Your Iceland adventure has come to an end, and now comes the final task: getting from your Reykjavik hotel to Keflavik Airport for your flight home. While this might seem straightforward, the 50-kilometer journey between Iceland’s capital and its international airport presents several options—each with different trade-offs between cost, convenience, and comfort.
Our private transfer service eliminates the stress of your departure day. Instead of navigating bus schedules, waiting at terminals, or worrying about making your flight, you simply walk out of your hotel lobby, step into a comfortable vehicle, and relax for the 45-minute drive to the airport. Your driver handles everything—luggage, timing, route—while you enjoy your last glimpses of Iceland’s volcanic landscape.
This service isn’t for everyone. Solo backpackers watching every króna will find the Flybus more economical. But families traveling with children, groups of friends splitting costs, couples celebrating special occasions, and busy travelers who value their time consistently tell us that private transfer was one of the best decisions of their trip. The peace of mind alone is worth it—especially after an exhausting week of chasing waterfalls and Northern Lights.
Transfer Pricing: Reykjavik Hotel → Keflavik Airport
All prices are per vehicle, not per person. This is the key difference from bus services—and why private transfers become increasingly economical as your group size grows.
Note: Prices displayed in Icelandic Króna (ISK). USD estimates based on current exchange rates and may vary slightly at time of booking.
Private Transfer vs. Flybus vs. Taxi: Honest Comparison
We believe in transparency. Here’s how private transfer compares to other options—including when you should NOT choose us:
💡 The Math: When Private Transfer Makes Financial Sense
Flybus costs 3,999 ISK per person, plus 1,200 ISK for hotel pickup connection = 5,199 ISK per person. Here’s how the numbers compare:
- Solo traveler: Flybus wins (5,199 ISK vs 29,900 ISK) — take the bus
- 2 people: Flybus cheaper (10,398 ISK vs 29,900 ISK) — but private saves 30+ minutes
- 3 people: Getting close (15,597 ISK vs 29,900 ISK) — private worth it for convenience
- 4 people: Nearly equal cost (20,796 ISK vs 36,900 ISK = 9,225 ISK/person) — private is better value
- 5-7 people: Private is cheaper AND better (36,900 ÷ 5 = 7,380 ISK/person)
Bottom line: For groups of 4 or more, private transfer costs about the same per person but saves 30-45 minutes and eliminates the bus terminal transfer hassle. For families with children needing car seats, private transfer is the only practical option regardless of group size.
How Your Airport Transfer Works: Step by Step
We’ve refined this process over years of operation. Here’s exactly what happens from the moment you book until you walk into Keflavik Airport:
Book Your Transfer
Use the booking form on this page or email us directly at booking@iceland-highlights.com. Provide your hotel name, flight departure time, number of passengers, and any special requests (car seats, extra luggage, etc.). We typically confirm bookings within 2-4 hours during business hours.
Receive Confirmation with Pickup Time
We calculate the optimal pickup time based on your flight. The standard formula: flight departure minus 3 hours = pickup time. For a 14:00 flight, we’d schedule pickup at 11:00. This gives you 45-50 minutes for the drive plus ample time for check-in, security, and a relaxed arrival at the airport. Your confirmation email includes the exact pickup time, driver contact information, and your booking voucher.
Driver Arrives at Your Hotel
On departure day, your driver arrives at your hotel lobby at the scheduled time. They’ll help load your luggage into the vehicle and ensure everyone is comfortable. If you’ve requested car seats for children, they’ll already be properly installed. Some downtown Reykjavik hotels have vehicle restrictions—in these cases, your driver will meet you at the nearest designated pickup point and will communicate this clearly in your confirmation.
Scenic Drive to Keflavik Airport
The 45-50 minute drive takes you through the Reykjanes Peninsula—a UNESCO Global Geopark featuring dramatic lava fields, distant volcanic ridges, and the occasional glimpse of the ocean. Learn more about Keflavik Airport including facilities, duty-free shopping, and tips for making the most of your departure. It’s a fitting final chapter to your Iceland experience. Your driver is happy to answer any last-minute questions about Iceland or provide restaurant recommendations for your layover destination. Before you know it, you’re at the airport departures terminal.
Airport Drop-off
Your driver drops you directly at the Keflavik Airport departures terminal entrance. They’ll help unload your luggage and make sure you have everything before saying goodbye. From here, you’re just steps away from check-in counters. With the time buffer built into your pickup, you can proceed through security at a relaxed pace and even browse the famous Keflavik duty-free shops if you wish.
Planning Your Airport Transfer: Practical Tips
When to Schedule Your Pickup
The standard recommendation is 3 hours before your flight departure. Here’s the breakdown:
- Drive time: 45-50 minutes (can be longer in bad weather)
- Check-in: International flights typically require arrival 2 hours before departure
- Buffer: 10-15 minutes for unexpected delays, luggage handling, finding your airline counter
Example: For a 14:00 flight, schedule pickup at 11:00. You’ll arrive at the airport around 11:50, giving you over 2 hours before departure.
💡 Pro Tip: Early Morning Flights
For flights departing before 8:00 AM, some travelers prefer to stay near the airport the night before. However, if you’re comfortable with an early wake-up, our 24/7 service can pick you up at 3:00 or 4:00 AM—no problem. Just confirm at booking.
What to Have Ready
To ensure a smooth pickup:
- Luggage packed and ready in your hotel room or lobby
- Hotel checkout completed (if checking out that morning)
- Booking confirmation/voucher accessible on your phone
- Driver contact number saved in case you need to reach them
- Passport and travel documents in your carry-on, not checked luggage
Weather Considerations
Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter. Here’s what you should know:
- Winter storms: Occasionally affect road conditions. Our drivers monitor conditions and will contact you if timing adjustments are needed.
- Wind warnings: The Reykjanes Peninsula can experience strong winds. Our experienced drivers know the route well and drive safely in all conditions.
- Extended travel time: In severe weather, the drive may take 60-75 minutes instead of 45-50. We account for this when scheduling.
- Flight delays/cancellations: If your flight is cancelled due to weather, contact us immediately and we’ll reschedule your transfer at no extra charge.
Our commitment: If we determine conditions are unsafe for travel, we’ll work with you to reschedule or provide a full refund. Your safety comes first.
✈️ First Time at Keflavik Airport?
Our comprehensive Keflavik Airport Guide covers everything you need to know for a smooth departure: terminal layout, check-in procedures, security tips, duty-free shopping recommendations, dining options, and common mistakes to avoid.
Save More: Transfer + Tour Bundle Packages
The smartest way to book your airport transfer is alongside one of our private tours. You get a single point of contact for your entire Iceland experience, seamless logistics, and meaningful savings on the transfer portion.
🌟 Most Popular: Golden Circle + Airport Transfer
Combine Iceland’s most famous day tour with your departure transfer and save 20% on the transfer portion. Perfect for travelers who want to maximize their last day—see Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss, then head straight to the airport.
- Private Golden Circle tour (8 hours) with expert guide
- Airport transfer included at discounted rate
- Flexible pickup from your hotel
- All highlights: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall
South Coast Adventure + Airport Transfer
Explore Iceland’s dramatic south coast—waterfalls, black sand beaches, glacier views—then catch your evening flight. This bundle works perfectly for travelers with afternoon or evening departures.
Northern Lights Hunt + Airport Transfer
Chase the aurora on your final night in Iceland, then we’ll pick you up the next morning for your flight home. The perfect winter combination—end your trip with an unforgettable night under the Northern Lights.
Round-Trip Transfer Package (Arrival + Departure)
Book both your arrival and departure transfers together and receive 10% off the total. One booking, two stress-free airport experiences, and the peace of mind that your Iceland transportation is fully sorted before you even land.
🔥 Blue Lagoon Transfer: The Ultimate Departure Day
The Blue Lagoon is just 20 minutes from Keflavik Airport—making it the perfect final stop before your flight. Our Blue Lagoon transfer package includes pickup from your Reykjavik hotel, 2-hour stopover at the lagoon (we store your luggage in the vehicle), and onward transfer to the airport. Relax in the geothermal waters, then float onto your flight completely refreshed.
Note: Blue Lagoon admission must be pre-booked separately at bluelagoon.com
Special Situations We Handle
Over the years, we’ve accommodated nearly every travel scenario. Here are some common special situations and how we handle them:
👶 Families with Young Children
We provide free car seats for all ages: infant seats (rear-facing, 0-13kg), toddler seats (9-18kg), and booster seats (15-36kg). Simply tell us your children’s ages and weights when booking, and we’ll have the appropriate seats properly installed before pickup. No struggling with luggage while managing tired kids on a bus—just walk out, strap in, and relax.
🌅 Early Morning Flights (Before 8 AM)
We operate 24/7 with no restrictions on pickup times. Whether your flight departs at 5:00 AM, 6:00 AM, or 7:00 AM, your driver will be at your hotel lobby on time. Many travelers with early flights appreciate the certainty of private transfer—no worrying about whether the early Flybus schedule works, no waiting in the cold, just reliable door-to-door service whenever you need it.
🌙 Late Night Arrivals (After 10 PM)
Landing at midnight or later? No problem. For arrival transfers, your driver will be waiting in the Keflavik arrivals hall with a sign bearing your name. Skip the uncertainty of finding a taxi at 1 AM and the limited late-night bus schedule. You’ve already paid a fixed price, your driver is waiting, and you’ll be at your hotel within the hour.
🧳 Extra Luggage or Special Equipment
Traveling with ski equipment, golf bags, photography gear, or more suitcases than usual? Let us know when booking and we’ll arrange the appropriate vehicle size. Our van/minibus option accommodates up to 7 large suitcases plus carry-ons. For oversized items, we can arrange larger vehicles—just contact us for a custom quote. There’s no surprises at pickup.
♿ Accessibility Requirements
We want to accommodate all travelers. Please contact us directly at booking@iceland-highlights.com to discuss specific accessibility needs—wheelchair accessibility, mobility assistance, or other requirements. We’ll do our best to arrange suitable transportation and make your transfer comfortable.
🚢 Cruise Ship Passengers
If you’re disembarking from a cruise ship and need transfer to Keflavik Airport, we offer dedicated cruise ship terminal transfers. We serve all Reykjavik cruise terminals: Skarfabakki, Miðbakki (Old Harbour), and Sundabakki. Note: Due to ongoing construction at Skarfabakki, pickup times may vary by 15-20 minutes—we’ll communicate any adjustments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a private airport transfer cost from Reykjavik to Keflavik?
Private transfers from Reykjavik hotels to Keflavik Airport cost 29,900 ISK (~$210 USD) for 1-3 passengers using a sedan, and 36,900 ISK (~$250 USD) for 4-7 passengers using a van or minibus.
The key difference from bus services: the price is per vehicle, not per person. This means groups of 3-4 people pay roughly the same per person as Flybus with hotel pickup (around 8,000-10,000 ISK each), but receive direct door-to-door service with no waiting or bus terminal transfers.
For the best value, consider our bundle packages—book any private tour with us and receive 20% off your airport transfer.
How long is the drive from Reykjavik to Keflavik Airport?
The drive from central Reykjavik to Keflavik Airport takes approximately 45-50 minutes under normal conditions. The route follows Route 41 through the Reykjanes Peninsula, passing through volcanic landscapes and occasional views of the Atlantic Ocean.
In winter or during bad weather, the drive may take slightly longer (60-75 minutes in severe conditions). Our experienced drivers monitor road conditions and adjust accordingly.
We recommend scheduling pickup 3 hours before your flight departure to allow comfortable time for the drive, check-in, security screening, and a relaxed arrival at the airport.
Do you provide car seats for children?
Yes, we provide free car seats for children of all ages. This is included in the transfer price at no extra charge.
Available seat types:
- Infant seats (rear-facing): For babies 0-13kg
- Toddler seats: For children 9-18kg
- Booster seats: For children 15-36kg
Simply note your child’s age and weight in the booking form or email, and we’ll have the appropriate seat properly installed before pickup. This is one of the main reasons families choose private transfer over the bus—no struggling with car seats on public transport, and your children travel safely and comfortably.
What if my flight is delayed or cancelled?
For arrival transfers (airport to hotel): We monitor all incoming flights automatically. If your flight is delayed, we adjust the pickup time accordingly—no action needed from you, and no extra charge for delays.
For departure transfers (hotel to airport): If your plans change, please contact us as soon as possible. We’re flexible and will work with you to reschedule when possible.
For flight cancellations: If your flight is cancelled and you need to reschedule your transfer, contact us immediately. We’ll work with you to arrange a new pickup time at no additional charge. If we cannot accommodate a reschedule, you’ll receive a full refund.
Reach us at booking@iceland-highlights.com or call +354 556 6868.
How much luggage can fit in the transfer vehicle?
Sedan (1-3 passengers): Accommodates 3 large checked suitcases plus 3 carry-on bags comfortably in the trunk and cabin.
Van/Minibus (4-7 passengers): Accommodates 7 large checked suitcases plus carry-on bags for each passenger.
Special equipment: If you have oversized items like ski equipment, golf bags, surfboards, or unusually large luggage, please mention this when booking. We can arrange larger vehicles if needed—there’s no extra charge for this, we just need advance notice to ensure the right vehicle is assigned.
Tip: If you’re unsure about luggage capacity, email us with details and we’ll confirm the right vehicle for your group.
Can I add a Blue Lagoon stop to my airport transfer?
Absolutely! Our Blue Lagoon transfer package is one of our most popular services, especially for departure days. The Blue Lagoon is only 20 minutes from Keflavik Airport, making it the perfect final stop before your flight.
The package includes:
- Pickup from your Reykjavik hotel
- Drive to Blue Lagoon (about 45 minutes)
- 2-hour stopover while you enjoy the lagoon (luggage stored securely in vehicle)
- Transfer to Keflavik Airport (about 20 minutes)
Important: Blue Lagoon admission must be pre-booked separately at bluelagoon.com. Tickets often sell out weeks in advance, so book your Blue Lagoon entry first, then coordinate the transfer timing with us.
Is private transfer worth it compared to Flybus?
It depends entirely on your situation. We believe in being honest about when each option makes sense:
Choose Flybus if:
- You’re traveling solo or as a couple on a tight budget
- You don’t mind the bus terminal transfer process (bus to BSÍ terminal, then minibus to hotel area)
- Your flight times align well with the Flybus schedule
- You’re traveling light with standard luggage
Choose private transfer if:
- You’re a group of 3+ people (per-person cost becomes very similar)
- You’re traveling with children and need car seats
- You have an early morning (before 7 AM) or late night flight
- You value convenience and saving time over saving $20-30
- You have extra luggage, special equipment, or accessibility needs
- You want door-to-door service with no bus terminal transfers
The math: Flybus with hotel pickup costs about 5,199 ISK per person. For a group of 4, that’s 20,796 ISK total. Our van for 4-7 people costs 36,900 ISK—about 9,225 ISK per person—with significantly better service.
Where exactly will the driver meet me at my hotel?
Your driver will meet you in the hotel lobby at the scheduled pickup time. They’ll help you with luggage and escort you to the vehicle parked nearby.
For downtown Reykjavik hotels with vehicle restrictions: Some hotels in the city center have limited vehicle access. In these cases, your driver will meet you at the nearest designated pickup point (usually within 1-2 minutes walk). This will be clearly communicated in your booking confirmation.
The day before your transfer: You’ll receive the driver’s contact information, so you can reach them directly if needed. If you can’t find the driver or have any issues, simply call the number provided.
Tip: Be in the lobby 5 minutes before your scheduled pickup time with luggage ready. This ensures a smooth, on-time departure.
Do you accept credit cards for payment?
Yes, we accept all major credit cards:
- Visa
- Mastercard
- American Express
Payment is processed securely at the time of booking through our online system. You’ll receive an email confirmation immediately after payment.
Note: If you encounter issues with payment (sometimes 3D Secure authentication can cause problems with international cards), please contact us at booking@iceland-highlights.com and we’ll find an alternative solution.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancel more than 24 hours before pickup:
96.5% refund. The 3.5% retained covers non-refundable merchant/transaction fees.
Cancel less than 24 hours before pickup:
No refund available. At this point, the driver and vehicle have been allocated to your booking.
If we cancel:
If Iceland Highlights cancels your transfer due to weather, vehicle issues, or any other circumstance on our end, you receive a 100% full refund.
Modifications:
Need to change your pickup time, hotel, or number of passengers? Contact us as early as possible and we’ll do our best to accommodate changes at no extra charge.
Do you offer transfers from cruise ship terminals?
Yes! We offer dedicated cruise ship transfer services from all Reykjavik cruise terminals directly to Keflavik Airport:
- Skarfabakki — Main cruise terminal (largest ships)
- Miðbakki — Old Harbour terminal
- Sundabakki — Additional terminal
Important note: Due to ongoing construction and development at the Skarfabakki area, pickup times may vary by 15-20 minutes from your originally scheduled time. We ask for your patience and will communicate any timing adjustments.
Can I book transfers to destinations outside Reykjavik?
Absolutely. In addition to standard Reykjavik hotel to Keflavik Airport transfers, we offer transfers to and from many destinations across Iceland:
Popular transfer routes:
- Blue Lagoon — 20 minutes from Keflavik Airport
- Sky Lagoon — In the greater Reykjavik area
- Landmannalaugar — Highland destination (summer only, June-September)
- Húsafell — West Iceland, gateway to Into the Glacier
- South Coast hotels — Vík, Höfn, Glacier Lagoon area
- Golden Circle area — Hotels near Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss
For destinations not listed, email us at booking@iceland-highlights.com with your details (pickup location, drop-off location, date, number of passengers) and we’ll provide a custom quote.
Why are prices shown in ISK? Can I pay in USD or EUR?
We display prices in Icelandic Króna (ISK) because Iceland uses ISK for all transactions, and this ensures the most accurate, up-to-date pricing.
When you pay by credit card, your bank automatically converts the ISK amount to your home currency at current exchange rates. You don’t need to do anything special—just pay normally.
Approximate conversions (rates fluctuate daily):
- 29,900 ISK ≈ $210 USD ≈ €195 EUR ≈ £165 GBP
- 36,900 ISK ≈ $250 USD ≈ €235 EUR ≈ £200 GBP
The ISK price is fixed; the USD/EUR/GBP equivalent will vary slightly based on exchange rates at the moment of your purchase.
Tip: Use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees to avoid the 2-3% fee some banks charge for international purchases.
Ready to Book Your Airport Transfer?
End your Iceland adventure the way it should end—relaxed, comfortable, and on time. Book directly with us for the best service and bundle savings.
💡 Pro tip: Mention any tours you’re interested in and we’ll create a custom bundle quote with transfer savings!
