Iceland September Itinerary – 14-Day Road Trip + Photo Tips

Answer the call of the wild in September with a self-drive itinerary that spans Iceland’s breathtaking Ring Road.

This 14-day September itinerary is timed perfectly to offer you the best of Iceland—vibrant landscapes with fewer people, at a lower cost, and under the ethereal glow of the Northern Lights.

All the attractions on our 14-day itinerary were accessed using a 2WD hire car.

I’ve also included photography tips that might help you along the way.

So, whether you’re looking for the famous sights or off-the-beaten-path marvels, get ready to explore the essence of Iceland’s rugged beauty.

A Quick Dive: Why is Iceland Worth Visiting in September?

September heralds the start of fall in Iceland, offering a quieter time to visit but allowing for a more intimate experience of Iceland’s natural wonders.

Travelling to Iceland in September offers numerous advantages. Here’s why we chose to visit:

• Shoulder Season Benefits: Enjoy lower costs and fewer crowds; cheaper flights and accommodations (compared to peak times) and better availability to hotels and car rentals.
• Pleasant Weather: September’s weather conditions are generally favourable. We experienced a few intermittent showers, but not enough to force us indoors.
• Northern Lights: This out-of-world wonder of nature becomes visible in September. We had our best sightings of the Northern Lights, but more on the lights later in the post.
• Moderate Temperatures: Expect a comfortable temperature range between 5 to 10°C. However, temperatures dipped markedly in the vicinity of Jokulsarion Glacier Lagoon.
• Outdoor Accessibility: Without snow cover, driving is safer, and hiking trails are more navigable. We did not experience any snow.
• Autumn Scenery: Any fall colours can enhance the warmth of your photographs.
• Extended Daylight: There’s still ample daylight, between 11.5 to 14.5 hours, to explore attractions.

If you are travelling as a couple, why not brush up on some road trip tips for couples to keep the fun turned up and the stress on the low down?

Top 10 Unmissable September Spots in Iceland

Selecting the top 10 must-see attractions in Iceland was no easy task.

This land of fire and ice is definitely where Mother Nature reigns supreme. She ensures there is adventure and excitement at every twist and turn.

The country is home to many breathtaking sites, some man-made but mostly masterful creations of nature.

After much deliberation, here are our ten ‘must-see’ guaranteed Iceland September attractions:

• Sun Voyager sculpture (Reykjavik)
• Hallgrímskirkja (Reykjavik)
• Geyser field (Haukadalur Valley
• Reynisfjara black sand beach (near Vik)
• Skogafoss waterfall (near Vik)
• Víðimýrarkirkja (near Sauðárkrókur)
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon (near Höfn)
• Seyðisfjarðarkirkja (Seydisfjordur)
• Hverir lava fields (near Reykjahlíð)
• Ásbyrgi canyon (near Húsavík)

And what of the Northern Lights?

In my opinion, a Northern Lights sighting deserves the No. 1 spot and would be the icing on the cake for any Iceland trip. However, there’s no guarantee, so reluctantly, I couldn’t include it in the list.

BUT… you can stack the odds in your favour for a Northern Lights sighting. I cover this later in this article.

If you’re sort of new to photography, then my article covering photography on a road trip might be just the thing to get you going.

Iceland September Itinerary: 14-Day Ring Road Overview

Iceland’s Ring Road stretches for 1332 km (828 miles), making it the country’s longest road. You can navigate it in either direction, but we travelled anticlockwise.

Video: Iceland in 2 Minutes  

Here’s a 2-minute taster of our 14 days in Iceland.

Planning Your September Itinerary

planning your September adventure in Iceland, it’s wise to allocate at least a week to ten days, allowing you to navigate its eclectic terrain in a robust 4×4, chase the auroras, and still have moments of tranquil reflection amidst its majestic landscapes

For a September escape to Iceland, it’s worth earmarking 14 days to explore the ring road; however, you may have more or less time to allocate.

Is 14 days in September Enough Time?

Absolutely, 14 days offers an ideal timeframe to fully experience the Iceland Ring Road and all its attractions. We saw the best of Iceland’s attractions, and importantly, we did not need to rush.

Less than 14 days to travel Iceland?

Tick off your favourite attractions and focus on seeing them. Iceland has a lot to see in all parts of the country, so you’re sure to see interesting sights along the way.

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula (known as ‘Iceland in Miniature’), western and southern coasts of Iceland should be your area of focus; full of wonderful sights.

More than 14 days to travel Iceland?

Extend your stay at any stops mentioned in this itinerary and make the trip more leisurely. With hindsight, we would have stayed an extra night at Höfn to explore more of the area around the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.

Hire a 2WD or 4WD to Travel Iceland?

All the remarkable attractions featured in this 14-day ring road itinerary are safely and legally accessed from the Ring Road in a 2WD vehicle.

The Ring Road largely hugs the coastline, making it perfect for a 2WD. It bypasses the inland’s mountainous regions, which would otherwise require hiring a 4WD vehicle.

The benefits of hiring a 2WD over a 4WD are:

• Lower cost
• Greater availability
• You won’t need a 4WD to drive the roads if you follow this itinerary
• Lower insurance premiums.

Or pick your own spectacular overnight stop, every night in Iceland, when touring in a motorhome.

Plan Your Stay for an Iceland Ring Road Trip

Whenever possible, we arranged for a two-night stay at each stopover, affording us the opportunity to explore at our leisure without feeling hurried. I’ve included our accommodation option on each day’s itinerary.

Our preference was largely for bed and breakfasts, where we often enjoyed the convenience of early check-ins. This was helpful as it allowed us to dump our luggage, regroup, and venture out for the day.

Additionally, staying at least two nights at the same location helped alleviate the fatigue of repacking and relocating to new accommodations daily, which becomes tiresome over two weeks.

Leaving nothing to chance, we had all accommodation and car bookings confirmed 6 months in advance.

Map: Iceland Ring Road Attractions – September

To use this map, expand it using the square symbol on the top right-hand side and then look to the key on the left-hand side. By clicking each location, you will find the corresponding position on the map. 

• Blue circles with a star denote an attraction;
• Dark Green circles denote overnight accommodation;
• Black circles denote churches;
• Yellow circles denote viewpoints;
• Brown circles denote alternative routes to the toll road;
• Orange denotes the DC3 plane wreck;
• A Light Green circle denotes an alternative option.

Our Accommodation for 14 Days in Iceland

We tried to book at least two nights at each overnight stop. This meant we had a base for the immediate area and avoided the unpacking and re-packing monotony.

🛌 Night 1 – Reykjavik

🛌 Night 2,3 – Skógar

🛌 Night 4,5 – Höfn

🛌 Night 6,7 – Egilsstaðir

🛌 Night 8,9 – Akureyri

🛌 Night 10 – Hvítserkur

🛌 Night 11,12 – Olafsvik

🛌 Night 13 – Reykjavik

Free: Roadtrip Planner Download

To help you with your road trip planning, we’re giving you a free trip planner to organise all your valuable information in one place. We use this ourselves.

September in Iceland Itinerary – Our 14-day Extravaganza

Iceland is so different from the many countries we have visited. This remote island accentuates nature’s rawness.

For us, being able to get so close to so many of the island’s attractions, plus the sheer diversity of the landscapes, made it an extraordinary and memorable experience.

Day 1: Reykjavik

🏡 Overnight Accommodation: Reykjavik

When we arrived at Keflavik Airport, 50km from Reykjavik, our priority was to pick up the hire car. Many of the hire car companies are based near the airport, so we took the free airport shuttle bus. 

Now that you’re mobile, here’s what you can look forward to in Reykjavik:

• Sun Voyager,
• Hallgrimskirkja,
• Monument to the Unknown Bureaucrat,
• Tjörnin Lake,
• Harbourside Old Fisherman Huts

Sun Voyager

As a photographer, one of my favourite places to visit in Reykjavik is the Sun Voyager, which is easily the most famous sculpture in Iceland.

Sun Voyager reflects the artist’s impression of a ‘promise of undiscovered territory, a dream of hope, progress and freedom’.

Hallgrimskirkja

The Lutheran Church of Hallgrimskirkja dominates Reykjavik’s skyline. What grabbed my attention was its unique architecture. The church’s architect was moved by shapes formed by cooling lava.

Iceland’s basalt columns provided the inspiration for the church’s unique design. The same architect designed the Akureyri Church (we visited Akureyri later).

Above the bell tower is an open-air observation deck. Tower opening times can be found on the Hallgrímskirkja website.

Monument to the Unknown Bureaucrat

The Monument to the Unknown Bureaucrat is a somewhat distinctive piece of art. It isn’t attractive, but it certainly makes you stop and ponder.

The head and upper torso are blocks of bland basalt, said to represent the bureaucrat’s thankless, anonymous job.

Tjörnin

We escaped downtown Reykjavik to the small lake of Tjörnin. Walking many of the paths brought us face-to-face with interesting sculptures and works of art.

There was plenty of birdlife in and around the lake, so I used my long lens to photograph them.   

Harbourside Old Fisherman Huts

At Reykjavik harbourside, some old fisherman huts have been renovated into restaurants, arts and crafts shops, design boutiques, souvenir stores and coffee shops. Modern touches that retain the hint of the past.

We found a handy information board at the harbour entrance, which helped us get our bearings in Reykjavik’s Old Harbour.

Northern Lights in Iceland

September is the month when the lights begin their mesmerising dance. I wasn’t going to pass up an opportunity.

From Reykjavik, we drove south to Lake Kleifarvatn and didn’t have to wait long after sunset to get the amazing sightings we hoped for.

There are a few tools that help predict if the Northern Lights will be visible. I cover this in detail further down in this article.

Alternative: If you don’t want the hassle of driving at night, then consider joining a Northern Lights tour.

Day 2: Golden Circle Route

🏡 Overnight Accommodation: Skógar

• Þingvellir National Park / Thingvellir National Park
• Kerið Crater
• Geysir field including ‘Strokker‘
• Gullfoss Waterfall
• Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

To begin our 14 days, we drove the Golden Circle route, visiting Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and the Gullfoss waterfall before swinging south to discover more of Iceland.

Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park  

Thingvellir National Park is the first stop on the Golden Circle Route and has some impressive geology. The centuries-long tectonic movement has resulted in ravines filled with glacier meltwater.

Get your walking boots on as there are many trails to choose from in the park, and even some abandoned farms named Vatnskot, Hrauntún and Skógarkot can be discovered. Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park offers a free hiking map for download.

Þingvellir National Park is a UNESCO world heritage listed site.

Kerið Crater

Kerið Crater, a crater lake, was a volcano that collapsed, forming the crater you see today.

We walked the perimeter of the crater for roughly 20 minutes before descending to the waterline. From its base, you really get the full impression of the crater’s 170m diameter and 55m height.

Geyser Field

The Haukadalur Valley, about 100km from Reykjavik, is a geothermal valley with mud baths and two famous geysers, Geyser and Strokkur.

Geyser no longer erupts, but Strokkur is dependable. It erupts every 5 to 10 minutes and has a plume height of 30m.

We spent about an hour wandering the mud baths and timing the eruption to get some decent shots.

The Geyser Centre offers free parking, and for safety, the geysers and hot springs are all roped off.

📸 Photography Tip

To capture the initial burst of the geyser into the air, wait for the big steam bubble to become visible, and then wait about a second.

Gullfoss

Gullfoss, Iceland’s most famous waterfall, is located 10km from the Haukadalur Valley.

We followed the path upstream to the water’s edge, where the water drops an initial 11m, then followed it downstream, where it plunges 12m into the Gullfossgjúfur canyon.

Being so close to the water, there is plenty of fine spray, so we ended up a little wet but nothing too drastic. Don’t fancy being so close, opt for the lookout views above.

Day 3: Vik

🏡 Overnight Accommodation: Skógar

• Seljalandsfoss waterfall
• Rutshellir caves
• Drangurinn í Drangshlíð (ancient rock dwellings),
• Skógafoss waterfall
• Kvernufoss waterfall

Seljalandsfoss (waterfall)

Seljalandsfoss is a popular waterfall that is visible from the ring road.

What did we love about this waterfall?

You can walk under a rock ledge and behind the waterfall to watch the waters plunge into a pool below. We found it to be one of the most accessible waterfalls we visited.

We recommend you wear waterproofs. There is a parking fee here.

Rutshellir Caves

The Rutshellir Caves are thought to be the oldest place of habitation in Iceland.

The cave entrance is via a stone-walled and grass-roofed annex. It’s certainly a glimpse into the past, showcasing how tough life must have been back then.

These ancient man-made caves are 95km from Seljalandsfoss and are visible from the Ring Road.

Although there is no dedicated parking, we found a small clearing nearby and just off the road. It’s free to enter.

Drangurinn Í Drangshlíð

Sometimes called ‘elf rock,’ Drangurinn is a large solitary volcanic rock on an open field below the beautiful Eyjafjöll mountains. Farmers have used it for centuries to store hay and other implements inside its many caves.

As with many of these Icelandic cave structures, a fable that this cave was also home to elves makes for a much more intriguing story. It’s free to enter; however, you must cross over farming land for close-up views.

We didn’t enter the caves as they were occupied with farming tools.

Skógafoss (waterfall)

Skógafoss is a stunning waterfall with a width of 20m and a fall of 60m, just 5km from Drangurinn í Drangshlíð.

You can carefully navigate the wet, stony riverbed to get right up close to the face of this majestic waterfall. Yep, waterproofs will come in handy.

It has easy access and is free. A campsite is just a few hundred metres away.

Kvernufoss (waterfall)

Kvernufoss is the understated hero of waterfalls. Tucked away from the road, it cannot be seen. We had to follow a short scenic trail along a river to bring it into sight.

It’s a miniature Skógafoss.

You can access a path to get behind the falls, but be mindful that this is a wet, stony, uneven path that requires careful negotiation. It’s worth the effort, though.

Kvernufoss is 1.5km from Skógafoss and is another free attraction.

Day 4: Vik

🏡 Overnight Accommodation: Höfn

• Sólheimasandur plane wreck
• Dyrhólaey (rock arch in the sea)
• Reynisfjara Beach
• Basalt sea stacks

Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck

On the open black lava plains in remote South Iceland lies the Sólheimasandur plane wreck.

It is a desolate spot.

A US Navy Douglas C-117 plane crashed in November 1973 after running out of fuel. Luckily, there were no casualties.

We walked 45 minutes on flat but stony ground to reach the plane from the carpark, however, there is the option to pay for a shuttle ‘bus’.

This ‘bus’ was a Russian missile carrier in another life. It operates between 10 am and 5 pm.

Dyrhólaey 

Dyrhólaey translates to ‘door hole’, a fitting description of the 120-meter-high rock arch that forms part of a small promontory in Iceland’s southernmost part. 

When the weather is calm, small boats can pass through the opening. We needed to park and walk to a lookout to see this. This car park also provides the closest access to Reynisfjara Beach.

Reynisfjara Beach

Known for its stunning volcanic black sand beach and spectacular basalt columns, Reynisfjara Beach has been listed as one of the top ten non-tropical beaches in the world. 

Unfortunately, Reynisfjara Beach access was closed during our visit due to the prevailing heavy seas, which prevented us from walking down onto the beach. We were certainly disappointed, but you can’t argue with Mother Nature.

The lookout offered great views of Reynisfjara Beach and the lone basalt sea stack, Arnardrangur, sometimes called Eagle Rock.

Day 5: Höfn

🏡 Overnight Accommodation: Höfn

• Hofskirkja
• Svartifoss, Magnúsarfoss, Hundafoss waterfalls 
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Jokusarlon Glacier Lagoon
• Diamond Beach

Hofskirkja

Hofskirkja, on the eastern coast, 150km from Vik, was the last of the six turf churches built in the late 19th century.

How was a turf church built? First, huge stones were placed down as a foundation, then the wooden structure was built on top, and finally, turf was fitted to the frame.

This method is quite similar to Norway’s famous Stave churches.

The grass mounds you can see on the church grounds are actually old burial mounds.

Svartifoss, Magnúsarfoss, Hundafoss Waterfalls

The three waterfalls of Svartifoss, Magnúsarfoss and Hundafoss are located in Vatnajökull National Park, within close proximity of each other.

If you wanted to visit just one, Svartifoss would be it, with its distinctly hexagonal basalt columns that fringe the canyon walls. However, we soon realised that to reach Svartifoss, you must pass by the other two waterfalls anyway.

The views of Magnúsarfoss and Hundafoss are partial, so they didn’t impress us much, and these two really are a sideline act to Svartifoss.

An easy walking path makes the 3.0km round trip fly by. There is a visitor centre near the paid car park.  

Jökusárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökusárlón Glacier Lagoon is a large glacial lake in south-eastern Iceland, within the Vatnajökull National Park region. It is one of the most beautiful sights in Iceland and is on our list of favourite attractions.

You can view large, multi-coloured icebergs that have splintered from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier tongue and drifted slowly down to the sea.

It is a stunning sight.

Diamond Beach

Diamond Beach sits between the Jökusárlón Glacier Lagoon outlet and the sea.

It has earned its name from the small ‘bergs that wash up on the black lava beaches. The contrasting colours are magnificent. It is the most beautiful sight.

Day 6: Höfn

🏡 Overnight Accommodation: Egilsstaðir

• Hvalnes Nature Reserve Beach and Hvalnes Lighthouse
• Eggin í Gledivik egg sculptures 
• Hafnarnes Lighthouse

Hvalnes Nature Reserve Beach and Hvalnes Lighthouse

The long black lava rock beach heralds the beautiful Hvalnes Nature Reserve Beach. With the majestic Eystrahorn mountain to the north and the relentless Norwegian Sea to the east, this stretch of the beach creates a distinct divide.

The orange-coloured Hvalnes lighthouse, which overlooks the beach, was built with a curved frontage.

Eggin Í Gledivik

We thought the Eggin Í Gledivik, an art piece consisting of 34 granite ‘eggs’ perched on small concrete pedestals, was quite the spectacle.

Lining a quiet harbour a kilometre outside of Egilsstaðir, it is often overlooked.

I thought the eggs would be quite small; however, each is about a metre in length. The eggs represent the 34 bird species that nest in the area.

Hafnarnes Lighthouse

The quaint Hafnarnes lighthouse, located close to the cliffs on the south side of Reyðarfjörður, is painted orange, as are many of Iceland’s lighthouses.

You’ll need to park your car near the road by some abandoned buildings and walk the 150m down to the lighthouse.

Day 7: Seydisfjordur

🏡 Overnight Accommodation: Egilsstaðir

• Seyðisfjörður
• Seydisfjordur Blue Church
• Seyðisfjörður Rainbow Road
• Geirastadakirkja

Seyðisfjörður

Seydisfjordur, an inviting town in eastern Iceland, is full of vibrant colours and funky artistry. A welcome surprise.

The fjord’s shores are lined with colourful buildings, and you get the feeling that you can expect something special here. You sure do.

Seydisfjordur Church

This distinctive blue and white Seydisfjordur church (Seyðisfjarðarkirkja in Icelandic) has had a challenging journey. Having been moved, blown over, and rebuilt, it now finds a safe haven close to the protected shores of Seyðisfjörður. 

This pretty and architecturally interesting church was consecrated in 1922.

Rainbow Road of Seydisfjordur

An interesting back story to the inception of the Rainbow Road.

The residents of Seydisfjordur came together to revive the run-down street, Norðurgata. Part of this revival was to paint the now rainbow-hued brick road running down the street and through the centre of Seyðisfjörður.

Not only is this attractive, but reflects the town’s show of support for its LGBTQi locals.

We saw on either side of the rainbow-coloured path that the buildings were covered with all sorts of interesting and colourful wall art.

Geirastadakirkja  

Geirastadakirkja is a reconstructed turf church modelled on one of the turf churches unearthed in the area. It sits on private land approximately 60km northwest of Seyðisfjörður.

A public road runs beside the church, providing access via a dedicated gate. We visited this New Age turf church only because it was close to our route and, for us, was not a significant attraction; however, you may find it interesting.

Day 8: Akureyri

🏡 Overnight Accommodation: Akureyri

• Detifoss waterfall
• Selfoss waterfall
• Asbyrgi Canyon
• Hverir lava fields
• Grjótagjá Cave
• Myvatn Lake 
• Goðafoss waterfall

Detifoss (waterfall)

Detifoss is impressive; spanning a mighty 100m with a fall of 44m. No wonder it has acclaimed the title as Europe’s second most powerful waterfall. 

The thundering applause from Detifoss’ frenzied waters can be heard hundreds of metres away.

There are two parking options at Detifoss: on either side of the river. We chose the west-side parking as it was a better fit for our itinerary and was also a closer walk to Detifoss.

Selfoss (waterfall)

Selfoss, the more famous of the falls, has a series of beautiful plunging falls. This captivating landscape would not be out of place in a mythical Amazonian scene.

We walked the canyon’s edge briefly to get closer to the falls.

Ásbyrgi Canyon

Ásbyrgi Canyon is a horseshoe-shaped depression of an old glacial canyon measuring 3.5km x 1.1km.

Within the canyon is a thriving woodland with a pretty little lake, Botnstjörn. We walked through this beautiful scenery on some of the many hiking trails threading our way through the canyon and around its rim.

Asbyrgi Canyon is a 35km drive north of Detifoss.

Hverir

Arriving at Hverir, we were immediately infused with the smell of sulphur.

Hverir is a melting pot of volcanic activity, alive with boiling mud and clouds of sulphurous gas. A scene from an apocalypse is not a far-fetched thought as we walked around the spitting mud and shooting steam.

But it’s no surprise, really, as this area is the convergence of two massive tectonic plates. We spent a super interesting couple of hours at Hverir.

There is paid parking.

Grjótagjá Cave

Grjótagjá Cave is a small lava cave hiding a beautiful thermal spring. The land around it has suffered great upheaval with a split.

Climbing through a hole in the rocks, we entered a cave. Sliding down a couple of meters brought the beautiful blue crystal-clear waters of a small spring into view.

Bathing used to occur but is now not allowed due to the unpredictable and sudden rise in water temperature.

Grjótagjá Cave is 5km from Hverir.

Myvatn Lake

Leaving the mud pools and steam behind, we stopped to view the serene Myvatn Lake.

Home to many birds, Myvatn Lake was calm in comparison to the tempest just witnessed at Hverir. Hverfjall Crater is visible in the background.

Goðafoss 

It is yet another waterfall, but this one is special. Goðafoss falls 12m from a 30 m-long horse-shoe-shaped ledge. It is a stunning sight.

Located close to the ring road, we had a very short walk to see the wonderful views of Godafoss.

Goðafoss is nick-named the ‘Waterfall of the Gods’ due to its god-like beauty.

Day 9: Akureyri

🏡 Overnight Accommodation: Akureyri

• Akureyri church
• Akureyri Botanical Gardens – Lystigarðurinn
•  Saurbæjarkirkja church

Akureyri Church

It was easy for us to find the Akureyri Church, a prominent landmark in the town of Akureyri.

I think this modern-looking church looks more at home in a bustling city.

The same architect also designed the Hallgrimskirkja in Reykjavik.

Akureyri Botanical Gardens (Lystigarðurinn)

We were surprised to find botanical gardens in Akureyri and later found out that they claim the title of the northernmost botanical garden in the world. 

Our September visit allowed us to enjoy the last of the summer colours and the vibrant autumn hues.

The gardens have over 7,000 plant species and are free to enter.

Saurbæjarkirkja

The pretty turf church of Saurbæjarkirkja was built in 1858 and is the largest of the six remaining turf churches in Iceland.

We wanted to glimpse the church interior, but the windows didn’t allow us to see clearly enough.

Saurbæjarkirkja, 26km south of Akuyeri, is a protected landmark and not formally open to the public.

The National Museum of Iceland owns Saurbæjarkirkja.

Day 10: Blönduós

🏡 Overnight Accommodation: Hvítserkur

• Víðimýrarkirkja (turf church)
• Vatnsdalsholar hillocks
• Hvitsekur rock arch
• Hamarsrétt sheep corral

Víðimýrarkirkja

This was our favourite turf church in all of Iceland.

The Víðimýrarkirkja turf church, built in 1834, is a stunning example of this old Icelandic style of architecture.  

The front gates are a more recent addition, having been built in 1936. The green, black and orange colours of the church make for a striking combination.

Vatnsdalsholar  

The strangely shaped hillocks, Vatnsdalsholar, seem out of place in the surrounding flat landscape.

We took this image from the road, so I’m guessing they are approximately three kilometres away.

Vatnsdalsholar was formed following a landslide, and these hills cover a huge area of roughly 5 square kilometres. Again, Mother Nature is busy at work. 

Hvitserkur  

The craggy basalt rock formation of Hvitserkur stands just off the northern coastline in shallow water.

Time the tides right, and you can walk to it.

We walked just a few hundred metres from the parking bay to capture views of the rock from above. Then, we followed a steep path to the beach for more personal views.

You might notice that concrete has been added to the base of the rock for support as it was in danger of collapsing.

Hamarsrétt  

Hamarsrétt is the only coastal sheep corral in Iceland. We saw it from the road in a natural clearing, down in the valley between rocky hillocks.

I spoke to one of the sheep farmers who was carrying out repairs. He told me the sheep are herded from the nearby hills into the round, central hub.

Owners then claim their animals and steer them to their holding pens within the ‘spokes of the wheel’—an interesting and effective method of dividing stock.

Day 11: Olafasvik

🏡 Overnight Accommodation: Olafsvik

• Snæfellsnes Peninsula  
• Ingjaldshóll church
• Skarðsvík Beach
• Saxhólar Crater

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Snæfellsnes Peninsula is often called Iceland in miniature as it is said to showcase the essence of Iceland’s natural beauty. The final three days of this itinerary are spent visiting the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and its many wonderful attractions.

If you were limited to a visit of just a few days, then I’d recommend focusing on this area. It is definitely Iceland in a nutshell.

Ingjaldshóll Church 

The lone Ingjaldshóll Church sits defiantly on a bleak landscape. Overlooking the Breiðafjörður fjord with a backdrop of the Snæfellsjokull Glacier, it claims the title of one of Iceland’s oldest concrete buildings in Iceland.

Ingjaldshóll Church was built in 1903.

Skarðsvík Beach

What surprised us about seeing Skarðsvík Beach? It’s yellow sand. Somewhat tropical in a way.

This was in complete contrast to the black lava beaches we had previously seen on our travels around Iceland.

You can view the beach from the carpark, which looks directly onto it.

Saxhólar Crater

The 100m high Saxhólar Crater has steps up and down each side, making it easy to access.

We climbed the crater for expansive views over the Atlantic Ocean and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula lava fields.

Day 12: Olafasvik

🏡 Overnight Accommodation: Olafsvik

• Shipwreck debris on Djúpalónssandur Beach
• Lifting stones on Djúpalónssandur beach
• Malarrif Lighthouse
• Salthús Museum
• Londrangar rock pinnacles
• Bárðar Saga Snæfellsáss statue
• Gatklettur stone arch of Anarstapi

Shipwreck debris on Djúpalónssandur Beach

Spread across Djúpalónssandur Beach are the rusty remains of the British steam trawler, FV Epine.

During a severe gale in March of 1948, the vessel ran aground to the west of Malariff lighthouse, with 14 out of 19 crew losing their lives.

We saw a few pieces of rusted metal on the beach, some still recognisable as part of a vessel.

The ship’s metal remains are protected and are not to be removed.

Lifting Stones on Djúpalónssandur Beach

Stepping off the pathway and onto Djúpalónssandur Beach are an intriguing set of four different-sized stones called lifting stones. These stones were lifted to waist height and used to test the strength of potential fishermen.

The lifting stones weigh 23kg, 54kg, 100kg and 154kg a piece.

Put yourself to the test if you dare. I managed to lift the four, but not without some huffing and puffing towards the end.

Malarrif Lighthouse 

Built in 1917, the Malarrif Lighthouse is classed as a protected building.

Although it commands the best views, it is not a particularly interesting building. However, the surrounding landscape is quite dazzling.

The rocky black lava sweeping beach, blue breaking waves and craggy rock formations make for a compelling scene.

Beside Malarrif Lighthouse is the Snæfellsnes Information Center, with plenty of free parking. I suggest parking here and wandering the area as there is much to arouse curiosity.

Salthus Museum

Within easy walking distance of the Malariff Lighthouse is the Salthus (or Salthouse) Museum.

Fishermen originally used this small wooden building on the beach’s edge to dry their cod. 

We went inside and observed many different artefacts and interesting works of art from the nearby schools.

It is free to enter.

Londrangar Rock Pinnacles

The Londrangar Rock Pinnacles are two impressive volcanic plugs that offer roosting sites for puffins and other birds.

We walked the trails hugging the coastline to reach the pinnacles, enjoying the typical rugged scenery.

You can leave your vehicle at the Snæfellsnes Information Center and walk or park in a car park closer to them.

Bárðar Saga Snæfellsáss

The huge 10m tall stone sculpture, Bárðar Saga Snæfellsáss, is famous all across Iceland. It’s a fine work of art.

This mythical half-man half-troll giant was said to have lived in the area around the Snæfellsjökull glacier. 

Gatklettur Stone Arch of Anarstapi

Gatklettur is a naturally formed stone arch that the sea has carved out. It’s a popular location for visitors to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Day 13: Olafasvik

🏡 Overnight Accommodation: Reykjavik

• Búðakirkja church
• Ytri Tunga seal watching
• Gerðuberg basalt columns
• Ölkelduvatn Mineral Spring

Búðakirkja Black Church

Búðakirkja we see standing today, was reconstructed in 1848, replacing the original turf church.

It is one of the most photographed buildings in Iceland, given its iconic black exterior, located on barren land in the rugged, beautiful surroundings of Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

The wooden exterior is black due to the pitch it is painted with. This helps protect it from the harsh Icelandic weather and is a similar practice used on Norwegian stave churches.

Ytri Tunga Seals

The Ytri Tunga seals have mastered the art of lazing around. The large, scattered rocks, about 50m off the sandy beach of Ytri Tunga, offer a great haven from which to observe us humans onshore.

We really enjoyed our brush with the wildlife.

Gerðuberg Basalt Cliffs

The Gerðuberg Basalt Cliffs are rows of vertical hexagonal columns stretching over 1000 metres.

We drove the base on the road that followed the cliffs’ line; however, it’s also possible to walk to the top of the Gerðuberg Basalt Cliffs.

Ölkelduvatn Mineral Spring

Free Icelandic mineral water anyone? Ölkelduvatn Mineral Spring offers tasting straight from the tap.

Don’t expect the clear, pristine-looking water you buy in the shop. This mineral spring’s water has such a high iron content that it runs red, staining the stones in its little stream bed.

An official sign nearby verifies the water is safe to drink and within acceptable limits for mineral content.

I did the taste test, and I wasn’t overly impressed. It reminded me of the taste of blood, but I’ll let you draw your own conclusions.

Day 14: Reykjavik

Day 14 heralds the completion of this 14-day Ring Road itinerary.

We’ve certainly done some kilometres and ticked off so many fabulous Iceland September attractions.

Although I have included chasing the Northern Lights only on the first night, remember that opportunity can knock on any night in September.

Good To Know: Before You Arrive in Iceland

Before you arrive in Iceland, be prepared and read up on:

• September Skies: What to Expect from Iceland’s Weather
• Chasing Northern Lights in September
• September Spirit: Festivals and Cultural Gems in Iceland
• Packing Perfection: Your September Suitcase for Iceland
• On the Road: Navigating Iceland’s September Terrain
• Iceland’s Road Categories, including ‘F’ Roads
• Wild Encounters: Iceland’s September Wildlife Watchlist
• Capturing Wonders: September Photography in Iceland
• Safe Travels: Essential Contacts and Apps for Iceland

September Skies: What to Expect from Iceland’s Weather

September heralds the start of fall in Iceland. The weather is good for travelling but can be unpredictable. You can expect a bit of everything – weatherwise except snow.

During our September visit, showers would last a maximum of one hour and then clear. Not hampering our plans at all.

Typical September temperatures range from 5 °C to 15 °C (41°F to 59°F). However, the areas around the glacial lagoons hover near the freezing point.

There is plenty of time to do what you want, with September offering a healthy average of 13 hours of daylight.

Chasing Northern Lights in September

Iceland is known as one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, and we were determined to try our luck.

I downloaded the free app for the Aurora Borealis daily forecast to help get our timing right and increase our odds of a sighting. I made sure to reference NOAA’s website (The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) for the 3-day Aurora forecast.

In Reykjavik at the time and with a prediction of minimal cloud cover and a Kp index of 4, I took a chance and drove 30km south, avoiding the light pollution of Reykjavik, to Lake Kleifarvatn and onto Grænavatn Lake.

I chose the view over the lakes to give us uninterrupted views of the Northern Lights. As it turned out, everything went according to plan, and we had our best-ever sightings of Northern Lights.

Increase Your Chances of Viewing the Northern Lights

You can’t second guess Mother Nature when it comes to finding the Northern Lights; however, you can tip the odds in your favour by:

• Planning a visit between September and April when the night sky will be dark enough to view the lights,
• Monitoring the weather conditions whilst looking for reduced cloud cover. Gauge the direction of the prevailing wind, which might shift the clouds and open up the sky.
• Using the Icelandic Met Office (vendor.is) predicted KP index to indicate the probability for the Northern Lights appearing. 
  The Kp Index is 1 to 9, with increasing geomagnetic activity. The higher the Kp index, the greater the probability of the Northern Lights appearing.
• Choosing a viewing location away from sources of light pollution.

For more Northern Lights inspiration, check out our post:
Northern Lights Experience in Lofoten, Norway

September Spirit: Festivals and Cultural Gems in Iceland

Enjoy these festivals and events before the long Icelandic winters set in.

• Ljosanott or The Night of Lights is a festival held in Keflavik that starts on the 1st Saturday in September and lasts for over 5 days. Visitors enjoy local culture, theatre, art and music, culminating in a fabulous fireworks display.
  The venue is within a kilometre of Keflavik airport. Up-to-date information is available on the official site here.
• Reykjavik International Film Festival (RIFF)  2024 (21st edition) takes place from 26 September to 06 October. It hosts a huge line-up of films from local and international artists and is one of Iceland’s biggest festivals.
• Oktoberfest in September? What!? Yes, I’ve written that right. Oktoberfest in Iceland is no different from other events worldwide, but it is held in September. This world-renowned beer-slurping event is supported by bands and music and is held over three days by the University of Iceland, Reykjavik.
• Berjamó, or berry picking, takes place generally from mid-August to mid-September. It’s a tradition in which families leave the cities and venture into the countryside to pick berries that grow all over Iceland.
  Some local berry varieties you may not have heard of are crowberries and bilberries. Everyone can pick berries on public land but not on private land.
• Réttir (Sheep and Horse Round-Up) typically starts in mid-September. The free-roaming Icelandic sheep are herded by family members on foot, with some farmers on horseback. Sheep are gently steered down off the mountains into a common holding pen where owners then have to carefully sort their flock from others.
  The closest location to Reykjavik is a farm called Bjarteyjarsandur. The réttir also occurs in farms around Akureyri and Skagafjörður.

Packing Perfection: Your September Suitcase for Iceland

We packed waterproof clothing and shoes, thermals, gloves, and beanies for our September trip to Iceland and used them all.

On the Road: Navigating Iceland’s September Terrain

Here are some key points to keep in mind for driving in Iceland during your September trip:

• September Driving Conditions: Roads are free from snow and ice, eliminating the need for familiarity for driving in snow.
• Traffic Rules: Drive on the right-hand side, and remember, turning right on red is prohibited.
• Safety Requirements: Headlights must be on at all times, and adhering to speed limits is crucial: 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural gravel roads, and 90 km/h on paved roads.
• Bridge Etiquette: Single-lane bridges are common. Heed the warning signs and road markings, giving way as per the first-come, first-served principle, though it’s more about courtesy than a strict rule.
• Preparation: Check road conditions by calling 1777 or visiting www.road.is before starting your journey.
• Gravel Roads: Drive cautiously to avoid stone chips on your rental vehicle.
• Off-Roading: Strictly illegal. However, driving on F-Roads is allowed with an appropriate vehicle and is not considered off-roading.
• Wind Caution: Be mindful of strong wind gusts, which can cause damage to car doors, which may not covered by insurance.
• Signage: Familiarize yourself with Icelandic road signs, especially those that might be unfamiliar.

Iceland’s Road Categories, including ‘F’ Roads

There are three road categories in Iceland: paved, gravel and mountain roads. The Ring Road is entirely paved and is open throughout the year but may temporarily close due to weather.

Both paved and gravel roads can be driven in a 2WD vehicle.

Mountain or ‘F’ roads, however, can only be driven in a 4×4. These roads lead into Iceland’s mountainous regions, which only open for a short time during Summer. For opening dates of ‘F’ roads, visit Iceland’s Road and Coastal Administration (IRCA) website.

It’s best to explain your intended route to the car hire companies. They can then give you the appropriate guidance as to which vehicle you will need.

Wild Encounters: Iceland’s September Wildlife Watchlist

Wildlife	Description	Best Places to Spot	Additional Information
Seals	Harbour and grey seals are permanent residents. Occasional visitors are the ringed seal, hooded seal, bearded seal, harp seal, and walrus.	Westfjords, Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Vatnsnes Peninsula.	Seen at all listed locations.
Arctic Foxes	Iceland’s only native land mammal. Two types: blue and white Arctic foxes.	Main habitat: Hornstrandir Reserve.	Found all over Iceland.
Whales	Humpback whales, minke whales, orcas, fin whales, sperm whales, and blue whales.	Húsavík for whale watching tours.	Husavik is renowned as the best place for whale watching.
Icelandic Horses	Friendly and inquisitive. Small stature but well-suited to Icelandic conditions.	Commonly found throughout Iceland.	Strict disease prevention policy. Opportunities for riding and participating in annual musters. Eating horse meat is a tradition.
Icelandic Reindeer	Main concentration in eastern Iceland. Controlled numbers for land management.	Found around Snæfell.	Total population over 3,000.
Ravens	Symbolic in old Icelandic beliefs.	Found all over Iceland.	Accompanied by Arctic terns, sea eagles, ducks, geese, and swans.
Fulmars	Resemble seagulls but notable for a tubular piece on their beak. Known for eating too much as chicks.	Found in cliffs all over Iceland. They resemble seagulls but are notable for a tubular piece on their beak.	Chicks are often found dead or floundering on roadsides due to the inability to avoid vehicles because of over-eating.

What Wildlife You Likely Won’t See in Iceland in September

Wildlife	Reason
Puffins	Arrive in April/May and depart by late July/August. They roost on the island of Akurey, approximately 1.0km from the mainland and close to Reykjavík.
Polar Bears	Rarely arrive from Greenland and are considered a danger to humans.

Capturing Wonders: September Photography in Iceland

There is certainly no shortage of fantastic photographic opportunities in September. The weather hasn’t turned nasty, the wildlife is abundant, and the Northern Lights have started their shimmy.

To make the best of this, you’ll want:

• a modern camera with memory cards
• a wide-angle lens for landscape images e.g. Ideally 16mm to 24mm aperture
• a zoom lens for wildlife photography, e.g. 200mm up to 600mm focal length
• a tripod to help capture images of the Northern Lights and during periods of low light
• camera/lens cleaning equipment
• ND filters that slow the shutter speed and add a dreamy effect to the moving water in an image

If you want to take a peek at our photography gear, then you will have an idea of what we use from location to location.

Safe Travels: Essential Contacts and Apps for Iceland

I’ve included some handy information for your September Iceland visit to get you off to a good start.

Emergency Number in Iceland

• 112 is the number to dial for accidents, fire, crime, search and rescue, and natural disasters. You can dial this number in the highlands without having a mobile connection.

Handy Phone Apps for Iceland

• ve∂ur: A weather app for iOS and Android generated by the Icelandic Met Office, providing temperature, rain, and wind forecasts up to 5 days in advance.
• maps.me: An offline maps app for iOS and Android that allows you to navigate without an active network connection and allows you to mark places of interest.

Handy Websites for Your Iceland Trip

• Aurora Borealis Daily Forecast: Visit the Icelandic Meteorological Office at https://en.vedur.is/weather/forecasts/aurora/ for daily updates.
• Aurora Borealis 3-Day Forecast: The NOAA provides a 3-day Aurora forecast at https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/products/3-day-forecast.
• Check Road Conditions: Before travelling, check current road conditions at www.road.is.
• Submit an Online Travel Plan: Use https://safetravel.is/travel-plan to submit your itinerary. This helps search and rescue services locate you in emergencies. Activate and deactivate this service via text message.

Iceland September Itinerary … That’s a Wrap

As our journey through Iceland’s remarkable landscapes draws to a close, it’s obvious that this country is one of profound beauty and raw nature. You can see why September is such a great time to visit Iceland. 

Our 14-day Iceland guide has whisked you through the best of what Iceland offers during this magical month. From the tranquillity of less-travelled paths to the awe-inspiring power of nature’s creations, each day has been meticulously planned to ensure you experience the essence of Iceland.

With photography tips, travel insights, and a comprehensive day-by-day breakdown, embarking on your Icelandic odyssey is within your grasp.

So, consider our itinerary not just as a guide but as an inspiration for creating a journey uniquely yours. Tailor each day to fit your pace, leaving room for spontaneous exploration and those quiet moments of reflection that often become the most cherished memories.

If Iceland’s September skies are calling, it’s time to answer the call.

Before you go, did you remember to download our free travel planner?