Iceland is one of those places on Earth where you can truly see the majesty of nature. Its beauty and biodiversity inspire awe and marvel. Wherever you look, up, down, or around you, the terrains and landscapes simply take your breath away.
There are countless reasons to visit Iceland and experience what people are talking about. As one of the most popular travel destinations in recent years, many have come and shared their adventures in the land of fire and ice, including otherworldly photos of erupting volcanoes, cascading waterfalls, and black sand beaches.
Before you start your own adventures in Iceland, check out the nine best things about the country.
1. To Chase the Northern Lights
Iceland is a leading destination for the northern lights or those streaks of green, pink, and blue that dance and dazzle the eyes. Staying near Reykjavik, camping in Thingvellir National Park, soaking in the Blue Lagoon—you have numerous options on where to wait, set up your camera, and catch the northern lights in Iceland. Better start checking aurora forecasts now.
2. To Watch Puffins
If September to April is for hunting the northern lights, April to September is for watching puffins. Sixty percent of the world’s Atlantic puffins come to Iceland to breed and build colonies. Vestmannaeyjar, the country’s puffin capital, rescues young puffins and organizes puffin runs. Dyrhólaey, Grimsey Island, and Látrabjarg are also top spots for puffin watching.
Because Atlantic puffins are vulnerable species, be a responsible birdwatcher and avoid disturbing them and their habitat.
3. To Drink Pure Water
The stories are true: you can drink water straight from the tap in Iceland. The island’s tap water is safe and clean to drink and delicious as some people like to add. The country’s rich water resources allow it to provide its people with access to 100% pure water. For you and other visitors, it means you can skip buying bottled water and save money.
4. To Hike
You may have to walk across meadows or cross rivers to reach a rock formation, a sandy beach, a plane wreck, or some kind of hidden canyon. Hiking on lava fields or to volcanic eruptions is one of the must-try activities when visiting Iceland. It’s one activity that brings you even closer to nature, feeling the earth on your feet and seeing the scenery all around you. Be careful where you tread and check sites like https://safetravel.is/ for active eruptions and earthquakes.
5. & 6. To See Ice Diamonds, Colorful Beaches
Iceland has its fair share of beaches that are unique and picturesque. An outstanding example is Diamond Beach in Jökulsárlón with glistening, exquisite ice in various shapes and sizes set against black sand.
Also check out Reynisfjara, the foremost black sand beach in Iceland. Its jutted-out basalt columns are legendary themselves.
There’s Rauðasandur as the famed red sand beach. The thing is the sand on this beach changes to other colors as the day and season change.
7. To Hear Legends
Iceland is the stuff of legends and has lots of tales about mythical creatures that resemble humans and those explaining how natural formations came to be.
You may be able to catch some epic stories when you sign up for walking tours in Reykjavik. If you have made friends in Iceland—Icelanders are among the friendliest people in the world—ask them politely for one obscure tale in Iceland.
8. To Join Festivals
Whether it’s a festival for literary enthusiasts or beer lovers from all over the world, Iceland has one. The country has festivals throughout the year, and you can build your itinerary around them. It’s also in such events that you make friends with locals and fellow travelers and experience culture first-hand. For more information, go to visit Iceland.
9. To Connect with Nature
It is by driving that you are able to maximize your time and see as much of nature up close. Book a campervan in Iceland.
Campervanning is a popular way to get around in Iceland because attractions can be near each other or at least accessible by car. You won’t worry about running out of things to see and do when you embark on a self-styled road trip with the Ring Road as your guide.
While campers are equipped with travel essentials, you can arrange for additional amenities. Check out Cozy Campers camper rentals ranging from budget-friendly to luxury. With a fully stocked campervan on a fully equipped (and breathtaking) camping ground, you clearly have a place to stay in Iceland while you wander and explore the great outdoors.
All Set to Visit Iceland
Consider this “best” list as a glimpse of what your trip to Iceland will be. The northern lights are simply heavenly, the puffins adorable, and the beaches magical. It’s also shaping up to be an active vacation with walking and hiking part of your daily itinerary. Then you can say you’ve experienced Iceland culturally by interacting with locals in festivals, etc. Lastly and more importantly, you have your campervan to ensure you get to those beautiful places and make great memories.
Planning and preparation will positively affect the quality of your trip. Definitely do your research on the sights, driving laws, weather conditions, costs, and other details. More importantly, be aware of your responsibilities in preserving a natural paradise like Iceland.
