RV route planner for a Motorhome road trip in Iceland

This trip passes in the following countries: Iceland
RV route planner for a Motorhome road trip in Iceland
  • Animals Show / Wildlife watch 4
  • Botanical garden 1
  • cave 1
  • Cruise Terminal / Sailing 1
  • Family Activity 1
  • hiking area 1
  • Horseback Riding 1
  • Local Industry 2
  • Museum 3
  • Natural Feature 5
  • Spa / Terme 1
  • Traditional Restaurant / Fine Dining 1
  • Traditional Visit 4

Route Snapshot: Iceland North East

Duration 11 Days
Total Distance 1,682 km
Start / End Reykjavik to Reykjavik
Region Iceland
Perfect For Families, nature enthusiasts, and slow travelers
Best Season Summer (June through August) for prime driving conditions

Why This 11-Day Iceland Route Works for RV Travel

Embarking on a motorhome road trip in Iceland is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the country's dramatic landscapes. This 11-day, 1,682 km itinerary allows you to step away from your daily routine and embrace a true slow-travel rhythm. Starting and ending in Reykjavik, this loop into the North East balances awe-inspiring natural features with rich cultural heritage. Having your own RV means you can dictate the pace—whether that means lingering a little longer at Kolugljúfur Canyon to admire the stunning views or taking your time to prepare a family meal surrounded by untouched wilderness. It is a carefully paced vacation designed to draw a big smile on your family’s faces.

Route Rhythm: Reykjavik to Reykjavik

To truly appreciate this 1,682 km journey, we recommend breaking the drive into regional stages rather than rushing from point to point. For the comprehensive, day-by-day itinerary with exact stopovers, unlock the full plan on rvplan.net.

Stage 1: Out of the Capital & Western Landscapes

Departing Reykjavik, the initial leg of your journey eases you into the motorhome lifestyle. The landscape quickly transforms from urban settings to expansive valleys and striking geological formations. This is the perfect time to get comfortable behind the wheel and enjoy the serene, open roads as you head toward the northern territories.

Stage 2: Northern Heritage & Coastal Exploration

As you progress further north, the focus shifts to Iceland's deep-rooted history and coastal beauty. The rhythm here is unhurried, allowing for immersive family activities and traditional visits. You will have ample opportunity to explore beautifully preserved historical sites and perhaps take to the water for a luxurious sailing experience, breathing in the fresh maritime air.

Stage 3: Geothermal Wonders & Active Pursuits

The eastern stretch of the route brings you face-to-face with Iceland's famous geothermal activity. The driving pace remains relaxed, giving you time to hike, explore local caves, and eventually unwind in renowned nature baths. This stage is all about wellness, superb views, and calm weather relaxation.

Stage 4: The Southern Return

The final stage loops you back toward Reykjavik. The distances are manageable, allowing you to reflect on the journey, take in any final wildlife watching opportunities, and prepare for a celebratory traditional Icelandic meal upon your return to the capital.

Key Locations and Themes to Discover

This route is packed with diverse experiences that cater to every type of traveler. While the full interactive plan is available on RV PLANET, here is a taste of what to expect:

  • Natural Features & Geothermal Spas: Prepare to be stunned by the dramatic depths of Kolugljúfur Canyon. Later in the trip, combine superb views with ultimate relaxation at the Mývatn Nature Baths. The route is also dotted with fascinating caves and expansive hiking areas.
  • Culture & Heritage: Step back in time at the Glaumbær Farm & Museum, where visitors can tour beautifully preserved turf houses. Engage in traditional visits and learn about local industry along the way.
  • Wildlife & Active Family Fun: Keep an eye out for local fauna with dedicated wildlife watching stops and animal shows. For the adventurous, horseback riding and luxury sailing trips from local cruise terminals offer unforgettable ways to see the landscape.
  • Culinary Delights: A road trip isn't complete without great food. Be sure to experience fine dining and traditionally inspired Icelandic dishes, particularly at standout spots like Old Iceland in Reykjavik.

Trip-Prep Q&A: Planning Your Iceland RV Adventure

Is this RV route worth it?

Absolutely. Covering 1,682 km over 11 days provides the perfect balance of driving and exploring. It offers a comprehensive look at Iceland's North East without the exhaustion of a rushed schedule.

How many days do I really need?

While 11 days is the recommended duration to comfortably cover the distance and enjoy all the family activities, botanical gardens, and museums, adding an extra day or two for pure relaxation is always a great idea for slow travelers.

Who is this route for?

This itinerary is tailor-made for families, couples, and nature lovers looking for a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural immersion. The inclusion of easy hikes, museums, and relaxing spas makes it accessible and enjoyable for all ages.

What is the best season to go?

Summer is generally the best time for an RV trip in Iceland. The milder weather, extended daylight hours, and fully accessible roads ensure that you can safely reach all the natural features and hiking areas on your itinerary.

Booking Your Motorhome & Budget Framing

When planning your budget for this Icelandic adventure, it is important to factor in several categories. Fuel will be a significant consideration for the 1,682 km journey, as will campground fees, which range from basic public sites to well-equipped private parks. Groceries and dining—especially if you plan to treat yourself at places like Old Iceland—should also be factored in, alongside entrance fees for museums, spas, and sailing excursions.

Because this is a round-trip route starting and ending in Reykjavik, you will not have to worry about one-way drop-off fees, which helps keep costs predictable. To get the most accurate, real-time pricing and to secure the perfect motorhome for your family size, we highly recommend booking well in advance.

Ready to lock in your vehicle and access the complete, turn-by-turn itinerary? Head over to RV PLANET to finalize your booking and start preparing for the road trip of a lifetime.

Interactive route map

See the full polyline, drag stops to customize, and get live pricing in one click.

Open this route in RV PLAN →

Official RV PLAN route map

Budget & planning snapshot for this route (11-day trip)

Nearby RV rental stationsMcRent ICE-26 E (Reykjavik), Camper Iceland-26-E (Reykjavik), Touring Cars ICE - 26-E (Reykjavik), Rent Easy ICE-26 E (Reykjavik)
Sample RV cost — 4 travelers (Class A / B / C)Check live prices for your dates
Estimated fuel cost (total)$850–$1,100
Estimated campground cost (total)$450–$650
Estimated attractions & entrance fees — family of 4$300–$500
Estimated groceries / self-catered food — family of 4$600–$850
Live availability & pricingCheck live availability & pricing on Rent Motorhome →

Estimate assumptions: Estimates assume a Class C motorhome averaging 10 mpg, average Icelandic fuel prices, and a mix of public and private campsites during the summer season. All figures are estimates — verify on Rent Motorhome and RV PLAN for your travel dates.

Route rhythm at a glance

A high-level look at how the route flows in stages. The exact daily stops, overnight picks, and detour options are built for you inside RV PLAN — open the route to see the full plan.

Iceland - North east — Reykjavik RV road trip landscape

Days 1-3 — Out of the Capital & Western Landscapes

~350–450 km across this leg

Ease into the motorhome lifestyle as you leave the capital behind to explore dramatic canyons and sweeping rural valleys.

Iceland - North east — Reykjavik scenic landscape

Days 4-6 — Northern Heritage & Coastal Exploration

~400–500 km across this leg

Immerse yourself in Iceland's cultural roots and maritime history, enjoying traditional architecture and coastal sailing opportunities.

Iceland - North east — national park landscape

Days 7-9 — Geothermal Wonders & Active Pursuits

~400–500 km across this leg

Navigate through striking natural features, taking time to relax in renowned nature baths and explore expansive hiking areas.

Iceland - North east — campground with a motorhome

Days 10-11 — The Southern Return

~250–350 km across this leg

Complete the loop back to Reykjavik at a relaxed pace, culminating in fine traditional dining to celebrate the journey.

Verified RV logistics for this route

  • Average daily drive: roughly 153 km/day. Build in shorter days near national parks and scenic stops.
  • Fuel stops: expect at least 3 fill-ups along the route (typical Class C tank range ~600 km / 370 mi).
  • Dump stations: plan 3 dump stops, roughly every 3 days.
  • Campground booking lead time: 3–6 months ahead for state/national park sites; 2–4 weeks is usually fine for private RV resorts.
  • Season check: confirm on RV PLAN that every overnight stop is open for your dates — several close out of season.

Live availability and pricing

Total cost for this 11-day itinerary depends on the rig you pick, the pickup season, mileage add-ons, and any one-way drop-off fee across the 1,682 km route. Check live availability and a real quote for the Reykjavik → Reykjavik pickup window on Rent Motorhome.

Live availability & pricing for this exact route

Prices update daily. See the full breakdown — nightly rate, taxes, one-way fee, mileage package — for your travel dates.

Check live availability & pricing on Rent Motorhome →

Motorhomes available in Reykjavik for this route

These are real vehicles in our Reykjavik pickup fleet that fit a multi-week western U.S. itinerary. Configure dates on rvplan.net to see live availability and the total trip cost for the exact rig you want.

MotorhomeClassSleepsLengthTransmission
MH6 - FRIGG
Camper Iceland-26-E
Class C - Alcove 7 7.0 m Manual Transmission
EcoLine 6
McRent ICE-26 E
Class C - Alcove 6 7.3 m Manual Transmission
Category Family 5
Touring Cars ICE - 26-E
Class SI - Semi-integrated 6 7.0 m Manual Transmission
Family Plus
McRent ICE-26 E
Class C - Alcove 6 7.2 m Manual Transmission
Family Luxury
McRent ICE-26 E
Class C - Alcove 6 7.3 m Manual Transmission

Check availability and book this route

Pick your dates below and we'll open the live RV PLANET booking flow for the Reykjavik → Reykjavik route.

More RV routes from Reykjavik

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