This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness a total solar eclipse amid the otherworldly landscapes of Iceland on 12 August 2026. With the freedom and flexibility of a hire car, this route is designed to bring you to the perfect viewing location when this exceptionally rare spectacle takes place, as the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, temporarily plunging the landscape into darkness as the stars and planets become visible during the daytime. Besides marvelling at this extraordinary astronomical event, you’ll also have ample time to take in Iceland’s myriad natural and cultural wonders as you explore the famous sights of Reykjavik, the Golden Circle and the South Coast, where geothermal lagoons, thundering waterfalls and black sand beaches await.
Iceland 2026 Solar Eclipse Self-Drive
To book call us on:
At a glance…
An exceptionally rare chance to witness a total solar eclipse in one of the most extraordinary destinations on Earth.
» 6 day tailor-made self-drive
» Accommodation: Superior A higher standard of accommodation with a better range and quality of facilities, often in a good location (typically 4 stars)
» Price from: £3,285 pp incl. flights
Day by day itinerary
-
Day 1 » UK to Reykjavik (10 August 2026)
Your trip begins with a flight to Keflavik, where you’ll collect your hire car and drive to your hotel in Reykjavik. The rest of the day is yours to explore Iceland’s vibrant capital city at leisure. A good place to start is Hallgrimskirkja, the iconic Lutheran church that towers over the city, offering wonderful panoramic views from the observation platform at the top. From here, you might fancy taking a stroll down Skólavörðustígur (more commonly known as Rainbow Street) and Laugavegur, where you’ll find plenty of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. It’s also well worth continuing down to the waterfront to check out Harpa (the glass concert hall) and the Sun Voyager monument.
If time allows, consider taking a trip to Sky Lagoon, one of Iceland’s finest geothermal lagoons, located just a 10-15 minute drive away in nearby Kopavogur.
Stay: Reykjavík Natura - Berjaya Iceland Hotels (or similar)
-
Day 2 » Reykjavik to Borgarnes (11 August 2026)
Today, you’ll set off from Reykjavik to the town of Borgarnes, around an hour’s drive to the north along the Ring Road. Along the way, you may wish to take a small detour to visit the Hvammsvik Hot Springs, a collection of geothermal pools beautifully situated on the edge of a fjord with wonderful views of the surrounding mountains. On arrival in Borgarnes, consider heading inland to explore the Silver Circle route, which is characterised by hot springs, waterfalls, lava formations, historic villages and even ice caves that you can walk inside. Please note that any excursions should be booked well in advance.
In the evening, an astrology lecture will offer a richly informative overview of the upcoming solar eclipse and what to expect. You’ll also be treated to a welcome drink and a delicious two-course dinner as the anticipation gradually builds ahead of the big event.
Stay: Hotel Versturland, Borganes (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
-
Day 3 » Witness the solar eclipse (12 August 2026)
Today is the big day, as you’ll have the chance to witness the 2026 total solar eclipse in one of the most spectacular settings on the planet. This part of Iceland lies right in the path of totality, meaning you’ll be perfectly placed to watch this rare, otherworldly spectacle as the Moon passes directly between the Sun and the Earth, plunging the sky into darkness as the stars and planets come into view. It’s anticipated that the eclipse will begin at 16:47 GMT, reaching total darkness at around 17:48 GMT and finishing at around 18:47 GMT. We strongly advise getting into position well in advance, as the roads will be much busier than usual at this time.
Heading to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula is an ideal option as you will be closer to the point of maximum eclipse, experiencing a totality of around two minutes. It also happens to be one of the most breathtaking regions of Iceland, with an astonishing array of dramatic landscapes to take in throughout the day. Do bear in mind that clear skies are needed for the best view of the eclipse, so a little luck will be required regarding the weather conditions on the day.
Stay: Hotel Versturland, Borganes (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
-
Day 4 » Golden Circle & South Coast (13 August 2026)
Fresh from the thrill of yesterday’s solar eclipse, today offers the chance to explore some of Iceland’s many other natural wonders. First, we suggest exploring the Golden Circle region, home to Thingvellir National Park (where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates diverge), Geysir Geothermal Area and Gullfoss waterfall, as well as Kerid crater and the Secret Lagoon. Alternatively you may wish to concentrate your explorations on the South Coast, stopping at Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, Vik and the famous Reynisfjara black sand beach.
This whole region really is a treasure trove of awe-inspiring sights, and it’s difficult to see everything in just one day. We therefore recommend prioritising a handful of standout attractions and planning your route accordingly.
Stay: Hotel Stracta (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
-
Day 5 » Return to Reykjavik (14 August 2026)
Today is an ideal opportunity to explore the South Coast in more depth, perhaps stopping by some of the sights you might not have had time for on the previous day. Then, it’s time to drive back to Reykjavik, perhaps stopping off in the town of Selfoss for lunch en route. Enjoy your final evening in the capital, reminiscing and reflecting on the extraordinary adventures throughout your trip.
Stay: Reykjavík Natura - Berjaya Iceland Hotels (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
-
Day 6 » Return to UK (15 August 2026)
Return to Keflavik today as your Icelandic adventure comes to an end. Depending on your flight time, you might have time for a soak in the Blue Lagoon before you head to the airport – bearing in mind that it can be closed at short notice due to ongoing volcanic activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Meals: Breakfast
Gallery
We also recommend...
To book call us on:
At a glance…
An exceptionally rare chance to witness a total solar eclipse in one of the most extraordinary destinations on Earth.
» 6 day tailor-made self-drive
» Accommodation: Superior A higher standard of accommodation with a better range and quality of facilities, often in a good location (typically 4 stars)
» Price from: £3,285 pp incl. flights
Related articles
Experience the 2026 solar eclipse in Iceland
Iceland's total solar eclipse of 2026 offers a rare opportunity to witness one of nature's most awe-inspiring phenomena amidst one of the world's most dramatic backdrops.
An expert's guide to Iceland's Golden Circle
Easily accessible from Reykjavik, the Golden Circle is a 300-kilometre loop linking the standout sights of southwest Iceland, offering a captivating snapshot of the country’s breathtaking natural wonders.