“Iceland is nature lover’s paradise” – Gabriele Handl
The land of bubbling springs, volcanoes, rough canyons, fjords, uber dramatic coastline and snow capped glaciers – Iceland is one incredible country and surely will be among the epic ones you’ll ever visit. In recent times, Iceland’s iconic presence in international movies has been undeniably strong. Tourists have been flocking to experience the guided tours of all the popular locations. Now when it comes to shortlisting the bucket list for this unique country, we are often confused where to start and what not to miss. For your first visit we have compiled the best destinations starting from the southwest of the country. You will probably land and depart from South West Iceland as the international airport lies in Keflavik.
1. Explore Reykjavik On Foot
Considered as the world’s most northerly capital city, Reykjavik is a small and walkable city. It is famous for a thriving nightlife scene and for hosting some of the best music festivals in Northern Europe. There are plenty of things to see and do. The walk along the harbour front is absolutely beautiful. The popular sculpture ‘The Sun Voyager” is located there. The stunning Harpa Concert Hall is situated quite close as well. The beautiful and artistic street of Laugavegur is a delight to see and so is Hallgrímskirkja Church.
2. Relax in the Blue Lagoon
Isn’t this the first place that instantly springs in your mind when you think of Iceland ? 😉 Blue Lagoon – steaming hot waters in a cold ambience. Now this place is indeed luxurious. It’s up to you how far you wish to go. Luxurious spa, massages, brilliant skincare, fabulous food and uber chic stay in a hotel- yes you can have it all. Make sure to book your tickets in advance. With its closer proximity to the airport, Blue lagoon is best done either at the beginning or end of your trip. It’s a great spot to catch the sunrise and northern lights. Believe us, the attention to this place is truly well deserved. And your glowing faces after all the silica mud masks will second that 😉
3. Marvel at Kirkjufell
Snaefellsnes peninsula has everything whatever the whole Iceland has to offer- waterfalls, hot springs, lava fields, volcanic craters, black sand beaches, quaint fishing villages and the most iconic Kirkjufell mountain and Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall. Often said to be the most photographed mountain in Iceland, it keeps changing colors in every season. You will always find a new perspective in various seasons and at various times of the day as well. The accompanying three waterfalls make for a wonderful photo opportunity.
4. Get closer to Gullfoss
The phenomenal Gullfoss falls are a major tourist attraction and remain very busy for the same reasons. The roaring torrents of water cascading down in the deep canyon present such a gorgeous spectacle. There are multiple angles and viewing platforms and none of them disappoint. Seeing such a mighty waterfall disappearing in a dark bottomless pit is a unique experience in itself. The lower viewpoint allows you to get even closer to the falls and this view is indeed jaw dropping. Don’t forget to visit the souvenir shop here.
5. Myrdalsjokull Glacier Park
A true embodiment of land of fire and ice, Myrdalsjokull is the fourth largest glacier in Iceland. It lies atop Katla- an active volcano which erupts every 40-80 years. It surely is the most easily accessible glacier with Solheimjokull being the most popular route to access it. Solheimjokull is an outlet glacier of the larger Myrdalsjokull icecap. This glacier is a very popular spot for glacier hikes, snowmobiling and ice cave exploration.
6. Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
The impressive scenery and serenity surrounding Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is simply incredible. The blue and white icebergs floating in the lagoon look magical. Either you can enjoy the view from the shore or you can do a boat tour in the lagoon itself. It’s a surreal experience sailing between the icebergs and watching them up close.
7. Explore the Ice Caves
If you are visiting Iceland in winters then this one activity should be on your itinerary: Ice Cave exploring and it can only be done in winters. You will need to hire a guide for this activity. We did the Crystal Ice cave tour. The tours itself depart from Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon so you can easily do multiple activities in one day. But this will be one unforgettable and unique experience.
8. Chase Sunsets at The Diamond Beach
Just a short walk away from Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, the Diamond beach is one of the most visited attractions in Iceland. This spectacular beach has huge chunks of ice that has broken free from Breiðamerkurjökull, an outlet glacier of the famous Vatnajokull. The icebergs here sit on the black sand and glint under the sun and moonlight. This place is truly spectacular and the amount of photographs you will take will surely testify to it 🙂
9. Visit the Dreamy Vestrahorn
Known as the photographer’s paradise, the beauty of this unspoilt natural site will leave you speechless. The beach is private and has a small entrance fee. Nicknamed ‘Batman Mountain’ by the locals, it overlooks the roaring waves of the Atlantic ocean. The dramatic formation of the Vestrahorn mountain and the reflection it casts in the surrounding waters lends a very enchanting and moody feel to the whole place.
10. Admire the Skogafoss
One of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland, Skogafoss is one roaring natural wonder. There is no entrance fee but it does get quite busy. Visit first thing in the morning or around sunset if you want to avoid crowds. As the land underneath the falls is flat, it is very easy to get up close to the waterfall. The spray is quite huge so don’t forget to bring your waterproofs.
11. Encircle Seljalandsfoss
At 65 meters high, Seljalandsfoss is one of the highest waterfalls in the country. But unarguably its most popular feature is that you can fully encircle it and walk behind the waterfall itself. As the waterfall is quite high so it produces a lot of mist and it’s nearly impossible to protect yourself without proper wet gear. Keep wiping your camera lens also. The sheer magnificence and beauty of this waterfall is hard to miss. If you have time, walk to the nearest Gljúfrabúi waterfall (just 200 meters away). It’s located inside a cliff and simply not to be missed. If you love the thunderous sounds of the waterfalls and the spectacle of gallons of water crashing into dark pools, you will simply fall in love with these two natural wonders. Trust us 🙂
12. Visit a Black Sand Volcanic Beach
Iceland is home to some of the most magical Black sand beaches. The jet black color is the result of so much volcanic activity going on. You probably won’t forget the snippets and contrast of black sand beaches, the thundering white waves and the sound of pebbles after your visit to Iceland. Some of the most famous black beaches are Reynisfjara black beach, Solheimasandur (plane wreck one), Stokksnes, Diamond beach and Dyrholaey.
13. Say Hello to Icelandic Horses
You will spot Icelandic horses by the side of Ring road throughout the country. These ponies have been around Iceland for a long time. Seeing and photographing these horses have been a very popular activity in Iceland. Just be sure to park your car safely if you spot them at the side of the road. Do not pet or feed the horses as it can cause harm.
Make sure to add some or all of these places to your Iceland bucket list. We are sure it will be one of the most surreal adventures you’ll ever have. Happy to help with any queries 🙂