What makes Iceland Unique

Iceland is a country unlike any other, offering visitors a perfect blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. From its stunning glaciers and geothermal hot springs to its vibrant cities and charming towns, Iceland is a destination that promises to captivate and inspire all who visit.

One of the most striking things about Iceland is its dramatic landscape. The country is home to some of the world's most awe-inspiring natural wonders, including glaciers, volcanoes, geysers, and waterfalls. Visitors can explore these marvels on foot, by car, or on a guided tour, experiencing the raw power and beauty of Iceland's rugged terrain.

In addition to its natural attractions, Iceland also boasts a rich cultural heritage that is celebrated through its art, music, and traditions. Visitors can immerse themselves in Icelandic culture by visiting museums and galleries, attending festivals and concerts, and exploring the country's historic sites and monuments.

For the adventurous traveller, Iceland offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to skiing and snowmobiling. The country's unspoiled wilderness provides the perfect backdrop for a host of exciting adventures, including whale watching, horseback riding, and even ice climbing.

Finally, what sets Iceland apart as a travel destination is its commitment to sustainability and conservation. The country is dedicated to protecting its natural resources and preserving its unique cultural heritage, making it a destination that not only offers incredible experiences but also one that visitors can feel good about supporting.

Top Highlights in Iceland

Halbinsel Snæfellsnes

This region is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the Snaefellsjokull glacier, black sand beaches, and rugged coastlines. It also boasts charming fishing villages and historic landmarks such as the Kirkjufell mountain.

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Western Fjords

The Western Fjords are a remote and rugged region, featuring towering cliffs, deep fjords, and pristine wilderness areas. It is a great place for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and whale watching.

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Eastern Fjords

This region offers some of the most scenic landscapes in Iceland, with towering mountains, picturesque fishing villages, and rugged coastlines. It is also a great place to spot wildlife such as puffins, seals, and reindeer.

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Akureyri

Located in the north of Iceland, Akureyri is a charming town with colourful houses, museums, and botanical gardens. It is also a great starting point for exploring the nearby natural attractions such as Lake Myvatn and Dettifoss waterfall.

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Vatnajökull National Park

The largest national park in Iceland, Vatnajökull is home to glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, and other natural wonders. It also offers various outdoor activities such as glacier hikes, ice caving, and bathing in hot spring.

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Golden Circle and Southern Coast

This region is home to some of Iceland's most famous natural attractions, including the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. The area also boasts stunning coastal landscapes and black sand beaches.

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Reykjavik

As the capital and largest city in Iceland, Reykjavik is a vibrant cultural hub, offering a wide range of attractions, including museums, art galleries, restaurants, and nightlife. It also serves as a gateway to Iceland's natural wonders.

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Top Things to Do

See the Northern Lights

Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the aurora borealis. From September to April, the Northern Lights dance across the sky, creating a magical and unforgettable experience.

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Relax in a hot spring

Iceland is famous for its geothermal activity, and there are numerous hot springs and geothermal pools around the country. The Blue Lagoon is the most famous, but there are many others, including the Secret Lagoon and Myvatn Nature Baths.

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Explore glaciers and ice caves

Iceland is home to many glaciers, and there are numerous tours available that allow visitors to explore them, either by hiking, snowmobiling, or even ice climbing. Additionally, visitors can explore stunning ice caves, which form inside glaciers during the winter months.

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Hike to waterfalls

Iceland is home to many beautiful waterfalls, including Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, and Gullfoss. Visitors can hike to these waterfalls and enjoy their natural beauty up close.

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Visit Vatnajökull National Park

Vatnajokull is Iceland's largest national park, covering an area of over 14,000 square kilometres. It is home to glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, and other natural wonders, and visitors can hike, snowmobile, or even take a helicopter tour to explore the park's many attractions.

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See puffins

Iceland is home to many seabirds, including puffins, which are a popular sightseeing attraction. Visitors can take boat tours to see these cute and colourful birds up close.

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Drive the Ring Road

Iceland's Ring Road is a scenic drive that takes visitors around the entire country, offering stunning landscapes, quaint towns, and hidden gems along the way.

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Try Icelandic cuisine

Icelandic cuisine is unique and delicious, featuring fresh seafood, lamb, dairy products, and traditional dishes such as skyr, smoked lamb, and rye bread baked underground. Visitors can try these dishes at local restaurants and cafes around the country.

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Travel Ideas for Iceland

Horseback Riding in Iceland

Looking for a unique and unforgettable way to experience Iceland? Look no further than our horseback riding  tours! What better way to see the stunning landscapes of Iceland than from the back of a hardy and reliable Icelandic horse? Choose from a variety of tours, with varying levels of difficulty to suit everyone from beginners to experienced riders. Embark on leisurely trail rides, suitable for riders of all levels, or take on a multi-day horse trek through some of Iceland's most rugged and beautiful terrain. For the most experienced and adventurous riders, challenging highland tours are also available. No matter which tour you choose, you'll have the opportunity to get up close and personal with Iceland's natural wonders, including towering glaciers, sparkling waterfalls, and dramatic volcanic landscapes. Along the way, you'll be accompanied by experienced guides who will ensure your safety and help you make the most of your time in Iceland.

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Golfing in Iceland

Looking for a unique golfing experience? Look no further than Iceland! With up to 24 hours of daylight during the Icelandic summer, you could theoretically play golf round the clock. Golf courses can be found in every corner of Iceland, mostly 9-hole, some 18-hole, and all set in stunning landscapes. Play along the coast, in bizarre lava fields, or rolling hills – whatever your preference, Iceland has something to offer. The routes recommended are perfect for golfers, allowing you to combine your love of golf with the natural highlights of Iceland.  If you are interested in a specific golf trip, please contact us, and we will work with you to create a personalised itinerary.

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Sailing to the Arctic Circle

Experience a unique sailing adventure on the 20m sailing yacht Vera, starting in Akureyri in northern Iceland's Eyjafjörður and heading to the island of Grímsey, located on the Arctic Circle. On the last day of the trip, an excursion will take you to the waterfalls of Goðafoss and Dettifoss and to Lake Mývatn. This trip combines sailing in the scenic Eyjafjörður with crossing the Arctic Circle and visiting the bird-cliff known island of Grimsey, with a tour on land that will take you to impressive waterfalls and the volcanically formed Lake Mývatn. Experience the perfect combination of sailing adventure and sightseeing on this unforgettable journey.

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Iceland’s Northwest

This unique tour to Iceland's northwest is not found in any travel catalogue. With a maximum of eight participants, we will explore the remote region for two weeks by 4x4 and hiking, experiencing stunning nature including fjords, bird colonies, waterfalls, and deserted fishing villages. Led by a local expert with over 30 years of experience, we'll stay in charming guesthouses and hostels in picturesque locations with comfortable rooms and amenities.

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Best Time to Visit

To make the most of your visit to Iceland, it is recommended to plan your trip between May and October, specifically during the months of May, June, August, September, or October. Iceland is a land of surprises, with breath-taking landscapes ranging from the rugged coastline to the majestic highlands. Whether you're interested in experiencing the country's rich culture or embarking on an immersive adventure, timing your trip is key.

Depending on your interests, you can explore Iceland's mountains, watch whales from Reykjavik, chase the Northern Lights, or visit the stunning waterfalls of Dettifoss. By visiting Iceland during the right time of year, you can ensure that you have an unforgettable and fulfilling travel experience.

WINTER GOOD TOO: BEST MONTHS TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

Important Information for Your Travel Plans

Special Travel Tips from our Experts

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Getting Around

Iceland may be rugged, but the country boasts a well-connected network of roads that link major tourist cities and regions. Whether by plane, private transfer, rental car, taxi, bus, or bicycle, there are plenty of ways to travel around the country and explore its wonders.

For travel between cities and regions, domestic flights are available to areas with airports. When exploring cities and towns, private transfers, taxis, buses, and bicycles are excellent options. Private transfers are also ideal for day trips to specific locations, while renting a car is a popular choice for those who want to embark on an Iceland road trip.

For the best travel experience, we recommend using a combination of these transportation options, depending on your itinerary. For example, you could combine domestic flights with guided private transfers to visit geothermal or glacial areas.

Travel Themes Most Common for Iceland

Local Cuisine

There are several local foods that you should definitely try to experience the country's unique culinary culture. Some must-try local foods in Iceland include:

  • Pylsur - A popular Icelandic hotdog made with a blend of lamb, pork, and beef. It is usually served with crispy fried onions, ketchup, mustard, and a mayonnaise-based sauce.
  • Skyr - A dairy product similar to yoghurt but with a milder taste and a thicker, creamier texture. It is often served with fruit and granola for breakfast or as a snack.
  • Kjötsúpa - A traditional Icelandic soup made with lamb, potatoes, carrots, and other vegetables. It is hearty and filling and perfect for a cold day.
  • Icelandic fish and chips - Fresh fish is a staple in Icelandic cuisine, and fish and chips is a popular dish. The fish is usually coated in a light batter and served with fries.
  • Rúgbrauð - A dense, dark rye bread that is baked underground near geysers using geothermal heat. It has a unique flavour and is often served with butter and smoked salmon.
  • Hákarl - A fermented shark meat that has a pungent odour and a strong, ammonia-like taste. It is a traditional Icelandic dish that is often served as a snack with a shot of Icelandic schnapps.
  • Harðfiskur - A type of dried fish that is often eaten as a snack. It is crispy and salty and goes well with butter or cheese.

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Festivals & Public Holidays

There are several festivals and holidays that a tourist to Iceland may enjoy:

  • Independence Day (June 17th): This national holiday celebrates Iceland's independence from Denmark in 1944. The day is marked with parades, concerts, and other festivities.
  • Reykjavik Pride (August): This is Iceland's biggest annual event, celebrating LGBTQ+ pride with a parade, concerts, and other activities.
  • Icelandic National Day (June 17th): This holiday marks the founding of the Republic of Iceland in 1944, and is celebrated with parades, speeches, and other festivities.
  • The Reykjavik International Film Festival (September/October): This annual film festival features international and Icelandic films, as well as talks and discussions with filmmakers.
  • The Icelandic Beer Festival (February/March): This festival celebrates Icelandic beer and features tastings, lectures, and other activities.
  • The Reykjavik Arts Festival (May/June): This festival showcases Icelandic and international art, music, and theatre performances.
  • The Winter Lights Festival (February): This festival celebrates the winter season with various events, including light installations, concerts, and cultural activities.

It's a good idea for tourists to check the dates of these festivals and holidays before planning their trip to Iceland, as they can add an extra layer of excitement and cultural immersion to their visit.

When to Start Planning your Trip

Currency & Payment

The currency in Iceland is the Icelandic króna (ISK). It is recommended that visitors exchange their currency for Icelandic króna upon arrival in Iceland to ensure that they have cash to hand for smaller purchases or establishments that may not accept credit cards.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Iceland, and many places, including restaurants and hotels, also accept major international currencies such as US dollars and euros. However, it's a good idea to have some local cash for smaller purchases and for establishments that may not accept cards.

ATMs are readily available throughout the country, and visitors can withdraw Icelandic króna using their debit or credit card. It's a good idea to check with your bank before travelling to Iceland to ensure that your card will work overseas and to inquire about any fees associated with international transactions.

In addition to cash and card payments, some establishments in Iceland also accept mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Wallet. Visitors should always check with the establishment beforehand to ensure that their preferred payment method is accepted.

Security

Iceland is generally considered a safe country for tourists. It has a low crime rate, and violent crimes against tourists are extremely rare. However, it's always important to exercise basic safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas or when engaging in outdoor activities. Here are some points to consider regarding the security situation for tourists in Iceland.

  • Low Crime Rate: Iceland has a low overall crime rate, including low rates of violent crime and theft. The country is known for its safe and friendly environment.
  • Road Safety: If you plan to drive in Iceland, be aware of the road conditions and weather changes, especially during winter. Iceland's weather can be unpredictable, and roads can become hazardous. Always follow traffic rules and guidelines, and check the conditions before embarking on any road trips.
  • Natural Hazards: Iceland is renowned for its stunning landscapes and natural attractions, but it's important to respect nature and be cautious. Pay attention to safety signs, follow designated paths and trails, and be aware of potential hazards such as strong currents, unstable cliffs, or sudden changes in weather.
  • Emergency Services: Iceland has a well-established emergency response system. In case of an emergency, dial 112 to reach the police, fire department, or medical services.
  • Precautions in Urban Areas: While Iceland's cities and towns are generally safe, it's always wise to take precautions common to any urban area. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places and tourist hotspots, to prevent petty theft.

Visa & Immigration Rules

Iceland is part of the Schengen Zone. As a member of the European Economic Area (EEA) and a signatory of the Schengen Agreement, Iceland has abolished border controls with other Schengen members. This means that travellers can move freely between Iceland and other Schengen countries without passport checks or visa requirements.

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