Some of the best adventures happen when you have the freedom for spontaneity. That’s why we’re proud to have Enterprise Car Rental as part of the Icelandia family, offering a diverse fleet of reliable vehicles—everything from compact city cars to rugged 4x4s and spacious SUVs, so you can see Iceland exactly how you want. It's just you, the open road, and the freedom to make every moment your own.
Rent a Car in Iceland - Choose the Right Vehicle for Your Adventure
Why Rent a Car with Icelandia?
When you rent a car through Icelandia, you get the best of both worlds—our local expertise and the Enterprise's global standard of service. We’re dedicated to making your travel experience smooth and worry-free with top-notch customer service and a range of benefits that set us apart from the rest.
What Makes Us Different?
Seamless Integration with Our Services
- Our car rentals are designed to seamlessly fit within the offerings of the broad Icelandia family, making it easy to book your vehicle along with adventures, admissions, and all kinds of activities across the country—all in one place.
- Instead of managing reservations with multiple service providers, you only have to deal with us. This streamlined experience means more time for planning your itinerary and less time for coordinating.
- With one of Iceland's largest and most skilled customer service teams, backed by decades of experience, we ensure everything runs smoothly. Whether it’s booking your rental car or securing a spot on an adventure tour, we handle it all so you can focus on enjoying every moment of your trip.
Reliable Vehicles Backed by 24/7 Support
- Your safety and peace of mind are our priority. All our vehicles are thoroughly maintained and backed by Enterprise’s 24/7 roadside assistance. So, whether you’re venturing into the highlands or cruising along the Ring Road, you can feel confident that support is just a phone call away, anytime, anywhere.
Convenience and Flexibility
- We offer a wide range of vehicles suited for any journey—from fuel-efficient compact cars for city drives to spacious SUVs and 4x4s for navigating Iceland’s rugged landscapes.
- For those looking to travel sustainably, we also provide carbon-neutral Teslas, so you can explore Iceland with minimal environmental impact. With flexible rental terms and easy pick-up and drop-off options, you can plan your trip exactly how you want, without being tied to rigid schedules or locations.
Trusted & Reliable
Seamless Pick-Up and Drop-Off
Diverse Fleet
24/7 Roadside Assistance
Should You Rent a Car or Take Guided Tours in Iceland?
Iceland is a land of breathtaking landscapes and diverse natural wonders that offer something for every type of traveler. With its vast stretches of open roads, stunning coastal drives, and countless hidden gems, it’s no surprise that many visitors choose to explore the country on their own terms.
On the other hand, Iceland’s rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, and unique attractions also make it an ideal destination for guided tours led by knowledgeable locals.
The question many travelers face when planning their trip is whether to rent a car and embark on a self-drive adventure or join guided tours for a more structured and curated experience.
Both options have their own unique advantages and challenges, and the right choice often comes down to your travel style, preferences, and what you want to get out of your Icelandic adventure.
Let’s dive into the pros and cons of each to help you make the best decision for your journey.
Considerations for Renting a Car: Who Should Rent a Car and Why?
Renting a car in Iceland isn’t for everyone, but it’s a great choice for many travelers. Here’s who should consider it and why:
- Independent Travelers: You prefer to set your own pace, choose your own routes, and make spontaneous stops along the way.
- Photographers: You want the flexibility to pull over for the perfect shot, travel at odd hours for ideal lighting, or capture unique moments away from crowds.
- Families with Very Young Kids: Renting a car gives you the ability to travel on your own schedule, handle unexpected breaks, change the itinerary at any time, and keep essentials close at hand.
- Adventurers Seeking Hidden Gems: You’re interested in exploring remote locations or less-visited sites that most guided tours don’t cover.
- Night Owls and Early Risers: You enjoy traveling during odd hours—catching midnight sunsets in the summer or setting out early to have popular spots all to yourself.
- Long-Stay Travelers: If you’re planning to spend more than a week in Iceland, renting a car can be more cost-effective and allow you to see more of the country at your own pace.
- Travelers Who Value Flexibility: Your plans might change based on the weather, your mood, or what you discover along the way. Renting lets you adjust without any hassle.
- Multi-Destination Itinerary Planners: If you want to cover various regions of Iceland without being bound to tour schedules, having a car is the best way to hit all your desired stops.
- Couples or Small Groups: Splitting costs among a few people makes renting a car even more affordable, and you can enjoy a more private and personalized experience.
If any of these sound like you, renting a car might be the best way to explore Iceland!
Who Should Go on Guided Tours?
Guided tours are a fantastic option for many types of travelers. Here’s who might benefit the most:
- Families with Older Kids or Teens: Busy parents can skip the hassle of planning and let someone else handle the details. Guided tours allow you to connect with your kids during the journey, and they don’t feel like they’re competing for your attention on the road.
- Busy Professionals: If you don’t have the time to research and plan every detail of your trip, guided tours offer a convenient solution with everything taken care of. Just show up, relax, and enjoy the journey.
- People Who Want to Relax on the Road: If you like to avoid the fatigue and stress of driving long hours or navigating unfamiliar roads, guided tours are for you. Sit back, enjoy the scenery, and let someone else handle the wheel.
- Non-Drivers or Inexperienced Drivers: For those without a driving license or limited experience driving abroad, especially in challenging conditions like Iceland’s winter roads, guided tours provide a safe and reliable way to see the sights without worry.
- Travelers Looking for Local Knowledge Get in-depth insights from local guides who share fascinating stories, history, and culture. Perfect for those who want to learn more about Iceland beyond what’s written in guidebooks.
- Travelers Who Prefer Structure: Enjoy a well-thought-out itinerary that covers all the highlights, hidden gems, and “must-see” spots—no need to spend hours researching and planning.
- Safety-Conscious Travelers: If you feel safer in group, led by local experts, a guided tour provides peace of mind and a stress-free way to explore.
- Solo Travelers or Social Enthusiasts: Guided tours offer a chance to meet like-minded people and enjoy a social atmosphere, perfect for those who love to share their experiences or want to make new friends on the road.
If any of these describe you, then choosing a guided tour can be a stress-free, enriching way to experience Iceland.
Deciding between renting a car or taking guided tours in Iceland ultimately comes down to your personal travel style and preferences. No matter which option you choose, both allow you to experience Iceland’s unique beauty and captivating landscapes in your own way.
Take time to consider what you value most in your travel experience—whether it’s the freedom of the open road or the comfort and expertise of a guided tour. Whichever path you take, an unforgettable Icelandic adventure awaits.
Key Questions to Ask Yourself
If you value flexibility and spontaneity, renting a car may be ideal. If you prefer a well-organized schedule that maximizes your time, guided tours can take the pressure off.
Renting a car means you can decide at the last minute to take a detour, stop for a beautiful view, or stay longer at a favourite spot. Is this flexibility important to me?
If you value flexibility and spontaneity, renting a car may be ideal. If you prefer a well-organized schedule that maximizes your time, guided tours can take the pressure off.
Renting a car means taking on the responsibility of dealing with unforeseen issues. Am I comfortable with this?
Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, and road conditions, especially in winter or on remote F-roads, can be challenging. Do you feel confident navigating these on your own.
?If you’re short on time or don’t enjoy the logistics of travel planning, guided tours offer a pre-planned itinerary, so you can focus on the experience without worrying about the details.
Do you value the expertise of local guides who can provide cultural context, interesting stories, and detailed knowledge about Iceland’s history, nature, and culture?
Self-driving in Iceland requires constant attention to changing conditions. Am I comfortable using apps, websites, and radio updates to stay informed?
Renting a car provides the flexibility to handle sudden stops, unexpected naps, or snack breaks. Would this make the trip easier for my family?
A guided tour provides the security of being with a group, especially in remote areas or during unpredictable weather. Would I feel more comfortable this way
Meet-on-Locaton-Adventures for Independent Travellers
The Lava Tunnel
Delve deep underground on this adventurous lava tunnel tour, just 30 minutes from Reykjavík. Raufarhólshellir is an ideal tour for geology buffs and adventure-seekers. You will see the inner workings of a volcanic eruption while walking in the path of lava that flowed thousands of years ago. This is an easy, guided tour with no caving experience required
Askur Ice Cave Adventure
Explore the breathtaking natural ice cave nestled within the Myrdalsjökull glacier. Wander through a shimmering ice tunnel, marvel at the intricate ash layers from nearby eruptions, and immerse yourself in the surreal atmosphere. Enjoy a thrilling buggy or snowmobile adventure with fantastic views.
ATV Quad Express on Sólheimasandur
Welcome to an extraordinary ATV experience that transcends the ordinary – our Quad Bike Adventure awaits at the Mýrdalsjökull Base!
Snowmobile Adventure on Mýrdalsjökull Glacier
Join this thrilling snowmobile experience on the mighty Mýrdalsjökull Glacier! Spend 1-hour riding across the ice field, with breathtaking scenery and an experienced guide. This tour doesn’t require previous snowmobile riding experience, and anyone over the age of 17 with a valid driver’s licence can operate the snowmobile. But, if there are kids over 8 in the group or non-drivers, they can ride as a passenger. Get ready to glide on a glacier!