There's something empowering about driving alone through Iceland's vast, otherworldly landscapes.
I took on the full Ring Road as a solo female traveller – just me, a small rental car, and 1,300 km of raw, untouched beauty. From the moment I pulled out of Reykjavik, it felt like the country opened up just for me. Towering waterfalls, black sand beaches, bubbling hot springs, and glaciers around every corner — no 2 hours looked the same.
If you've ever dreamed of solo female travel in Iceland, the Ring Road is the ultimate adventure. It's a flexible route that loops around the entire island, giving you access to Iceland's most iconic sights and those lesser-known hidden gems. Best of all? You get to move at your own pace.
Want to stop for hours at Seljalandsfoss or chase the northern lights near Akureyri? You can. There's no tour group rushing you along – just your own Iceland road trip itinerary, shaped by curiosity and wonder.
Yes, there are challenges (hello, unpredictable weather and gravel roads), but the freedom, confidence, and awe you gain are totally worth it.
This guide will walk you through everything I learned – from renting a car and navigating Iceland's Ring Road safely, to solo travel tips, route planning, and unmissable stops.
Preparing for the Adventure
Geysir geothermal area
Before hitting the open road in Iceland, a little planning goes a long way – especially when you're doing it solo.
Start by choosing the right time of year. I went in late summer when the days were long and the roads clear, but each season has its charm. Summer is ideal for easy driving and endless daylight, while winter feels like stepping into a snow globe (though you'll need to be confident handling icy roads and short days).
Packing smart is essential – Icelandic weather changes fast. I learned quickly to layer up: thermal base layers, waterproof outerwear, gloves, and good boots made all the difference. Even in summer, the wind can bite.
If you're renting a car (which you should for the full Ring Road experience), go for something sturdy. A 4WD isn't always necessary in summer, but I wouldn't skip it if you're tackling gravel roads or driving in Iceland in winter. And yes – get the extra insurance. I didn't expect flying gravel to chip my windshield, but it happened.
With these solo travel safety tips and essentials sorted, you're all set to embrace the freedom and magic of the Ring Road.
Planning Your Route
When planning your route along Iceland's Ring Road, consider key highlights such as the Golden Circle, Skógafoss waterfall, and Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Each stop offers unique beauty and unforgettable experiences.
Allow flexibility in your schedule to fully enjoy these sites without feeling rushed. Depending on your interests, a 7-10 day trip is ideal for exploring at a comfortable pace, with time for spontaneous detours.
Accommodation options range from cozy guesthouses and budget-friendly hostels to distinctive stays like farmhouses or glamping spots. Staying in local accommodations not only provides comfort but also a chance to connect with Iceland's culture and friendly communities.
On the Road: Daily Life and Practicalities
A typical street in Reykjavik
The weather in Ireland can change rapidly, so it's important to stay alert and be prepared for shifting road conditions. In winter, icy patches are common, and roads can become slippery, so adjusting your speed and keeping a safe distance from other vehicles is essential. Summer can bring long daylight hours, but be mindful of fog or unexpected rainfall.
Fuel stations are relatively sparse along the Ring Road, especially in remote areas. Plan your fuel stops ahead of time, especially when heading into less populated regions. As for food and rest, you'll find a mix of gas stations offering snacks and cafes, but more options are available in larger towns.
To stay connected, ensure your mobile service provider offers coverage in Iceland. Offline maps and navigation apps are helpful, but a GPS with Icelandic maps can be a reliable tool for staying on track.
Experiencing Iceland's Wonders
One of the most extraordinary parts of driving Iceland's Ring Road is how dramatically the landscape shifts as you go. What begins as grassy plains outside Reykjavík quickly becomes a cinematic blend of glaciers, waterfalls, volcanic terrain, and jagged coastlines.
Travelling solo offers you the space and time to take in each moment, stop where you want, and explore at your own pace. Here are some highlights and recommended experiences to look out for:
Waterfalls In Iceland
Iceland is famously home to over 10,000 waterfalls, and many of the most impressive ones are just a few minutes' walk off the Ring Road. Each waterfall carries its own character and story.
Seljalandsfoss, located in South Iceland, is one of the few waterfalls in the world that allows you to walk behind the falling curtain of water. The path can be slippery, but the view from behind the cascade – especially at sunset – is unforgettable.
A short drive further east is Skógafoss, a powerful and symmetrical waterfall plunging from a cliff 60 metres high. A steep staircase leads to a panoramic viewing platform at the top, where you can look down at the misty gorge below.
If you head towards the Golden Circle before your Ring Road journey, Gullfoss (“Golden Falls”) is a must-see. This two-tiered waterfall is immensely powerful, especially during spring melt, and is a striking example of the raw force of Iceland's nature.
Many travellers are surprised by how often they see waterfalls just appearing along the roadside. These unmarked falls are less visited but offer magical moments of solitude and reflection.
Glaciers In Iceland
A journey around Iceland's Ring Road is incomplete without experiencing its glaciers up close. These icy giants cover more than 10% of the country's surface and offer opportunities for both quiet reflection and exhilarating adventure.
Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier, is located in the southeast and can be accessed from towns like Höfn or Skaftafell. Guided glacier hikes allow you to walk across ancient ice, peer into crevasses, and learn about glacial movement from local experts.
In the colder months (typically November to March), ice cave tours beneath Vatnajökull or nearby glaciers like Mýrdalsjökull are available. Inside these natural blue cathedrals of ice, the light dances through frozen tunnels – an ethereal experience that's hard to describe in words.
Even if you don't hike a glacier, viewing them from the roadside or visiting nearby glacial lagoons is an awe-inspiring experience. I still remember the stillness of standing at the edge of Jökulsárlón, watching icebergs drift silently toward the sea.
Volcanic Landscapes In Iceland
Iceland's nickname, “The Land of Fire and Ice”, becomes very real when you encounter its volcanic landscapes. From ancient lava fields to black sand beaches shaped by eruptions, the island's terrain constantly reminds you that this is a country formed by extremes.
Reynisfjara Beach, near the village of Vík, is one of the most iconic black sand beaches in the world. With towering basalt columns, dramatic sea stacks known as Reynisdrangar, and crashing waves from the Atlantic, the entire coastline feels otherworldly. It's not a beach for swimming, but rather one to admire with reverence.
In North Iceland, near Lake Mývatn, you'll find geothermal vents, pseudo-craters, and lava formations that look like something from another planet. The nearby Hverfjall Crater offers a short but steep hike to the rim, where you'll get expansive views of the volcanic region.
You may also encounter steaming lava fields along the Reykjanes Peninsula or near the Snæfellsnes region. Each one tells a story about Iceland's volcanic past – and possibly its future.
Outdoor Adventures In Iceland
Snorkelling the Rift Valley
One of the most rewarding parts of the Ring Road journey is the chance to engage with the landscape beyond just viewing it. There are endless opportunities for solo travellers to join small-group adventures or simply explore independently.
Horseback riding is available in various parts of the country. Icelandic horses are known for their small stature and unique tölt gait, which makes for a smooth and enjoyable ride – even for beginners. Riding across volcanic fields or coastal trails with these friendly horses is a uniquely Icelandic experience.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and its neighbouring Diamond Beach offer boat tours that bring you up close to massive floating icebergs. The juxtaposition of ice, water, and volcanic sand is stunning.
Don't miss the opportunity to soak in natural hot springs. While the Blue Lagoon is the most famous, there are many lesser-known geothermal pools around the country, like Mývatn Nature Baths in the north or the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir. These are perfect for easing tired muscles after a long day of driving and hiking.
Along the Ring Road, you'll also find quiet villages, moss-covered valleys, and scenic detours worth exploring. For me, some of the most memorable moments came from spontaneous stops—stumbling upon a deserted fjord, sharing a smile with a local in a small café, or simply pulling over to watch reindeer graze on a distant ridge.
Solo Travel Insights
Solo travel in a campervan in Iceland is empowering. You'll find Icelanders welcoming and helpful, and campgrounds are social places where you can meet other travellers. Long stretches between towns give space for self-reflection, especially when surrounded by nothing but glaciers or lava fields.
Solitude isn't something to fear here; it feels earned, almost sacred. Staying aware but relaxed is key. Keep your fuel and gear in check, trust your instincts, and don't rush. Confidence builds with each mile, and so does a quiet bond with the road itself. What begins as a solo trip often becomes something much more grounded and personal.
Responsible Travel in Iceland
Responsible travel in Iceland involves making choices that respect the country's pristine nature and its local communities. Sustainable practices, like reducing waste and choosing eco-friendly accommodations, help preserve the environment for future generations.
Supporting local businesses, from farm-to-table dining to unique artisan shops, fosters a stronger, more resilient economy. By travelling with care, you can enjoy Iceland while leaving a positive impact.
The journey through Iceland's Ring Road offers unforgettable moments, from the tranquil beauty of remote landscapes to the joy of self-discovery.
For solo female travellers, the experience teaches resilience and confidence, proving that personal growth often happens outside one's comfort zone.
To anyone considering this adventure, embrace the solitude and let curiosity guide you. Iceland's wonders await, and the journey is well worth it.
