Driving Route 1 alone was the best choice I ever made. This famous highway goes all around the country, linking waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches. Enjoy complete freedom with no tour groups and no strict schedules.
Seven days provided the ideal mix of adventure and rest. I found secret hot springs, enjoyed beautiful sunsets at night, and saved money with clever tips for travelling alone.
Main Points
- Route 1 makes it easy to get around with clear signs for all the main attractions.
- Seven days is perfect for seeing the highlights at a comfortable pace.
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a great place for photos.
- Tips for budgeting, such as staying in guesthouses and preparing meals at home, can help you make your money last longer.
- Drive steadily and take regular breaks to enjoy the scenery and prevent tiredness.
The Ring Road is ideal for solo travellers.
Travelling alone is simple on Route 1—there’s just one highway that links all the wonders. Most of the top attractions are just 30 minutes from the main route, so you can spend less time finding your way and more time enjoying your adventures. There’s no need for complicated maps; just look for the signs and enjoy the scenery.
Easy Navigation
The road is in good condition, with petrol stations along the way and clear signs to guide you. I seldom used GPS; I just looked for brown attraction signs. Additionally, rest stops such as Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss provide clean facilities, Wi-Fi, and heated lounges for cold days.
Benefits of Travelling Alone Compared to Group Travel
Travelling alone allowed me to pause whenever I felt inspired. No arguments about schedules! Roadside cafés also turned into surprising places for social gatherings. While at a pit stop close to Vik, I exchanged road trip tips with other solo drivers while enjoying lamb soup.
Safety tip: Always look at weather alerts when you stop at rest areas. Their updates helped me avoid a sudden storm close to Höfn.
When to Drive the Ring Road in Iceland
Choosing the right time for your trip can greatly enhance your experience on this famous drive. Seasons influence everything, from the length of days to rental costs, so make sure to plan carefully.
Benefits of Summer for Solo Travellers
From June to August, the sun shines all day, allowing you to hike to waterfalls at midnight or take pictures without any crowds. I enjoyed having more time to explore without the hurry to catch the sunset.
However, peak summer has its drawbacks. July bookings fill up quickly, and prices rise. Is it September? Half the price, with comfortable guesthouses available. Tip: Use Vedur for real-time wind alerts—unexpected gusts can be serious.
Unexpected Delights of the Shoulder Season
May and September provide a more peaceful travel experience, although the days are shorter. Don’t forget to bring a headlamp! I saw the northern lights close to Höfn in September—a nice surprise I didn’t see coming.
Skip April if you’re not prepared for changes in plans. Near Myvatn, road closures delayed my plans. Apps like Road.is have saved me hours by changing my route.
Important Items to Bring on Your Trip
The weather here changes quickly, just like my mood on a Monday. Packing these items helped me stay prepared. Having 200 rainy days each year, my waterproof layers made a big difference. Quick-dry trousers really helped me during my waterfall hikes when unexpected splashes soaked my jeans.
Essential Equipment for Unpredictable Weather
Layering is important. I wore thermal leggings under windproof shells at the glaciers and then changed into breathable shirts at the black sand beaches. A small down jacket packed into my daypack for chilly breaks.
Make sure to get waterproof hiking boots. The icy paths near Jökulsárlón made me thankful for the traction. Here’s a helpful tip: Bring some extra socks—wet feet can make any drive uncomfortable.
Items for Safety While Travelling Alone
An SOS beacon gave me comfort on long, isolated stretches of road. It fits next to my rental car emergency kit, which includes jumper cables and flares. A portable charger helped keep my phone charged for navigation.
I really liked magnetic phone mounts for driving alone—no struggling with maps while on the road. A reliable weather app alerted me about unexpected storms before they arrived.
Renting a car as a woman travelling alone
Renting a car by myself seemed daunting—until I found these helpful tips. I confidently navigated the process, from choosing the right size to understanding the details of insurance documents.
Should I choose a compact car or an SUV? The Challenge of Travelling Alone
A 4×2 compact car was ideal for my trip from May to September. Smaller vehicles helped me save $30 a day compared to SUVs and fit easily into tight parking spots near busy attractions. The improved gas mileage helped me manage my budget better.
Choose a different vehicle unless you plan to drive on rough roads. Most rental companies do not allow off-roading. Tip: Make your reservation early—compact cars get booked quickly during busy times.
Valuable Insurance Add-Ons
Gravel protection handled 90% of the damage claims on my route. Are there chips in your windscreen from loose stones? Completely included. I decided to get sand and ash insurance after hearing scary stories from other travellers.
Steer clear of the upsell rush. Skip unnecessary add-ons like personal accident coverage, as your travel insurance probably already covers it. Instead, concentrate on recording any damage that already exists. I recorded a 360° video of my car before I drove away, which helped clear up a false claim later.
- Blue Car Rental offers the best solo discount with their “Solo Saver”, which eliminates young driver fees.
- Tip for parking: Back into spaces to make leaving easier in small lots.
- Extra charge: Fees for crossing borders if you take a route through the Highlands.
Day 1: Arriving and Relaxing at the Blue Lagoon
As I got off the plane, I wanted to relax right away, and the Blue Lagoon provided just that. After a red-eye flight, the milky water and steam provided the perfect refresh. Here’s how to make the most of your first day without wasting any time.
From the airport to Lagoon Logistics
The Flybus transfer was only 20 minutes from baggage claim. Here’s a helpful tip: Get a SIM card at the airport’s “10-11” convenience store—it’s cheaper than at kiosks. I put my backpack in a locker that fits carry-ons and jumped right in.
Ideal Times to Stay Away from Crowds
Mornings are lively with tour groups. I reserved a 7:30pm time—it’s half the cost and twice as peaceful. The light during the golden hour made the silica mud shine. Bonus: No children splashing around during evening baths.
- Timeline: 3:05 PM landing → 3:45 PM bus → 4:30 PM soak.
- Shower rules: Make sure to rinse completely (no swimsuits) before soaking—staff will check!
- After visiting the lagoon, enjoy the Skyr smoothie at the Lava Restaurant.
Day 2: Highlights of the Golden Circle
My Golden Circle adventures began early—I arrived at Gullfoss before the crowds and enjoyed every moment. This famous route offers amazing geothermal features and impressive waterfalls all in one day. Here’s how to make the most of every moment.
Tips for Taking Solo Photos at Gullfoss Waterfall
The morning light turns Gullfoss into a beautiful golden sight. Get there by 8am to secure the best viewing spot—parking gets full quickly. Without a tripod? Place flat boulders along the lower path to help stabilise it.
Camera settings: A shutter speed of 1/1000s captures the mist clearly, and using 100 ISO helps maintain details. To capture wide shots, position yourself close to the eastern edge of the waterfall at GPS coordinates 64.3269°N, 20.1213°W.
- To keep your lenses safe from spray, use sandwich bags as a protective cover.
- Tour buses are busy from 10 am to 2 pm. Consider visiting Bruarfoss nearby instead.
Best Times to See Geysir Eruptions
Strokkur erupts every 6 to 10 hours, sending boiling water up to 65 feet in the air. Find a place 10 minutes before the expected bursts—the smell of sulphur will help you identify it.
For eruption shots, position yourself 50 feet southeast at coordinates 64.3125°N, 20.3028°W. Burst mode at 5 frames per second captures the perfect arc. After the show, relax at the café in Geysir Centre, where you can enjoy their rye bread soup while taking in the view of the steam vents.
South Coast Waterfall Marathon
The south coast offers amazing natural sights—waterfalls so strong they’ll make your camera shake. This journey offers misty walks and rewarding stair climbs, making it perfect for solo travellers. Simply bring strong shoes and a spirit of adventure.
Seljalandsfoss: Prioritising Safety Behind the Waterfall
Walking behind Seljalandsfoss feels like stepping into a flowing tunnel of water. However, that 360° view has its dangers—15% of visitors slip on the rocky path. My waterproof hiking boots helped me out two times. Here’s a helpful tip: Stay close to the cliffside for better footing.
To take a selfie without a crowd, try going at 8am or after 9pm. The summer light stays bright until 11pm, making the falls look golden. To keep your phone’s lens from fogging up, place it in a ziplock bag with silica gel packets.
Skógafoss: Stairs That Are Worth the Effort
Climbing the 527 steps of Skógafoss is a great workout for your legs, and the view at the top is worth it. A hidden plateau at the top allows you to look into the waterfall’s throat. I filled up on peanut butter packets—300 calories for each ounce—while I watched rainbows appear in the mist.
Close by, hostels such as Hotel Skógafoss provide rooms with views of the waterfalls. The communal kitchen is great for sharing tips about the south coast with other solo travellers.
- Sneakers can be a slippery problem on wet stairs.
- The golden hour casts sunset light on the falls, creating dramatic shadows.
- A quick 10-minute diversion takes you to beautiful black sand views.
Precautions for Visiting Black Sand Beaches Alone
The striking black sand beaches appear calm, but they require careful attelearntI found this out the hard way when a sudden wave almost took my tripod into the Atlantic. These shores feature beautiful rock formations along with some hidden risks—here’s how to explore them safely.
Understanding the Warning Signs of Reynisfjara
The signs at Reynisfjara are not just suggestions; they are essential for your safety. Sneaker waves here reach speeds of 50mph, powerful enough to topple a car. I checked the tide charts on Vedur.is to go during low tide when the waves pull back further. Here’s a helpful tip: Keep an eye out for groups of small waves, as they can signal a dangerous surge coming your way.
To take photos, position yourself close to the basalt columns at the coordinates 64.0415°N, 19.3726°W. These natural barriers stop unexpected waves. Look for emergency shelters with red roofs on the cliffside—remember where they are when you get there.
The Safest Viewing Spots at Dyrhólaey
The famous arch falls down every 3 to 5 years, so it’s best not to stand right under it. I took the shot from the eastern cliff at golden hour, located at 63.4019°N, 19.1268°W. The sunrise brings gentle winds, but the sunset can bring unexpected fog—make sure to pack a headlamp no matter what.
- For parking, try to arrive before 9am or after 6pm to steer clear of tour buses.
- Count 7 waves—the 8th is often the strongest.
- Footwear mishap: Sandals got stuck in volcanic ash—ankle boots protected my toes.
Magic Hour at Glacier Lagoon
I was not ready for the beautiful sound of ice touching water at Jökulsárlón. At dawn, the glacier lagoon is full of life—icebergs break off with loud splashes as seals swim among the floating shapes. Visit at the right time, and you’ll see nature’s true strength in its simplest form.
Front Row or Back Seat? Secrets of Boat Tours
Zodiac tours accommodate only 12 passengers, so choosing your seat is important. The front offers refreshing sprays from the glacier lagoon—ideal for those looking for excitement. I liked the back left corner because it had fewer drips and a clear view of the icebergs breaking the surface.
- Tip for booking: Choose the first tour of the day at 8am for smoother winds.
- Dress code: Wear thermal leggings under waterproof trousers because the boat’s aluminium floor can get very cold.
- Professional cameras with zoom lenses can take clearer pictures of seals that are far away compared to phone cameras.
Diamond Beach at Dawn
Getting there by 5am in June allowed me to enjoy Diamond Beach all alone. The sunrise transforms stranded ice chunks into shining jewels. Pay attention to the crunch beneath your feet—it feels like stepping on frozen champagne bubbles.
Look for the rarest ice sculptures close to the river mouth at coordinates 64.0476°N, 16.1789°W. The waves smooth them into shiny spheres by morning. To stay safe, keep a distance of 10 feet—unexpected waves can pull debris into the water.
Forecasting Ideal Situations
Bright mornings come after cool, starry nights. I looked at Vedur.is for cloud cover forecasts—if it was below 20%, that meant it was a great time for shooting. After the tour, relax at the café in Hali Country Hotel. Their dark chocolate mocha goes well with stories about the lagoon.
- Layering strategy: Start with a Merino wool base, add a down vest, and finish with a windproof shell.
- Fjallsárlón lagoon is a hidden gem with fewer visitors.
- The sounds of melting ice make a soothing ASMR experience.
The Eastern Fjords Detour is a journey you should consider.
Not many travellers go east, but those who do discover peaceful roads where you can hear your own thoughts. Route 95 sees only about 12 cars each day, which is very different from the busy Golden Circle. Here, steep cliffs drop into fjords, and there are more sheep than people. It’s the perfect getaway for solo travellers.
Calm Places for Personal Reflection
Along the route from Seyðisfjörður to Egilsstaðir, stops like Fáskrúðsfjörður provide picnic tables with beautiful ocean views. I want to take a moment to talk about audiobooks—Neil Gaiman’s Norse Mythology reflected the natural beauty of the landscape. Here’s a helpful tip: The sunrise makes the fjords look pink, which is great for journaling.
There are free camping spots along Route 95, but the rules are strict. Stay for a maximum of 1 to 2 days, and always park at least 200 feet away from farms. What I like the most? A clearing on the cliffside close to Breiðdalsvík (64.7921°N, 14.0075°W)—just remember to bring windproof clothing.
Finding Puffins on Your Own
From May to August, the cliffs of Borgarfjörður come alive with puffins. You can use free telescopes at the national park visitor centre to observe their burrows. Keep an eye out for fresh dirt piles near grassy hills. To get close-up views, walk to Hafnarhólmi (65.5333°N, 13.8167°W) during low tide.
- Tip for photos: Choose neutral colors—puffins avoid bright jackets.
- Visit between 6 and 8 PM when the birds come back with fish.
- Cliff edges can break apart easily, so please stay at least 10 feet away.
This diversion is worth the wait. I didn’t check off any “must-see” lists here—just enjoyed the salty air and the excitement of exploring.
The Unique Landscapes of Myvatn
Visiting Myvatn feels like arriving on a different planet. The bubbling mud pots and steaming vents offer a strange but captivating experience. This area is different from busy tourist spots. It allows you to explore at your own speed, making it ideal for solo travellers who want some peaceful time.
Getting Through Hverir’s Sulphur Surprise
The geothermal fields here can damage shoes that aren’t ready for it. My hiking boots became orange from sulphur stains after just 20 minutes. Here’s a helpful tip: Keep baking soda and a stiff brush in your car. Clean your boots right after your visit to avoid any lasting damage.
The scent stays around as well. I kept my clothes in a sealed bag until it was time to do laundry. Is it worth it? Of course. Seeing mud pots bubble up under the midnight sun was a unique experience for me.
Myvatn Nature Baths: The Relaxing Alternative to Blue Lagoon
Avoid the crowds at the Blue Lagoon and come here instead. The milky blue water has the same skin-friendly minerals, but at 60% less cost. Come at 8pm for sunset soaks—you’ll enjoy the space alone after the day visitors go home.
- Mineral comparison: There is more silica here than in the Blue Lagoon, but the lower algae content results in clearer water.
- Essential items for the locker room: flip-flops (the floor gets hot) and leave-in conditioner (sulphur can dry out hair).
- Enjoy a hidden swim at 10pm during summer—see the sky change to pink above the lava fields.
After soaking, I applied coconut oil to my hair. By morning, the smell of sulphur had disappeared. For dinner, the rye bread ice cream from Vogafjós Farm was a wonderfully strange yet tasty way to finish an extraordinary day.
Hunting for the Northern Lights Alone
Seeing the northern lights by myself was the most enchanting experience of my solo travels. I could stay out until 3am when the auroras were at their brightest, unlike group tours. Using these tools and tricks, you’ll increase your chances without feeling stuck.
Following the Lights Like an Expert
These apps became my essential support at night. Aurora Forecast provides updates every 15 minutes along with real-time cloud cover maps. I matched it with:
- My Aurora Alerts: It buzzes when there is increased activity close to your GPS location.
- Windy.com: Displays precise wind directions that clear away clouds
- Dark Sky: Local weather forecasts for the next 2 hours
Here’s a helpful tip: Switch all your apps to dark mode—it’s good for your night vision.
Tips for Watching Alone Safely
There are risks associated with Jökulsárlón’s 85% sighting rate. I used these locations:
- Gas stations open 24 hours: Well-lit parking lots with clear views of the sky (Höfn and Egilsstaðir)
- For hotel wake-up calls, you can request aurora alerts from the reception, as they keep an eye on staff radios.
- Roadside pullouts: Between mile markers 32 and 35 on Route 1, there are wide shoulders.
I ran the engine for 10 minutes every hour for the car heaters. A thermos of hot chocolate made the night feel warm and cosy.
Here’s a phone photography tip: Try using night mode with a 3-second exposure. Place your phone against a water bottle to take steady shots without shaking. This changed my trip from just watching to actively seeking the aurora.
Akureyri – The Ideal Stop for Solo Travellers
This lovely town became my favourite place to relax and recharge. Located between mountains and fjords, Akureyri combines the charm of a small town with the comforts of a city. From enjoying lattes at unique cafés to relaxing at public pools, it’s made for solo travellers to take a break.
Where to Locate the Best Window Seats
Bláa Kannan Café is recognised for its cosy atmosphere. Get there before 9am to grab the corner window seat—ideal for watching people while enjoying a cinnamon roll. You can exchange books for free and trade novels with other travellers.
Here’s a helpful tip: Try the speciality dish, kleinur (twisted doughnuts), and pair it with birch syrup on the side. The WiFi reaches 45Mbps—perfect for uploading photos while you enjoy a snack.
Guide to Staying Safe at Public Pools
The geothermal pools at Sundlaug Akureyrar need careful pre-shower checks. Staff really pay attention—no skipping! You can bring a swim cap, which is available for $8 at the site, or you can rent one at the reception.
- Quiet areas: No talking in the warmest pools—locals really value their relaxation.
- The best time is between 6 and 7 PM, when workers are leaving and the water temperatures are adjusting.
- Start a conversation by asking about the pool’s special mineral mix, which includes a high level of lithium.
After my soak, I started conversations at the communal table in Kaffi Ilmur. Their tasting plate of fermented shark turned into a funny bonding moment with other solo travellers. The secret is simple. Enjoy it with their special rhubarb schnapps.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula Finale
On my last day, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula showcased its most stunning landscapes—a perfect ending to my trip. The coastal cliffs, mossy lava fields, and the famous Kirkjufell mountain make a great start and finish for any road trip. It only takes 4 hours to circle the peninsula, making it a perfect addition to your final day.
Kirkjufell Photo Angles on Your Own
Get to Kirkjufell 2 hours before sunset for the best lighting. The small waterfall at GPS 64.9266°N, 23.3076°W creates a lovely natural foreground. You can use flat basalt rocks as temporary tripods. To gain different viewpoints:
- Look from the east side to see the mountains reflected in the rain pools.
- Take a shot through the twisted branches of birch trees to create a natural frame.
- Capture the waterfall’s flow in a time-lapse using a 1/4 second shutter speed.
Here’s a local tip: The petrol station café offers great coffee sleeves that work well with tripods—perfect for keeping your hands steady in the cold.
Energy Management for Last-Day Driving
Power naps at Hellissandur harbour (a quiet parking spot at 64.9149°N, 23.9003°W) refreshed me more than espresso. Here is my survival kit:
- Chocolate covered in Icelandic liquorice for a steady source of energy.
- Check out an upbeat playlist and give “Sólstafir” a listen for some epic road vibes.
- Gas stops are marked in advance—stations become less frequent after Grundarfjörður.
As my trip came to an end, I saw that Snæfellsnes was more than just a place to visit—it was the highlight of an amazing journey.
Budget Tips I Discovered Through Experience
Managing my budget while travelling alone taught me more than any guidebook could. These tips, from grocery tricks to hidden charges, helped me save hundreds on my trip. Here’s how to save money while still enjoying everything.
Shopping for Groceries Alone
Bonus supermarkets have become my go-to places—they’re easy to find and less expensive than petrol stations. My tip for life? A silicone container that can be collapsed, perfect for deli meals. It holds enough for 3 days of salads or sandwiches, helping you save $15 each day on takeaway.
It’s important to follow the rules of the hostel kitchen. Mark everything with your checkout date, and:
- Visit Krónan after 8pm to get 50% off ready meals. Their lamb stew is even better than what you find in restaurants.
- Look at yoghurt prices based on weight—Skyr tubs are cheaper per ounce than single-serve cups.
- Bananas at the petrol station cost $1.50, while at the supermarket they are $0.80.
Reducing Costs on Single Occupancy Fees
Many hostels provide private rooms at 60% of the price of hotels. I got one at Kex Hostel by booking during the week. Having access to their kitchen helped me save on food.
When renting a car, always enquire: “What’s the best upgrade you have available?”Returning my vehicle early got me a free SUV upgrade at Blue Car Rental. Additional victories:
- I declined the insurance at the counter because my credit card already covered it.
- Pay in the local currency to avoid extra fees from dynamic currency conversion.
- I used the N1 app to get petrol discounts and saved $4 per tank.
Wise spending allowed for more money to enjoy glacier hikes and lagoon soaks—the true highlights of any adventure.
More beautiful than any picture
No camera could truly capture the scent of glacier air at dawn—fresh and timeless, like the earth awakening from its frozen slumber. The sound of ice crunching beneath my feet and the far-off noise of icebergs breaking apart—these became my true guide.
Social media presents pretty pictures, but the reality is more complicated. The wind tangled my hair. Boots covered in mud. The calm satisfaction of travelling alone. That’s an experience that no filter can recreate.
This journey showed me how to find joy in moments that are just for myself. The steam lifted from the hot springs while rain gently fell on my shoulders. The silence feels heavy in the empty lava fields. Pack your bags and leave your expectations behind. The best discoveries happen when the photos stop.
FAQ
Is it safe for solo travellers to drive the Ring Road?
Of course! The path is clearly marked, and there are many stops with facilities available. Simply look at the weather alerts and road conditions each day.
When is the ideal time of year for this trip?
Summer has long days, but the shoulder seasons like May or September have fewer people and better prices.
Do I require a specific type of car for this trip?
A small SUV is ideal—it’s comfortable for long trips and strong enough for rough roads. Make sure to always have gravel insurance!
What are some ways to steer clear of crowds at the Blue Lagoon?
Choose the first or last time slot of the day. The evening soak after my flight was wonderful—much more relaxing.
Do you have any advice for taking solo photos at waterfalls?
Use a lightweight tripod or find some rocks to help stabilise your setup. Early mornings are great for avoiding photo bombers at Gullfoss and Skógafoss.
Are black sand beaches truly dangerous?
Indeed, trainer waves are serious. Keep a distance of 100 feet from the water, and always face the ocean at Reynisfjara.
Is it possible to see puffins without going on a tour?
Absolutely! Visit Borgarfjörður Eystri in the east—there’s a free viewing platform located right by the road.
What is your top packing essential?
Layers that keep water out! I wore my rain jacket a lot because the weather changes quickly, especially around glaciers and lagoons.
How can I see the northern lights by myself?
Get the Aurora Forecast app and stay close to your place after sunset. Many guesthouses provide wake-up calls for sightings.
Do you have any tips for dining alone on a budget?
Bonus supermarkets are a great help. I bought a lot of Skyr yoghurt and sandwiches—saved a lot compared to eating out.
