Fire and Ice. This is what Iceland is famous for – active volcanoes and geothermal activity next door to glaciers and icefields. Iceland, the country with the chilly name, is rapidly becoming one of Europe’s hottest destinations. Much of Iceland’s popularity is due to its natural features, which include glaciers, hot springs, geysers, active volcanoes, portentous peaks and vast lava deserts. In addition to its expansive landscape, it has a rich history and folklore tradition.
Here is some useful info if you are planning a trip to Iceland.
When To Go
Surprisingly, Iceland’s winters aren’t as cold as you may think. Sure they do receive ice and snow, but countries like Canada and Russia do generally have colder winters. If you want to visit Iceland then your best time would be during the summer months because it doesn’t ever fully get dark in the month of June. This allows for a lot of time to explore. If you do want to go in the winter airfare and accommodations can be lower since it’s the off season. However expect to experience at least 20 hours of nighttime. If you want to see the Northern Lights, for the best chance to see them travel in September, October, end of February through mid-March.
What To See
Iceland has no shortage of things to do and see. Unfortunately many tourists tend to stay close to the country’s capital even though there are a lot of activities available all throughout Iceland. Many of these places are free or very inexpensive and offer amazing exploration opportunities.
One of the more popular activities in Iceland is hiking. If you do want to explore the area’s lava rocks and foliage, make sure that you wear hiking boots to protect your feet and ankles as the terrain can be a little rough. Don’t forget to pack a backpack that is filled with not only food items, but raingear, extra clothes and sunscreen. Iceland’s weather is changing constantly so even if it’s sunny when you set out on a hike, 30 minutes later it could be stormy.
You really can’t go to Iceland without seeing some of the ice. Why not take this opportunity to explore a glacier or do some ice climbing. The best place for tourists to do so is Skaftafell.
Another popular excursion for tourists is whitewater rafting. One of the more popular places to go is in northern Iceland on Austrari Jokulsa or Vestari or in southern Iceland on the Hyita River.
Vatnajökull National Park is filled with sites that hold titles in Iceland. The national park is not only the newest national park, but the largest one. The country’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull, is located at the park as well as Europe’s largest waterfall in the amount of water that is discharged in volume, Dettifoss and Iceland’s highest mountain called Hvannadalshnúkur.
If you have the time you should definitely visit Reykjavik if you happen to be there during the summer. Not only is Þingvellir National Park close by, but there are also quite a few opportunities available to do some whale watching.
For those that would like to experience volcanic craters firsthand Mývatn is the place to go. This lake has a unique appearance because there are quite a few volcanic craters located throughout the lake. You’ll see lots of waterbirds in the area, including 13 difference species of ducks.
How To Get There
Iceland can easily be reached by plane. Keflavik airport is located about 25 miles southwest of Reykjavik. There are many different busses that service several of the hotels so you can easily get to your accommodations after you arrive in Iceland. There are taxis available as well but they can be quite pricey.
Getting Around
There are many different ways to get around Iceland. One of the most common forms of transportation are small planes. They can take passengers to areas of the country that take a while to get to by car or that are not that easily accessible by bus. If you want to explore the area yourself then you can rent a car. There are many different car rental companies available and during the summer months car rental costs about $500 for the week. If you do want to rent a car to get around, make sure that you get a map and are aware of the driving laws. For instance, drivers drive on the right side of the road, all passengers must wear their seatbelts and headlights must be on even during daytime hours. There are also busses available to take you around most parts of Ireland. For those that want to really see the sites up close and personal there are bicycle rentals. Since a lot of Iceland consists of rough terrain, those that do plan on seeing the country using a bike should be prepared for strenuous conditions at times.
Accommodations
There are many types of accommodations available throughout Iceland including everything from 5 star hotels to rustic bed and breakfasts. During the summer months accommodations can be hard to come by. Many travelers have to book their hotel at least a year in advance. If you are planning to visit Iceland, make sure you have your accommodations secured ahead of time.
Since things are spread out, many travelers choose to take an escorted tour of Iceland. Considering taking an Iceland tour? Here are some of the highlights that might be included.
- Snaefellsness Peninsula and Snaefellsjokull Glacier – The rugged West coast with its high waves is very dramatic and home to this amazing glacier. The locals like to hike up and ski down – no chairlifts here!
- The Golden Circle – This scenic route is doable from Reykjavik in a day. It comprises the geothermally active valley of Haukadalur, Gullfoss waterfall and Thingvellier National Park. There is much of importance to see along the way including the reliable “Strokkur” geyser and the great “Geyser” where the name originated. In the park, you can see the original site of the oldest parliament in the world which was founded by the Vikings. There’s also a site where you can view the Great Atlantic Rift, a rift that is slowly pulling Iceland apart along the North American and European tectonic plates.
- Southern Iceland – Here you’ll find a lowland region of rich farmlands. In April farmers were getting the sheep and cattle out to fields for the summer. There are also magnificent black sand beaches, striking twisted lava rocks, glaciers, charming villages, and yes, many more photo opportunities! A hike to the top of Skogafoss waterfall presented us with breathtaking scenery and magical moments viewing the nesting fulmars in the misty rainbows. Simply spectacular!
- Lake Myvatn region – From the northern fishing village of Akureyri we explored this fascinating geothermal region with its bubbling mud flats, volcanic craters, lava fields, geothermal pools as well as geothermal power stations. (Geothermal power plants provide power to 90% of the residents.) The grassy wetlands in the area were teeming with many species of birds returning home to nest for the summer.
- Nature Baths and Spas – Swimming is a daily activity in Iceland. Every village has a community pool called a bath heated by a geothermal source. Health spas attract visitors to Iceland for natural cures. The Myvatn Nature Bath has a natural blend of nutrients and microorganisms with unique health benefits. The largest of the health spas is the Blue Lagoon situated near the airport. People fly in from around the world for psoriasis and other treatments. Blue Lagoon products are sold around the world.
Sue Lobo is a travel blogger and editor of Atlas Cruises & Tours, an award-winning travel website. Click to browse more Iceland tours
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Iceland: Land of Fire and IceA 8-Day Tauck Tour starting from $6,690 |
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Iceland AdventureA 8-Day Globus Tour starting from $2,849 |
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Natural Wonders of IcelandA 9-Day Insight Tour starting from $3,475 |
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