Iceland: Golden Circle and South Coast

What should you know before visiting Iceland: Golden Circle and South Coast?

No motorway tolls or vignettes expected for a car.

• Four-wheel drive is not required for the Golden Circle. The open-road limit is 90 km/h, lower in towns, and there are speed cameras. In winter, check conditions before you set off.
• In winter, Mosfellsheiði and Hellisheiði can close in storms. Check road and weather conditions beforehand with the Icelandic Road Administration, Vegagerðin, and the weather service.
• According to the Environment Agency of Iceland, campervans, motorhomes and caravans may stay overnight outside campsites or urban areas only with the landowner's permission. Check the rules there.

The drive

The Golden Circle starts in Reykjavík. The first stop is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next comes the Haukadalur geothermal area, where Strokkur erupts roughly every 8 to 10 minutes. Gullfoss then drops in two steps. If you add the South Coast, follow Route 1 to Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss and Vík. Lower trails at Gullfoss may close in winter.

Planning

The Golden Circle takes one to three days and can be driven all year. No four-wheel drive is needed for it. Parking is charged at Þingvellir, while Geysir and Gullfoss are free to visit. On the South Coast, Vík lies well beyond the circle, so allow generous driving time. Check fees and campsite opening times with the operators and official pages beforehand.

FAQs