A snapshot guide to Iceland

For those wanting to experience the fire and ice without leaving the city, Perlan offers an immersive experience of volcanoes and glaciers, complete with an outdoor observation deck for breathtaking views.

• Whales of Iceland is an interactive exhibition about the whales that inhabit the nearby waters, and boat trips run from the harbor for whale watching.

The Golden Circle

If you only have time for one trip, the Golden Circle covers the most popular landmarks in Iceland.

• If you're confident, you can hire a car and drive it yourself, but be cautious of weather conditions, as roads can become dangerous very quickly, especially in winter.

Key highlights of the Golden Circle include:

• Geysir Geothermal Area: Known for Strokkur, which famously erupts water 100ft into the air every few minutes, along with smaller geysers and boiling mud pits.
• Gullfoss: A large waterfall where water tumbles over two ledges into a canyon thirty-two meters below. The spray creates a rainbow effect when the sun shines, and sometimes the water has a golden hue.
• Thingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site shaped by tectonic plate movements, featuring dramatic rocky crags and deep rifts. It is rich in ancient history and spiritual beauty.

The South Shore

The South Shore is another popular area to experience Iceland's natural landscape.

• Seljalandsfoss: A slightly smaller and narrower waterfall with water plunging sixty meters down the cliff side. A cavern behind the waterfall allows you to walk behind it and feel the power of the water.
• Skógafoss: Taller at sixty-two meters and wider at twenty-five meters, this waterfall looks even more impressive. On sunny days, the spray creates a rainbow, and the flat land at the bottom allows you to walk right up to it.

Jökulsárlón is a glacier lagoon on the south coast filled with pieces of ice that have broken off the glacier throughout the year.

• Depending on ice levels, it may be possible to take a boat trip through the lagoon.

On the edge of the lagoon lies Diamond Beach, an expanse of dark black sand littered with frozen pieces of ice that glint like diamonds in the sunshine, while towering cliffs provide a stunning backdrop.

Geothermal Springs

Iceland is dotted with geothermal springs perfect for bathing.

• The most famous is the Blue Lagoon, named for the water's color due to the silica mud beneath the surface. Surrounded by mossy hills, it’s a beautiful place to relax and rejuvenate.
• For a less crowded experience, many smaller geothermal springs across the island offer soothing warm water while you admire the stunning surroundings.

Adrenaline Rush

For thrill-seekers, Iceland offers numerous excursions to push your limits.

• Go snowmobiling across pristine white snow, taking in the wintery atmosphere as you speed by.
• Explore several ice caves to see the layers of ice formed over the years. Some tunnels, known as lava tubes, were created by molten lava cutting through the landscape on its way to the sea, preserving the colors and swirls in the cave walls.
• If weather conditions permit, you can hike up glaciers and be mesmerized by the blue ice formations created by the repeated flow and freeze of water.

Iceland is for everyone

Iceland is a unique country with diverse landscapes and numerous natural geological features to marvel at.

• There is a good mix of activities, from slow-paced to thrilling, making it easy to plan a trip that meets your needs.
• Be sure to pack appropriately for the activities you wish to do, as the right clothing and footwear are essential.

A road trip is a must in Iceland. Imagine renting a campervan for a seven-day adventure filled with magical sights and exciting activities that are uniquely Icelandic. With a long list of things to do and places to visit in this otherworldly country, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when planning your itinerary. Luckily, you have this guide to help you plan your lovely Iceland trip.