Iceland road trip in October 2016

When you collect your rental car from Blue Car Rental at Keflavík Airport, Iceland’s legendary South Coast is yours to explore. On this route you’ll drive from the airport along Route 1 to the village of Vík, making fantastic stops at the iconic waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss and taking in the dramatic views from the Dyrhólaey peninsula. Whether you’re after photography hot-spots, driving freedom or an unforgettable Iceland adventure, this guide gives you the refined route and practical driving tips for 2025.

Why this South-Coast drive works so well

• The South Coast packs in waterfalls, black-sand beaches, sea-arches and glaciers within a few hours’ drive of Reykjavík.

• Renting a car gives you flexibility to pull over at hidden viewpoints or misty waterfall bases.

• Starting at Keflavík gives you an immediate head-start to beat the crowds and maximise light for photos.

Day 1 – Keflavík → Vík (approx. 2.5 hours driving)

Pick-up and first legs

Collect your 4×4 or SUV from Blue Car Rental. Drive from the airport onto Route 1 east via the Reykjanes Peninsula and onwards along Iceland’s scenic southern shoreline.

Stop 1 – Seljalandsfoss waterfall

Parking is well sign-posted off Route 1. At Seljalandsfoss you can walk behind the cascade – bring a raincoat as the mist reaches the path.
Internal link: “Seljalandsfoss waterfall tips” → a guide to Seljalandsfoss waterfall in Iceland

Stop 2 – Skógafoss waterfall

Just ~25-30 minutes further along Route 1 from Seljalandsfoss sits Skógafoss. Here you can climb a staircase to the top for sweeping coastal views or feel the spray at the base as rainbows form.
Internal link: “Skógafoss waterfall guide” → Skógafoss: visiting Iceland’s iconic waterfall by car hire

Stop 3 – Dyrhólaey peninsula & Vík

Drive onward to Dyrhólaey – look out for the sea-arch, puffins (in summer) and the sweeping rock-column coastline of Reynisdrangar. Then arrive at Vík for overnight.
Internal link: “Dyrhólaey self-drive guide” → Dyrhólaey: self-drive guide to Iceland’s scenic South Coast

Overnight in Vík

We stayed at the Country Hotel Hofdabrekka — tidy rooms, great food and a view over the ocean. Consider it a strong option for your 2025 visit.
Tip: Book early in high season; in autumn check that your rental car includes full-insurance for extra peace of mind.

Practical driving tips (2025 update)

• Vehicle choice: For the South Coast, a 2WD may suffice in summer, but for autumn/winter or gravel detours you’ll want a 4×4.

• Weather & road conditions: Rain, wind and fog are common – check SafeTravel.is for alerts. Most of Route 1 is paved, but side-roads may be gravel.

• Seasonal highlights:

  • Autumn (Sept–Oct): fewer crowds, golden moss, early Northern Lights.

  • Winter (Nov–Mar): limited daylight, icy roads; for remote drives a guided minibus may be better.

• Parking & timing: Arrive early at busy stops (Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss) to avoid crowds and tour-bus blocks.

• Photography gear: A wide-angle lens helps capture full waterfalls; a rain cover for cameras is wise at Seljalandsfoss.

• Safety: Near Reynisfjara beach (just beyond Vík) watch out for “sneaker waves” – always keep a safe distance.

• Insurance: Make sure your rental covers gravel damage if you ever stray from the main road.

Enhance your trip (optional extras)

Consider extending your drive beyond Vík to include canyon Fjaðrárgljúfur or glacier lagoon Jökulsárlón if you have more time.
Internal link: “6-day Ring Road itinerary” → Around Iceland in 6 days: our guide for Ring Road adventure

Stop at local cafés en route for Icelandic lamb soup or fresh fish – adds local flavour and enriches your travel story.

Why choose Blue Car Rental?

Choosing Blue Car Rental means:

• Immediate pick-up at Keflavík Airport – no waiting.

• Latest vehicle fleet (including 4×4, SUVs and EVs) suited for Iceland’s conditions.

• Zero-worry full-insurance options, 24/7 support and local knowledge of the South Coast.
  Internal link: “book your Iceland rental car” → Car Rental in Iceland | Blue Car Rental

Conclusion

The South Coast of Iceland – from Keflavík through Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss and Dyrhólaey to Vík – remains one of the most accessible yet spectacular self-drive routes in the country. With your own rental car you set the pace, pull over at hidden viewpoints, chase waterfalls and stop for the perfect photo moment. Refresh this adventure for 2025, upgrade your planning with the tips above, and link through to our other detailed guides for Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss and Dyrhólaey. Your Iceland driving story starts here.