From soaring glaciers to spectacular ice blue lagoons and just about every natural wonder in between, the tiny country of Iceland packs a punch when it comes to stunning and peaceful views that you can meditate to.
For the more adventurous travelers, get ready for epic road trip routes with the best places to visit in Iceland, leading to ice caves, towering waterfalls, and outdoor adventures like whale watching, glacier hiking, and even scuba diving. From spellbinding landscapes to crazy cuisine, here are ten reasons you should go to Iceland now.
1. To get a dose of adventure
Seeking adventure? You can choose among a variety of activities that will keep you on your toes: glacier hiking, caving, volcano tours, snowmobiling, horse riding, and cycling also. Rise up to the exciting challenge by putting on a pair of trusty Merrell shoes, which can help cushion your feet against the ever-changing terrain of Iceland.
Those hoping for a slower pace can check out the geothermal pools and spas or birdwatching and whale watching. Looking for a quirky activity? You can sign up for a Game of Thrones tour, which will take you around some of the series’ shooting locations.
2. To see the Northern Lights
The beautiful natural phenomenon of aurora borealis is best seen in Iceland and if you’re lucky, you can catch these dancing lights during your visit. It’s usually active from the months of September to April, but take note that you’ll still have to be patient and be willing to drive out of the city.
Make sure you leave some room in your itinerary to chase the northern lights – whether you seek it out on your own driving excursion or you sign up for a specialized tour, we’re sure the experience will be thrilling and memorable. Remember to plan ahead before the actual trip, so you can equip yourself with the proper travel gear and essentials.
3. For its Quirky and Unique Cuisine
Icelandic cuisine features exotic, traditional treats that might be difficult to stomach for most people, but there are a few items that are friendlier both for your taste and for your budget.
The cuisine of Iceland dates back for centuries, with important elements being lamb, dairy and fish, this is because of the vast amount of Ocean surrounding the country. Modern Icelandic food includes local ingredients such as salmon, trout, crowberry, Icelandic moss, wild mushrooms and also an array of dairy products. There’s definitely a lot of unique dishes in store especially for those with an adventurous appetite.
4. For the jaw-dropping scenery
Jaw-dropping scenery is certainly a norm in Iceland – you can base yourself in the capital of Reykjavik and take a 45-minute drive to experience some of the country’s otherworldly landscapes. Typical stops include the Þingvellir National Park, a historically and geologically significant tourist attraction and Vatnajökull, the largest glacier.
Iceland remains typically cold and chilly during the aurora season, so it’s best to bring along a rain jacket when heading out to the catch iconic spots such as the Gullfoss, Iceland’s most famous waterfalls or Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the thick cascade of water.
5. The Blue Lagoon
Set in the heart of the Icelandic landscape, the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa is one of the most visited attractions in Iceland, and rightly so as it is quite magnificent with its aqua blue water and naturally high temperatures, guaranteed to relax you.
6. The open spaces and long winding roads
Surely famous for the vast open spaces and winding roads that go on for miles, curving around the stunning natural landscape and rock formations. Iceland is undoubtedly a great place to hire a car and take a long road trip stopping off at different places as you go. Iceland’s placement on top of the world ensures that it’s the best place to catch a glance of the awe-inspiring Northern Lights.
7. The Icelandic glaciers
Just when you didn’t think Iceland could offer anything more, you find yourself immersed in its stunning glaciers. Known as the ‘land of Ice & Fire’ because of the number of glaciers and
Volcanos within the country, Iceland really does offer it all. With over 10 different glaciers to visit, you may find it hard to narrow it down to the ones you want to see.
8. The mountains
Much of the Icelandic landscape is consumed by mountains that even the most confident of mountaineers would find it a little daunting. With various breathtakingly beautiful types, some much larger and covering a lot more ground than others, you are spoilt for choice on hiking trails.
9. The volcanoes
One of the main reasons people visit this dramatic landscape is to witness one of more than 15 volcanos across the Icelandic landscape, with all of them offering varying looks and scales. Many are open to hikes whilst others are noted as too hazardous to get close to.
10. The uniquely Icelandic architecture
Iceland is special because of its unique, if slightly derelict feel. Heading into the famous town of Reykjavik, you will be immersed in brightly colored buildings and quaint little pubs filled with bustling locals. If you really want to delve into local life, head down to the local pub to try one of Iceland’s fine craft beers while you can!
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