ICELAND – BEYOND THE BLUE LAGOON
Located midway between North American and Europe, Iceland makes for an easy stop over destination, which many do for a couple of nights to include a drive around the Golden Circle and take a soak in the Blue Lagoon. However, Iceland is deserving of its own dedicated visit – or two or three – to explore beyond these icon attractions. It is a dramatic island of contrasting landscapes and is home to some of Europe’s largest glaciers and some of the world’s most active volcanos, giving it the deserved name of “The Land of Fire and Ice”. We were hard pressed to cap this list, but here are 10 Cool Things To Do in Iceland if you take the time, along with a sense of adventure and wanderlust to go exploring.
Soak in the Blue Lagoon- AND - Other Natural Hot Springs
The Blue Lagoon is arguably one of the most visited attractions in Iceland and if you like hot springs, a visit here is a likely must-do. It is located very close to the International Airport, Keflavik, and easy to coordinate a visit on your way in or out of the country.
An alternative to this highly visited spa is the newly opened Sky Lagoon, located a short distance from the capital city of Reykjavik. It is an Icelandic Bathing Experience with a geothermal lagoon and flowing infinity pool that overlooks the ocean with views of varying coastlines.
If you prefer a more natural and intimate experience, we recommend a locally guided tour to hike into a valley where cold glacial run off mixes with steaming hot thermal springs providing a river “bath” of perfect soaking temperature. To say this was a trip highlight is an understatement!
The Aurora Borealis
There is a lot of hype that 2024 through 2026 will be years of heightened solar flares, increasing the chances of seeing the Northern Lights during the darker months at higher latitudes. To get the chance to see this natural phenomenon, improving the odds means strategically scheduling, advance planning, choosing locations, and crossing fingers for a little luck. For many, the Aurora is an appealing draw, and we can help plan your itinerary to increase the chances of seeing this amazing phenomenon. But with all things Mother Nature based, best you plan an itinerary to enjoy all of Iceland and if the Northern Lights come out to play, well aren’t you lucky!?
Play in the Midnight Sun
The midnight sun refers to a natural phenomenon when the sun remains visible 24 hours a day. This occurs around the summer solstice date of June 21, but depending on where in Iceland you are located - north or the south – will determine how many days pre and post the solstice that this occurs. Just about any activity can be done during this time, so pick your preference from playing a game of golf, hiking a glacier, riding a horse, kayaking a glacial lagoon, taking a whale watching tour, or simply soaking in a hot springs.
Ride an Icelandic Horse
You don’t have to be an experienced rider to enjoy some time on the back of an Icelandic Horse. In addition to traditional walk, trot, and canter/gallop typical of all other horse breeds, many Icelandic horses can also do the tölt, for a smooth gaited ride whether a short two-hour hack, or a multi-day ride throughout Iceland’s countryside. They are a unique horse that was originally brought to Iceland from Norway in the 9th and 10th centuries and have evolved into a recognized pure-bred horse. Despite their small size, never refer to them as “ponies”. They are an integral part of Icelandic culture and riding experiences are offered throughout the island.
Glaciers, Ice Caves and Glacial Lagoons
So many options to choose from! Glaciers throughout Iceland offer an array of experiences including easy walks, moderate walks, challenging hikes, ice-climbing, kayaking glacial lagoons, helicopter tours with eagle eye views of them, even walking through ice caves No matter your choice of which one(s) or your preference for how you see them, glaciers, glacial lagoons and ice caves will naturally be part of an Icelandic itinerary.
Tour INSIDE of a Volcano
In addition to the plethora of glacial experiences, volcanoes are scattered throughout the island. Some are still active; others like the Þríhnjúkagígur volcano, found in the south of Iceland, has not erupted since the 2nd century BC. This makes it perfectly safe to actually go inside the Magma chamber nearly 700 ft below the surface! A specially constructed elevator will take you there and back.
Wildlife – Whales, Seals, Puffin Birds and More
Contrary to what you may think, there are no polar bears in Iceland. But the rivers and lakes are filled with salmon and trout; thousands of whales and porpoises are found in the surrounding sea; curious seals congregate along the shorelines; the birdlife is as dramatic and varied as the rugged landscape with nearly 300 different species; wild reindeer are found free roaming in the East; and the Arctic Fox has been there since before humans arrived to the island.
Beachcomb Black Sand Coastlines
Black sand beaches are formed from volcanic sand – molten lava that cools and over time is worn to sand. With all the volcanic activity found in Iceland, it’s no wonder there are black sand beaches as well.
The most famous is Reynisfjara, located near the most southern settlement town of Vík, and is considered the most beautiful beach in Iceland and one of the top 10 most beautiful beaches in the world.
Also in the south, next to the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, you can find Diamond beach, so called for the huge chunks of glacial ice resembling diamonds nestled in the sand. The contrast between the pure ice and the black volcanic sand make for amazing photos.
Heading along the east coast, you can find a stunning black sand beach a little bit off the beaten path - Stokksnes. This area is a scenic, rugged landscape straight out of a fantasy saga, with an amazing view of Vestrahorn Mountain.
The Snæfellsnes Peninsula, located in the west of Iceland, is home to Djúpalónssandur. Located at the foot of Snæfellsjökull Glacier, this beach is found after a walk along the lava field. The ancient lifting stones that fishermen used to test their strength are also found on this beach.
Snorkel or Dive Between Continents
The Silfra Fissure, in Thingvellir National Park is the only place in the world where you can snorkel between two continental plates. In some places you can touch rock on either side! The water in the fissure is very clear, up to 300 ft at times, offering not only a unique experience, but a stunning look into the underwater world.
Walk Behind a Waterfall
While there are countless waterfalls in Iceland, some are more impressive than others, all are beautiful and then there is a special ones that you can walk behind. There are at least four found in Iceland. Some are easier to access than others. Included in the list are:
Seljalandsfoss -On the south coast, it is the most famous and easily accessible waterfall with plenty of space behind.
Gljúfrabúi, also known as Gljúfrafoss, is a bit further north and is partially hidden behind a cliff. It is also not as easy to access so not for everyone.
Kvernufoss is located further east along the South coast. You will have to hike in about 20 minutes but it is a cavernous waterfall and given it is not as accessible, it ill be less crowded.
Dynjandi – Göngumannafoss is located in the more remote region of the West Fiordlands, and is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland. There are actually 6 waterfalls in total, with Göngumannafoss being one of them.
Some of these experiences are only possible in summer months, and others only in winter months. Specializing in tailored itineraries designed around you, the Great Expeditions Travel team can help plan, book and take care of all the details to include these experiences (and others) into your unique itinerary.
Please click here for a Sample Itinerary to Iceland.