Accessible South Coast Iceland: 7-Day Self-Drive Tour

Accessible South Coast Iceland: 7-Day Self-Drive Tour

Seven days exploring Iceland's spectacular South Coast.

Price from 1559 EUR per person

Prices are shown in euros for reference. Your booking is charged in Icelandic krona (ISK).

This tour can be customized for following traveler types: 

TOUR CODE
SD-04-AT
SEASON
All Year
travel style
Accessible travel
Duration
7 days - 6 nights
Destination
South Iceland
accessibility
Accessible

On this Accessible tour, you will:

Iceland’s South Coast offers you the opportunity to experience one of the best road trips in the world, with astonishing sights everywhere you look. Towering waterfalls plunge from majestic mountains, icebergs drift around glittering glacier lagoons, black sand beaches line the ocean shore, and the world-famous Blue Lagoon awaits at the end of your journey.

‍

And it’s all made accessible for everyone to enjoy, with every stop carefully checked by our Travel Consultants to ensure your comfort and convenience. Iceland Unlimited is the country’s leading specialist in accessible travel.

‍

That means we know which attractions are easiest to reach, what the paths are like, and which hotels are best equipped for your needs. We know you want to see Iceland at its best without worrying about the facilities along the route. We’re here to make sure that happens.

‍

Your 7-Day Self-Drive Itinerary

Think of this as a starting point. Swap hotels, change the pace, or add activities, and your Travel Consultant will build it around you.

Day 1: Arrival in Reykjavík

dAY STARTS IN
Keflavík Airport
DAY ENDS IN
Reykjavík
DRIVING DISTANCE
~50 km / 31 miles (approx. 45 min)
About your day

We’ll be there to meet you at Keflavík International Airport with an accessible private transfer taking you straight to your hotel in the capital city, Reykjavík. Transfer vehicles with ramps can be arranged if needed - just let your Travel Consultant know when you book.

‍

Once you’ve settled into your accessible room at the hotel, you’ll have the rest of the day to discover the delights of the world’s most northerly capital. Reykjavík is a very compact city, with short distances between the Old Harbor, the concert hall at Harpa (with step-free access and elevators to all levels), and the Sun Voyager sculpture, all of which are relatively flat and easy to reach. There’s only one short climb to Hallgrímskirkja, the landmark church that provides panoramic city views from its bell tower, accessible by elevator.

‍

We are happy to recommend accessible museums or other city attractions, such as the Lava Show and FlyOver Iceland. ‍

‍

Accommodation  Hotel Saga (Quality) or Hotel Skuggi (Comfort) — accessible room confirmed at booking, before arrival.

‍

Suggested hotels, or similar

Hotel Skuggi, a white four-storey corner building on a quiet Reykjavik street at dusk
Hotel Skuggi
Reykjavik city centre
Hotel Reykjavik Saga, a white and dark timber-clad building on a corner in central Reykjavik
Hotel Saga
Reykjavik city centre
Attractions of the day
Hallgrímskirkja Church
Hallgrímskirkja Church
See more
Þjóðminjasafn National Museum
Þjóðminjasafn National Museum
See more
Kolaportið Flea Market
Kolaportið Flea Market
See more
Harpa - Music Hall
Harpa - Music Hall
See more
Sun Voyager - The Solfar Sculpture
Sun Voyager - The Solfar Sculpture
See more

Day 2: The Golden Circle

dAY STARTS IN
Reykjavík
DAY ENDS IN
Golden Circle
DRIVING DISTANCE
~237 km / 147 miles
About your day

After breakfast, you’ll collect your rental vehicle in the morning, selected by your Travel Consultant to match your driving style (hand controls, ramps, etc). The Golden Circle is a fantastic introduction to Iceland’s natural marvels, starting with a 45-minute drive from the capital to Þingvellir National Park. Once the site of Iceland’s ancient Viking parliaments, Þingvellir is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in a gigantic rift valley where you can see continental tectonic plates above ground. There’s an accessible viewing platform with panoramic views of the rift valley, easily reached with a short distance on well-maintained paths from the paid parking area.

‍

The next stop is Geysir, where you’ll be thrilled by the sight of Strokkur, a gushing geyser with a short fuse that sends columns of superheated water high into the sky every few minutes! There’s a paid parking area next to the road, and the geyser is a very short distance away, along good paths with a slight incline. There’s an accessible restaurant here as well. Next comes Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s mightiest waterfalls, which thunders over two steps into a steep canyon, setting off sheets of spray and rainbows on bright days. There is free parking here at two different levels, with a dedicated accessible viewing platform about 50 meters from the parking lot.

‍

Kerið is one of Iceland’s most colorful volcanic craters, decorated with rust-red rocks and velvet-green moss, with a wheelchair-accessible viewing platform next to the paid parking area. You’ll stay overnight in the Golden Circle area in an accessible hotel, assessed in advance for appropriate modifications, and ideally placed for the South Coast on Day 3.

Your Travel Consultant will confirm the most appropriate accessible option for your requirements. ‍

‍

Accommodation  Hotel Grímsborgir or Lóa (Quality), or Hotel South Coast, Blue Hotel, or Hotel Lækur (Comfort) — your Travel Consultant confirms the accessible option for your situation.

‍

Suggested hotels, or similar

Entrance of Hótel Grímsborgir, a white single-storey building with a gabled porch, the hotel name above glass doors and a small tree and planters in front
Hotel Grímsborgir
Grímsnes, Golden Circle
Double-height lounge at Hotel Geysir with floor-to-ceiling windows, concrete walls, gray sofas, green armchairs and a fireplace framed by shelves of stacked firewood
Hotel Geysir
Haukadalur, Golden Circle
Dark timber-clad two-story hotel building and a wooden chalet seen through birch and spruce trees on a sunny day at Blue Hotel Fagrilundur
Blue Hotel Fagrilundur
Reykholt, Golden Circle
Guest room at The Hill Hotel Flúðir with a vaulted white ceiling, two woven chairs and a large window looking out at lava rock and dark cabins
The Hill Hótel Flúðir
Flúðir, Golden Circle
Attractions of the day
Geysir
Geysir
See more
Gullfoss Waterfall
Gullfoss Waterfall
See more
Kerið Crater
Kerið Crater
See more
Þingvellir National Park
Þingvellir National Park
See more

Day 3: The South Coast

dAY STARTS IN
Golden Circle area
DAY ENDS IN
Vík
DRIVING DISTANCE
~100 km / 62 miles
About your day

The South Coast is a stunning stretch of road lined with mountains, glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanoes on one side, and running close to the Atlantic on the other. The first sightseeing stop is Seljalandsfoss, a delicate ribbon waterfall that plunges gracefully from 60-meter cliffs into a pool. The cascade is easy to see from the paid parking area, and you can get as close as you like, approaching the falls along 200 meters of good gravel paths.

Close by stands Skógafoss, a breathtaking 60-meter waterfall framed by moss-covered cliffs, catching your eye as soon as you reach the access road. The paid parking area is about 500 meters from the falls, and you can get as close to the waters as you like - you’ll get quite wet though! A few hundred meters from the falls, the fascinating Skógar Folk Museum features indoor and open-air sections and historical buildings, including some traditional turf-roofed huts.

‍

Dyrhólaey is the most southerly place on the mainland, a picturesque headland with incredible views in all directions. There are two paid parking areas, with the lower one close to puffin nesting areas. The gravel paths here are uneven and inclined in places.

‍

Reynisfjara is one of Iceland’s famous volcanic black sand beaches, lined with beautiful basalt columns, and frequently pounded by waves and fierce winds. Accessibility here is variable, depending on beach conditions. Your Travel Consultant will confirm what to expect before your visit.

‍

The southernmost village on the mainland, Vík, is your overnight stop. There’s a black sand beach, views of the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and the Lava Show Vík, a fully wheelchair accessible live lava demonstration that is one of the best optional additions on this day. ‍

‍

OPTIONAL — BOOK THROUGH YOUR TRAVEL CONSULTANT

  • Lava Show Vík (entrance fee not included)

‍

Accommodation  Hotel Katla (Comfort) or Hotel Vík (Quality) — both have wheelchair accessible rooms. Accessible room confirmed at booking.

‍

Suggested hotels, or similar

Fosshótel Reykjavík, a grey angular building with an illuminated hotel sign and warmly lit windows at dusk
Fosshótel Reykjavík
Reykjavík
Entrance of Hotel Kría in Vík with a gray stone facade and timber-clad wings, flagpoles and lava boulders in front under an overcast sky
Hotel Kría
Vík, South Iceland
Hotel Katla in Vik with a timber-clad main building, red metal roof and restaurant wing, set against a green hillside and a blue sky with clouds
Hotel Katla
Vík, South Iceland
Attractions of the day
Seljalandsfoss
Seljalandsfoss
See more
Skógafoss
Skógafoss
See more
Skógar Folk Museum
Skógar Folk Museum
See more
Vík
Vík
See more
Dyrhólaey
Dyrhólaey
See more

Day 4: Vatnajökull National Park and the Glacier Lagoon

dAY STARTS IN
Vík area
DAY ENDS IN
Höfn area
DRIVING DISTANCE
~272 km / 169 miles
About your day

The fourth day of your Icelandic adventure takes you through Eldhraun, a mesmerizing moss-covered lava field that stretches as far as the eye can see. You can see Eldhraun from roadside parking areas, right from your vehicle.

As you travel further east, you’ll begin to see the glacier-capped Vatnajökull National Park, which covers more than a tenth of the country. Skaftafell is part of the National Park and is a great place to stop and admire glacier views, with accessible facilities.

‍

Jökulsárlón is the highlight of your fourth day, a dazzling glacier lagoon filled with immense icebergs that drift serenely towards the sea along a short tidal channel. The “Glacier Lagoon” is right next to the Ring Road, and there’s a paid parking area enabling close-up views of the icebergs almost as soon as you get out of the car! This is where you’ll be able to join an amphibian boat tour of the lagoon, boarding from flat ground by the shore, and taking you just a few feet from the icebergs.

‍

From here, it’s a short drive to the next overnight stop in Höfn, Iceland’s lobster capital. ‍

‍

OPTIONAL — BOOK THROUGH YOUR TRAVEL CONSULTANT

  • Amphibian boat tour at Jökulsárlón

Accommodation  Fosshotel Jökulsárlón or Fosshotel Vatnajökull (Quality), or Brunhóll (Comfort) — accessible room confirmed at booking. Note: Hotel Höfn does not have wheelchair accessible rooms.

‍

Suggested hotels, or similar

Aerial view of Hotel Jokulsarlon, a timber-clad hotel with sod roofs and gabled wings beside a small lake on a wide river plain at sunset
Hotel Jökulsárlón
Jökulsárlón area, Southeast Iceland
Exterior of Hótel Höfn, a white two-story building with tall windows, a glass entrance conservatory and flower beds in front under a partly cloudy sky
Hótel Höfn
Höfn, Southeast Iceland
Attractions of the day
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
See more
Höfn
Höfn
See more
The Diamond Beach
The Diamond Beach
See more
Skaftafell
Skaftafell
See more
Vatnajökull glacier
Vatnajökull glacier
See more

Day 5: Westbound via Fjaðrárgljúfur and the Lava Centre

dAY STARTS IN
Höfn
DAY ENDS IN
Hvölsvöllur
DRIVING DISTANCE
~352 km / 219 miles
About your day

The fifth day sees you turning west and returning along the South Coast towards the capital again, with fresh sights to see along the way! After grabbing refreshments at Kirkjubæjarklaustur, there’s a turn inland to visit Fjaðrárgljúfur, one of Iceland’s most beautiful river canyons.

Carpeted in blankets of velvet-green moss, Fjaðrárgljúfur’s winding rock cliffs have been carved by glacial forces into eye-catching shapes. There is an accessible viewpoint in the lower car park offering splendid views of the canyon.

‍

If you want to learn more about Iceland’s volcanic origins, you can add an optional ticket for the Lava Centre in Hvolsvöllur: an interactive exhibition on Iceland’s volcanic history, confirmed wheelchair accessible. This is an optional stop, entrance fee not included. The day ends in the Hvolsvöllur area, a convenient base for the final push back to Reykjavík on Day 6. ‍

‍

OPTIONAL — BOOK THROUGH YOUR TRAVEL CONSULTANT

  • Lava Centre, Hvolsvöllur (entrance fee not included)

‍

Accommodation  Hotel Grímsborgir or Lóa (Quality), or Hotel South Coast, Blue Hotel, or Hotel Lækur (Comfort) — your Travel Consultant confirms the accessible option for your situation.

‍

Suggested hotels, or similar

Hotel South Coast, a four-storey building with brown and grey panel facades and large lit windows, seen from the street at dusk
Hotel South Coast
Hvolsvöllur, South Iceland
Guest room at Hotel Lóa with a double bed, a slatted oak feature wall and a large window overlooking green farmland
Hotel Lóa
Hvolsvöllur / Hella area, South Iceland
Exterior of Stracta Hotel Hella, a two-story cream building with balconies and a stone wall, with two people leading Icelandic horses across the grass in front
Hotel Stracta
Hella, South Iceland
Hotel Lækur buildings with wooden balconies and an outdoor staircase at sunset, with snow-capped Hekla volcano rising behind
Hotel Lækur
Hella, South Iceland
Attractions of the day
Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Kirkjubæjarklaustur
See more
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
See more

Day 6: Reykjanes Peninsula and the Blue Lagoon

dAY STARTS IN
Hvolsvöllur area
DAY ENDS IN
Reykjavík
DRIVING DISTANCE
~270 km / 168 miles
About your day

For your final day on Iceland’s famous Ring Road, you’ll head west to explore the Reykjanes Peninsula, the youngest and most volcanically active part of the country. Packed with volcanic features such as the Seltún and Gunnuhver geothermal areas, Reykjanes has a lot to offer, with bubbling hot pools and fizzing sulfur vents to see! Boardwalks make these areas accessible with short distances from the parking areas, including wheelchair users.

‍

The Bridge Between the Continents spans a visible section of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. This tectonic plate boundary runs under the sea for most of its 16,000-kilometer length. You can access this unique spot, which divides the North American and Eurasian continents, via a paved path from the parking area.

‍

After driving for five days along Iceland’s South Coast, you’ll want to relax, and we have a world-class treat for you next.

‍

The Blue Lagoon is one of National Geographic’s “25 Wonders of the World” and Iceland’s grandest geothermal spa. You’ll find ultra-modern facilities, including spacious changing rooms, restaurants, saunas, massage tables, in-water bars, and steam rooms. Set in a breathtaking black lava field, the Blue Lagoon is the perfect place to soothe your body and soul, relax in the warming waters, and recall your favorite moments from the trip. Accessible changing facilities are available, including shower chairs and wheelchair access to the waters, with staff assistance on call. Entry to the Blue Lagoon is included in this tour package, with all aspects arranged by your Travel Consultant and delivered by Blue Lagoon staff.

‍

From here, refreshed and rejuvenated by your dip in the Blue Lagoon, you’ll return your rental vehicle in Reykjavík and spend your last night in the city.

Accommodation  Hotel Saga (Quality) or Hotel Skuggi (Comfort) — accessible room confirmed at booking, before arrival.

‍

Suggested hotels, or similar

Hotel Skuggi, a white four-storey corner building on a quiet Reykjavik street at dusk
Hotel Skuggi
Reykjavik city centre
Hotel Reykjavik Saga, a white and dark timber-clad building on a corner in central Reykjavik
Hotel Saga
Reykjavik city centre
Attractions of the day
The Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon
See more
Reykjanes Peninsula
Reykjanes Peninsula
See more
Geothermal area in Seltún
Geothermal area in Seltún
See more
The Bridge Between the Continents
The Bridge Between the Continents
See more
Gunnuhver geothermal area
Gunnuhver geothermal area
See more

Day 7: Departure

dAY STARTS IN
Reykjavík
DAY ENDS IN
Keflavík Airport
DRIVING DISTANCE
~50 km / 31 miles (approx. 45 min)
About your day

As before, an accessible private transfer vehicle will take you from your hotel in the capital directly to Keflavík International Airport, a journey of around 45 minutes. Depending on your flight times, you may wish to see more city sights before you leave.

Perlan — Wonders of Iceland is a museum with a panoramic viewing deck, an artificial ice cave, and a Northern Lights cinematic experience, with elevator access to all levels.

The Old Harbor, Harpa, and the Shoreline Walk are easy to navigate on flat paths, with plenty of options for a final coffee and a view of the surrounding mountains.

‍

Attractions of the day
Reykjavík City
Reykjavík City
See more
Perlan Wonders of Iceland
Perlan Wonders of Iceland
See more
Reykjavík Old Harbour
Reykjavík Old Harbour
See more
Laugavegur Shopping Street
Laugavegur Shopping Street
See more
Go back to section navigation

What's included in the tour

Included

  • 6 nights accessible accommodation with breakfast
  • Rental car for 5 days — unlimited mileage, CDW, SCDW included
  • Hand controls or ramp vehicle arranged at booking
  • One additional registered driver per rental car
  • WiFi hotspot in your rental car
  • 2 private accessible airport transfers — ramp vehicle available on request
  • Blue Lagoon on Day 6 — accessible facilities, staff assistance with lagoon entry
  • Taxes and service fee

‍

Not included

  • International flights
  • Meals and drinks at restaurants (unless otherwise agreed)
  • Entrance fees unless listed above
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Gasoline
  • Road tax fee
  • Mobility equipment rental (arranged separately through your Travel Consultant if needed)

‍

Go back to section navigation

Discover local activities and adventures

Let your personal travel consultant know what other activities catch your eye and we’ll add them to your custom-made trip itinerary.

Go back to section navigation

Your route

Go back to section navigation

Unsure and want to talk to a specialist?

Sometimes it’s hard to explain everything in text. Let’s have a quick call, we’re happy to help!

Worldwide

Toll-Free from US & Canada

Go back to section navigation

Unwind in the perfect accommodations

We handpick accommodations to ensure memorable stays for every type of traveler.

Classic

Experience a higher level of comfort with our carefully selected Classic accommodations, each offering private facilities including a shower and toilet for your convenience and privacy. These lodges fall under the 3-star hotel category, providing a perfect blend of quality and value. Most properties boast an on-site restaurant where you can enjoy a variety of meals without needing to venture far. In Reykjavik, all Classic accommodations are ideally situated in central locations, giving you easy access to the city's main attractions, shopping districts, and vibrant cultural spots. This category represents a significant upgrade in both comfort and service compared to budget options, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a cozy yet affordable stay. To make your mornings hassle-free, a delicious breakfast is included with your stay.

Picture of a room that is an example of this type of accommodation

Superior

Our Superior accommodations feature spacious private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, offering the choice of a relaxing bath or a refreshing shower, along with a private toilet to ensure maximum comfort and privacy. These rooms represent the best available lodging options, found within prestigious 4-star hotels or the finest, highest-quality lodges across each region. In Reykjavik, all Superior accommodations are centrally located, placing you within easy reach of the city's key attractions, shopping areas, and vibrant dining and cultural scenes. These accommodations provide an elevated experience with superior comfort, thoughtful amenities, and attentive service designed to make your stay truly memorable. To enhance your visit, a complimentary breakfast is included each morning, helping you start your day well-nourished and ready to explore.

Picture of a room that is an example of this type of accommodation

Luxury

Our luxury accommodations feature exquisite suites and premium rooms within top-tier lodges and resorts, offering an elegant and sophisticated ambiance. Designed with refined decor and upscale touches, these accommodations provide a seamless blend of style, comfort, and exclusivity. Personalized services cater to your every need, ensuring a truly indulgent and tailored experience. In Reykjavik, all luxury accommodations are centrally located, placing you at the heart of the city’s vibrant cultural scene, fine dining, shopping, and key attractions. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat or an immersive urban experience, these upscale lodgings deliver the perfect base. Classy, elegant, and supremely comfortable, our luxury options strive to provide a first-class stay marked by exceptional amenities, impeccable service, and attention to detail. Every aspect is carefully crafted to make your visit not just memorable, but extraordinary.

Picture of a room that is an example of this type of accommodation
Go back to section navigation
Go back to section navigation

Good to know

Prepare for your adventure with these essential tips and information for a smooth journey.

Contact us

IcelandUnlimited.is is the official booking platform and trading name of Iceland Unlimited Holdings. We are a fully licensed and locally operated travel agency based in Reykjavík, Iceland. Specializing in incoming tourism, we offer tailor-made travel services and guided tours throughout Iceland and Greenland. Our office is located at Suðurlandsbraut 34, 108 Reykjavík, and we proudly work only with certified guides and trusted local partners.

Yes. Visitors can drive in Iceland with a valid driver's license from their home country. If your license is not in Latin script, an international driving permit is recommended.

When you have submitted your booking and personal details through icelandunlimited.is a travel consultant will view the booking. They will crosscheck your booking and send you confirmation within 48 hours. Your credit card will be charged with a 20% deposit at that time. If our travel consultant is unable to obtain confirmation then an alternative will be offered. If you do not accept the alternative or Iceland Unlimited is not able to offer you an alternative, no charge will be made on your credit card. When your booking has been confirmed and your credit card has been charged, Iceland Unlimited will issue vouchers for your travel arrangements. Travel documents will not be delivered until full payment has been made. It’s optional whether we post your travel documents or arrange for you to pick them up on arrival to your holiday destination.

Absolutely. Iceland has some of the purest and cleanest drinking water in the world—straight from natural springs. No need to buy bottled water.

Iceland is a year-round destination, each season offering unique experiences. - Summer (June–August): Midnight sun, milder weather, and access to the highlands. - Winter (October–March): Best for viewing the Northern Lights and experiencing snowy landscapes. - Shoulder seasons (April–May and September): Fewer crowds and lower prices, with a good mix of daylight and activities.

Go back to section navigation
Go back to section navigation