Fantastic island for nature lovers and photographers. It is a place of endless volcanic deserts, massive glacial tongues, and stunning cascading waterfalls. For years, adventurers have sought out this island simply because the raw Nordic landscapes and shifting arctic light feel like a dream for anyone who loves taking photos.
Every corner of the Ring Road feels like stepping onto a completely different planet. You can walk through ancient lava fields covered in soft green moss, then turn a corner to find a towering waterfall stretching into the sky. The sheer scale of the landscape is incredible, but it is the small details, like the steam rising from geothermal vents and the warmth of the natural pools, that truly make the experience unforgettable. It is a journey that forces you to slow down and appreciate the wild power of nature.
TRAVEL & PHOTO CONDITIONS |
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|---|---|
| Time | End of May 2023 |
| Weather | ☁ Unpredictable and Windswept |
| Temperature | 5 to 13 degrees Celsius |
TRIP ESSENTIALS BOOKING
| SERVICE & DETAILS | LINKS |
|---|---|
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Car Rental A sturdy 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended for highland roads and gravel tracks. |
Rentalcars.com |
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Accommodation Cosy cabins, hotels, and local villas booked well in advance. |
Booking.com Airbnb |
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Blue Lagoon Entry Prebooking is mandatory for this world famous geothermal spa experience. |
Blue Lagoon Official |
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Jökulsárlón Boat Tour Zodiac or amphibian boat excursions among floating icebergs. |
Ice Lagoon Tours |
THE 6 DAY PHOTOGRAPHY ITINERARY
This itinerary is designed to maximise your time in the best light. Keep your camera gear accessible for those transition moments along the road, and always aim for the golden hours.
Day 1: Arrival and The Golden Circle
Keflavík International Airport (📍MAP)
Collect your rental car, complete the rental safety briefing, and prepare for the open road.
Strokkur Geyser (📍MAP) & Gullfoss Waterfall (📍MAP)
Witness the dramatic eruption of Strokkur, which shoots boiling water high into the air every few minutes. Afterward, marvel at Gullfoss, where a massive glacial river plunges into a rugged canyon.
Selfoss Villa (📍MAP)
Drive east to the town of Selfoss to check into your villa for a relaxing evening.
Day 2: Volcanic Craters and Highland Oases
Kerið Crater (📍MAP)
Walk the circular rim of this spectacular volcanic crater and look down at the deep aquamarine water filling the ancient caldera.
Hjálparfoss (📍MAP) & Gjáin (📍MAP)
Capture the unique twin basalt cascades of Hjálparfoss, then proceed to the fairy tale valley of Gjáin, an oasis filled with clear springs and basalt formations.
Háifoss (📍MAP) & Sigöldufoss (📍MAP)
Experience the immense power of Háifoss, one of the most insanely beautiful and tallest waterfalls in the country, plunging into a deep red canyon. On your return, stop by the beautiful turquoise waters of Sigöldufoss.
Selfoss Villa Stay (📍MAP)
Return to your villa in Selfoss for a comfortable night, resting after an action packed day in the highlands.
Day 3: The Majestic Waterfalls of the South Coast
Kvernufoss Waterfall (📍MAP)
Visit this peaceful waterfall tucked away inside a narrow gorge. Walk right behind the cascading water for a unique perspective.
Skógafoss Waterfall(📍MAP)
Admire one of the most famous and powerful waterfalls in the country. If you have energy, climb the steep staircase to the top for spectacular panoramic views. Also, admire the nature around the place.
Drangshlíð Hotel (📍MAP)
Check into your hotel in the Skógar area, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and legendary folklore.
Day 4: Secret Canyons and Thermal Valleys
Seljalandsfoss (📍MAP) & Gljúfrabúi (📍MAP)
Walk behind the towering plume of Seljalandsfoss, then wade through a shallow stream into the dark cave canyon of Gljúfrabúi to find the secret waterfall hidden inside.
Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool (📍MAP)
Take a scenic walk through a mountain valley to reach this historic outdoor geothermal pool, built directly into the side of a dramatic green hill.
Skógafoss, Steinbogafoss, and Fremri Fellsfoss (📍MAP)
Follow the tranquil river paths around the Skógafoss area to discover these lesser known, serene waterfalls that tourist crowds often miss.
Drangshlíð Hotel (📍MAP)
Spend another quiet evening at your hotel, reflecting on the peaceful southern scenery.
Day 5: Volcanic Beaches and Glacial Lagoons
Reynisfjara Beach (📍MAP) & Svartifoss Waterfall (📍MAP)
Walk along the black sands of Reynisfjara to view the towering basalt columns and roaring Atlantic waves. Next, head to Skaftafell for a short hike up to Svartifoss, a waterfall framed by geometric dark basalt columns.
Svínafellsjökull Glacier (📍MAP)
Observe the deep blue cracks and heavy ash layers on the surface of this massive glacier tongue.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon (📍MAP) & Diamond Beach (📍MAP)
Embark on a spectacular boat excursion among towering icebergs floating in the lagoon. Afterward, cross the road to Diamond Beach to see glistening ice crystals stranded on the black sands.
Hotel Laki Stay (📍MAP)
Drive back slightly west to check in to Hotel Laki in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area for a restful night.
Day 6: Deep Canyons, Blue Lagoon, and Capital Streets
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon (📍MAP)
Stop early in the morning to photograph the deep, winding green canyon as the soft morning light hits the sheer rock walls.
The Blue Lagoon (📍MAP)
Travel west to the Reykjanes peninsula and indulge in a deeply relaxing soak in the famous warm, bright blue geothermal waters.
Reykjavík City (📍MAP)
Explore the colourful streets of the capital centre, visit the landmark Hallgrímskirkja church, and dine on local Icelandic delicacies.
Keflavík International Airport (📍MAP)
Return your rental vehicle at the airport and check in for your flight home, with memory cards packed with incredible images.
THE ICELAND ROAD TRIP SURVIVAL AND LOGISTICS GUIDE
Essential Ground Data for Travel and Photography Planning
Before packing camera bags and heading out, navigating Iceland smoothly requires tactical preparation. The island weather and road conditions can change rapidly, meaning plans must remain highly flexible. Below is the essential, practical information needed to turn a road trip into a seamless journey.
1. Money, Payments, and Tipping
Iceland is a almost completely cashless society, running seamlessly on digital card transactions everywhere.
- The Reality for Foreigners: International credit and debit cards are accepted everywhere, from large hotels to remote parking meters and public toilets. You will not need to carry physical Icelandic Króna.
- The Solution: Ensure your bank cards have no foreign transaction fees. Keep physical card options handy, as some automated petrol pumps require a physical card with a PIN rather than mobile payments.
- Tipping Practices: Tipping is not expected or customary in Iceland. Service charges and taxes are always included in the listed price on your bill.
2. Transit and Road Safety
Navigating the Ring Road and highland tracks requires constant awareness of weather patterns and driving regulations.
- The Photographer's Choice (4x4 Vehicles): If you plan to visit highland locations like Háifoss and Gjáin, a 4x4 vehicle is legally required. Normal passenger cars are strictly banned from highland routes.
- Wind and Door Hazards: The winds along the south coast can be exceptionally violent. Always hold onto your vehicle doors firmly when opening them, as sudden gusts can easily bend doors backward, causing severe damage.
- Off Road Driving: Driving off marked roads is strictly illegal in Iceland and carries massive financial penalties. The volcanic soil and moss are incredibly fragile and take decades to recover from tyre tracks.
3. Connectivity and Safety Setup
Having reliable mobile data is mandatory for tracking sudden weather changes, checking road conditions, and navigating safely.
The most seamless option is setting up an eSIM prior to landing. Alternatively, you can purchase physical SIM cards at local convenience stores. It is essential to download the SafeTravel Iceland application to receive real time warnings regarding high winds, sandstorms, and active road closures.
4. Monument Rules and Cultural Etiquette
Photographing the pristine natural spaces of Iceland requires a blend of digital strategy and deep environmental respect.
Drone Restrictions
Drones are heavily regulated in Iceland. Flying is strictly prohibited in all national parks, including Skaftafell, and at major tourist sites like Seljalandsfoss and Gullfoss. Always look out for local signs before launching your drone.
Fragile Moss Protection
The thick green moss covering the lava fields is extremely delicate. Walking on the moss can damage or kill it, leaving scars on the landscape that last for generations. Always stay on designated walking paths and wooden viewing platforms.
5. Gear Protection and Packing Essentials
September offers beautiful autumn tones, but the local environment is demanding on camera equipment.
- Waterproofing and Mist: The heavy mist from waterfalls like Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss can soak camera bodies in seconds. Use protective rain covers for your gear, and carry plenty of dry microfibre cloths to clean your lenses.
- Footwear Strategy: Because you will be walking over wet basalt rocks, muddy paths, and uneven gravel trails, waterproof hiking boots with excellent grip are absolutely essential.
Quick Reference Travel Checklist
| Category | Action Item and Protocol |
|---|---|
| Safety App | Download the SafeTravel Iceland app and monitor road.is daily for wind warnings and road closures. |
| Vehicle Choice | Secure a 4x4 vehicle with gravel protection insurance to safely navigate highland routes and rough gravel tracks. |
| Drone Laws | Avoid flying drones in national parks and strictly follow local signs to prevent heavy fines. |