Reviewed · NORTHERN LIGHTS TOURS
7-Day Self-Drive Private Tour Northern Lights Adventure – Iceland South & West
Iceland looks like a postcard because it is, not because someone polished it. This self-drive private campervan route gives you real flexibility with a tablet guide doing the navigation legwork, plus booked stops and campsite fees handled. One thing to watch: some attractions have extra costs on top, especially parking and a few entry tickets.
You get 7 days of big-ticket Iceland hits, from basalt coastlines and lava caves to geothermal baths, Diamond Beach, and a Vatnajökull ice-cave experience. It is designed for independent travelers who still want structure, so you spend time enjoying Iceland instead of mapping, booking, and guessing.
Key highlights in plain terms

Easy Guide tablet instead of paper maps
Campsites overnight fees included for less budgeting stress
Super jeep ice-cave day on Vatnajökull (booked, not DIY)
Geothermal bathing built into the route at places like Krauma and Fontana
A “fixed” day-by-day route with self-drive freedom to move at your own pace
Private format so it is just your group, not a mixed crowd
Other nights out chasing the aurora
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First, what this 7-day self-drive tour is really good at

This is a campervan tour that tries to solve the biggest Iceland problem: decision fatigue. You still drive yourself, but the hard parts are packaged. You get an expert made itinerary, a preloaded Easy Guide tablet, and booked activities, so you do not spend your limited daylight hopping between websites.
I also like that the route includes both iconic sights and the hands-on stuff. You are not only staring at waterfalls. You get into lava cave tunnels with helmets and headlamps, soak in geothermal waters, and do an ice-cave hike with a super jeep ride to the glacial valley.
The “Northern Lights Adventure” angle is part of the marketing, but the key reality is simple: aurora viewing depends on sky conditions. What you can control is flexibility, and a self-drive setup gives you more freedom to look up when the weather cooperates instead of waiting for a single scheduled stop.
Price and what you are getting for $1,511.93 per person
At $1,511.93 per person, this is not a bargain, but it also is not just a van rental with vague directions. The value is in what is folded in:
- Quality camper van
- Easy Guide tablet
- Booked activities (including major paid experiences)
- Airport transfer
- Campsites fees included
- Extras listed as included, including Wi-Fi and gas, etc.
Now the important part, the “read the fine print” part. The tour also lists key items as not included:
- Fuel (and electricity or other campsite services)
- Parking fees
- Flights
- Food and beverages (except where the tour includes a restaurant)
- Some attraction entries, like Hallgrímskirkja church tower and Kerið crater
So, the smartest move is to confirm how the included “gas” and the listed “fuel not included” apply to your exact booking. The overall structure makes sense, but Iceland pricing can get messy when terms overlap.
Arrival at Keflavík, shuttle to the office, and an easy start

Your trip begins at Selvík 5, 230 Keflavík, Iceland. If you arrive at Keflavík International Airport, you are offered a complimentary shuttle either from the airport or from a hotel in Keflavík town to the office, described as only a five-minute drive from the airport.
This matters more than it sounds. In Iceland, taxis are expensive, and late arrivals can be annoying. The self-service style handoff is built to keep your schedule moving even if your flight times do not match normal office hours.
Also, the tour notes a mobile ticket, which usually means less paperwork and faster check-in once you reach the office.
Day 1 in Reykjavík: Sun Voyager, Harpa, Hallgrimskirkja, and your city view

Day 1 is your orientation day with short, easy stops.
First comes Sun Voyager, the famous sculpture along the sea. It is quick, but it sets the tone for the whole trip: ocean, wind, and dramatic mountain backdrops.
Then you visit Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall and Conference Centre. The architecture is inspired by Icelandic nature, and the practical tip is that entering just to see the building is free. You still pay for parking, and that fee is not included.
Finally, Hallgrimskirkja is the big finale in Reykjavík. Church entry is free, and if you want the 360-degree view, you can go up the tower. Tower access has an extra admission fee, so decide based on your budget and daylight left.
If you have extra time, you can add FlyOver Iceland (not included). It is a bird’s-eye view experience that takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes total with driving time.
At your own pace: other self-drive routes
Day 2 around Snæfellsnes: basalt columns, lava tubes, and the Kirkjufell photo magnet

Day 2 leans hard into geology and dramatic coastline, starting with Gerðuberg basalt columns. These partially 14-meter-high formations are symmetrical, which makes them more interesting than the usual “cool rocks” stop.
Next is Búðir church on the Snæfellsnes coast, one of Iceland’s black churches. It is a photography favorite and a good “short stop that feels worth it” kind of moment. If you are lucky, seals can appear offshore.
Then you get Arnarstapi, a rugged coastal area with erosion sculpting an arch called Gatklettur. This is one of those stops where you do not need a long walk to feel the place.
The most memorable hands-on activity on this day is Vatnshellir Lava Cave. You explore an approximately 8,000-year-old lava tube, going 32 meters underground. You descend via spiral stairs and are provided a helmet and headlight, so you are not showing up underprepared. This is also where moderate physical fitness matters, because going underground and walking in cave conditions takes effort.
After the cave, Djúpalónssandur is a black pebble beach with historical ties to sailors selection and old shipwreck remnants. It feels quiet, untouched, and surprisingly emotional, especially if you pause and read the stone markers.
You can end with Saxhóll Crater, a 100-meter-deep volcanic crater reached by wooden steps. On a bright day, Reykjavík may even be visible.
And if you want the classic postcard finish, Kirkjufellsfoss and Kirkjufell are there. It is among Iceland’s most photographed views, which is not the same as being overrated. The waterfall and mountain combo is simply iconic.
Day 3 West Iceland: fishing villages, Hraunfossar, and the Deildartunguhver smoke valley

Day 3 starts near Stykkishólmur, a charming fishing village. It also includes Súgandisey Island Light Beacon. You walk up from the harbor toward the lighthouse viewpoint, which gives you that rare mix of sea + cliffs + “this feels remote” energy without needing hours of trekking.
Then you visit waterfalls with character. Hraunfossar is a waterfall system where rivulets seep through vegetation. Barnafoss is nearby and flows through a lava opening. Together, they are a great reminder that Iceland’s water story is not only about big dramatic drops.
From there you go to Deildartunguhver, described as Europe’s largest hot spring. You watch massive bubbles in roughly 97°C water from a safe distance, and you can feel the heat on your face. This is not a spa stop. It is a “stand back and respect nature” kind of stop.
The day ends with Krauma Spa, adjacent to Deildartunguhver. Krauma has four pools fed by constant natural geothermal water flow. A nice detail is that the site notes it does not use chemicals to maintain water quality. You get a proper soak after a day of walking and viewing.
Day 4 Golden Circle, Laugarvatn Fontana baths, and a south-coast waterfall sweep

Day 4 is the Golden Circle backbone plus more south-coast magic.
You begin at Þingvellir National Park (Pingvellir). It is both geological and historical. You see the continental drift setting, including the Öxara waterfall and Silfra Fissure. Entry to the park is free, but you pay a parking fee that is not included.
Next is Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths. You soak in warm water with a panoramic view of the lake. This is one of those stops that feels like a reset button, especially after road time.
Then it is Geysir, where Strokkur shoots warm water columns up to 15 meters. You also see fumaroles, mud pots, and boiling water openings, so it feels like a working geothermal system, not just a single geyser show.
From Geysir you move to Gullfoss, the dramatic waterfall that drops into a deep crevasse, often producing rainbows in the spray.
There is an optional add-on recommendation near Gullfoss: Fridheimar Restaurant and Farm. It is famous for horses and tomatoes grown using geothermal energy, plus biological pest control. If you want to go, you need to book it yourself, and it is not included.
After that you visit Kerið crater. The walk-up has a small admission fee not included. Still, Kerið is worth it because the crater’s colored ground catches light differently in different seasons.
Then comes waterfall country again:
- Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the waterfall area. The area itself is free, but parking is not included.
- Skógafoss, where loud water, spray, and rainbows surround you as light hits the droplets. This one is free to visit.
Day 5 south coast essentials: Fjaðrárgljúfur, Diamond Beach, and the Vatnajökull ice-cave day

Day 5 is where Iceland starts feeling like a greatest-hits reel.
You begin at Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, known for its curved dramatic shape and frigid river. It is also described as a location used for the Justin Bieber music video in 2015, which adds a fun pop-culture trivia layer while you stare at rock walls that look older than your job.
Next is Diamond Beach, a black pebble shore filled with glacier ice blocks that glint in sunlight like diamonds. You spend time here, and it works best when you move slowly and watch how the ice chunks change as the day light shifts.
Then you get the big included experience: an ice cave tour on Vatnajökull. The program is a half-day with a super jeep drive into the glacial valley, then a hike to the naturally formed blue cave. It is noted that the cave reforms by melting each summer, so your exact ice cave will not be the same as anyone else’s.
This is an easy day to judge your comfort level. If you prefer easy flat walks, keep in mind you are doing a hike to reach the cave mouth. Also, some activities have minimum age and height requirements (the tour lists 8+ for some activities and a minimum height of 102 cm for some activities), so double-check before you assume everyone in your group is good to go.
Day 6 Vík area: Dyrhólaey promontory, Reynisfjara basalt cliffs, and the lava show
Day 6 is classic south-coast drama with a safer, guided-feeling fun stop.
You start at Dyrhólaey, described as a rock formation with a prominent hole where ships used to sail through. It is also home to bird species. It is a good viewpoint stop where you can take in the ocean scale without long hiking.
Then you go to Reynisfjara Beach. The basalt columns of Reynisfjall create a moody setting, and you can also see the three basalt rock formations in the Atlantic Sea. You might even hear the troll story told in Iceland, but the main point is the geology and ocean power are both right there.
In the afternoon, you go to the Icelandic Lava Show in Vík. You witness running hot lava flowing from a mimic volcanic eruption, presented in a controlled and safe setting. That’s a smart balance after cold beach wind and ocean cliffs.
There is also an optional recommendation of the Skógar Museum if you want more culture and history. It has 15,000 artifacts across multiple museums and buildings. Admission is not included, so treat it as optional if you are trying to keep costs down.
Day 7 Reykjanes Peninsula wind-down: Kleifarvatn, Gunnuhver, and the Bridge Between Continents
The final day gives you the quieter, quirky side of Iceland around Reykjavík’s southwest.
You start at Kleifarvatn Lake, described as Reykjanes Peninsula’s largest lake and almost 100 meters deep. It is fed by porous lava ground, and it can attract anglers. The lake is also described as surrounded by moss on lava ground, so you get a simple, atmospheric look.
Next stop is Gunnuhver Hot Springs. You see steam vents and hot mud pools shaped by minerals. The terrain has vibrant mineral colors, and you also get the Reykjanes lighthouse in the background.
Then you visit the Bridge Between Continents, where you can stand between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. It is a short stop, but it is one of the best “put your feet on the science” moments in Iceland.
You end with CampEasy Iceland, where you return at the meeting point area. You can warm up with drinks, check souvenirs, and review your trip.
If you need it, the shuttle service can bring you back to Keflavík airport or your Keflavík hotel, if requested.
What I think is the best match for you
This tour fits you if you want independence without total chaos. You are already someone who enjoys driving Iceland yourself, or you’re willing to learn, but you still want the itinerary and key booked experiences handled.
It also suits you if your group includes people who enjoy variety: some photos, some walking, and then hands-on activities like Vatnshellir and the Vatnajökull ice cave.
It might not be your best choice if you want everything to be fully “all inclusive.” Parking fees and some attraction entry costs are not included, and you should plan your budget for tickets and meals.
Finally, consider the activity requirements. The tour states a moderate physical fitness level is recommended, and some activities have minimum age and height requirements (8 years minimum for some activities, 102 cm minimum height for some activities). If you have young kids, you will want to verify whether the included cave and ice cave experiences fit their comfort and height needs.
Should you book this 7-day Northern Lights campervan tour?
I’d book it if you want a structured self-drive trip that still feels free. The big reasons are the Easy Guide tablet, campsites fees included, and the way you get major booked experiences like Vatnshellir Lava Cave, Krauma, and the Vatnajökull ice-cave tour with super jeep access.
I would pause and do a careful cost check if you hate surprise add-ons. Parking fees and some tower or crater entries are not included, and fuel language is worth confirming because “gas” is listed in included extras, while “fuel” is listed as not included.
If your goal is a well-paced route through Iceland’s South and West with fewer logistics headaches, this tour is a strong fit. You get the freedom to drive your own days, and you still get the confidence of knowing the best paid pieces are already planned.
FAQ
Is this tour private or shared with other groups?
It is listed as a private tour/activity, so only your group participates.
Do you provide airport pickup or transfers?
Yes. There is a complimentary shuttle service from Keflavík International Airport or from hotels in Keflavík town to the office near the airport. At the end, you can request a shuttle back to Keflavík airport or your hotel accommodation in Keflavík.
Does the tour include the campsite costs?
Yes. Campsite overnight fees are included.
What is included in the price?
The included items list covers the quality camper van, zero-risk coverage, extras such as gas and Wi-Fi, the Easy Guide tablet, the expert itinerary, booked activities, airport transfer, and campsite fees.
What is not included?
Not included items include flights, parking fees, traffic violation fines, fuel, electricity and other campsite services, and food and beverages (except where a restaurant is included in the tour). Some specific attraction entries also have extra costs, like Hallgrimskirkja church tower entry and Kerið crater admission.
Are entrance fees fully covered for every stop?
No. Some stops are free, but others require additional payment that is not included, such as parking fees at some locations and entry for Hallgrimskirkja tower and Kerið crater.
What are the minimum age and height requirements?
The tour states a minimum driver age of 20 years. It also notes that for some activities the minimum age is 8 years, and for some activities the minimum height requirement is 102 cm (40 inches).
Is the Easy Guide tablet part of the tour?
Yes. The Easy Guide tablet is included, and the tour uses it as an alternative to paper maps.
Can I cancel for a full refund?
Yes, free cancellation is available. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience start time for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
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