road trip? Here are some free things to do in Orange County to have fun and save money at the same time!

Newport Beach

Newport Beach is the perfect destination for boutique shops, paddle boarders, and sailboat lovers! 

Looking for a bit more adventure? Head over to “The Wave” which is located at the end of the jetty. This is where giant waves come and challenge even the best surfers – you’re sure to get a show here!

Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach is the place to go if you’re seeking that iconic California coast culture. There won’t be a shortage of surfers here! Some of the best waves on the entire California Coast are found on Huntington Beach.

Want to experience the waves for yourself? Consider taking a lesson with Toes on The Nose surf school to try out a new skill!  

Los Angeles Stops

Los Angeles is another big city stop along your California Coast road trip. Known for its fame and glamor, Los Angeles features the world-famous Hollywood Walk of Fame , top-tier restaurants, and hundreds of unique shops, hotels, and attractions.

Santa Monica

Santa Monica is the place to go for iconic California fun. Popular for its amazing public pier, this area is full of activities to do on your California Coast road trip. Stop a while and play in the waves, check out the amusement park right on the pier, or grab an ice cream cone and watch the sunset.

There isn’t a bad way to experience Santa Monica Pier!

Venice Beach

When planning your California coast road trip itinerary, be sure to include visiting Venice Beach. This is a classic SoCal beach with tons of popular attractions.

Known for its bohemian vibe, the walkable Venice Beach highlights street performers, a fun pier to walk on and watch the sunset, and unique beachside activities.

The Getty Museum is a FREE museum located in West Hollywood in Los Angeles.

Being one of the largest art organizations in the world, you must visit the Getty Museum! Here, you’ll find both American and European Art, lots of unique architecture, and gardens to spend hours in.

Other Famous L.A. Destinations

Want more to do while in Los Angeles? We gotchu! While in this popular SoCal city, be sure to check out The Broad , Griffith Observatory , Hollywood Bowl , Watts Towers Arts Center , Los Angeles Theater , Los Angeles Conservancy , and Huntington Beach Pier .

Topanga State Park

Topanga State Park is known as the largest state park within a city limit in the US. It is one of the easiest natural attractions to access while in the greater Los Angeles area!

With over 76 miles of trails, Topanga State Park is the perfect place to escape after exploring the big city.

The most popular trails in Topanga State Park include the Eagle Rock/Eagle Spring Loop Trail , Musch Ranch Trail , and Will Rogers Trail .

Not up for hiking? Try biking or horseback riding!

Malibu, California is one of the most well-known cities along the California coastline. It’s known for its big estates and the grand homes of celebrities!

In Malibu, you can also expect a relaxed surf culture in places like Zuma Beach and Point Dume State Beach .

For jaw-dropping harbor scenes and vintage town vibes, be sure to stop in Ventura, CA!

What makes Ventura unique is their popular Surfers Point at Seaside Park . This is a paved beach pathway lined with palm trees–and easy access to Santa Cruz Island . This is an island located in Channel Islands National Park that has tons of hiking, kayaking, diving, and camping.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is one of the most picturesque areas along the west coast with cool attractions. It’s often called the American Riviera!

Some of the most popular destinations in Santa Barbara include the Old Santa Barbara Mission and botanical gardens, hiking at Figueroa Mountain or Arroyo Burro Beach County Park , and stopping for a margarita, Mexican food, and epic sunsets at the end of the day.

San Lius Obispo Stops

San Luis Obispo, or SLO, is one of the cutest stops on the California coast with many fun attractions!

Here are some of our favorite activities in San Luis Obispo:

Lompoc Flower Fields

The Lompoc Flower Fields is a stunning area filled with larkspur, stock, and sweet peas.

The best times to see the blooms at the Lompoc Flower Fields are between May and June!

While the fields are privately owned (AKA no trespassing!), you can take pictures from the side of the road. Even better, stop to buy some locally owned fruit stands along the way and enjoy a treat!

The Town of San Luis Obispo

The charming town and greater area of San Luis Obispo has lots of things to do for families, couples, individuals, and friends. It’s almost halfway between San Francisco and L.A.!

While in the area, you can relax at Pismo Beach , go wine tasting in SLO’s wine country , or explore the Montaña de Oro Bluff Trail (easy, 4.1-mile trek with 229’ elevation gain) in Montaña de Oro State Park .

Hiking the Bluff Trail and tide pooling near Spooners Cove is another fun stop in SLO. It offers visitors epic views of the California coast!

Big Sur Stops

For a complete road trip up the California coast, you must travel along the world-famous Big Sur Scenic Byway.

Big Sur is a 90-mile stretch of coast with some of the most scenic curves and bends along the coast. It’s truly a must-see attraction!

Sunrise at Coastal Pullouts

Along these winding, twisting roads are endless opportunities to pull the car over and capture the roaring waves crashing into the cliffs! Foggy hills, jagged rocks, and dramatic coastlines are around every corner here in Big Sur.

Read More: The Ultimate Pacific Coast Road Trip

McWay Falls

If any view can sum up your time on the California Coast, the view of this 80ft tall McWay Falls would be it! 

It’s the shortest recorded trail in the Big Sur area. That makes it a perfect option for families and people who want to quickly stop by on their drive.

Park at the parking lot labeled “Overlook/Waterfall Trail/Pelton Wheel” and head back toward the coast. You cross through a tunnel that goes under the highway, and then have access to the boardwalk view of McWay Falls. Viewing platforms, short walk.

There is no beach access at McWay Falls!

Read More: How To Pull Off A Day Trip To Big Sur, California

Pfeiffer Beach

Pfeiffer Beach is a wonderful place to explore, that’s marbled with purple sand! However, be caution of the route! The way to the beach is through a winding 2-mile narrow road, so be prepared to squeeze right next to another car to get by one another!

Another popular attraction for visitors in Keyhole Rock. Keyhole Rock which is a natural bridge worn through by the crashing waves.

Read More: California’s Black Sand Beach

Bixby Creek Bridge

Did you know this is one of the most photographed bridges in California?

Built in 1932, this bridge was important to the people of Big Sur because it finally connected communities on either side of the canyon. Before the bridge, people had to drive on an 11-mile old and dangerous coastal road to reach the other side!

There are pullouts available on either side of the bridge and an overflow parking lot on the north/inland side.

Carmel-by-the-Sea Stops

One of the cutest and most charming spots along the California coast is Carmel-by-the-Sea and Monterey!

There are tons of little shops, art galleries, and cafés in these towns. Here are some of our favorite attractions in Carmel-by-the-Sea:

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Point Lobos Natural Reserve is located just south of Monterey, California. This area is widely referred to as the “crown jewel” of California state parks. This is because of its focus on natural preservation, miles of trails, and gorgeous coastline. Because of its proximity to larger cities and right off Highway 1, this place is an easy getaway for visitors to be immersed in nature.

You can explore See Monterey’s website for things to do at Point Lobos like as hiking, bird watching, diving and other activities!

Natural Bridges State Beach

For excellent bird watching and places to explore marine life, check out Natural Bridges State Beach!

At Natural Bridges State Beach, you’ll see grand sea stacks along the compact, sandy beach, tide pools that are perfect for curious kids, and lots of wildlife.

Just 10 minutes north of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Monterey, CA is another charming town in Central California.

In Monterey, the most popular attractions include visiting Cannery Row. It actually inspired John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row , and the Monterey Bay Aquarium .

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

For a romantic date with your beau or fun day with the family, visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk –an amusement park set right along the sandy beaches of Central California!

Admission to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk starts at $40 (though you can often find deals!), and hours are typically 10AM-10PM in the peak summer season.

Shark Fin Cove

Be on the lookout for this spot before the small town Davenport, California because it can be easily missed! There is no sign indicating the cove’s location, just a large pull out on the coastal side of Highway 1! You can park your car free of charge right off the road on a cleared dirt area.

After a brief walk across old train tracks from the “parking lot”, you can stand on the cliffs above to get a dramatic view. There are walking paths to see the “shark fin” from many perspective, and all are unique and beautiful, in our opinion.

You can also choose to climb down to to the bottom to explore on the beach. The beach access is a steep but manageable trail, and we enjoyed an empty beach with the early sunset. Be careful not to enter the natural arch on the far left side of the beach. Loose rocks often fall from the top (we saw it happen!) and standing under when that happens could be extremely dangerous.

Read More: What To Expect At Shark Fin Cove – Davenport, California

Davenport Pier

This is located not even a mile away from Shark Fin Cove. The Davenport Pier was once used for the village of Davenport, but only the concrete base remains intact. Park at the Davenport Beach parking lot to view it from the cliffs about.

The route down to the actual beach is dangerous, so use your best judgement when deciding to make the descent. Here is a helpful article that explains the area and what you might expect here!

San Francisco Area Stops

San Francisco–like many big cities–is a bustling area full of unique places, diverse people, and lots to do!

We’ve narrowed down some of the best stops in San Francisco for you to add to your California Coast road trip itinerary:

Gol d en Gate Bridge

Who doesn’t love a classic? While traveling along the California coast, you must stop at the iconic Golden Gate Bridge for pictures and to enjoy the view of the bay and Alcatraz.

Just 30 minutes from the city center, this stop is one of the most convenient along your entire road trip!

Fisherman’s Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf is another one of those iconic San Francisco stops you must take while traveling along the California coast.

Here, you can explore the wharf, rent a bike , go shopping , eat at any of the amazing restaurants, visit local galleries and museums , and more!

Want more activities like this? Check out Pier 39 –a popular pier on the ocean that offers visitors tons of fun activities, shops, restaurants, and experiences!

About 40 minutes from San Francisco, Muir Woods was named a national monument in 1908 after the well-known naturalist, John Muir.

Within Muir Woods, you can hike the Canopy View Trail, which is a great hike that takes you right under big redwoods!

IMPORTANT: Muir Woods has very specific parking requirements, and you must reserve a spot in advance , so be sure to plan ahead before you go as walk-ins are prohibited.

Bolinas Ridge

Bolinas Ridge –a mountain in Mt. Tamalpais State Park –is one of the most popular hiking destinations for visitors and locals alike!

You can summit Bolinas Ridge for yourself on the Bolinas Ridge Trail , which is a 21.9-mile trek with 2,470 feet of elevation gain.

One of the best things about this area is that you can hike it or bike it, take as much or as little time as you’d like, and enjoy the scenery of Central California all the while!

Stinson Beach

Found on Bolinas Bay, Stinson Beach is a great way to stop and have a picnic while driving along the California coastline.

Here, you can look for critters in tide pools with the kids, relax with a book and drink on the beach, or explore the nearby town.

Point Reyes National Seashore

Point Reyes National Seashore is one of the most unique stops along the Pacific Coast Highway , as it’s known as being one of the “foggiest places in North America,” has lots of hiking, is perfect for camping overnight, and has tons of epic hiking trails .

Some of our favorite hikes (among many more !) in Point Reyes National Seashore include the Laguna Trail Coast Trail Loop (6 miles), Tule Elk Road Tomales Point Trail (9 miles), and Elephant Seal Overlook Trail (0.5 miles).

Northern California Stops

While making your way up to Northern California, you’ll want to make sure to visit these popular attractions:

Just north of San Francisco, Bodega Bay is a must-see stop on your California coast road trip.

Known for its hiking around Bodega Head –which also has epic whale watching–and easy access to the beachside Doran Regional Park , this area is perfect for nature-lovers and outdoor adventurers.

Near Bodega Bay, you can also take a spa day at the OSMOSIS Day Spa Sanctuary , stay at The Lodge at Bodega Bay , or hike around the bay on the Shorttail Gulch Trailhead .

Sonoma Coast State Park

North of Bodega Bay, you’ll find the stunning Sonoma Coast State Park –a natural area full of great hikes, epic Pacific Ocean views, and fun beaches to explore. It’s the perfect place for families or solo trips!

Within Sonoma Coast State Park, you can go horseback riding on the Bodega Dunes trail system , hike the Kortum Trail (easy, 9.3 miles with 912 feet elevation gain), and go beachcombing on the rugged, sandy beaches.

Shelter Cove – Black Sands Beach

With a coastline of over 20 miles and unique black sand, the Black Sands Beach near Shelter Cove is one of the coolest beaches in Northern California!

One of the best ways to experience Black Sands Beach is on the Lost Coast Trail –a 24.6-mile trek that offers visitors a unique coastal wilderness hiking adventure and sightings of classic coastal wildlife.

Not up for hiking? This area is perfect for tide pooling and enjoying the natural wildflowers!

Fort Ross and the Fort Ross State Historic Park is a great place to experience the wide variety of stories, cultures, and natural history of the area. The primary people group that inhabits the land have been the Kashia Pomo Indian Tribe . Russian colonizers (1812-1842) and the Ranch era (1842-1972) changed the primary inhabitants, then the area became a protected resource as a State Historic Park.

You can learn more about this area’s rich history at the park’s Visitor Center !

Mendocino is another unique coastal area in Northern California that has lots of things to do on the California coast.

While in the area, you should explore the Mendocino Headlands State Park , peruse the Water Gallery , and walk through the Cypress Grove park .

Eureka! While the name might have a silly history , it also means “I have found it!” with a connotation of discovery. Eureka, California is no exception, as there’s lots to discover in this California coastal town!

While in Eureka, be sure to check out the town’s local stores , explore the Victorian-era Carson Mansion , stop at Stinky Beach (which, unlike the name, is not stinky…anymore), and follow the city’s mural map to see unique art from local artists.

Sue-Meg State Park

Directly 30 miles north of Eureka, Sue-Meg State Park is the perfect stop for those who want to camp overnight , hike, or learn more about the culture and history of the area.

One of the easiest ways to experience Sue-Meg State park is by hiking the 3.1-mile-long Patrick’s Point Rim Trail , which starts at Palmer’s Point and ends at Agate Beach.

If you’re staying here for longer, make it a full day and drive along Wedding Rock Road to make the short, steep climb up to Wedding Rock . Here, you can explore North Coast Native American history at Sumêg Village .

Trinidad is one of the best places in California to explore cool beaches, because of the many sea stacks and unique geological features!

While in Trinidad, you’ll want to check out Agate Beach , Trinidad State Beach (where you can also hike the Trinidad Head Trail Loop ), and Old Home Beach !

Whether you want to go on a morning walk on the beach or love seaside sunsets, Trinidad’s beaches are the way to go.

Redwood National Park Stops

Redwood National Park is one of the coolest national parks in the west–and for good reason! 

If you’re not sure what to do while in Redwood National Park, make sure to add these to your list:

Humboldt Redwoods State Park

To travel the 32-mile-long Avenue of the Giants –a scenic drive through some of the largest redwood trees in the area–you’ll want to visit Humboldt Redwoods State Park !

Open year-round, Humboldt Redwoods State Park is the perfect place to vacation and get a taste of Northern California magic.

We suggest stopping by the visitor center , admire the 300-foot-tall trees on the Gould Grove Nature Trail , walk along the fallen Dyerville Giant , and take a dip in the South Fork of the Eel River .

Fern Canyon

The Fern Canyon Trail is one of our favorites in Redwoods National Park and is a Northern California gem. With tons of plants, cool lighting, and enchanting vibes, you’ll feel like you’re in a fairytale when hiking along the Fern Canyon Trail!

The Fern Canyon Trail is a short 1-mile loop that’s perfect for all levels.

Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

The expansive Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is one of the best state parks in the redwoods area, as it has over 75 miles of hiking trails, great camping spots , and epic views of Northern California’s world-famous redwood trees.

There’s also tons of resources for kids , making it a perfect stop on your family road trip!

While visiting Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, you might even catch sight of a herd of Roosevelt Elk.

NOTE: Permits/day-use fees are required in some locations in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, such as Gold Bluffs Beach .

Tall Trees Grove

One of the best hiking areas in the greater Redwoods National Park is the Tall Trees Grove .

You can park at the trailhead parking lot and reach the Tall Trees Grove on a 4.5-mile round trip backcountry hike with a total 1,600 feet of elevation gain.

Permits are required to visit the Tall Trees Grove , but they’re easy to get online and FREE! You must reserve your permit 24 hours in advance of visiting the Tall Trees Grove.

California Coast Road Trip Conclusion

Alright, you’ve made it all the way across Highway 1 and 101 on a California Coast road trip! Want to keep driving? Read our guide on the best Oregon Coast road trip route, and even continue to Washington with our Olympic Peninsula road trip route !

We hope you enjoyed our post and happy travels!

READ MORE ROAD TRIP ROUTES

The Ultimate Pacific Coast Road Trip

Olympic Peninsula Loop Trip

30 Necessary Essentials For Every Road Trip

101 Fun and Random Road Trip Questions To Ask Your Friends

20 Brilliant Car Camping Hacks For Your Best Trip Yet

Driving Through The Redwood National Forest

9 Lessons We Learning Living In A Van For 10 Days

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