Discover Iceland by campervan from Keflavik, the ideal base for unforgettable road trips along Route 1 and iconic sites. These three itineraries adapted for vans and campervans, ranging from 7-10 days to 21 days, prioritize accessible coastal, geothermal, and glacial landscapes, with campgrounds equipped for recharging and resting after winding roads.
7-10 days: Discovering the southwest
Start from Keflavik to explore the Reykjanes peninsula with its lava fields and hot springs like the Blue Lagoon, before reaching Reykjavik in 45 minutes for a first night in urban camping. Head towards the Golden Circle: Thingvellir for its tectonic faults, Geysir for its eruptions, and Gullfoss for its powerful waterfall, with camping at Laugarvatn. Continue to the south coast with Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, then Reynisfjara and its black sand beaches, camping at Vik. In 7-10 days, loop back via the Snaefellsnes peninsula for Kirkjufell and the Snaefellsjokull glacier, returning to Keflavik without straying too far north, ideal for mastering Icelandic roads in a campervan without excessive daily kilometers.
14 days: Complete island tour
From Keflavik, start with Reykjanes and the Golden Circle as in the short itinerary, settling in at a campground in Fludir. Head down the south coast towards Vik, Dyrholaey to observe puffins and whales, then Skaftafell in Vatnajokull National Park with glacier hikes, overnight at the local campground. Continue to the East fjords and Husavik for whale watching, Lake Myvatn and its geothermal fields, Akureyri as the northern capital. In 14 days, loop through the West fjords and Snaefellsnes, returning to Keflavik via Borgarnes. This route on Route 1, essential for its complete ring, is perfectly suited for campervans with equipped areas, allowing breaks for cooking and enjoying the northern lights off-season.
21 days: In-depth exploration
Start in Keflavik with Reykjanes, Reykjavik, and the Golden Circle over 3 days, as previously. The south coast leads to Vatnajokull and Jökulsárlón for glacial lagoons, then East fjords and Myvatn over an additional 7 days. Add Askja and its Viti crater in a 4x4 if equipped, Hengifoss and Godafoss near Akureyri. The last 7 days cover West fjords, Snaefellsnes with beaches and cliffs, and a detour to the Westman Islands by ferry from Landeyjahöfn, justified by its birds and active volcanoes. Return to Keflavik after Hveravellir and its hot springs. In 21 days, this slow pace in a campervan allows for hikes, wildlife observation, and nights in isolated areas, capturing the wild essence of Iceland without rushing.