Tour.
The complete Iceland tour.
Ever dreamed of going on an epic road trip? You glance outside and spot black sand beaches, towering volcanoes, massive ice caps, and steaming hot springs.
- Miles: 822
- Time: 1 to 2 weeks
- Suitability: adventure
- Road Surface: 98% paved
As of 2004, Iceland’s Ring Road connects several towns, including Reykjavík, Borgarnes, Blönduós, Akureyri, Egilsstaðir, Höfn, and Selfoss.
Your Essential Iceland Ring Road Guide
Imagine a single highway carrying you past roaring waterfalls, surreal lava fields, and charming storybook fishing villages—without ever retracing your path. That’s Þjóðvegur 1, or the Ring Road. Finished in 1974 to link Iceland’s far‑flung regions, it now stretches about 1,322 km (822 mi) of mostly smooth, paved roadway.
The Ring Road connects the bustling southwest to the glacier‑topped southeast, winds through the fjord‑carved east, circles the geologically active north, and returns to Reykjavik via the horse‑country valleys of the west. It skips the Westfjords, Snæfellsnes, and the rugged Highlands—that’s where the detours come in. For first‑time visitors, though, Route 1 is the ultimate “greatest‑hits” playlist.
How Long Does It Take to ride the Ring Road?
Technically, it is possible to circumnavigate the island in under 20 hours—an achievement notably undertaken and live‑streamed by the Icelandic band Sigur Rós in 2016. However, in practical terms, rushing through such a remarkable destination undermines the essence of travel, as it deprives one of the opportunity to fully appreciate its natural beauty, cultural richness, and unique experiences.
- An ideal itinerary spans 7 to 8 days, with an average of 2 to 4 hours of driving each day, allowing ample daylight to explore scenic waterfalls and enjoy leisurely meals, such as freshly made waffles. This balanced pace ensures a comfortable journey with sufficient time for both travel and relaxation.
- A comfortable itinerary spans approximately 10 to 12 days, allowing ample time for exploration and leisure. This duration is ideal for incorporating additional excursions, such as a visit to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula or an extra glacier hiking experience, ensuring a well-rounded and fulfilling journey.
- Adopt a leisurely pace of 14 days or more, incorporating the stunning Westfjords into the itinerary. Take time to relax in geothermal hot pools and savor the unique beauty of the midnight sun’s golden hours.
It is important to note that the national speed limit in Iceland is capped at 90 km/h (55 mph), with certain sections of the route featuring reduced speeds, single‑lane bridges, and scenic viewpoints that encourage unhurried exploration. Adopting the Icelandic proverb “þetta reddast”—meaning “it will all work out”—can enhance the experience, particularly when taking the time to slow down, appreciate the surroundings, and fully immerse oneself in the journey.
Several significant mountain passes, located along heavily trafficked sections of the ring road, are particularly susceptible to closures.
- Hellisheiði, between Reykjavík and Hveragerði
- Holtavörðuheði, between Borganes and Staðarskáli (on the Reykjavík to Akureyri route)
- Vatnsskarð, between Blönduós and Varmahlíð (on the Reykjavík to Akureyri route)
- Öxnadalsheiði, between Varmahlíð and Akureyri (on the Reykjavík to Akureyri route)
- Biskupsháls, between Akureyri and Egilsstaðir
