Iceland is a land of fire and ice, a place where glaciers meet volcanoes and geothermal hot springs bubble up from the earth. It's a country of stunning natural beauty, with towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and endless stretches of rugged coastline.
If you're planning a trip to Iceland, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know, from the best time to visit to the top things to see and do. We'll also provide you with plenty of stunning landscape photos to inspire your trip planning.
When to Visit Iceland
The best time to visit Iceland depends on what you want to see and do. If you're interested in seeing the Northern Lights, then you'll want to visit during the winter months (September to March). This is when the nights are longest and the skies are darkest.
If you're more interested in hiking and exploring the outdoors, then you'll want to visit during the summer months (May to August). This is when the weather is warmest and the days are longest.
Top Things to See and Do in Iceland
There are endless things to see and do in Iceland, but here are a few of the top attractions:
- Gullfoss Waterfall: One of the most popular tourist attractions in Iceland, Gullfoss is a powerful waterfall that cascades into a deep canyon.
- Geysir Geothermal Area: Home to the famous Geysir and Strokkur geysers, this area is a must-see for anyone interested in geothermal activity.
- Þingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Þingvellir is home to the Þingvellir Parliament, the oldest parliament in the world.
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: A stunning glacier lagoon filled with icebergs, Jökulsárlón is a popular spot for boat tours and kayaking.
- Skaftafell National Park: Home to some of Iceland's most beautiful hiking trails, Skaftafell is a great place to explore the country's natural beauty.
Landscape Photography in Iceland
Iceland is a photographer's paradise, with endless opportunities for capturing stunning landscape photos. Here are a few tips for taking great photos in Iceland:
- Use a wide-angle lens: This will help you capture the vastness of the Icelandic landscape.
- Shoot during the golden hours: The light during the golden hours (sunrise and sunset) is often the most beautiful.
- Use a tripod: This will help you keep your camera steady and avoid blurry photos.
- Be patient: The best photos often require waiting for the right moment.
Where to Stay in Iceland
There are a variety of accommodation options available in Iceland, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are a few of the best places to stay in Iceland:
- Reykjavík: The capital of Iceland, Reykjavík is a great place to base yourself for exploring the country. There are a variety of hotels and guesthouses to choose from.
- Akureyri: The second largest city in Iceland, Akureyri is a good base for exploring the north of the country. There are a variety of hotels and guesthouses to choose from.
- Höfn: A small town on the southeast coast of Iceland, Höfn is a good base for exploring the Vatnajökull National Park. There are a variety of guesthouses and campsites to choose from.
How to Get Around Iceland
The best way to get around Iceland is by car. This will give you the freedom to explore the country at your own pace. You can rent a car at the airport or in one of the major cities.
If you don't want to rent a car, you can also take public transportation. There are buses and trains that connect the major cities and towns in Iceland.
Cost of Travel in Iceland
Iceland is a relatively expensive country to travel in. Here are some of the things that you can expect to pay:
- Accommodation: $100-$200 per night for a hotel room or guesthouse
- Food: $30-$50 per day for meals and snacks
- Transportation: $50-$100 per day for a rental car or public transportation
- Activities: $50-$100 per day for tours and activities
Iceland Itinerary
Here is a suggested itinerary for a 7-day trip to Iceland:
- Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavík and check into your hotel. Explore the city and visit some of the main attractions, such as the Hallgrímskirkja Church and the Perlan Museum.
- Day 2: Take a day trip to the Golden Circle, a popular tourist route that includes the Þingvellir National Park, the Gullfoss Waterfall, and the Geysir Geothermal Area.
- Day 3: Rent a car and drive to the south coast of Iceland. Visit the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and the Skaftafell National Park.
- Day 4: Continue driving along the south coast, stopping at the Dyrhólaey Cliffs and the Sólheimajökull Glacier.
- Day 5: Drive to the east coast of Iceland and visit the Vestrahorn Mountains.
- Day 6: Drive to the north coast of Iceland and visit the Ásbyrgi Canyon and the Dettifoss Waterfall.
- Day 7: Return to Reykjavík and depart from Iceland.
Map of Iceland
Here is a map of Iceland to help you plan your trip:
Iceland is a truly amazing country, with endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. Whether you're interested in hiking, photography, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the country, Iceland
