MOTORIZED ADVENTURE
The diverse terrain of iceland, ranging from towering mountains and glaciers to beaches and rivers offers a variety of engine-based activities. With atvs, snowmobiles, buggy cars, 4×4 jeeps and snow-cats to choose from, one can surely get the adrenaline pumping in an amazing setting in iceland.

All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are a great way to explore the black sand beaches of the South coast or the mountains and valleys of the highlands. On top of the glaciers, you can zoom across the snow on snowmobiles, crawl up mountains by snow-cat or join super jeeps tours. Each glacier is unique and offers spectacular views and thrills, some even have ice caves which are worth exploring.

BOATS
The adventure doesn’t end on land, as there are river jet tours operating on Hvítá’s river rapids, speedboat tours are available off the coast in areas such as Þorlákshöfn and Vestmannaeyjar and at Jökulsárlón ice lagoon where you can also sail amongst the glaciers on an amphibian or zodiac boat.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Keep in mind that the Icelandic weather is notoriously unpredictable and varies between regions, so always pay attention to weather forecasts. This is especially relevant to those that venture into the highlands or travel in wintertime, but caution should always be exercised.

Make sure to bring the appropriate equipment for the activity planned. Your tour operator should provide information regarding any necessary equipment for guided tours. For lists of equipment for different types of activities, visit Safetravel.is. These lists always include warm clothes and a mobile phone.

When all necessary precautions are taken, action-seekers can enjoy a variety of adrenaline-filled activities, as well as the riveting beauty of the rugged landscape.

WITH ATVS, SNOWMOBILES, BUGGY CARS, 4X4 JEEPS AND SNOW-CATS TO CHOOSE FROM, ONE CAN SURELY GET THE ADRENALINE PUMPING IN AN AMAZING SETTING IN ICELAND.

RESPECT NATURE
Off-road driving is not allowed on the black sand beaches or on mossy terrain, it is not encouraged and deeply disrespectful. In Iceland you are close to nature and must treat it with the respect these stunning landscapes deserve.

HORSES OF ICELAND
The icelandic horse is a unique breed of smallish horses that came to iceland with the first settlers from norway 1100 years ago. Archeological digs in europe have revealed that it is descended from an ancient breed of horses that is now extinct outside of iceland, where it has been preserved in isolation.

THE NATION’S MOST FAITHFUL SERVANT
The Icelandic, as it is commonly referred to, is known for being sure-footed and able to cross rough terrain. It displays two gaits in addition to the typical walk, trot, and canter/gallop commonly displayed by other breeds. The first additional gait is a four-beat lateral ambling gait called tölt. The tölt, is known in hardly any other of the world’s breeds. By lifting one foot at a time, a tölting horse can keep the rider comfortable over considerable distances. Such characteristics have made the Icelandic horse so popular that nowadays there are more of them being bred in other countries than in Iceland. The breed also performs a pace called skeið, or “flying pace”. Skeið is used in pacing races, and is fast and smooth, with some horses able to reach up to 50 km/h (30 mph). It is not a gait for long-distance travel.

The Icelandic horse comes in many different colours, and the Icelandic language includes more than 100 names for the various colours and colour patterns. It is small, weighing between 330 and 380 kilograms (730 and 840 lb) and standing an average of 132 to 142 cm (52 to 56 inches) high. It has a spirited temperament and a large personality.

Horse riding is a great way to explore unspoiled nature, offering stunning, views of panoramic landscapes and grazing sheep. Riding tours are offered all throughout Iceland by various and numerous farms, many of which are only a few minutes outside of Reykjavik. The tours suit all levels of experience and can last anywhere between half a day to ten days. It should be noted that riding is not offered everywhere during the winter. For horse riding in the winter, prior inquiry to horse riding tour operators should help you.

In september there is a unique way to experience the Icelandic horse besides the typical riding tours. One of Iceland’s oldest agricultural tradition takes place during this time, at the annual horse and sheep roundups. Each farming community across the country herd hundreds of sheep and in some places horses together in the surroundings of stunning mountains and isolated pastures.

THE ICELANDIC HORSE COMES IN MANY DIFFERENT COLOURS, AND THE ICELANDIC LANGUAGE INCLUDES MORE THAN 100 NAMES FOR THE VARIOUS COLOURS AND COLOUR PATTERNS.

The Icelandic horse is long-lived and hardy and has become very popular internationally. A sizable population exists in Europe and North America. In their native country they have few diseases; and as a result, Icelandic law prevents horses from being imported into the country and exported animals are not allowed to return.

BIRDWATCHING
Iceland is often referred to as a birdwatcher’s paradise, as large colonies of seabirds and waterfowl are indigenous and easily visible around the coasts.

The birds most frequently spotted along the coasts of Iceland include the Arctic Tern, eiders, waders, and passerine birds, as well as seabirds such as the Guillemot, Razorbill, the Atlantic Puffin, Fulmar, gannets, and various gulls. Destinations for bird watching day trips from Reykjavík include the Reykjanes Peninsula, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula or the Westman Islands, where Iceland’s largest puffin population lives.

Iceland’s wetlands are a conducive habitat for many species of birds. Besides Svarfaðardalur Valley and the islets at the mouth of Eyjafjarðará River, Lake Mývatn in the North of Iceland is a popular bird watching destination. Mývatn and the nearby Laxá River are famous for their vast numbers of waterfowl, having one of the largest and most varied populations of breeding ducks in Europe, including the Harlequin duck and the Barrow’s Goldeneye—which can be found nowhere else in Europe—as well as the Gyrfalcon.

In the Westfjords, Látrabjarg is a veritable hotbed of bird activity. The largest known bird cliff in the world, Látrabjarg is home to millions of birds, hosting nearly half of the world’s population of some species, such as the Razorbill. Also, in the isolated Strandir district of the Westfjords, is the little island Grímsey in Steingrímsfjörður, home to a large colony of puffins and other seabirds.

In the South of Iceland, not far from the village Vík, Dyrhólaey is a visually stunning rock peninsula where various species of seabirds can be viewed up close. Off shore, in the hills and cliffs of Heimaey and the surrounding islets of Westman Islands you’ll find famous birding destinations and exciting boating tours which include birdwatching.

If you’re staying in Reykjavík you can enjoy birdwatching in the city’s pond, Tjörnin, where Arctic terns and other species can be viewed. Enjoying a walk alongside the pond is a great way to spend a day and the birds are fun to watch or to show children.

WHEN VISITING BREEDING GROUNDS AROUND ICELAND, BE SURE NOT TO WANDER OFF THE MARKED TRAILS, AS NESTS CAN BE LOCATED ANYWHERE.

TO KEEP IN MIND
When visiting breeding grounds around Iceland, be sure not to wander off the marked trails, as nests can be located anywhere. The prime birdwatching season in Iceland is from the end of April to the beginning of June, although tours are offered year-round. Visit the local information offices in the area of Iceland you are visiting for more detailed information, including maps, tips, rules and regulations regarding bird watching in Iceland.

CYCLING
There is no better way to experience the beauty of iceland than from the saddle of your bicycle.

Travelling around Iceland on two wheels is both challenging and rewarding. There is no better way to experience the beauty of Iceland than from the saddle of your bicycle. But the weather is unpredictable and the distances you’ll need to cover can be long. Many bike enthusiasts come to Iceland to cycle the Ring Road, the well-known highway number 1, that runs around the country. Others choose more difficult paths into the highlands, such as the beautiful trail across Kjölur. Such paths are only suitable for experienced cyclists.

If you intend to travel into the highlands, be prepared to face gravel roads, as most of the roads in the Icelandic highlands are not paved. You should not travel alone in the Icelandic interior. In some cases, you can expect unbridged rivers. Do not attempt to cross them without taking proper safety measures. Fully equipped bikes with shock absorbers are a good idea as well.

Outside of urban areas, bike paths are uncommon, and cyclists will usually have to share the road with motor driven vehicles.

You should expect hilly terrain and more than a few blind rises along Icelandic roads. The distances between urban areas are often considerable, so make sure you bring appropriate equipment for basic repairs as well as extra tubes and tires. Maps, GPS and communication equipment is also important.

Bring good protective clothing. You should anticipate both rain and wind during your trip, so make sure that the clothing is both warm and water resistant. Gloves are indispensable, as temperatures can drop suddenly, particularly in higher altitudes.

In addition, keep in mind that Icelandic nature is very delicate. Bikes can easily cause damage to the environment. Stay on path and if you need to cross a sensitive area, simply pick up the bike and carry it. Also, make sure someone has your travel plans in case of an emergency. Writing your name in a guestbook is not just courtesy, it can be an important safety measure as well.

MANY BIKE ENTHUSIASTS COME TO ICELAND TO CYCLE THE RING ROAD, THE WELL-KNOWN HIGHWAY NUMBER 1, THAT RUNS AROUND THE COUNTRY.

CAVING
Due to its position on the mid-atlantic ridge, iceland is one of the most active volcanic regions in the world, making the country a stunning location to explore caves.

Iceland’s unique geological conditions make for some awe-inspiring rock formations, both beneath the surface as well as above it. Various tube caves—formed by magma flowing underneath the earth’s surface after lava has solidified overhead—can safely be explored through guided excursions year-round.

For safety reasons, different caves are explored during different seasons. The most commonly visited caves are the Gjábakkahellir Cave near Þingvellir National Park in the summer months, and the Leiðarendi Cave in the Bláfjöll area in wintertime. Many combination tours are also available, where caving trips are combined with other popular activities such as snorkelling or ATV driving.

Iceland is also one of the few places in the world where you can enter a magma chamber. The Þríhnúkagígur crater is a remarkable and rare natural phenomenon: a volcano that erupted about 4,000 years ago and now sits dormant. The ground space inside the volcano is equivalent in size to around three basketball courts, and the cavity could easily fit the Statue of Liberty. The volcano is reached via an hour long hike and entered by way of an open cable lift, a descent of 120 m. As magma chambers usually collapse following an eruption, the Þríhnúkagígur crater is truly a phenomenon that needs to be seen to be believed.

ICELAND IS ALSO ONE OF THE FEW PLACES IN THE WORLD WHERE YOU CAN ENTER A MAGMA CHAMBER

A YEAR-ROUND DESTINATION
Every day, there is an adventure waiting to happen in iceland. With its abundance of mountains, volcanoes, glaciers, rivers, lakes, caves and otherwise rough terrain waiting to be tackled, iceland is truly an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. But, it is also a warm and welcoming place for the rest of us.

FESTIVALS
All-year round, you will find creative festivals dedicated to music, film and fashion. During summer, town festivals attract large groups of people around the country, dominating the event calendar. With abundant daylight hours during summer, and the long after hours of winter, nothing beats a good festival in iceland.

HELICOPTER TOURS
Many of iceland’s most beautiful locations are in remote areas, where the rugged terrain can be difficult to traverse. Flying allows you to reach hard-to-access places with limited effort, and gives you an opportunity to experience nature from a new perspective.

And if you are in to skiing, there are pristine areas ripe for heli skiing in many areas. Take your skiing to new heights by reaching untouched slopes via helicopter. This unforgettable experience is an epic adventure, combining powder skiing with an exhilarating air journey and incredible views.

Iceland’s diverse landscape is at its most breathtaking when viewed from above, which makes aerial sightseeing tours by plane or helicopter an awe inspiring experiences. Many of Iceland’s most beautiful locations are in remote areas, where the rugged terrain can be difficult to traverse. Flying allows you to reach hard-to-access places with limited effort, and gives you an opportunity to experience nature from a new perspective.

Iceland’s diverse landscape is at its most breathtaking when viewed from above, which makes aerial sightseeing tours by plane or helicopter an awe inspiring experiences. Many of Iceland’s most beautiful locations are in remote areas, where the rugged terrain can be difficult to traverse. Flying allows you to reach hard-to-access places with limited effort, and gives you an opportunity to experience nature from a new perspective.

MANY OF ICELAND’S MOST BEAUTIFUL LOCATIONS ARE IN REMOTE AREAS, WHERE THE RUGGED TERRAIN CAN BE DIFFICULT TO TRAVERSE.

RUNNING
Beautiful scenery, great running paths and a climate that’s perfect for running with plenty of clean and fresh air! There is everything to like about running in iceland. In the capital region the best and most scenic running paths can be found by the coastline, just a few meters from the ocean and away from the streets. Wherever you are staying just step outside and you are minutes away from the most amazing running paths.

If you are located in the center of town you can run along the coast on the south of Reykjavík, around Elliðaárdalur in the east part, and then over to the north side of Reykjavík along the ocean—well over 20 kilometers—only crossing the road once!
One of the advantages of a small country is that there are few cars, so traffic-free runs are easy to find. Reykjavik also has the charm of being close to nature so you don’t have to drive for long to get to beautiful and challenging trails. Even in Reykjavik you only have to drive for 5 minutes to get on some great paths. On the edge of town is Heiðmörk, with tens of kilometers worth of woodland trails. These are best enjoyed in the summer as they can be a bit difficult in the winter.

Mt. Esja is the mountain watching over the city and it is a great place for a hike or a run with clearly marked paths – and during summer it can be as crowded as an average city street in Reykjavik. You will always find some runners there training for the popular trail races now being held in all parts of the country during summer time. Next door to Reykjavik are Mosfellsbær and Hafnarfjörður, with many easily accessible trails. Further away from Reykjavik there are many fantastic places to run. Reykjadalur in Hveragerði is a good choice for a challenging trail run. Akureyri in north Iceland has great running paths, and just outside of the town you will find fabulous trails in Kjarnaskógur and on Súlur mountain. Just ask the locals for directions, there are runners in every community.

Sometimes it feels like there is a little bit too much fresh air while running, especially in wintertime when the wind never seems to quiet down. Just remember to dress accordingly and keep in mind that there is often less shelter on the trails outside of the cities and towns. A unique experience in Iceland is to run in the midnight sun. You can easily go for an evening run or even in the middle of the night. It’s an experience you won’t forget.

VATNAJÖKULL NATIONAL PARK
The largest national park in Iceland
Vatnajökull national park, established in 2008, encompasses not only all of vatnajökull glacier but also extensive surrounding areas. These include the national parks previously existing at skaftafell in the southwest, and jökulsárgljúfur in the north, so that today’s park covers 13% of iceland and ranks among the largest national parks in europe.

Despite a large part of the national park being underneath the icecap of the glacier Vatnajökull, its landscape is diverse, predominantly due to the interplay of volcanic activity and glaciers. Few other places in the world exhibit the effects of such a wide range of natural phenomena as Vatnajökull, where the battle between ice and fire still rages, created by the combined forces of rivers, glacial ice, and volcanic and geothermal activity.

Nowhere in Iceland, with the exception of Mýrdalsjökull glacier, does more precipitation fall, or more water drain to the sea than on the south side of Vatnajökull. In fact, so much water is currently stored in Vatnajökull that the Icelandic river with the greatest flow, Ölfusá, would need over 200 years to carry this quantity of water to sea.

The south side of Vatnajökull is characterised by many high, majestic mountain ridges, with outlet glaciers descending between them onto the lowlands. The southernmost part of the glacier envelops the central volcano Öræfajökull and Iceland’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnúkur. Sheltered by the high ice, the vegetated oasis of Skaftafell overlooks the black sands deposited to its west by the river Skeiðará. These sands are mostly composed of ash which stems from the frequent eruptions at Grímsvötn and is brought to the coast by glacial floods.

The biggest glacial lagoon of its kind in Iceland is also located close by the Vatnajökull National Park. Easily accessible off Route 1, between Skaftafell and Höfn, the Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon formed as a result of a glacial retreat, when the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier began to recede away from the Atlantic, resulting in a picturesque lake where icebergs float.

VATNAJÖKULL NATIONAL PARK ENCOMPASSES NOT ONLY ALL OF VATNAJÖKULL GLACIER BUT ALSO EXTENSIVE SURROUNDING AREAS. THE PARK COVERS 13% OF ICELAND AND RANKS AS ON OF EUROPE’S LARGEST.

Located in the northern part of Vatnajökull National Park, Jökulsárgljúfur takes its name from a canyon formed by Iceland’s second longest river, Jökulsá á Fjöllum. Enormous catastrophic glacial bursts are believed to have carved out the deep ravines and rocky basins, the most famous of which is Ásbyrgi. Not far from Ásbyrgi is Dettifoss waterfall, the most powerful waterfall in Europe, with 500 cubic metres per second plummeting over the edge. A hiking trail goes along the canyon from Dettifoss to Ásbyrgi.

Hólmatungur is an expanse of rich vegetation in the Jökulsárgljúfur area and an area of sharp contrasts: crystal clear streams and bubbling brooks cross the land before emptying into the raging, chocolate-coloured torrent. A delicate balance of flora and fauna thrives under the protection of cliffs and scree slopes. The footpath between Hljóðaklettar and Hólmatungur, alongside Jökulsá á Fjöllum, is among the most beautiful in Iceland.

ÞINGVELLIR NATIONAL PARK
THE BIRTHPLACE OF A NATION
Besides being a location of historical significance, Þingvellir is also protected as a national park due to its unique geology and natural features. Almannagjá is a canyon formed between two tectonic plates, a visual representation of continental drift.

Situated on the northern shore of lake Þingvallavatn, Þingvellir is the national shrine of Iceland. It is, for one, a key location in Icelandic history as the oldest existing parliament in the world first assembled there in 930 AD. Þingvellir has for this reason been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

SNÆFELLSJÖKULL NATIONAL PARK
The snæfellsjökull national park is the first national park that was established in iceland, the boundaries of which reach out into the sea.

Standing at the foot of a volcano and glacier, Snæfellsjökull National Park is the only park that reaches from the seashore to the mountaintops. Undisputedly the main attraction of the National Park is the Snæfellsjökull Glacier—the beautiful magnet of the western Peninsula. This active volcano, which stands 1,446 m high, provided the setting for Jules Vernes’ famous Journey to the Center of the Earth.

Snæfellsjökull glacier is said to be one of the seven great energy centres of the earth, and has been attributed various mysterious powers. The magnificent view from the top extends to Reykjanes Peninsula on the south side and the Westfjords on the north side, as well as over the mountains of Snæfellsnes to the east. Excursions onto the glacier are offered from the village Arnarstapi on the southern side. The park is perfect for exploring the adventurous world of the ocean, coastline and beach. Although the marine factor is the pride of the park, it is also a marvel for those interested in geology—and especially volcanology. Conditions for bird watching are good; birdlife is abundant both by the coast and in the lowlands.

ENJOY ICELANDIC FOOD
The most important ingredient in icelandic cuisine is location. Iceland is blessed with an abundance of fresh water, clean nature and fertile fishing grounds, while geothermal energy makes it possible to supply a year-round offering of fresh vegetables, grown locally in organic greenhouses.

In the past few years, Iceland has emerged as one of Europe’s most dynamic gastronomic destinations, full of exciting places to taste thrilling new recipes. Chefs create modern dishes with traditional ingredients, influenced by the philosophy of the New Nordic Cuisine, where freshness and local seasonal ingredients play a vital role.

A staple of Icelandic cuisine is fresh caught fish. Some of the richest fishing grounds in the North Atlantic can be found off the coast of Iceland, where cool and warm ocean currents meet to create the ideal conditions for fish stocks to thrive. For centuries, fishing has been an essential part of both Icelandic history and culture. It has been the lifeline of the nation, both as a vital part of the diet, and the primary export product. Rigorous standards are in place to maintain sustainable fisheries, and optimal treatment of the catch. Try one of the many Icelandic fishing restaurants, and you will understand why the locals will have you believe they invented the thing.

Icelandic lamb is also a popular ingredient. Sheep roam the open countryside all summer long, feeding on wild berries and moss. Come fall, they are rounded up on horseback, the way it has been done since the time of the earliest settlers. This free-range flavour comes through in succulent Icelandic lamb, praised by chefs all over the world.

Chefs throughout Iceland use vegetables and herbs locally grown in geothermally heated greenhouses around the country, making sure you enjoy the best quality produce available. Iceland’s dairy products are also becoming famous for their wholesome flavour, especially the yoghurt-like Skyr, now a big seller in Whole Foods stores in the US.

Fish and lamb are traditional, but most restaurants will also include beef, poultry, pork, game, seabirds, lobster, shrimp and scallop on their menus, as well as vegetarian dishes. You will also find many specialist restaurants, such as Indian, Pakistani, Korean, Chinese, Thai, Filipino, Japanese, Italian, French, Spanish, Danish, American and Mexican.

IN THE PAST FEW YEARS ICELAND HAS EMERGED AS ONE OF EUROPE’S MOST DYNAMIC GASTRONOMIC DESTINATIONS, FULL OF EXITING PLACES TO TASTE THRILLING NEW RECIPES.

Street eats are a must for visitors, especially Iceland’s favourite snack, the pylsa, or hot dog. Say, “eina med ollu”, when ordering and you’ll get a hot dog boldly topped with the works: crunchy fried onions, ketchup, sweet mustard, raw onions and curry remoulade sauce.

For the few daring souls, traditional Icelandic fare is of course widely available. In the era preceding modern day storage technology— i.e. the fridge—food was traditionally stored using more primitive methods. This traditional food consists of pickled, salted, cured, or smoked fish and meat of various kinds. In order to survive the long winter months, all parts of the animal were consumed. Don’t be surprised to find fermented shark, singed sheep heads or pickled ram’s testicles on the menu of speciality restaurants. Try them at your own risk.

ICE CLIMBING
When making a trip to iceland, it is hard not to pay special attention to the country’s namesake—namely, its 4,500 square miles of glacier.

CLIMBING GLACIERS
Ice climbing on the glaciers is practiced year-round and takes place mainly on the Sólheimajökull and Svínafellsjökull glaciers in the south of Iceland, to which day trips are offered from Reykjavík (and Skaftafell).

Hiking trips are also available onto the Snæfellsjökull glacier in the west and the Vatnajökull glacier in the east. Without exception, glacier walking or climbing should not be done without the accompaniment of a trained guide. Glacier walking tours can often be combined with other tours such as jeep safaris and boating on a glacier lagoon.

Ice climbing on glaciers is possible all year round but wintertime adds the unique opportunity of ice climbing waterfalls.

WITHOUT EXCEPTION, GLACIER WALKING OR CLIMBING SHOULD NOT BE DONE WITHOUT THE ACCOMPANIMENT OF A TRAINED GUIDE.

ICE CLIMBING TOUR OPERATORS IN ICELAND
These tours offer visitors an amazing first-hand experience of some of Iceland’s untamed nature, lead by trained professionals. The tours can be undertaken at various levels of experience and difficulty. Crampons and ice axes are generally provided, but it is recommended that you bring a waterproof jacket and trousers, a light sweater, quick dry trousers, a hat and gloves. In addition, hiking boots are often available for rent.

DRIVING BY YOURSELF IN ICELAND IS A UNIQUE WAY TO EXPERIENCE THE COUNTRY
THE ROAD AHEAD
Self-drive tours around Iceland are a popular mode of travel. The sights along the way are numerous and breathtaking. But this beautiful and rugged landscape can also create challenges that drivers may not have come across in other countries. Make sure you are fully prepared and know the rules of the road. Here are some helpful tips for driving in Iceland.

ICELANDIC ROADS
The Icelandic road system is extensive and easy to navigate. Highway no. 1, commonly known as the Ring Road, is the most travelled route around Iceland. It is open throughout the year, but weather conditions can cause temporary closures during winter. Most major highways are paved, but it may surprise travellers to learn that a large portion of the Icelandic road system is made up of gravel roads, particularly in the highlands.

Gravel roads can be in various conditions, with potholes or washboard surfaces, but most of the time they should give a good ride if care is taken. You should always navigate these roads with care, as loose gravel can be difficult to drive in. Be careful when you pass another vehicle. Sand and small rocks can easily cause damage to cars, such as cracked windshields or a ruined paintjob.

CONSIDER THE WEATHER
Driving in Iceland demands certain attention to conditions. Especially if you plan on travelling into the highlands. Be sure that you have the right car for the job. A 4×4 vehicle is essential in the highlands, where you might encounter rough terrain and unbridged waters. The highland roads are closed in winter times and weather sometimes causes other roads to be closed as well.

If driving in winter, you can expect to face snow, icy roads and darkness. If you are travelling outside of populated areas, always make sure that you check weather conditions and the state of your vehicle. As much fun as Icelandic nature is, you will still want to find your way back eventually.

MOUNTAIN ROADS
Most mountain roads are closed until the end of June, or even longer, because of snow and muddy conditions, which make them impassable. When these roads are opened for traffic many of them can only be navigated by four-wheel-drive vehicles. For some mountain tracks it is strongly advised that two or more cars travel together. Check road conditions with a tourist information center or the IRCA Website

OFF-ROAD DRIVING
Off-road driving in Iceland is prohibited by law. Due to our short summers, Icelandic soil and vegetation is extremely vulnerable. Tire tracks can leave marks for decades. Please respect Icelandic nature and tread carefully.

PLEASE RESPECT ICELANDIC NATURE AND TREAD CAREFULLY.
THE GENERAL SPEED LIMIT IS 50 KM/H IN URBAN AREAS, 80 KM/H ON GRAVEL ROADS IN RURAL AREAS, AND 90 KM/H ON ASPHALT ROADS.

Iceland is the hiker’s paradise. More than half of the country lies above 400 meters (1300 feet) and the landscape is extraordinarily diverse, with large areas covered with colourful mountains, lava fields, glaciers, hot springs, lakes, and black sands. The rugged nature has been shaped by the elements to form a majestic scenery unlike any other place in the world.

HIKING ADVENTURES
Hiking trails in Iceland are as numerous as they are diverse, so trek overviews for the entire country are hard to come by. Individual trails can be examined in great detail at local tourist information centres around the country. Many mountain huts are also available for booking along known paths, allowing visitors to prolong their hikes and explore their destinations in greater detail.

The Laugavegur trail is one of the most extraordinary walking trails in the world.
The Laugavegur trail, which runs between Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk, is as popular a destination with locals as it is with foreign visitors, and remains one of the most extraordinary walking trails in the world. It offers a great variety of landscapes, mountains in various colours, hot springs and glaciers, rivers and lakes. The difficulty of the track depends largely on the weather conditions.

Limited accommodation is offered in six huts along the trail, subject to booking, and campsites around the trails. The roads in the highlands usually open from around mid-June or later depending on road and weather conditions and are open throughout September. The roads are only accessible with a 4×4 drive vehicles and there is a daily bus schedule into the area with various companies once the season starts. Camping in the wild is not allowed within nature reserves and not recommended in the surrounding area due to environmental reasons.

DURING THE SUMMER MONTHS, HIKING IN THE HIGHLANDS OF ICELAND BECOMES A POPULAR PASTIME.

BE SAFE OUT THERE
Organized hiking tours are available for booking all around the country. Day or weekend tours are popular during wintertime, and longer tours are organized during summer. You can take an organized excursion or go hiking yourself. If you organize your trip independently, caution should be exercised at all times. Make sure you bring adequate clothing and provisions, and that someone knows where you are going.

The extreme dark of the icelandic winter has a few perks. Between september and april, iceland is treated to a magnificent natural display: the phenomenon of aurora borealis, or what we commonly call the northern lights.

THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN ICELAND
The Aurora Borealis takes its name from the roman goddess of dawn, aurora, and the Greek name for the north wind, boreas. From September to April, Iceland is a hotspot for this magnificent lightshow.

The Aurora Borealis, more commonly referred to as the Northern Lights, is a natural phenomenon created when solar particles interact with the atmosphere in the Earth’s magnetic field. This releases energy, causing peculiar luminous green streaks across the skies.

On clear winter nights, sightseeing trips are organized around this spectacular—though fickle—natural phenomenon. The ideal location for sightings varies and excursion leaders are skilled in “hunting” the lights, finding locations where conditions are best for seeing them on any given night.

There are no guarantees that you will see the Northern Lights during your stay, but in most cases, sightings are immediately improved outside populated areas, especially away from the light-pollution of the capital. A number of hotels in the country side offer special Northern Lights wake-up service.

HOW TO TAKE A PHOTO OF THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
First things first: Clear skies. If the weather cooperates, you are already half-way there. You can always check weather conditions, cloud coverage and Aurora activity on the Icelandic Met Office Website.

As far as equipment goes, the most important thing you can bring is a tripod and a cable release to avoid the dreaded shaken-photo-syndrome. If you don’t have a cable release, set your camera’s self-timer to two or ten seconds’ shutter delay, if available.

There is no single setting for your camera that ensures great captures, but if you have manual options, you are probably best served with experimenting with various combinations of ISO, aperture, and exposure settings. As a rule of thumb, ISO setting between 800 and 3200, aperture between f/2.8 and f/5.6, and shutter speed at between 15 seconds and 30 seconds have proven effective.

Different combinations may give very different results. Higher ISO setting will allow you to capture faster exposures, but may also result in grainier images, for example. Note that shutter speeds of above 15 seconds will result in slight star movement. Wider angle lenses are usually more versatile in low light settings, but longer lenses give you different options for compositions. Make sure that you remove all lens filters, as they may distort images. You will probably get the best results with manual setting for infinite focal length.

THERE IS NO SINGLE IDEAL LOCATION FOR SIGHTINGS. IT VARIES DEPENDING ON WEATHER CONDITIONS.

ICELAND IS TYPICALLY DIVIDED INTO SEVEN DIFFERENT GEOGRAPHICAL REGIONS, INCLUDING THE REYKJAVÍK CAPITAL AREA. EACH REGION DIFFERS SLIGHTLY WITH RESPECT TO BOTH CULTURE AND LANDSCAPE, BUT ALL ARE UNIQUELY ICELANDIC.

NORTH ICELAND
THE NORTH OF ICELAND TRULY IS A LAND OF CONTRASTS. ITS LONG VALLEYS AND PENINSULAS ARE INTERSPERSED WITH MOUNTAINS, LAVA FIELDS AND SMOOTH HILLS CARVED OUT BY RIVERS. THE DEEP AND NUMEROUS INDENTATIONS IN THE COAST OF THE NORTH ARE AT TIMES LUSH WITH VEGETATION, AT OTHERS BARREN. AS ONE NEARS THE ARCTIC CIRCLE IN THE NORTHERN LATITUDES, THE MIDNIGHT SUN IS INVARIABLY AWE-INSPIRING.

Many towns of the North are dedicated to marine life. The Húsavík Whale Museum and the Seal Center in Hvammstangi are two options for visitors. Close by in the northern reaches of the Vatnajökull National Park is the impressive Ásbyrgi Canyon, as well as the Dettifoss Waterfall—the most powerful in Europe. The nearby Lake Mývatn and its surrounding wetlands has an exceptional variety of waterbirds and rock formations.

The North is home to Iceland’s second largest urban area, Akureyri, located in Iceland’s longest fjord, the mild-weathered Eyjafjörður. Akureyri, rich in culture and history, has a charming downtown full of late nineteenth century wooden houses. In summer, golfers can take advantage of the midnight sun at the Arctic Open. North Iceland is also home to many historic coastal towns.

CLOSE BY IN THE NORTHERN REACHES OF THE VATNAJÖKULL NATIONAL PARK IS THE IMPRESSIVE ÁSBYRGI CANYON, AS WELL AS THE DETTIFOSS WATERFALL—THE MOST POWERFUL IN EUROPE.

TRAVEL THE ARCTIC COAST WAY
Travelling the Arctic Coast Way means leaving the common routes behind you and going off the beaten track to discover some of the most remote places in North Iceland; a unique adventure following 900 km of coastal roads close to the Arctic Circle.

EXPERIENCE THE DIAMOND CIRCLE
The Diamond Circle can be described as a magnificent circuit of 250km in the Northeast of Iceland, which includes some of the most stunning sights and spots for unearthly landscapes.

The Diamond Circle has 5 key destinations which include the historical and picturesque Goðafoss, the unearthly blue and green landscapes of Lake Mývatn nature paradise, the uncontrollable white energy of Dettifoss the most powerful waterfall of Europe, the crescent-shaped wonder of Ásbyrgi canyon and Húsavík the buzzing whale watching capital of Iceland with the deep blue seas ahead.

EAST ICELAND
DISCOVER THE WONDERS OF EAST ICELAND, HOME TO THE COUNTRY’S LARGEST FOREST, LUSH FARMLANDS AND AN ASSORTMENT OF STREAMS AND MOUNTAINS. THANKS TO THE EAST’S FJORDS AND THEIR NATURAL HARBOURS, A VARIETY OF PICTURESQUE FISHING VILLAGES BORDER THE COAST.

There is so much to explore in East Iceland. Iceland’s biggest rhyolite formations directly accessible from an inhabited area are those around Borgarfjörður Eystri, while impressive magma chambers filled with colourful mineral deposits can be seen and visited along the eastern coast. In the summer months, the east of Iceland becomes a creative hub for artists and young people from around Iceland and abroad, as a variety of music and art festivals have been popping up and expanding steadily in recent years.

The hiking and riding possibilities are also numerous, including across extensive but well-mapped uninhabited areas. Winter tourism, for instance skiing or driving on snow, is also important.

Seyðisfjörður is the landing place for the Smyril Line ferry from Europe, and home to a vibrant art scene emerging to the backdrop of a 19th century village. Indeed, the East has a rich artistic history, as the landscape in the region is truly a rich palette. One of Iceland’s most beloved artists, the painter Jóhannes Sveinsson Kjarval, grew up in the town of Borgarfjörður eystri, where he created some of his most memorable work and where a museum now commemorates his life.

The East is also home to several interesting arts and music festival throughout the year. In the southeast, the Vatnajökull Glacier—Europe’s largest—is an imposing, spectacular sight.

ENJOYING EAST ICELAND
Egilsstaðir is the largest town in East Iceland. There are daily flights from the domestic airport in Reykjavík to Egilsstaðir. It is also possible to drive from Reykjavík to Egilsstaðir and also the general Eastern region of the country. In fact, driving to East Iceland provides an exciting opportunity as one can drive through either South Iceland or North Iceland to get to this unique part of the country.

WESTFJORDS
ONE OF ICELAND’S BEST KEPT SECRETS IS UNDOUBTEDLY THE COUNTRY’S NORTH-WEST CORNER, EXPERIENCE THE PEACE AND QUIET OF THE AREA KNOWN AS THE WESTFJORDS.

Isolation has preserved the region in relatively unspoiled wilderness. Largely uninhabited, Iceland’s Westfjords are frequently distinguished by travel guides as a destination of excellence, and are a must-see for any serious explorer.

Hornstrandir are located in the Westfjords’ north-western corner, an uninhabited peninsula and nature reserve that is a haven for the Arctic fox as well as a variety of birdlife. The bird cliff Látrabjarg, on the west side of the Westfjords, which apart from hosting nearly half of the world’s population of some bird species, is also the westernmost point of Europe. The spectacular Dynjandi, a set of waterfalls with an accumulated height of 100 meters, is another must-see.

Tradition and heritage play a large role in the region’s culture. The strong relation to the ocean is evident in the regional cuisine and folklore is as much alive in the Westfjords as anywhere else in Iceland, with museums dedicated to sorcery and witchcraft, as well as monsters and creatures from the sea.

The Westfjords are a true Icelandic wilderness, and are undoubtedly the ideal place for spotting birds, arctic fox, and other unique fauna in their natural habitats.

THE WESTFJORDS ARE A TRUE ICELANDIC WILDERNESS, AND ARE UNDOUBTEDLY THE IDEAL PLACE FOR SPOTTING BIRDS, ARCTIC FOXES AND OTHER UNIQUE FAUNA IN THEIR NATURAL HABITATS.

GETTING THERE
Despite being a remote region of Iceland, the Westfjords are quite accessible. There are two daily flights to Ísafjörður, the Westfjord’s largest town, available all year round. Taking a car is also an option. The distance between Reykjavík and Ísafjörður is 455 km of paved road. Driving allows more flexibility while exploring the region. Please note that all the roads in the Westfjords are not paved, but still drivable and safe, especially by exercising caution. Bus trips are available from Reykjavík to Hólmavík all year and between Hólmavík and Ísafjörður in the summer.

SOUTH ICELAND
ICELAND’S SOUTH COAST IS HOME TO SOME OF THE COUNTRY’S MOST VISITED TOURIST ATTRACTIONS. THE COASTLINE ITSELF IS RENOWNED FOR ITS BEAUTY, AND THE TOWNS ALONG THE COAST ARE FAMOUS FOR THEIR FRESH SEAFOOD.

From wonderful waterfalls, to great glaciers, South Iceland is brimming with natural with new wonders unfolding at every turn. With the Golden Circle route, connecting Þingvellir, Gullfoss and Geysir, South Iceland is a very popular destination for visitors as these three locations have been a must-see for any tourist to Iceland for centuries. Further east along the shore, you will find Skógafoss Waterfall, Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon, Vatnajökull Glacier, and several other natural wonders.

The South is rich in history and culture. Events from the Sagas are remembered in many ways along the coast, and several museums in the area celebrate Icelandic customs and heritage. With much of the country’s agricultural products coming from the area, the South is also a fine testimony to Icelandic restaurant culture.

WITH THE GOLDEN CIRCLE ROUTE, CONNECTING ÞINGVELLIR, GULLFOSS AND GEYSIR, SOUTH ICELAND IS A VERY POPULAR DESTINATION FOR VISITORS

GETTING THERE
After only 30 minutes of drive from Reykjavík you will enter the western part of South Iceland where attractions welcome you instantly. Day tours with buses from the city is possible but day tours from various accommodations along the coast is available too. The whole coast, from West to the East has something unique to offer.

REYKJANES
THE REYKJANES PENINSULA IS A GEOTHERMAL WONDER, WHERE LIGHTHOUSES OUTNUMBER VILLAGES. BESIDES HOSTING THE KEFLAVÍK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AND, JUST A FEW MINUTES AWAY, THE SPECTACULAR BLUE LAGOON, THE REYKJANES PENINSULA IS A DESTINATION IN ITS OWN RIGHT.

Reykjanes peninsula is replete with natural marvels, in addition to the renowned Blue Lagoon and an array of lighthouses.

As travellers touch down at Keflavik International Airport, visitors are greeted by a moon-like landscape. Unless hidden by snow, a seemingly endless lava field topped with green-grey moss blankets much of the Reykjanes peninsula, and this rather other-worldly sight turns out to be most people’s first glimpse of Iceland, the land of fire and ice.

Reykjanes has several high-temperature geothermal areas, three of which have been harnessed to generate electricity. In the Geothermal Energy Exhibition in the Hellisheiði lava fields, visitors can learn not merely about geothermal power but also local geological history.

On the Reykjanes peninsula the junction between the European and American tectonic plates of the earth’s crust is more noticeable and comprehensible than anywhere else. Thus it is no wonder that the peninsula has now been designated as the Reykjanes Geopark, which besides being a landscape to admire and study is also a veritable hotbed of recreational activities.

Reykjanesbær is the biggest municipality on the Reykjanes peninsula and includes several harbours and villages. The museum Viking World displays a seafaring replica of the famous Gokstad ship and informs the visitor of many aspects of Viking life, in addition to offering splendid views of the Atlantic. The locality takes pride in being the cradle of Icelandic pop and rock music, a genre which can be handily explored at the Museum of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

THE DRAMATIC, RUGGED LANDSCAPE OF REYKJANES FEATURES VOLCANIC CRATERS, CAVES, LAVA FIELDS, GEOTHERMAL WATERS, AND HOT SPRINGS, IN ADDITION TO A VARIETY OF RESTAURANTS, MUSEUMS, CHURCHES, LIGHTHOUSES, AND FESTIVALS.

TAKE YOUR TIME TO ENJOY REYKJANES
For most visitors to Iceland, the Reykjanes peninsula welcomes them as they usually land in Keflavík airport. The endless lava fields, craters and treeless environment is a unique way to be welcomed to the country. The whole Reykjanes Peninsula is a UNESCO Global Geopark, a cultural, geographical and historical treasure trove and as such is worthy of exploration.

WEST ICELAND
WEST ICELAND IS ONE OF ICELAND’S MOST GEOLOGICALLY DIVERSE REGIONS. ITS NATURAL WONDERS ARE A NEARLY EXHAUSTIVE SAMPLING OF ALL THAT ICELAND HAS TO OFFER, RANGING FROM SLUMBERING VOLCANOES AND MAJESTIC WATERFALLS TO A VARIETY OF FLORA AND WILDLIFE.

West Iceland is a world where culture, nature and history complement each other, creating a unique experience. This vast area consists of fjords, valleys, craters, glaciers and volcanoes. Great hikes are found around Akranes and Hvalfjörður, with the mountain Akrafjall and the highest waterfall in Iceland Glymur less than an hour from Reykjavík. Visit the homestead of medieval writer Snorri Sturluson at Reykholt, and see the man-made geothermal bath in which he must have often allowed his mind to wander. Or learn about the awe-inspiring Viking poet Egill Skalla-Grímsson.

These are only a few examples of the interesting sites that can be found all over West Iceland, where nature is inextricably linked to the story of the people. Just look around, history is everywhere to be discovered. The magnificent landscape and wildlife at Snæfellsjökull National Park, Iceland’s only national park that reaches into the sea. The mystical volcano Snæfellsjökull Glacier has inspired artists and poets through the centuries, being one of seven greatest energy centres on Earth. Snæfellsjökull is the setting of Jules Verne’s Journey to the center of the Earth.

Snæfellsnes offers beautiful nature and was given the Earth Check award for being a sustainable community in 2008. From Snæfellsnes you can cross over to Dalir, cradle of the great explorers Eirík the Red and his son, Leif the Lucky, the first European to set foot in America. The short distances between popular destinations make it possible to enjoy the area at a comfortable pace all year round, so remember to slow down in West Iceland.

THIS VAST AREA CONSISTS OF FJORDS, VALLEYS, CRATERS, GLACIERS AND VOLCANOES.

CLOSE TO THE CAPITAL AREA, BUT A COMPLETELY DIFFERENT EXPERIENCE
West Iceland is a relatively short drive from the capital area. It’s possible to go by bus or car with many different routes available to experience West Iceland. The Snæfellsnes peninsula offers an intriguing road-trip where the peninsula can be circled with various stops along the way, including the aforementioned Snæfellsjökull, Kirkjufell in Grundarfjörður, Snæfellsnes National Park, Búðir and many more.

REYKJAVÍK – THE CAPITAL CITY OF ICELAND
REYKJAVÍK IS THE NATURAL STARTING POINT FOR ANY VISIT TO ICELAND, AND NOT UNDESERVEDLY SO. THE CAPITAL IS WORLD-RENOWNED FOR ITS CULTURE, HISTORY, AND NATURAL BEAUTY ON ALL FRONTS.

Downtown Reykjavík is Iceland’s nucleus of Iceland’s culture and arts scene. By day, the café culture rules supreme, with the lively hum of conversations. As evening arrives, people start filling into the city’s excellent restaurants, where local ingredients are served with fresh delicious lamb, seafood or wild game.

Reykjavík is a city of bold contrasts: it is both cosmopolitan and small-town; vibrant and sophisticated; young-at-heart and yet full of history. Many monuments, new and old, are also worth a peek, including the newly built oceanfront music and conference centre, Harpa. Luckily, everything in Reykjavík is close by, museums, galleries, theatres, cafés and swimming pools for example. As such, the city is perhaps best explored by foot or bike.

The pulsing beat of energy and lively events keeps Reykjavík alive and exciting and people are often surprised and impressed at how much culture, art and activities thrive in the city.

But besides being world-renowned for it’s vibrant culture, Reykjavík is truly the gateway to Iceland. The capital area has enough natural wonders at its doorstep to serve as a convenient base for exploring a great deal of spectacular landscape in several directions. From the city, many day trips can also be taken to the surrounding mountains, glaciers, volcanoes and hot springs. Day-excursions from Reykjavík include horseback riding, glacier climbing, river rafting, caving, whale watching, and more.

A NATURAL STARTING POINT
As Keflavík is the main arrival point in Iceland most vehicle traffic from there proceeds to the Reykjavík before heading for other parts of the country. This means there’s a great opportunity to explore both Reykjavík and the capital area as well as the exciting opportunities that wait in the Iceland’s other regions too.

The local natural wonder that is perhaps most ingrained in the fabric of icelandic culture is the bounty of geothermal energy, the naturally heated water that powers our lives and heats our homes, baths and pools, public as well as private.

GEOTHERMAL POOLS & SPAS IN ICELAND
A natural wonder which is strongly related to Icelandic culture is the use of geothermally warm or hot water. The spa is a modern day invention, but enjoying the various health benefits of bathing in thermal baths is an Icelandic tradition dating back to the settlement. Snorri Sturluson, the famous twelfth century historian and author, was a prolific spa enthusiast by modern standards, and had his own thermal pool built so he could soak in hot water whenever the mood struck him. Of the thirteen baths that are known to have been used in the early days of the Icelandic society, four are still standing.

Since the advent of harnessing geothermal energy in Iceland, the tradition of public bathing has become deeply rooted in the local culture. Locals of all ages and professions frequent some of the hundred public pools for both health and social purposes; in order to unwind after a long day or to catch up on gossip with friends. The swimming pool culture has clearly established itself, for the greater capital area alone has seventeen public swimming pools, most of which are outdoors and some of which are equipped with saunas and steam baths. Rules of hygiene are taken very seriously with regard to the pools and all visitors are required to shower thoroughly without a swimsuit before entering the water.

WHILE FANCY SPAS WERE NOT INTRODUCED TO ICELAND UNTIL RECENT TIMES, THERMAL POOLS HAVE BEEN RELISHED FOR PLEASURE AND HEALTH BENEFITS IN ICELANDIC SOCIETY SINCE THE FIRST CENTURIES OF SETTLEMENT.

GEOTHERMAL POOLS GO WELL WITH LUXURY SPAS
The luxury of geothermally heated water has also been utilized to an increasing degree lately in the luxury spa setting. The most famous of these is the Blue Lagoon, located in a lava field on the Reykjanes Peninsula, not far from Reykjavík. And, as unlikely as it may sound, Reykjavík sports its own geothermal beach, with white sands and warm ocean water (assisted by a little geothermal injection). Still, there are those who swear by the health benefits of swimming in the cold ocean, so every day, you will find Icelanders enjoying a swim in the cold Atlantic.