First, why visit Iceland in the first place? This is an interesting question, as tourism to Iceland has skyrocketed in the last few years. In 2010, an average of 300,000 travelers visited Iceland. Last year that number was over 2.1 million.
Most visitors to Iceland come during the peak season June to August. From September 1 to May 31, the number of visitors drops dramatically. September, early October, late April and May are great times to visit, with plenty of light, fewer crowds, lower prices at hotels.
Most travelers concentrate in an area called ‘The Golden Circle’, roughly the loop that includes Geysir, the Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss, Skogafoss, and the Blue Lagoon, as well as Reykjavik to a certain extent. Once you step outside this circuit, the number of fellow travelers drops dramatically.
Here is a list of some of Iceland’s Must See Sites
Jokulsarlon
Jokulsarlon stands for “glacial river lagoon”. This large glacial lake is located in Vatnajokull National park. It was originally a glacier but became a lake after it started to recede into the Atlantic Ocean. It covers close to 7 square miles and is now Iceland’s deepest lake. Jokulsarlon is quite the site to see as it’s one of Iceland’s natural wonders. It can be easy viewed between Hofn and Skaftafell off of Route 1. It has been the setting for several movies including Die Another Day and Batman Begins.
Haukadalur
There are many impressive sites in Haukadalur, including two geysers: Strokkur and Geysir. Strokkur erupts around every 5-10 minutes so tourists don’t have to wait long to see it. Geysir, however, very rarely erupts. There are also over 40 other mud pots, fumaroles and hot springs in close proximity. It’s definitely worth spending the day in Haukadalur while you are in Iceland.
Dimmuborgir
This large lava field is unusually shaped. It is made up of rock formations and volcanic caves. Because of the interesting make up of it, it’s become one of the most popular natural attractions for tourists to visit. Visitors can spend hours here just looking around and exploring.
Svartifoss
Even though you have to hike to get to Svartifoss, it’s worth it to see this impressive waterfall. Located in Vatnajokull National Park, it has lava columns that surround it. The base of the waterfall contains many sharp rocks that add to the intense breaking of the water.
Blue Lagoon
This geothermal spa is located in Grindavik in a lava field. Visitors are allowed to swim in the 100-degree water and the rich minerals of it are supposed to help those that suffer from skin conditions. The man-made water of this lagoon is fed by a geothermal power plant located in Svartsengi. In order to keep the water clean, those who wish to go in the Blue Lagoon must shower off first.
Seljalandsfoss
Located along the Icelandic Ring Road, this is one of the most well-known waterfalls in Iceland. It drops 60 meters and visitors can actually walk behind the waterfall into a small cave. Seljalandsfoss was featured in The Amazing Race 6.
Iceland Ultimate Experiences:
- Visit the inside of a dormant volcano
- View a glacier from the inside
- Visit a living history farm and history museum on the edge of reindeer-filled highlands
- Have a midnight Tee time on one of Icelands 60 golf courses
- 4WD Super Truck through snow, glaciers, rivers and black sand beaches
- Experience the Northern Lights with many different options of day tours, escorted tours, and Self-drive packages
- Try unique taste treats such as Arctic charr, mountain lamb, creamy skyr and sweet bread baked in a geothermal oven.
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