Considering a trip to Iceland? You’re in for an amazing adventure! The country is packed with stunning places that you’ll likely fall in love with. One of the top draws for many visitors, including myself, is its breathtaking natural beauty. Iceland is filled with charming towns, incredible hiking trails, and delicious restaurants, but the stunning landscapes are the real stars.
Iceland offers a variety of spectacular sights, from geothermal geysers and waterfalls to icebergs, volcanic beaches, and dramatic sea cliffs. Planning your perfect Iceland itinerary can feel a bit overwhelming since there’s so much you’d want to squeeze into your vacation. You need to choose the best spots to eat in Reykjavik, which whale-watching tour to go on, and figure out how to visit the Blue Lagoon, all before deciding what to pack. It certainly takes some planning!
The upside is, you don’t need to be an extreme adventurer to enjoy Iceland’s incredible natural wonders. Here are some must-see natural sights to include in your Icelandic holiday plans:
1. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall – A quintessential sight in Southern Iceland, located about 2.5 hours southeast of Reykjavik. It’s a stunning place to visit as you travel further east. In winter, the path behind the waterfall may be closed due to ice, so be sure to heed local warnings.
2. Mid-Atlantic Ridge – Experience standing between two tectonic plates in this remarkable location. You can also explore the ‘Bridge Between Continents’ in Reykjanes, near Keflavik Airport.
3. Sunset Viewpoint and Ice Caves – Around 4 hours east of Reykjavik, this is a perfect sunset-watching spot. Book an ice cave tour from Vik for a unique experience inside a glacier, then continue to Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon for more natural beauty.
4. Strokkur Geysir – Located on the Golden Circle route, about 90 minutes from Reykjavik, this geyser erupts every few minutes. The sight is free and quite spectacular.
5. Jökulsárlón Iceberg Lagoon – Approximately 6 hours east of Reykjavik, this magnificent sight is worth the journey. You can take a boat tour or enjoy the view with a hot drink from the nearby café.
6. Gullfoss Waterfall – Just a short drive from the Geysir, this powerful waterfall is a must-see. Note that some trails may be closed in winter.
7. Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Pools – These pools are built over hot springs and offer a relaxing experience, including baking bread in the hot ground. If you’re up for it, take a dip in the cold lake nearby!
8. Blue Lagoon – Close to the airport, this popular spot features impressive pools and spa services. To avoid crowds, visit early or stay at The Retreat for a more private experience.
9. Askja Caldera and Viti Crater – Although remote, this area is worth exploring. A guided tour might be a good option for seeing these incredible sights.
10. Northern Lights – Your best chance to see this natural wonder is between September and March. Move away from city lights for the best view, and be patient—it’s worth the wait!
With so much to see and do, Iceland really offers some of the best natural experiences you could hope for. Enjoy your journey!