Iceland is a land of awe-inspiring natural beauty, offering stunning landscapes ranging from volcanic craters to sparkling glaciers. However, many of these captivating destinations are off the beaten path, tucked away from the main tourist routes. With a 4x4 rental van, you gain access to some of Iceland's most remote and remarkable locations. This list highlights the top five must-see spots that are best explored with a 4x4 camper van, offering you the freedom and flexibility to immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the country.
1. Landmannalaugar – A Geothermal Paradise in the Highlands
Located in the heart of Iceland’s highlands, Landmannalaugar is an adventurer’s dream. With its colorful rhyolite mountains, bubbling hot springs, and wide-open lava fields, this remote destination is one of Iceland’s most beautiful and unique regions. What makes it even more appealing is that the roads leading to Landmannalaugar are only accessible by 4x4 vehicles, ensuring fewer crowds and a more serene experience.
Why It’s a Must-See Spot:
- Unparalleled Scenery: The region is known for its multi-colored mountains created by volcanic activity, which stand in stark contrast to the black lava fields that surround them.
- Natural Hot Springs: After a day of hiking through the surreal landscape, you can soak in the area’s geothermal hot springs, a welcome treat in Iceland’s unpredictable weather.
- Freedom to Explore: With your 4x4 camper van, you can camp in the area and enjoy multiple days of hiking and exploring without the constraints of day tours or rigid schedules.
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a tranquil place to unwind, Landmannalaugar offers a one-of-a-kind experience. The 4x4 Ford Econoline allows you to access this area with ease, letting you savor the raw beauty of Iceland's highlands.
2. The Westfjords – Iceland’s Untamed Frontier
The Westfjords are one of Iceland’s most remote and least-visited regions. With steep fjords, dramatic cliffs, and barely touched landscapes, the Westfjords feel like a world apart from the more tourist-heavy areas of the country. The roads here can be challenging—often narrow and gravel—but with a 4x4 rental van, these wild lands open up for exploration.
Why It’s a Must-See Spot:
- Dynjandi Waterfall: One of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland, Dynjandi cascades down a series of terraces, creating a dramatic sight. The roads leading to Dynjandi can be tricky, but they’re easily navigable with a 4x4 vehicle.
- Rauðasandur Beach: This red-sand beach is a hidden gem, and a 4x4 van allows you to get there without worrying about navigating tough terrain. It’s a peaceful spot to relax and take in the contrasting red and black hues of the Icelandic coastline.
- Remote Villages: Driving through the Westfjords, you’ll come across tiny fishing villages that offer a glimpse into traditional Icelandic life. These villages, like Ísafjörður, feel untouched by time, offering a perfect blend of nature and culture.
With fewer tourists and incredible natural beauty, the Westfjords is an ideal destination for those seeking a quiet escape and some of Iceland’s best-kept secrets.
3. Askja Caldera – Volcanic Wonders in the Highlands
Askja is a volcanic caldera located in the Icelandic Highlands, far from any paved roads or easy access points. Getting there requires driving through desolate landscapes, crossing rivers, and navigating rough terrain, making it the perfect adventure for a 4x4 rental van.
Why It’s a Must-See Spot:
- Viti Crater Lake: One of the highlights of the Askja area is the Viti Crater, a striking turquoise lake nestled within a volcanic crater. This is a surreal place to visit, with hot geothermal water steaming from the crater’s edges.
- Mars-like Landscape: Askja’s barren, otherworldly environment has been compared to the surface of Mars. In fact, NASA astronauts used this area to train before heading to the moon.
- Freedom to Camp: With a 4x4 camper van, you can set up camp in this remote area, giving you ample time to explore without having to rush back to civilization.
Askja is a true adventure. The journey itself is as much a part of the experience as the destination, and having a 4x4 camper van ensures that you’ll have both the capability and comfort needed to fully enjoy it.
4. Kerlingarfjöll – A Geothermal Wonderland
Kerlingarfjöll is a high-temperature geothermal area tucked away in the central highlands of Iceland. It’s one of the country’s most striking natural wonders, with bubbling hot springs, steaming vents, and colorful mountains. The gravel roads leading here are often bumpy and rough, making a 4x4 vehicle essential for accessing the area.
Why It’s a Must-See Spot:
- Hot Springs and Steam Vents: Kerlingarfjöll is home to geothermal activity on a massive scale. The colorful rhyolite mountains, paired with the white steam rising from the ground, create a landscape that feels almost alien.
- Hiking Trails: There are numerous trails winding through the geothermal area, offering a close-up look at bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and rivers cutting through the mountains.
- Uncrowded Experience: Kerlingarfjöll remains relatively off the tourist radar, especially compared to places like the Blue Lagoon. Here, you can enjoy nature’s wonders without the crowds.
With a 4x4 rental van, you can take your time exploring this stunning area, setting your own pace and camping nearby for a deeper immersion into Iceland’s geothermal beauty.
5. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon – A Hidden Gem
Though not as remote as some of the other locations on this list, Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is a must-visit spot that’s easier to access with a 4x4 camper van. Located along the southern coast, this ancient canyon is often bypassed by those sticking strictly to the Ring Road.
Why It’s a Must-See Spot:
- Stunning Views: The canyon is around 100 meters deep and two kilometers long, with the Fjaðrá River flowing through it. The views from the walking paths above the canyon are jaw-dropping, offering vistas of the river snaking through the green cliffs.
- Quiet Escape: Despite being near the main tourist route, Fjaðrárgljúfur offers a peaceful escape from the busier spots on the South Coast. The road leading to the canyon is gravel, making a 4x4 vehicle ideal for the journey.
- Photographer’s Paradise: The dramatic landscapes of the canyon make it a perfect spot for photography. Whether you’re capturing the misty atmosphere in the early morning or the golden light of the evening sun, Fjaðrárgljúfur offers endless photo opportunities.
A visit to this breathtaking canyon is the perfect addition to your Iceland adventure. With a 4x4 camper van, you can take your time exploring the area and even camp nearby to catch the best lighting for photography.
