What and Where is the Diamond Circle?

The Diamond Circle is a 250-kilometre (155-mile) driving route in Northeast Iceland. It forms a scenic loop linking five major landmarks: Goðafoss, Lake Mývatn, Dettifoss, Ásbyrgi Canyon, and Húsavík.

It lies within Iceland’s northern volcanic rift zone, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates slowly drift apart. This dynamic landscape has shaped the waterfalls, lava fields, and geothermal areas that define the route.

Often compared to the Golden Circle, the Diamond Circle feels more remote and peaceful. The loop lies northeast of Akureyri, the capital of the North, and connects easily to Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1).

How to Reach the Diamond Circle via Self-Drive from Reykjavík

The journey from Reykjavík to Akureyri is the first step to reaching the Diamond Circle. It’s a scenic 6–7-hour drive through coastal plains, mountains, and lava fields.

Here’s what to know before you go:

• Distance: About 380 kilometres (236 miles) from Reykjavík to Akureyri.
• Driving time: Around 6–7 hours, depending on stops and weather.
• Route: Follow the Ring Road (Route 1) north all the way to Akureyri.
• Road type: Mostly paved and well-maintained year-round.
• Toll: Small fee for the Vaðlaheiðargöng Tunnel, just before Akureyri.

Once in Akureyri, the Diamond Circle starts about 50 km (31 mi) away at Goðafoss.

Diamond Circle Route and Road Overview

Once you reach the starting point, the real adventure begins. The Diamond Circle combines smooth highways with quiet northern roads winding through waterfalls, lava fields, and coastal valleys. You can drive it clockwise or counterclockwise from Akureyri or Húsavík.

• Length: About 250 kilometres (155 miles)
• Driving time: Around 4 hours without stops
• Road type: Mostly paved, with some gravel sections near Dettifoss (Route 864)

Most of the route is well-maintained and fine for any driver, though conditions change fast in winter. Economy MyCar rentals suit summer trips, while 4×4 vehicles are best for gravel detours or icy roads.

Driving Tips for the Diamond Circle in Iceland

Driving the Diamond Circle means open highways, narrow bridges, and shifting weather. These tips help you stay safe and ready for anything:

• Choose the right car: Rent one of the best 4×4 SUV rentals in Iceland for winter driving or gravel roads. In summer, a 2WD works fine.
• Refuel before you go: Petrol stations are limited. Top up in Akureyri or Húsavík before starting the loop.
• Check the weather: Conditions can change quickly. Visit Road.is or SafeTravel.is for updates before setting out.
• Use dipped headlights: Keep headlights on at all times, even during daylight. It’s required by law and improves visibility.
• Watch for one-lane bridges: These are common on rural roads. Yield to oncoming traffic if you arrive second.
• Look out for Icelandic animals on the road: Sheep and horses often wander onto the tarmac, especially in summer. Slow down and stay alert.
• Prepare for strong winds: Gusts in North Iceland can be powerful. Open car doors carefully and hold the wheel firmly.

Use the Parka app for parking in Iceland: Some car parks charge small fees. The app helps you find and pay for spaces easily.

5 Main Stops on the Diamond Circle in Iceland

The Diamond Circle unfolds through five remarkable sights across Northeast Iceland. Here are the key stops along the route.

1. Goðafoss: The Waterfall of the Gods

Goðafoss is the closest main stop to Akureyri and usually the first stop on a counterclockwise Diamond Circle drive. It’s one of the most visited and most photographed waterfalls in Iceland, known for its horseshoe shape and turquoise water.

The name translates to “Waterfall of the Gods.” It came from a legend from Iceland’s conversion to Christianity, when pagan idols were cast into the falls. It has an easy 2.7-km (1.6-mile) trail that crosses a pedestrian bridge. Following this, you can explore both sides of the river and see smaller waterfalls along the way.

Practical information about Goðafoss Waterfall:

• Parking: Free on both banks
• Access: West bank directly off Route 1; east via Road 844
• Distance to next stop: 40 km (25 mi), about 35 minutes to Lake Mývatn

2. Lake Mývatn: Geothermal Wonderland

Lake Mývatn is the fourth-largest lake in Iceland, covering about 37 sq km (14 sq mi). It’s a vast, shallow body of water surrounded by volcanic formations, dark lava, and lush wetlands filled with birdlife. The area was shaped by volcanic eruptions around 2,300 years ago, creating the surreal landscape seen today.

Its name means “Midge Lake”, after the swarms of harmless insects that appear each summer. They’re key to the lake’s ecosystem—but pack a face net for comfort.

Attractions Around Lake Mývatn (via Route 848):

Route 1 connects to Road 848, which circles the east side of the lake. This loop has most of the area’s popular attractions before meeting Route 1 again on the north side.

• Skútustaðagígar: Pseudocraters formed by steam explosions under cooling lava.
• Dimmuborgir Lava Field: Twisting rock formations often linked to Icelandic folklore.
• Hverfjall Crater: A striking tephra crater with a steep trail to the rim.
• Grjótagjá: A small lava cave with a steamy blue pool inside.
• Námaskarð (Hverir): With bubbling mud pots and fumaroles.
• Earth Lagoon Mývatn: Formerly Mývatn Nature Baths, modern geothermal baths offering lake views and a relaxing soak. It’s one of the top geothermal baths in Iceland.

Practical information about Lake Mývatn:

• Parking: Free and paid car parks along Road 848
• Access: Route 1 connects easily to Road 848
• Distance to next stop: 60 km (37 mi), about 50 minutes to Dettifoss

3. Dettifoss: Europe’s Most Powerful Waterfall

You’ll likely spot Dettifoss before you reach it. On clear days, a plume of mist rises high into the sky. Sometimes, rainbows shimmer through the spray, revealing the waterfall’s location long before the road does.

It’s Europe’s most powerful waterfall, dropping 45 m (148 ft) into a canyon and spanning 100 m (328 ft) across. The sheer force of the Jökulsá á Fjöllum River is breathtaking, and the ground trembles as the water crashes below.

There are two viewing areas on opposite sides of the river:

• West side (Route 862): Paved and open year-round
• East side (Route 864): Gravel, closer views, summer-only

Whichever side you choose, expect to get wet, the mist here is powerful!

Practical information about Dettifoss Waterfall:

• Parking: Free on both sides
• Access: From Route 1, turn onto Road 862 (west) or 864 (east)

Distance to next stop: 36 km (22 mi), about 30 minutes to Ásbyrgi

4. Ásbyrgi Canyon: Horseshoe Oasis of the North

Shaped like a horseshoe and framed by 100-metre cliffs, Ásbyrgi Canyon is one of North Iceland’s most peaceful spots. Legend says it was formed by Sleipnir, Odin’s eight-legged horse. Scientists link it to ancient glacial floods.

In the centre stands Eyjan, a rock island rising from the canyon floor. Trails wind through birch forests to Botnstjörn Pond, a quiet lake reflecting the cliffs above.

Practical information about Ásbyrgi Canyon:

• Parking: Free at the visitor centre and near Botnstjörn Pond
• Access: Continue north on Road 862, then follow Road 85 and Road 861 into the canyon
• Distance to next stop: 60 km (37 mi), about 45 minutes to Húsavík

5. Húsavík: Whale Watching Capital of Iceland

The final stop, Húsavík, is a charming fishing town and Europe’s whale-watching capital. Between April and September, its waters host over 20 whale species, including humpbacks, minke, and blue whales.

Beyond the harbour, visit Húsavíkurkirkja church and the Húsavík Whale Museum. Or relax in the GeoSea Baths, where hot seawater pools overlook the Arctic Ocean. The town also has cosy cafés, seafood restaurants, and mountain views.

Practical information about Húsavík:

• Parking: Some near the harbour, museums, and GeoSea Baths are free
• Access: Continue on Road 85; Húsavík sits along the same road

Detours Worth Adding to Your Diamond Circle Drive

If you have extra time, take a few rewarding detours just off the main Diamond Circle route:

• Krafla Volcano and Víti Crater: Hike among steaming vents and ancient lava flows inside this active volcanic area.
• Hljóðaklettar (Echo Cliffs): See unique basalt formations and caves carved by the Jökulsá á Fjöllum River near Ásbyrgi.
• Tjörnes Peninsula: Drive along fossil cliffs and spot puffins nesting on the rugged coastline in summer.

Best Time to Visit the Diamond Circle in Iceland

You can drive the Diamond Circle all year, but conditions and experiences vary with the seasons:

• Summer (Jun–Aug): Long days, mild weather, and open roads, ideal for self-driving. It’s also whale-watching season, with the midnight sun and powerful waterfalls at their best.
• Autumn (Sep–Oct): Fewer tourists, golden landscapes, and cooler but manageable driving conditions.
• Winter (Nov–Mar): A chance to see the northern lights and frozen waterfalls, though snow and icy roads can limit access.
• Spring (Apr–May): Melting snow feeds dramatic waterfalls, and the countryside begins to turn green again.

Summer offers the best balance of scenery, daylight, and safe road conditions for a Diamond Circle Iceland self-drive trip.

Diamond Circle Iceland Self-Drive Itinerary

Start your trip in Reykjavík, driving north on the Ring Road (Route 1) to Akureyri, the gateway to the Diamond Circle. The drive takes 6–7 hours, so plan to start the loop the next day.

A one-day trip from Reykjavík isn’t realistic, as it leaves little time to explore. Instead, plan a two- or three-day self-drive adventure for a comfortable pace.

Diamond Circle Self-Drive 2-Day Itinerary from Reykjavík

• Day 1: Drive from Reykjavík to Akureyri, stopping at Goðafoss and Lake Mývatn. Explore geothermal sites like Dimmuborgir, Hverfjall, and the Earth Lagoon. Stay overnight near Mývatn.
• Day 2: Head to Dettifoss and Ásbyrgi Canyon, then finish in Húsavík for a GeoSea Baths soak before driving back to Reykjavík.

Diamond Circle Self-Drive 3-Day Itinerary from Reykjavík

• Day 1: Drive from Reykjavík to Akureyri, visiting Goðafoss and Lake Mývatn. Explore Krafla Volcano and Víti Crater, then stay overnight near Mývatn.
• Day 2: See Dettifoss, Ásbyrgi Canyon, and Botnstjörn Pond. Stop at Hljóðaklettar and drive through the Tjörnes Peninsula. Overnight in Húsavík.
• Day 3: Join a whale-watching tour in Húsavík, relax in the GeoSea Baths, and enjoy the town before driving back to Reykjavík.

Travel Tips When Exploring the Diamond Circle Route

To make the most of your Diamond Circle self-drive, prepare with these quick and practical travel reminders:

• Book accommodation early: Rooms fill quickly in summer, especially around Lake Mývatn and Húsavík.
• Dress in layers: The weather in Northeast Iceland can change quickly. Pack for both sun and rain.
• Bring swimwear: You’ll find geothermal baths like the Mývatn Earth Lagoon and GeoSea Baths along the route.
• Carry snacks and water: Services can be sparse between towns, especially in winter.
• Pack face nets in summer: Midges are common around Lake Mývatn from June to August.

Follow local rules: Learn about Iceland's road signs, respect nature, and never stop in the middle of the road for photos.

Experience the Diamond Circle Iceland on a Self-Drive Trip

Driving in Iceland’s Diamond Circle is an adventure through the island’s wild north. One moment you’re standing in mist at Dettifoss; the next, you’re crossing lava fields or watching whales off Húsavík. Every kilometre brings a new landscape and a new reason to stop.

With a reliable rental car from MyCar, the north is yours to explore. Take the wheel, follow your own pace, and chase Iceland’s untamed beauty on your terms.

FAQs About Diamond Circle Iceland Self-Drive

Is the Diamond Circle worth it?

Yes! It’s one of Iceland’s most beautiful and rewarding drives, with diverse landscapes and fewer crowds.

How long does it take to drive the Diamond Circle in Iceland?

The Diamond Circle drive is about 4 hours nonstop. Plan 2–3 days for a complete experience.

Can you do the Diamond Circle in one day from Reykjavík?

Technically yes, but you’ll spend most of the day driving with limited time to explore. Plan two or three days instead to truly enjoy the route.

Is the Diamond Circle free to visit?

Yes, the Diamond Circle attractions are free to visit. But some stops have parking fees, and there’s a toll tunnel near Akureyri.

What is the difference between the Golden Circle and the Diamond Circle in Iceland?

The Golden Circle, near Reykjavík, offers easy access and classic sights. The Diamond Circle, in North Iceland, is wilder, with lava fields, waterfalls, and whales.