Glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, Northern Lights, and whales—Iceland truly has it all. This land of breathtaking natural beauty is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. Whether you’re scaling glaciers on an ice-climbing adventure, unwinding in soothing natural hot springs, being mesmerized by the Northern Lights, or getting up close to majestic whales on a boat tour, Iceland offers endless opportunities for exploration. Its diverse landscapes promise unforgettable experiences, leaving you with incredible memories and a longing to return and discover even more of this extraordinary island.
In this article, I’ll guide you through the absolute must-do experiences in Iceland to ensure you fully immerse yourself in the beauty and wonder of this extraordinary destination. Get ready to dive into a world of natural extremes, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable outdoor adventures that will leave a lasting impression. Buckle up—it’s time to explore the magic of Iceland!
Before we dive in, here’s a quick overview of some of the most incredible activities and experiences you can enjoy in Iceland:
- Glacier Adventures: Try glacier hiking or ice climbing
- Chase Waterfalls: Visit the most popular waterfalls in Iceland
- See the Northern Lights: Watch the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis
- Explore Volcanoes: Hike volcanoes and wander lava fields
- Relax in Hot Springs: Soak in spots like the Blue Lagoon
- Wildlife Encounters: Go whale watching or see puffins in Húsavík
Okay, now let’s go and immerse ourselves in Iceland’s treasures and answer the question: “What to do in Iceland?” – Spoiler alert: There is a lot!
Glacier Hiking and Ice Climbing in Iceland: Must-Do Adventures
Ice climbing is an extreme sport where climbers ascend frozen waterfalls and icy rock faces using tools like ice axes and crampons. Climbers rely on techniques such as front-pointing and axe swinging to navigate challenging terrain. Safety is key, with proper belaying, rope management, and ice condition assessments. Graded on the WI (Water Ice) scale, this physically demanding activity combines strength, endurance, and skill. The Sapphire Ice Cave in Vatnajökull National Park is a popular destination, offering a thrilling mix of adrenaline, exercise, and stunning views.
Our Tip: If you’re new to climbing, booking a beginner-friendly ice cave tour with a professional guide is a great option. The guide will show you the glacier, explain safety procedures, and teach you the basics of ice climbing. Most tours include the necessary equipment. Keep in mind that physical fitness is important to take part in an ice climbing adventure.
If you’re looking for a less challenging but equally incredible way to explore glaciers, a glacier hike might be the perfect activity. Glacier hiking involves walking on a glacier with special equipment like crampons, ropes, climbing harnesses, helmets, and ice axes, making it similar to mountaineering to some extent. A local guide will share their knowledge about the area and interesting facts about the glaciers. Popular glaciers are Vatnajökull glacier, Sólheimajökull and Langjökull, and many, many more. So go there and see for yourself!
Important: The Icelandic Civil Protection strongly advises against visiting glaciers on your own, as they can be dangerous and carry a high risk of serious injury. By joining a professional guide, you can safely enjoy the magical beauty of glaciers while minimizing the risks.
Also, if you are confused now about the difference between glaciers and ice caves, let me quickly explain: Glaciers are large, moving ice masses, while ice caves are smaller, frozen spaces inside glaciers or other areas.
Now, let’s shift to more relaxing activities, though don’t be deceived; they’re just as amazing!
Iceland: The Home of Waterfalls – Chasing the Country’s Most Impressive Waterfalls
Iceland is home to over 10,000 waterfalls—quite an impressive count! You’ll also notice that many of their names include the Icelandic word “foss,” meaning “waterfall.” But enough of the lessons—let’s dive into the most stunning and popular waterfalls and how to reach them!
It is quite hard to identify the “best” waterfalls. So let’s go with the most popular and at the same time (in my opinion) most impressive ones:
Öxarárfoss
First up is Öxarárfoss, a popular waterfall in Thingvellir National Park, known for its historical significance as the site of Iceland’s Althingi, the world’s oldest national assembly. Located along the famous Golden Circle route, it’s easily accessible and flows into Thingvallavatn, Iceland’s largest lake. Thingvellir is also famous for its rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, with the Silfra fissure offering thrilling snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.
Gullfoss
Gullfoss, Iceland’s probably most famous waterfall, is part of the Golden Circle route with Geysir and Thingvellir. Fed by the Hvita river, it drops 105 feet (32 meters) in two stages. You can feel the mist up close, but be cautious in winter.
Seljalandsfoss
Seljalandsfoss, located 80 miles (128 kilometers) from Reykjavik on Iceland’s South Coast, is one of the most photographed waterfalls in the country. At 197 feet (60 meters) tall, it offers a unique path that lets visitors walk behind it for stunning views (and a bit of a soak). Nearby, you’ll find Gljufrabui waterfall, tucked between cliffs and known as the “Canyon Dweller”—a hidden gem worth the short walk!
Skógafoss
Skogafoss, located near the village of Skogar on Iceland’s South Coast, is one of the country’s most stunning waterfalls, with a width of 82 feet (25 meters) and a height of 197 feet (60 meters). Its combination of size, beauty, and accessibility makes it a must-see. You can get close enough to feel the mist, and photographers will love the rainbows that often appear on sunny days. Skogafoss is easy to visit from Reykjavik in just one day, making it a top spot for any Iceland trip.
To visit these waterfalls, you have two simple options: rent a car (best is an off-road jeep) or join a guided day trip, which often includes hotel pick-up. Guides will take you to the most impressive spots, and don’t forget your camera—these locations are perfect for your next Instagram post!
What is the Golden Circle?
Since I’ve mentioned it a few times now, you might be wondering, “What exactly is the Golden Circle?” Let me answer that for you! The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most famous scenic route, combining stunning landmarks and historic sites in one convenient loop. It includes three of the country’s top natural attractions—Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall—and is especially popular due to its close proximity to Reykjavik.
Northern Lights: Why Iceland is one of the Best Places to see them & When you should Travel there
Seeing the Northern Lights is a dream for many nature lovers, and Iceland is one of the best places in the world to witness them. Located at 65° N on the southern edge of the Arctic Circle, you can see the lights almost every night, and in warmer temperatures than many other locations. The auroras are caused by charged particles from the sun colliding with Earth’s magnetic field, creating colorful displays of green, red, and blue that dance across the sky. With Iceland’s sparse population and plenty of dark, clear skies, you’ll have a great chance of catching this natural light show!
There are a lot of different ways to spot them, so I will share some of my favourite ones:
One super fun way is going for a snowmobiling tour to spot the Northern Lights. Your guide will lead you through the beautiful landscape to a remote location with as little light pollution as possible, so you can fully enjoy this natural spectacle! However, please note that for most snowmobiling tours, a driver’s license is required.
Another way to see the Northern Lights from a different perspective is to book a boat trip to view them from the water! Boats are often equipped with heated indoor cabins and provide blankets and hot beverages to enhance your experience and make it truly special.
If you prefer staying on land, you can join a minibus or jeep tour with a local guide, who will chase the Northern Lights with you and show you the most incredible spots to watch them. This is especially nice for families or groups.
Of course, since you can see the Northern Lights from almost everywhere in Iceland, going for a nightly walk is one of the most immersive and natural experiences. You can take your time, get away from the crowds, and watch the clear sky. You won’t forget it, I promise!
Our Tip: Most Northern Lights tours start in the capital city Reykjavik, so even if you don’t want to rent a car to get to more remote areas, it is super easy for you to catch a glimpse of this natural spectacle!
But now you might wonder; When is the best time to go to Iceland and see the Northern Lights? Well, this can be easily answered: The best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is between mid-September and early April, when the sky is clear, dark, and the temperature is cold and dry. But of course keep in mind that Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so spotting them can never be guaranteed! So maybe plan a few more days in Iceland and stay flexible with your itinerary to increase your chances.
The Country of Ice and Fire: Hike Volcanoes and wander Lava Fields
Iceland is a land of fire and ice, and its volcanoes are a major reason why. The country sits atop the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, making it one of the most volcanically active places on Earth. There are over 130 volcanoes in Iceland, with around 30 of them having erupted in the last 1,000 years. But rather than just talking numbers, let’s dive into some of the most popular and awe-inspiring volcanoes to visit!
Eyjafjallajökull
Famous for its 2010 eruption that disrupted air travel across Europe, Eyjafjallajökull is one of Iceland’s most well-known volcanoes. Located on the South Coast, it’s covered by an ice cap and offers dramatic landscapes, including stunning views of waterfalls and glaciers. While the volcano’s eruptions are unpredictable, the surrounding areas, like the Eyjafjallajökull Visitor Centre, offer fascinating insights into its eruption history.
Hekla
Known as the “Gateway to Hell,” Hekla is one of Iceland’s most active volcanoes, with eruptions occurring regularly over the centuries. It offers a challenging but rewarding hike to the summit, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Icelandic countryside. Despite its dangerous reputation, it remains a popular destination for adventure seekers.
Katla
Located beneath the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, Katla is one of Iceland’s largest and most powerful volcanoes. Although its last eruption was in 1918, Katla is closely monitored due to its potential for large eruptions. The surrounding region offers scenic beauty, and glacier tours provide an opportunity to explore this incredible volcanic landscape.
Iceland’s volcanoes have had a profound impact on its landscape, shaping the country in dramatic ways. The eruptions have created stunning features such as black sand beaches, formed from lava rocks shattered by the ocean. The volcanic ash and lava flows have also enriched the soil, making Iceland’s plant life incredibly unique and resilient. Volcanoes continue to influence the land, with new formations constantly emerging, adding to the ever-changing beauty of the island.
To explore these awe-inspiring volcanoes, you can rent a 4×4 vehicle or join a guided tour to learn about their history and geology. Either way, Iceland’s volcanoes promise an unforgettable adventure!
Geothermal Activity: Soak in Hot Springs and visit Geysers
Speaking of volcanoes, Iceland’s geothermal activity is one of its most unique and captivating features, shaping the island’s landscape and creating a fascinating natural environment. With over 700 geothermal sites across the country, the heat from deep within the Earth gives rise to stunning hot springs, geysers, and volcanic landscapes, all contributing to Iceland’s otherworldly beauty.
Iceland’s most famous hot springs is the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa near Grindavik. Its milky-blue waters, heated by the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power plant, are rich in minerals like silica and sulfur, known for their skin-soothing properties. Iceland’s volcanic activity creates stunning hot springs and geysers, like Strokkur in the Geysir area. Whether relaxing in the Blue Lagoon or exploring other spots, Iceland’s geothermal energy is sure to impress!
Wildlife Encounters: Whale Watching & Puffin Spotting in Húsavík
Iceland’s diverse landscapes are not just breathtaking, but they also host a wide array of fascinating wildlife. From Arctic foxes and reindeer to puffins and whales, the island is teeming with animal life. One of the highlights of any trip is going on a whale and puffin spotting boat trip. Local guides take you to hotspots like Húsavik, where you can spot majestic creatures like humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins, and minke whales up close. If you’re an animal lover, this is the place to be!
Another famous resident is the puffin, with its distinctive orange beak and feet. Iceland is home to about 60% of the world’s puffin population, with the main breeding season running from May to mid-August, so plan your visit during the summer months to see these charming birds in action.
If you are interested in more boat trips in the Nordics, check out this article about boat trips in the Nordics!
Iceland is a land of stunning contrasts, where glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, and the Northern Lights create unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re hiking, soaking in hot springs, or wildlife watching, this island has something for every nature lover. With so many adventures to explore, Iceland is sure to leave you in awe. So, get ready to discover the magic of Iceland firsthand—your adventure awaits!