The Iceland Golden Circle is a mesmerizing route that showcases the country's stunning natural beauty and rich history. This route covers approximately 300 kilometers and includes some of Iceland's most famous attractions: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.
Exploring the Golden Circle in a campervan is an unforgettable experience, offering the freedom to travel at your own pace and immerse yourself fully in the breathtaking landscapes. This guide will help you plan your campervan adventure, from preparation to detailed route suggestions, ensuring a seamless and memorable trip.
Driving in Golden Circle in Your Campervan
Driving the Golden Circle in a campervan lets you experience Iceland's wonders up close. You can stop whenever and wherever you want, making it a perfect way to explore this beautiful country.
The roads are well-maintained, and the key attractions are easily accessible, making the journey enjoyable and convenient.
Preparing for Your Campervan Adventure
Choosing the Right Campervan
Selecting the perfect campervan is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable adventure on the Iceland Golden Circle. The right campervan can significantly enhance your travel experience, providing the necessary amenities and space to relax and unwind after a day of exploration.
It's essential to consider various factors when making your choice to ensure the vehicle meets your specific needs and preferences. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:
Factors to consider:
- Size: Choose a campervan that fits your travel party comfortably.
- Amenities: Consider comfortable sleeping arrangements, cooking facilities, and ample storage space.
- Budget: Ensure the campervan fits your budget while still meeting your needs for comfort and functionality.
Recommended rental companies
Selecting a reliable rental company ensures a smooth and hassle-free campervan adventure. A good rental company will offer well-maintained vehicles, comprehensive insurance options, and excellent customer service.
When choosing a rental company, consider its reputation, range of vehicles, and customer reviews. Here are some reputable campervan rental companies in Iceland to consider:
- Happy Campers: Known for their well-equipped and comfortable campervans.
- Campervan Iceland: Offers a variety of campervans to suit different needs and budgets.
- Kuku Campers: Popular for their affordable and reliable campervans.
Essential Packing List
Packing for a campervan trip in Iceland's Golden Circle route requires careful consideration of the country's variable weather and the unique needs of traveling in a mobile home. Ensuring you have the right gear and supplies will help you stay comfortable and prepared for any situation.
Here are the essential items to include in your packing list for the Golden Circle in Iceland:
- Warm, waterproof clothing
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Thermal layers
- Portable stove and cooking utensils
- Reusable plates and cutlery
- Cooler for food storage
- First aid kit
- Reliable GPS and maps
- Portable charger and flashlight
Understanding Iceland's Road Conditions
Driving on Iceland Golden Circle route, especially on the Golden Circle, requires a good understanding of the road conditions to ensure a safe and pleasant journey. The terrain can vary significantly, and the weather can change rapidly, making it crucial to be well-prepared and informed.
Here are some key points to consider:
Types of roads
The Golden Circle features both paved and gravel roads. While the main attractions are on well-maintained paved roads, some detours and less-traveled paths may lead to gravel roads, requiring cautious driving.
Weather impacts on driving
Iceland's weather can be highly unpredictable, with sudden changes significantly impacting driving conditions. Always check the weather forecast before heading out to ensure a safer journey.
Importance of checking road conditions before departure
Before embarking on your journey, checking the latest road conditions is crucial. The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration provides real-time updates on their website, helping you avoid potential dangers and plan a smooth trip.
Planning Your Golden Circle Route
Planning a trip along Iceland's Golden Circle involves understanding its unique attractions and optimizing your itinerary for the best experience. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you plan your route.
The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route with three major attractions: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. These sites are located within a few hours' drive from Reykjavik, making it a convenient and scenic journey for travelers.
Key attractions and their locations:
- Thingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its historical significance and stunning landscapes, a must-see on any Golden Circle tour.
- Geysir Geothermal Area: Home to the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes, making it a highlight of the Golden Circle drive.
- Gullfoss Waterfall: A powerful and breathtaking waterfall with multiple viewing platforms.
Optimal Itinerary
Planning an itinerary that allows you to appreciate each site fully is crucial. Here are some key considerations:
- Suggested number of days for the trip: A 2-3 day trip is ideal for exploring the Golden Circle, allowing ample time to enjoy each attraction.
- Best times to visit: The summer months (June to August) offer long daylight hours and mild weather, while winter visits provide unique opportunities to see the Northern Lights.
Detailed Route Breakdown
A detailed route ensures you get all the highlights. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Starting point: Reykjavík: Begin your journey in Iceland's capital, where you can stock up on supplies and get familiar with your campervan.
- Thingvellir National Park: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its historical significance and stunning landscapes.
- Geysir Geothermal Area: Witness the geothermal activity at Strokkur, which erupts every few minutes and is one of the most exciting Golden Circle stops.
- Gullfoss Waterfall: Marvel at the powerful waterfall, with viewing platforms offering different perspectives. This is a must-see in the Golden Circle area.
- Optional stops: Include Kerid Crater, Secret Lagoon (a relaxing hot spring), and Faxi Waterfall for a more comprehensive experience. For those with more time, consider extending your trip to the South Coast and visiting the famous Blue Lagoon hot springs.
Highlights of the Golden Circle
Exploring the Golden Circle offers a unique opportunity to witness some of Iceland's most stunning natural wonders and historical sites. Here's a closer look at the main attractions along the Golden Circle:
Best Golden Circle Tour From Reykjavik: Geysir, Gullfoss and Thingvellir
Experience Iceland's most famous natural wonders with this top-rated tour departing from Reykjavik.
Thingvellir National Park
Thingvellir National Park is not only a site of extraordinary natural beauty but also of great historical significance. In 930 AD, Iceland's first parliament, Althing, was established here, making it one of the oldest parliamentary sites in the world.
Thingvellir is a remarkable natural wonder and the site of Iceland's first parliament, established in 930 AD.
Key points of interest:
- Silfra fissure: Known for snorkeling and diving opportunities with crystal-clear waters.
- Öxarárfoss waterfall: A beautiful waterfall accessible via a short hike.
- Various hiking trails: Numerous trails that offer stunning views of the park's unique geological features.
Geysir Geothermal Area
The Geysir Geothermal Area is a geothermal field where you can witness the earth's raw power. This area is home to the Great Geysir and the highly active Strokkur geyser, which provides frequent and impressive eruptions.
The area's most active geyser erupts every few minutes and reaches impressive heights.
Visitor tips:
- Safety: Stay on marked paths to protect your safety and the delicate geothermal features.
- Photography: To avoid the hot water spray, capture photos from a safe distance.
Gullfoss Waterfall
Gullfoss, or "Golden Falls," is one of Iceland's most iconic waterfalls. The Hvítá River plummets into a canyon, creating a powerful and mesmerizing cascade that is a must-see on the Golden Circle.
Viewing platforms and accessibility:
- Multiple platforms: Gullfoss has several viewing platforms that offer different perspectives of the waterfall.
- Accessibility: The site is easily accessible, with well-maintained paths leading to the viewing areas.
Best times for photography:
- Early morning or late afternoon: These times offer the best light for capturing stunning photos of Gullfoss without the crowds.
Campervan Life on the Road
Living in a campervan while exploring the Golden Circle provides a unique blend of adventure and comfort. The freedom to travel at your own pace and the convenience of having your accommodations and transportation in one make for an unforgettable journey.
Here's a detailed look at what you can expect and how to make the most of your campervan experience:
Campsites and Facilities
Recommended campsites along the Golden Circle:
- Camping Thingvellir: Located in the heart of Thingvellir National Park, offering stunning natural surroundings.
- Skjol Campground: A cozy campsite near Geysir Geothermal Area, with good amenities and a welcoming atmosphere.
- Geysir Camping: Conveniently located close to the geothermal area, providing easy access to one of the main attractions.
Booking tips and facilities available:
- Reserve in advance: It's advisable to book campsites ahead of time, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
- Facilities: Most campsites provide restrooms, showers, and sometimes kitchens, ensuring you have the comforts during your stay.
Cooking and Dining in a Campervan
One of the joys of campervan life is the ability to cook meals while on the road. This saves money and allows you to enjoy a variety of foods tailored to your preferences while exploring the Ring Road.
Easy and delicious meal ideas:
- Prepare simple meals like pasta, stir-fries, and sandwiches that are easy to cook in a campervan kitchen.
- Local grocery stores offer a variety of fresh produce and Icelandic specialties to enhance your meals.
Local food options to try:
- Skyr: A traditional Icelandic dairy product, similar to yogurt, but thicker and more nutritious.
- Icelandic lamb: Renowned for its flavor and tenderness, it is often available in local markets.
- Fresh seafood: Iceland is famous for its seafood, which is a must-try during your visit.
Staying Connected
Maintaining communication and access to information is essential while traveling. Here's how to stay connected while traveling the Golden Circle.
Mobile coverage and internet access:
- Mobile coverage: Generally good along the Golden Circle, ensuring you can stay connected.
- Portable Wi-Fi: Consider renting a portable Wi-Fi device for reliable internet access throughout your trip.
Useful apps for navigation and weather updates:
- Google Maps: This is for navigation and finding points of interest.
- Vedur: For up-to-date weather forecasts and conditions.
- 112 Iceland: An essential app for emergency services and safety information.
Practical Tips and Safety
Traveling in Iceland, especially along the Golden Circle, requires preparation and awareness to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Here are some essential practical tips and safety guidelines to help you navigate the unique driving conditions, unpredictable weather, and beautiful yet fragile environment of Iceland:
- Adhere to speed limits: 90 km/h on paved roads and 80 km/h on gravel roads.
- Yield to oncoming traffic on single-lane bridges.
- Drive cautiously through tunnels, as they can be narrow and dark.
- Always have an emergency kit and extra food and water on hand.
- If weather conditions worsen, seek shelter immediately.
- Plan your activities around daylight hours, especially during winter when days are short.
- Properly dispose of waste and follow leave-no-trace principles.
- Respect wildlife by keeping a safe distance.
- Stay on marked paths to protect vegetation and avoid damaging fragile areas.
- Be prepared for limited cell service in remote areas.
- Learn basic Icelandic phrases for better communication.
- Use reusable water bottles to reduce plastic waste.
- Familiarize yourself with local customs and etiquette.
- Always have an emergency contact list on hand.
Final Thoughts
Exploring the Iceland Golden Circle in a campervan offers a unique and immersive travel experience, allowing you to appreciate this stunning region's beauty and history fully. Each stop is filled with unforgettable moments, from the ancient parliament site at Thingvellir National Park to the dramatic eruptions at the Geysir Geothermal Area and the breathtaking Gullfoss Waterfall.
Traveling by campervan allows you to explore at your own pace, making the journey even more special. Share your experiences and tips in the comments below to help fellow travelers.
Visit our website to plan your campervan adventure today. There, you can explore our golden tour options and book your unforgettable journey through the heart of Iceland.
FAQs
Can you do the Golden Circle at night?
Yes, you can drive the Golden Circle at night, but it is recommended to do so during summer when there is extended daylight. In winter, driving at night can be challenging due to limited daylight and icy road conditions.
Can you camp in the Golden Circle?
Yes, there are several campsites along the Golden Circle where you can camp. These campsites offer various facilities such as restrooms, showers, and sometimes kitchens.
Can you park and sleep anywhere in Iceland?
No, you cannot park and sleep anywhere in Iceland. Overnight parking is only allowed at designated campsites and areas that permit it.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Iceland?
Yes, sleeping in your car outside designated campsites or areas where overnight parking is permitted is illegal. Always use official campsites for overnight stays.
Can you park your camper van anywhere in Iceland?
No, you cannot park your camper van anywhere in Iceland. Overnight parking and camping are restricted to designated campsites and areas that explicitly allow it.
