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Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Iceland
If you’re visiting the Land of Fire and Ice, there might be one particular thing on your bucket list: the Northern Lights. You’re not alone. This natural spectacle has been enchanting us since the time of the Vikings, and with one glimpse of the auroras’ ethereal beauty, it’s easy to see why.
The Aurora Borealis can be unpredictable, as it’s a natural phenomenon. But by finding the best place to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, you’re setting yourself up for the chance to witness this unforgettable light show.
- Check out these Northern Lights tours in Iceland.
Read on to discover the best spots for Northern Lights in Iceland, and get insider advice on how to seek them out. Even if the Aurora Borealis elude you, these locations are still beautiful and well worth seeing when you’re planning a trip to Iceland.
1. Vatnajökull National Park
To combine Arctic landscapes with truly wild nature and the potential to see the Northern Lights, Vatnajökull National Park is where you should head to.
This huge nature reserve features the impressive Vatnajökull glacier at its heart and is encircled by active volcanoes, waterfalls, and rivers. Dramatic cliffs, swooping ravines and fierce blue ice caves beside black sand beaches make Vatnajökull National Park feel like you’re in the Ice Age.
As Vatnajökull National Park is so open and has very low levels of light pollution, it’s a great place to see the Northern Lights. Watching the colorful ribbons appear over the glaciers and snow-capped hills is an experience that you can’t replicate.
- Related: Iceland in winter – your guide.
The national park does require factoring in travel time if you’re flying into Reykjavík. Vatnajökull is approximately 320 km (200 mi) from the capital – between 4 and 7 hours drive depending on weather conditions.
The journey is definitely worth it though, as this is truly one of the greatest wonders of Iceland. Make your drive out to the national park an adventure in itself. Stop along the way to visit places like Vík, Skógafoss, and the black sands and hexagonal basalt columns of Reynisfjara beach.
Explore Vatnajökull in winter, and you could also discover natural glacial caverns on an ice cave tour package.
- Travel independently on a self-drive tour of Iceland in winter.
2. Seltjarnarnes in Reykjavík
Perhaps you’re staying in Reykjavík and are keen to see the Northern Lights, but wondering if it’s even possible in the capital city? Fortunately, Reykjavík has a hidden gem, the township of Seltjarnarnes, that you could seek out.
Seltjarnarnes is set almost out into the sea, as it sits on the most westerly edge of Reykjavík. This means it has much lower levels of light pollution compared to the city itself.
Head out to Grótta Lighthouse, or the Seltjarnarnes golf course, where there’s even a dedicated Northern Lights viewing point. Both spots are only a 10-minute drive from the center of Reykjavík, making them ideal for working into a city break.
This can be a great option if you happen to see that the forecast for the lights is good and you want to catch a glimpse. Simply hop over to Seltjarnarnes and try your luck!
- Look for the Northern Lights on a multi-day tour from Reykjavík.
3. Snæfellsnes peninsula
Snæfellsnes, home to the jaw-dropping Snæfellsjökull National Park, demonstrates all that Iceland has to offer: glaciers, volcanoes, lakes, geothermal pools, rugged landscapes, and more. Whether you see the Northern Lights or not, this attraction-packed peninsula in West Iceland will amaze you.
There are plenty of places where you can set up camp to watch for the Aurora Borealis. Head to Ytri Tunga beach, a gold sand beach that makes for a beautiful lookout point with its open view out to sea.
For an iconic Icelandic backdrop, choose Kirkjufell mountain to photograph the Northern Lights. You might recognize it from Game of Thrones.
Or, for sea views, visit the fjords of Breiðafjörður or Kolgrafafjörður. Here you can marvel at the ocean, islands and snow-capped hills stretching out before you.
4. Þingvellir National Park
Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park straddles two continental tectonic plates, and this titanic power has shaped the landscape of Iceland. With ravines, cliffs, waterfalls, volcanoes, and lava fields, Þingvellir offers plenty of opportunity to explore.
You can see why it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. That’s before you learn it’s the location of the world’s oldest surviving parliament, Alþingi, dating to 930 AD!
Much of Þingvellir National Park sits on the famous Golden Circle. Encapsulating the beauty and heritage of the country, the Golden Circle is an absolute must-do when you’re visiting Iceland.
Gullfoss, one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland, is part of the Golden Circle route and provides an incredible backdrop. Travel out further for the chance watch the Northern Lights appear over the Silfra fissure and rocky lava plains.
Þingvallavatn, Iceland’s largest lake, also makes for the perfect site to embark on a Northern Lights hunt. Seeing the colors of the aurora reflected back into the water is a bonus sight for you.
It’s good to know that Þingvellir National Park is close to Reykjavík – around 50 km (31 mi) from the capital. So if you’re based in the city, you can quite easily drive out to catch the aurora.
Do be mindful about driving in Iceland in winter, particularly if you’re inexperienced on snowy roads.
- Let someone else do the driving on a privately guided trip or small group tour of Iceland.
5. Westfjords and North Iceland
The Westfjords and North Iceland are two of the most untouched regions of this country. These areas are less visited compared to South Iceland, as they aren’t as easy to reach from Reykjavík.
Venture here and you’ll get to see some of Iceland’s most pristine scenery, so you won’t regret the extra travel time. And they are the closest parts of the country to the Arctic Circle, so here you’ll find yourself inside the “Northern Lights Belt” where aurora activity is strongest.
Thanks to being sparsely populated regions, the Westfjords and North Iceland have some of the lowest levels of light pollution in Iceland. So you’re guaranteed dark night skies in winter for a stunning backdrop to the Northern Lights.
- Related: Ultimate guide to the Westfjords.
In the Westfjords, you’ll discover tall cliffs, wide-open beaches and natural carved waterfalls such as Dynjandi and Vascofoss. Wherever you choose to set up camp and wait for the Aurora Borealis, you’ll be surrounded by some of the country’s most rugged and wild landscapes.
Vatnsfjörður, a nature reserve with a geothermal hot spring, located right by the rural town of Flókalundur, is an ideal base for the Westfjords. Whereas over in the North Iceland, the route between Lake Mývatn and Akureyri blesses you with lunar-like nature and very little light pollution.
Should you decide to visit the Westfjords and North Iceland, you could make it a full tour of the Ring Road. There’s so much to see and experience in Iceland, driving around the country will help you to make the most of your time here.
Plus, as a general rule of thumb, the longer you stay in Iceland, the better your chances are of spotting the Northern Lights!
Top tips for hunting the Aurora Borealis in Iceland
Aside from finding the right place to look for them, there are more ways you can increase the likelihood of catching sight of the Northern Lights.
Best time to see the Aurora Borealis
Winter – October to March – is the best time to go aurora hunting. The nights are much longer in the winter months, giving you a better chance of seeing it.
Northern Lights displays are usually between 15 and 30 minutes. Some are shorter, some longer. Whether you see them for 5 minutes or 50, catching a glimpse of the aurora is one of the most incredible natural displays to witness.
- Check out winter vacations in Iceland.
Advice for chasing the Northern Lights
Tick these off your list to ensure you get the best opportunity to see the Northern Lights:
- Clear skies – with no cloud cover.
- Darkness – preferably with low levels of light pollution and moonlight.
- Calm weather – no snow or rain.
- Solar wind or solar activity – this is because particles in the atmosphere are what cause the beautiful displays.
- Patience – the lights are unpredictable, but well worth the wait.
- Northern Lights tour – local guides will take you to the best places to see the light show.
There are also many apps you can download that track solar activity and the aurora forecast. These can help you decide where to see the Northern Lights in Iceland.
For those lucky enough to see the Northern Lights, it is truly an unforgettable sight. Although there is a great deal of luck involved, choosing where to see the auroras in Iceland can make a big difference.
Not only can it increase your chances of getting the best view, but with so much wild Icelandic scenery around you, the experience becomes magical in ways you wouldn’t expect.
If you miss out on viewing the Northern Lights on this occasion, there’s no need for concern. Instead, see it as a chance to explore more of Iceland’s beauty and get to know this wonderful country a little better!
Tick seeing the Aurora Borealis off your bucket list with the help of Iceland Tours’ local experts. They’ll make your travel plans and ensure you’re ready to see the Land of Fire and Ice up close and personal.
You’ll have a dedicated travel consultant to arrange everything to make your Iceland Northern Lights trip seamless, including accommodation, transport, and activities. Secure your booking with as little as 5% deposit today and prepare for a special adventure!
Top 7-day Iceland Itinerary Ideas
So you have a week to see the Land of Fire and Ice. You’re probably wondering whether it’s long enough. Well with pretty much any Iceland itinerary, 7 days will give you time to experience tons of natural sights and plenty of culture.
One of the best ways to see Iceland is on a 7-day Ring Road itinerary. This means you’ll get to see mighty waterfalls, awe-inspiring glaciers, and gushing geysers around Iceland.
If you want to zoom into a specific region, you could spend a week touring south and west Iceland. This covers the classic Golden Circle touring route, as well as the epic Snæfellsnes peninsula.
- Find your 7-day trip by browsing these Iceland vacation packages.
However you decide to spend your 7 days in Iceland, you’re bound to have your mind blown. So read on for some travel inspo that’ll spark ideas for your next vacation!
1. Iceland Ring Road itinerary
A week in Iceland gives you time for a self-drive tour around the Ring Road. Also known as Route 1, it hugs the stunning coastline and takes you through most of the country.
Here we’ve put together an Iceland Ring Road itinerary for 7 days to get you feeling inspired.
Day 1: Welcome to Iceland
Once you land at Keflavík airport, you’ll pick up your rental car and head to Reykjavík.
On the way, you can stop off for a relaxing dip in the Blue Lagoon. This spa is famous for its geothermally heated waters, rich in silica and other skin-friendly minerals. It’s the perfect place to unwind and recharge your batteries after your flight.
Depending on when you arrived in Iceland, you might also have time to explore Reykjavík. Iceland’s capital is bursting with cool cafés, trendy bars, and interesting museums. Spend the afternoon wandering the quirky streets of the city center or grabbing a tasty bite.
- Discover where the best places to eat are in our Iceland Restaurant Guide.
Day 2: Borgarfjörður & Akureyri
Today you could head north toward Akureyri, the second largest settlement in Iceland. This quaint town will charm you with its cute wooden houses painted in bright colors.
On the drive north, you’ll pass Borgarfjörður, one of the widest bays in Iceland. It’s studded with thousands of small islands and rocky outcrops that are home to seabirds, including puffins and eider.
It’s also worth taking a short detour off the Ring Road to check out the magnificent Barnafoss & Hraunfossar waterfalls. This network of criss-crossing streams almost glows blue thanks to the minerals in the water.
By dinnertime, you will have arrived in Akureyri. There are dozens of great spots to eat in the town. Whether you’re after local seafood, steak, European, or Asian food, you’ll have no problem finding something tasty.
Day 3: Goðafoss waterfall & Lake Mývatn, North Iceland
After a good night’s sleep in Akureyri, today it’s time to explore some of the wonders of North Iceland. First up today is Goðafoss, one of the country’s most powerful waterfalls. Unusually for an Icelandic waterfall, it’s much wider than it is tall.
Next you can head to the area around Lake Mývatn. The lake itself is renowned for its natural beauty and as a haven for birdlife. But the area around Mývatn is also home to some of the most mind-bending geological features in all of the country.
Amongst these are the Dimmuborgir rock formations, which are the remains of ancient volcanic eruptions. Here you’ll see hollow lava tubes and stacks of basalt that look like they solidified only yesterday. You might also recognize Dimmuborgir as a filming location from the Game of Thrones series.
- Travel Guide: Iceland’s nature & landscape.
A stone’s throw away from here is Hverfjall, which from the side of the road looks like a pretty standard mountain. Climb it though and you’ll see that it is in fact a huge collapsed volcanic crater!
Other cool things to see and do in the Lake Mývatn area include:
- Grjótagjá cave – Check out these spooky caves filled with naturally heated water
- Hverir hot springs – See liquid mud bubble away and steam rise from the ground
- Mývatn Nature Baths – Relax in these refreshing geothermal baths after a day’s sightseeing
- Skútustaðagígar – Marvel at these otherworldly craters formed by the Krafla volcano
You could also take a detour to Húsavík. This charming fishing village is the whale watching capital of Iceland. If seeing these gentle giants is on your bucket list, then this is the place to come.
Day 4: Eastfjords
Today you’ll carry on around the Ring Road toward the Eastfjords. This region of Iceland is sometimes skipped. But with plenty to explore here, there’s no reason you should pass it by.
The town of Egilsstaðir is a great place to stop for lunch, but the true gem here is the Hallormsstaðaskógur forest just outside the town. This is the largest in Iceland and it hugs the banks of the Lagarfljót river. Rumor has it that Iceland’s answer to the Loch Ness monster lives here!
If you have more time to explore, you could take the slow route around the Eastfjords and check out the region’s charming towns and villages. The village of Seyðisfjörður is full of traditional Icelandic buildings painted in bright, quirky colors. In the summer, it’s home to the Lunga arts festival, so it has a surprisingly cosmopolitan feel for such a small town.
Other villages in the area include:
- Eskifjörður – Check out the maritime museum and refuel at a cozy café
- Fáskrúðsfjörður – Explore this sleepy village that wears its French legacy on its sleeve
- Stöðvarfjörður – Visit the famous Petra’s Stone Collection
- Djúpivogur – Have a spot of lunch and marvel at the village’s collection of giant stone eggs
Tonight you’ll reach the town of Höfn í Hornarfirði, where you can grab dinner and get some rest before tomorrow’s adventures.
Day 5: Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon & south coast
This morning you don’t have far to go to see your first amazing sight. Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is just under 1 hour’s drive from Höfn. The lagoon is filled with baby icebergs that have broken off the Vatnajökull glacier, which is the largest in Iceland.
The lagoon looks best at sunrise, so if you’re a morning person we definitely recommend getting up early to see it in all its glory. There’s something so calming about watching the tiny icebergs drift slowly out to sea.
Just over the road from the lagoon is Breiðamerkursandur (AKA Diamond Beach), where some of the chunks of ice wash up. Just imagine the clear-blue ice glistening against the jet-black sand.
Once you’ve had your fill of icebergs, you can rejoin the Ring Road. Follow it west and check out the rest of what Vatnajökull National Park has to offer, including:
- Svartifoss – This hidden waterfall flows over hexagonal basalt columns
- Skaftafellsjökull – A jaw-dropping, tongue-like outlet of the Vatnajökull glacier
- Dverghamrar – Unusual geometric rock formations
In wintertime, you can also visit natural ice caves that form underneath the Vatnajökull glacier. Lined with smooth blue ice, these are a sight that’s hard to let go of.
- Walk underneath a glacier for yourself on an ice cave tour or adventure tour of Iceland.
- Blog: Your guide to ice caves and lava caves in Iceland.
Day 6: Golden Circle
After checking out the best of South Iceland’s nature, today you’ll follow the famous Golden Circle touring route. This features 3 unmissable sights:
- Gullfoss – A multi-tiered waterfall that is one of Iceland’s most beautiful
- Geysir – The geothermal area that’s home to the active Strokkur geyser
- Þingvellir National Park – Once the gathering place for Iceland’s ancient parliament
Now it’s time to head back to Reykjavík to enjoy your last night in Iceland. Why not head down to the trendy Grandi fishpacking district for some local food? Or you could sip a cocktail at a bar off Laugavegur, the main street.
For a truly Icelandic experience on your final night, you could visit a local pool for a dip in a ‘hot pot’ (what the locals call a hot tub). Many are open until 10 p.m., so you can relax your muscles before your journey home.
Day 7: Spa day or shopping in Reykjavík
Depending on the time of your flight, you could squeeze in a trip to the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon if you haven’t already. Or simply spend the morning strolling the streets of Reykjavík and dropping into local boutiques to pick up a souvenir!
This is just a taste of what you could get up to on a 7-day Ring Road tour of Iceland. If you want to fit even more in, you could add extra days in Reykjavík at the start or end of your trip.
For more inspiration, check out these Iceland Ring Road trips.
2. South & West Iceland
By focusing on one or two specific regions, you can travel at a more laid-back pace and enjoy more time at each attraction. South and West Iceland are brimming with jaw-dropping waterfalls, bubbling hot springs, and even the occasional glacier!
On this summer itinerary, you’ll have time to explore the Snæfellsnes peninsula, also known as ‘Iceland in Miniature’. This is because it packs in so much. As well as everything listed above, you’ll discover rugged cliffs full of puffins, yellow and black sand beaches, and quiet fishing villages.
Keep reading to find out what you can do in South and West Iceland in a week.
Days 1–3: Reykjavík and south coast
Start your trip by wandering around Reykjavík, snapping pics of the city’s colorful, traditional houses as you go. And of course if you have time, enjoy a relaxing soak in the Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon.
After a restful night’s sleep, you’re ready for your first day of adventure. Hit the Ring Road and follow it south along the coast. Here you’ll get your fill of waterfalls! These include the impressive Skógafoss, and Seljalandsfoss, which you can walk behind.
Next continue south toward Reynisfjara black sand beach. The volcanic sand makes for a dramatic backdrop, but the beach is also surrounded by jagged cliffs and towering sea stacks just off the shore.
Tonight you’ll stay near the village of Vík with its iconic church and cool dining options. In the morning, rejoin the Ring Road and drive to Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Here you can see tiny icebergs breaking off the Vatnajökull glacier and floating out to sea!
Days 4–5: Golden Circle & West Iceland
Today it’s time to follow the Golden Circle trail. This popular route includes Geysir, a geothermal area home to hot springs and the Strokkur geyser. Every 6–10 minutes, you can watch the geyser blast a column of hot water up to 20 meters (65 feet) into the air!
Next you’ll head to the Gullfoss waterfall. Its name means ‘Golden Falls’, hence the Golden Circle. One of the most spectacular in Iceland, this tiered waterfall is enveloped in local folk tales.
This evening you could add a visit to the Fontana spa to your plan. The health resort has geothermally heated water and looks out over the spectacular Laugarvatn lake.
The next day you’ll head to Þingvellir National Park. This ancient site is located where the North American and European tectonic plates meet. It was once also the gathering place of ancient Viking parliaments. You can explore the history of Þingvellir by following the many paths and trails around the area.
Spend the afternoon exploring West Iceland. Here you’ll find the Deildartunguhver hot spring, where steam rises from the ground and the water is hot enough to boil an egg. Finish your day’s sightseeing at the Barnafoss & Hraunfossar waterfalls, complete with their icy blue water and rock bridge.
Days 6–7: Snæfellsnes peninsula
The Snæfellsnes peninsula has earned the nickname ‘Iceland in Miniature’ because it packs so much in. In this part of Iceland you can:
- Pass through otherworldly, moss-covered lava fields
- Spot puffins and other seabirds along the coast
- Admire the handsome Snæfellsjökull glacier
- Eat fresh local seafood in the town of Stykkishólmur
- Snap photos of rugged sea stacks at Arnarstapi
- Relive Game of Thrones at Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall
- Explore hidden lava caves and gorges
- Wander golden and black sand beaches
Thanks to how easy the Snæfellsnes peninsula is to navigate, you’ll be able to cross plenty off your Iceland bucket list here!
If you feel like you can’t fit it all in, you might want to add an extra day to your itinerary. That way, you could spend more time in this unspoiled region.
On your final day, you’ll return to Reykjavík. Depending on your flight time, you might be able to squeeze in a souvenir shopping trip or soak up culture at a gallery or museum.
3. Winter glacier adventure
Iceland is even more magical when the waterfalls are frosted over and the mountains blanketed in snow. And as the night draws in, you’ll have plenty of chances to chase down the Northern Lights.
All of this makes winter a great time to visit Iceland. Here we’ve put together an example Iceland road trip for 7 days that you could do in wintertime.
- Explore these Iceland winter tours.
- Related: Tips for Iceland in winter – Weather and packing guide.
Days 1–3: South shore & Vatnajökull National Park
Arrive in Iceland and head straight to Reykjavík, where you’ll spend your first night. If you arrive earlier in the day, you might have time to check out the museums and galleries. And in the evening, you can have dinner or grab a drink at one of the city’s trendy local spots.
In the morning, you’ll start your road trip on south coast. Follow the Ring Road down to Seljalandsfoss, probably the most famous waterfall in Iceland, after Gullfoss. This is the one you can walk behind!
A short drive down the road is Skógafoss, its more powerful bigger brother. In winter they’re both likely to be frosted with icicles.
Tonight you’ll bed down in the countryside before your next day’s adventure. Head eastwards to Vatnajökull National Park, where you’ll find Svartifoss waterfall, surrounded by hexagonal columns of basalt.
The waterfall is fed by the Vatnajökull glacier, which is also the origin of the white and blue icebergs of the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. This magical place has an almost surreal energy. Pause to watch the icebergs drift out to sea, and you’ll see what we mean.
Days 4–5: Golden Circle & Snæfellsnes peninsula
Today a new chapter of your trip begins. You’ll head back west toward the Golden Circle to see the Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall. In the afternoon, you can check out Þingvellir National Park where Iceland’s Viking-age parliament met.
- Travel Guide: Iceland’s people & culture.
The next morning, it’s time to check out Iceland in miniature on the Snæfellsnes peninsula. This compact slice of Iceland has its own glacier, black sand beaches, and lava caves. Oh, and waterfalls by the bucketload!
Days 6–7: West Iceland & Reykjanes peninsula
Spend your final couple of days exploring West Iceland. This part of the country is home to the Deildartunguhver hot springs, where you can see water boil in the ground.
A short drive away are the Barnafoss & Hraunfossar waterfalls. Hraunfossar is a collection of hundreds of small streams that form a network of waterfalls. Barnafoss is more energetic, as it cuts through a narrow strip of rock. And you can even see a lava bridge over the falls that has its own legend attached to it.
Alternatively, you could head to the Reykjanes peninsula in southwest Iceland. This is home to the Blue Lagoon spa, a must-do experience for anyone visiting Iceland.
There are also natural attractions here, including the Krýsuvík geothermal area with its hot springs and steam vents.
You can also check out the newest sight in the area, which is the Fagradalsfjall lava field. This was created when the volcano of the same name erupted in March 2021. Even though the lava is no longer flowing, you can see it here in its crisp, solidified form.
Ways to see Iceland in 7 days
When planning a 7-day trip to Iceland, it’s worth thinking about the different options you have to get around the country.
One of the most popular is a self-drive tour. Take the wheel of your own rental car and stop wherever you like, whenever you like. This the best option if you want full freedom to explore and the chance to see every attraction.
If you’re the outdoors type, then a camping trip is great option in summer. Travel as you would on a self-drive, except you’ll be sleeping in a tent under the stars instead of in a guesthouse or hotel.
Don’t feel like driving yourself? You could join a guided group tour, where you’ll circle Iceland’s Ring Road with a group of like-minded travelers. Perfect for making new buddies!
And for something a bit special, there are private tours. Your very own driver-guide will take you all over the country, sharing their insider knowledge with you and showing you their favorite spots.
Choose Iceland Tours and we’ll take care of making your Iceland travel plans for you. Simply pick the trip that excites you the most and book online. Then we’ll organize accommodation, transport, and any included activities for you.
All it takes to secure your booking is a 5% deposit. So you can start dreaming about your week in Iceland today!
Glaciers in Iceland: Your Ultimate Guide
When visiting Iceland, glaciers are something you’ll see almost by accident! Just over a tenth of the country is covered in them, meaning there are plenty of ice-capped mountaintops to see. You’ll also see huge stretches of ice extending from outlet glaciers.
So where’s the best place to see a glacier in Iceland? They are mostly concentrated in the southern half of the country, in a crescent from the Snæfellsnes peninsula in the west to Vatnajökull glacier in the southeast.
- Get up close to a glacier on one of these adventure tours of Iceland.
Read on and find out about more about how they were formed and which ones are the best to visit.
Hint: The Icelandic word for ‘glacier’ is jökull and features in the name of almost every one in the country!
Where are the glaciers in Iceland?
You’ll find the majority of Iceland’s glaciers, including its largest, in central or south Iceland. The reason for this is not to do with temperature, but the fact that there is more snowfall in those parts of the country.
Vatnajökull, which is the biggest glacier in Iceland, stretches all the way from the central highlands to the south coast. One of its outlets empties into Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, where you can see baby icebergs calving off before floating out to sea.
The largest glacier in the north is Drangajökull in the Westfjords. It’s also the fifth largest in the country.
How many glaciers are there in Iceland?
It’s impossible to put an exact figure on it, but there are at least 13 large glaciers in Iceland. In order of size from largest to smallest, they are:
- Vatnajökull
- Langjökull
- Hofsjökull
- Mýrdalsjökull
- Drangajökull
- Eyjafjallajökull
- Tungnafellsjökull
- Þórisjökull
- Eiríksjökull
- Þrándarjökull
- Tindfjallajökull
- Torfajökull
- Snæfellsjökull
As well as these, you’ll find there are hundreds of smaller glaciers around the country, some only a few square meters in size.
Iceland glacier map
You can see the main glaciers we’ll cover in this blog post on a map:
How much of Iceland is covered by glaciers?
11,400 km² (4,400 sq mi), is covered by glaciers. This is around 11% of Iceland’s total land area. You can spot them pretty easily on any map or satellite image of the country. They’re the big white splotches (or gray on the map above)!
At the end of the last ice age, Iceland was almost entirely covered in glaciers. The ice would have joined Iceland up to the Arctic and British Isles. The glaciers that you can see today are the last remnants of this ginormous ice cap.
Are Iceland’s glaciers melting?
Unfortunately, yes. Due to the rise in temperature caused by climate change, the country’s glaciers are gradually receding. In fact, one of the smallest, Okjökull, disappeared altogether in 2014. That said, you can still see other glaciers in all of their glory today.
It’s normal for sections of glaciers to melt on a seasonal basis. In the springtime, the meltwater left behind by the glacier ice carves out spectacular ice caves underneath Langjökull and Vatnajökull.
- Walk under a glacier yourself on an ice cave tour in Iceland.
- Related: Guide to ice caves and lava caves in Iceland.
And because Iceland’s glaciers contain the equivalent of 20 times the annual precipitation the country receives, they’re an important source of freshwater.
As it happens, the glaciers feed many of Iceland’s waterfalls, including Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss, and Skógafoss. You can see how much of an effect they have by visiting these waterfalls in the summer months during the seasonal melt.
In wintertime, the glaciers freeze solid once again. And they’re topped up with fresh snowfall, which becomes gradually compressed and turns to solid ice over the years.
Can I visit a glacier in Iceland?
Absolutely! One important thing is though that you shouldn’t attempt to visit a glacier by yourself. Always go on an organized trip with a trained and experienced guide, like those offered by Iceland Tours.
The surface of a glacier is constantly changing and there can be hidden dangers. So it’s vital that you go with a qualified guide who can ensure you have a safe and fun time on the glacier!
Best glaciers to visit in Iceland
1. Vatnajökull
Area: 7,900 km² (3,050 sq mi)
Location: Southeast Iceland
Vatnajökull is by far the largest glacier in Iceland. This beast alone covers 8% of the country (bear in mind that all of Iceland’s glaciers combined cover 11%). So if you’re driving anywhere along the southeast coast, Vatnajökull will likely be towering over you.
As with lots of Iceland’s glaciers, Vatnajökull hides active volcanoes. The most lively of these is Grímsvötn, which last erupted in 2011. Because the volcano lies beneath the ice, when it erupts it causes outburst floods known in Icelandic as jökulhlaup.
Other volcanoes under the glacier include Bárðarbunga (last eruption: 2014–15) and Öræfajökull (last eruption: 1728).
Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon
The Vatnajökull ice cap has dozens of valley glaciers that empty into different rivers. One of the most important is Breiðamerkurjökull, which stretches into the Jökulsárlón lagoon. This glacial lake is teeming with icebergs large and small that have broken off the glacier.
You can access Jökulsárlón easily from the Ring Road, which actually passes over the lagoon via a bridge. And because the lagoon connects to the North Atlantic, you can watch the icebergs drift out to sea from here.
- Why not set off on an Iceland Ring Road trip of your own?
- Blog: Ultimate guide to driving Iceland’s Ring Road.
Some icebergs are even washed ashore on the nearby Breiðamerkursandur (aka Diamond Beach). This creates a magical effect as the blue ice contrasts with the pitch-black volcanic sand.
2. Mýrdalsjökull
Area: 560 km² (215 sq mi)
Location: South Iceland
Mýrdalsjökull is the southernmost glacier in Iceland, not far from the village of Vík. It covers Katla, the largest active volcano in Iceland. Although it hasn’t properly erupted since 1918, it’s considered to be one of the most active volcanoes in the country.
You can see the mark of past volcanic eruptions on the glacier in the form of layers of ash. This black grit settles on top of the ice and is quickly covered in snow. But if you enter an ice cave and see black veins in the ice, what you’re looking at is volcanic ash. Like the rings of a tree, they tell us more about the history of a glacier.
The Mýrdalsjökull glacier itself is a popular spot for adventure activities like snowmobiling tours and glacier hiking, especially on the Sólheimajökull outlet.
- Take a multi-day tour from Reykjavík and join the fun on Mýrdalsjökull.
3. Langjökull
Area: 900 km² (350 sq mi)
Location: West Iceland
Langjökull means ‘Long Glacier’. Look at a map and it’s easy to see why, it’s much longer than it is wide. If you venture to the Golden Circle and stop off at the Gullfoss waterfall, you’ll catch a glimpse of Langjökull in the distance.
Thanks to its location near the Golden Circle, Langjökull is another great spot for glacier-based adventures. Here you can join a glacier hike, go snowmobiling, or take a glacier jeep tour on top of the glacier itself.
Once you’re up on the glacier surface, you can follow a trained guide and explore one of the dozens of ice caves that form under Langjökull every year!
- Check out these day trips for a full selection of ice-focused adventures.
4. Eyjafjallajökull
Area: 78 km² (30 sq mi)
Location: South Iceland
If there’s one glacier in Iceland you might have heard of before, it’s Eyjafjallajökull. Newsreaders across the world mangled the pronunciation of this glacier when the volcano beneath it started erupting in 2010.
- See Eyjafjallajökull and more on a self-drive trip to Iceland.
- Get the lowdown on Iceland’s volcanoes with this guide.
So let’s get this out of the way first: you pronounce it EY-ya-fyat-la-yoekut-l. Or at least, that’s the best way we can write it using English spelling. YouTube has loads of videos teaching you how to pronounce it if you want something more precise!
Tongue twisters aside, Eyjafjallajökull is one South Iceland’s most stand-out glaciers. It’s easily visible from the Ring Road as you drive south to Seljalandsfoss. And on a clear day, it can even be seen from the Westman Islands off the south coast.
Eyjafjallajökull is super close to its bigger brother Mýrdalsjökull. In fact, they’re connected by the Fimmvörðuháls mountain pass. This is actually the spot where the infamous eruption started back in 2010.
5. Snæfellsjökull
Area: 11 km² (4 sq mi)
Location: Snæfellsnes peninsula, West Iceland
Although it’s the smallest of Iceland’s main glaciers, Snæfellsjökull is still a stunning sight. Located at the far western end of the Snæfellsnes peninsula, the glacier sits within its very own national park.
Snæfellsjökull caps an active volcano, the only one on the whole peninsula. Despite being labeled as ‘active’, it hasn’t actually erupted for almost 2,000 years.
This was the volcano that served as inspiration for Jules Verne. In his iconic novel Journey to the Center of the Earth, the main character uncovers a passage leading to the Earth’s core underneath Snæfellsjökull.
On a clear day, the glacier is easily visible from Reykjavík. And in the summer, you can climb the mountain below Snæfellsjökull, although you shouldn’t hike on the actual glacier by yourself.
6. Hofsjökull
Area: 890 km² (345 sq mi)
Location: Central highlands
Up in the Icelandic highlands you’ll find Hofsjökull, Iceland’s third-largest glacier. Beneath the ice is a large and active volcanic system, although no one knows quite when it last erupted.
Because of its location, Hofsjökull is only accessible in the summer when the mountain roads (known as F-roads) are open. This part of Iceland experiences such harsh weather conditions in the wintertime that it is completely cut off from the rest of the country.
In the summer though, it’s safe for you to visit the highlands in a 4×4. There’s plenty to see there in fact, including the Landmannalaugar hot springs. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can even drive the Kjölur road which runs all the way up the country from south to north.
Planning your Iceland glacier trip
As we’ve seen, you don’t have to go far (or be a pro mountain climber!) to experience glaciers in Iceland. On an adventure tour of Iceland, you can join a group tour where you could:
- Go glacier hiking on Langjökull or Mýrdalsjökull
- Cross the glacier surface by snowmobile
- Explore a bright blue ice cave
On any of these activities, you’ll be led by a qualified and experienced guide. Plus, you’ll get all the gear you need to stay safe and comfy.
When you book an adventure package with Iceland Tours, you’ll get one or more ice-based experience included. And your accommodation and transport is all set up for you. All you need to do is book your flights and enjoy your trip.
And with just a 5% deposit, there’s no need to put your plans on ice, you can book today!
Best Museums in Reykjavík
Reykjavík, Iceland’s capital, is a buzzing cultural hub. Here you can spend the day flitting between cool cafés, modern art galleries, and fascinating museums. In fact, museums are a great way to learn about Iceland’s cultural and natural history. But what are the best museums in Reykjavík?
Below we’ve rounded up some Reykjavík museums that we think you’ll love. If history’s your thing, delve into the country’s past at the National Museum of Iceland or learn about Viking pioneers at the Settlement Exhibition.
If nature’s more your vibe, visit Whales of Iceland at Perlan or Aurora Reykjavík. And for modern culture, there are art museums and countless galleries.
- Soak up Icelandic culture on one of these multi-day tours from Reykjavík.
So whilst the question of which museum in Reykjavík is best depends on your own interests, you’re bound to find one that interests you. Let’s dive in!
Top 10 museums in Reykjavík
1. National Museum of Iceland
Location: Suðurgata 41, 102 Reykjavík
Opening hours: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. every day, closed Mondays Sep–Apr
The National Museum of Iceland offers a great overview of Icelandic history and culture in one place. The permanent exhibition, Making of a Nation, starts in the settlement era of the 8th century and spans right up to the present day.
Here you’ll also find a selection of rotating temporary exhibitions on Iceland’s culture and history. Past exhibitions have covered Icelandic art, fashion, music, and the sagas, as well as the local history of different regions like North Iceland.
- Read our Travel Guide to find out more about Icelandic people & culture.
The museum is also home to a café and a small gift shop. A great place to pick up an authentic Icelandic souvenir from your trip whilst supporting a local institution!
2. Árbær Open Air Museum
Location: Kistuhylur, 110 Reykjavík
Opening hours: 1 p.m.–5 p.m. Sep–May, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Jun–Aug
Árbær Open Air Museum is built on the site of a former farm and opened as a museum in 1957. As you wander between its 20 historic buildings, you get a real sense of what life in a small Icelandic town must have been like in times past.
The buildings at the site have mostly been moved there from central Reykjavík. Iceland has a strong tradition of relocating its old timber-framed houses, which are often small enough to fit on the back of a truck in one piece.
- See traditional Icelandic buildings around the country on a self-drive tour.
This living history museum also hosts temporary exhibitions. Past ones have included toys, vintage cars, and Reykjavík in the 20th century.
As this is mostly an outdoor museum, it’s a great place to go with kids. It’s not far from the Elliðaá river park, where you can go for a walk along the banks on a sunny day.
Good to know: Along with the Settlement Exhibition and Reykjavík Maritime Museum, Árbær Open Air Museum is part of Reykjavík City Museum. With the City Card, you can get access to all museums and galleries run by the city council, as well as the National Museum. What’s more, it gets you into the city pools!
3. Icelandic Phallological Museum
Location: Kalkofnsvegur 2, 101 Reykjavík
Opening hours: 10 a.m.–7 p.m. every day
Well, you probably have a lot of questions about this one. Where do we start? The Icelandic Phallological Museum boasts the questionable title of having the world’s largest collection of penises and penis-related art.
The museum itself was founded in the village of Húsavík in North Iceland by former Spanish teacher Sigurður Hjartarson. The museum grew with donations from Sigurður’s friends and family, including several whale penises and a bull pizzle (no, we don’t know either).
In 2012, he handed operations over to his son, who moved the museum south to Reykjavík and expanded its collection even further. Today it’s become a must-visit attraction for anyone passing through Iceland’s capital.
For avid penis fans, an annual pass is available. You’d have to be quite the admirer to beat the record of 43 visits in one year though!
4. Saga Museum
Location: Grandagarður 2, 101 Reykjavík
Opening hours: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. every day
At the Saga Museum, you can see moments from the famous Sagas of Icelanders brought to life. These ancient stories record the lives of real Icelanders, although normally with a big helping of fantasy and magic mixed in.
This museum focuses on the earlier eras of Icelandic history, starting at the point the landmass itself was formed 15 million years ago. It then fast-forwards to the first settlers, telling the stories of Norwegians who fled their homeland to start life in the new Icelandic colony.
Most of the Icelandic sagas are set in this period, although many weren’t written down until centuries later. So if you’re interested in learning more about the Viking culture of ancient Iceland, stop by the Saga Museum.
5. The Settlement Exhibition
Location: Aðalstræti 16, 101 Reykjavík
Opening hours: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. every day
If you walk along Aðalstræti from Ingólfstorg square, you’ll notice a murky glass window in the pavement. Look through it and you’ll get a glimpse of ancient Viking remains.
It’s these 9th-century remains that the Settlement Exhibition has been built around. They were unearthed during construction works in 2001 and are the oldest physical evidence of the settlement of Reykjavík. The remains are part of a longhouse, a type of building common in Viking times.
As well as the remains, the museum has interactive exhibits about life in Iceland during the settlement era. These are perfect for kids and big kids alike, so why not spend the afternoon here connecting with your inner Viking?
6. Reykjavík Maritime Museum
Location: Grandagarður 8, 101 Reykjavík
Opening hours: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. every day
As an island nation, Icelanders have developed a deep relationship with the sea. For centuries, fishing was the main industry and food source in Iceland. Even today, many remote villages around the country are dependent on fishing.
At the Reykjavík Maritime Museum, you can learn about the fishing history in Iceland from around 150 years ago. It was around then that large-scale fishing was first practiced. The museum also looks at the land-based industries that sprang up around the fisheries, such as boatmaking, sailmaking, and fish processing.
Fishing has always been a dangerous way to make a living, with men at sea for weeks or months at a time in often brutal conditions. Fishermen came up with different ways of keeping their spirits up and staying entertained, which you can also learn about here.
The museum is located in Grandi, the city’s former fishpacking district. After an afternoon looking around the exhibition, you can stop off at the nearby Grandi Mathöll for dinner. This trendy food hall is one of dozens of great places to eat in the district. So support local and order some Icelandic fish!
7. Safnahúsið
Location: Hverfisgata 15, 101 Reykjavík
Opening hours: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. every day, closed Mondays
Now run by the National Gallery of Iceland, Safnahúsið or the ‘House of Collections’ is one of the most beautiful buildings in Reykjavík. It was designed in 1906 by a Danish architect, originally to house Iceland’s national library.
Over the years the building has been home to a number of institutions. Until recently it was known as the Culture House, or Þjóðmenningarhúsið. Visit today and you’ll find all sorts of art-focused exhibitions put together by the National Gallery and National Museum.
Check the gallery’s website for the latest info on what’s on.
8. Reykjavík Art Museum
Location: Tryggvagata 17, 101 Reykjavík
Opening hours: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. every day, 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Thursdays
Reykjavík Art Museum is actually spread over 3 locations across the city, but its main gallery is on Tryggvagata in the heart of downtown. This gallery is housed in an old harbor warehouse, known as Hafnarhús, built in the modernist style.
Today it’s home to a permanent exhibition of works by Erró, one of Iceland’s most famous painters. Known for his pop art style, he has produced over 4,000 works and donated many of them to the museum.
Hafnarhús doubles as a music venue. It’s often used for the annual Iceland Airwaves festival as one of the main performance areas. So if you’re going to the festival, you might well drop in here by accident!
- Get the lowdown on festivals with our guide to events in Iceland.
9. Whales of Iceland
Location: Fiskislóð 23–25, 101 Reykjavík
Opening hours: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. every day
A stone’s throw from the Reykjavík Maritime Museum, Whales of Iceland focuses on the biggest species found in Icelandic waters. Here you can get up close and personal with lifesize replicas of the main whale species found around Iceland.
Whales of Iceland offers a number of ways to learn about these majestic creatures. As well as the touchable lifesize models, there are interactive exhibits and a VR experience that takes you underwater. All this makes the museum a great family-friendly option.
10. Aurora Reykjavík
Location: Grandagarður 2, 101 Reykjavík
Opening hours: 9 a.m.–9 p.m. every day
The Northern Lights can sometimes be tricky to track down, even in perfect winter conditions. If you don’t manage to see them for yourself, you can stop by Aurora Reykjavík. Here you can watch an immersive video experience of the lights in the museum’s aurora theater.
You’ll also learn about the significance of the Northern Lights in Icelandic culture. As scientists didn’t properly understand what causes the aurora until the early 20th century, there are lots of myths around their origin and meaning.
If you’re planning to join a Northern Lights hunting tour, it might be worth a stop here beforehand for a photography class. You’ll get tips and tricks on how to take photos of these colorful ribbons as they dance across the sky!
Bonus: Perlan
Location: Öskjuhlíð, 105 Reykjavík
Opening hours: Exhibitions open 9 a.m.–7 p.m.
Whilst Perlan isn’t technically a museum itself, it’s home to a few exhibitions that focus on Icelandic nature along with some other attractions.
- Check out our Travel Guide to learn more about Iceland’s nature & landscape.
You can see this huge domed building from many places all over Reykjavík. It’s worth visiting for the view from the observation deck alone. Here you get a full panorama over the city and a glimpse of the Esja mountain beyond.
There are currently 6 nature-themed exhibits at Perlan, including a journey through a reconstructed ice cave and a replica of the Látrabjarg bird cliff in the Westfjords. There’s also an exhibit on Icelandic nature, as well as video shows on the Northern Lights and seas of Iceland.
- See a real ice cave for yourself on an Iceland adventure tour.
- Blog: Your guide to ice caves and lava caves in Iceland.
Once you’ve checked out the exhibits you can grab a bite to eat at the café on the top floor. It’s here that you’ll also find Perlan’s newest attraction: a zipline! Probably best to eat after you fly down the zipline though.
How many museums are in Reykjavík?
We’ve listed just a handful of our favorite museums in Reykjavík, but Iceland’s capital is home to even more. You’ll also find museums in rural locations around the country, including along the south coast, in the Westman Islands, and in North Iceland.
- See more of the country on one of these Iceland vacation packages.
Are museums free in Reykjavík?
Most museums in Iceland charge a small admission fee to help support the museum’s work and preserve its collections. That said, some museums have free entry for kids!
Concessions are often available for students or elderly people, but check at the desk before you buy your ticket to be sure.
Are museums open on Sunday in Reykjavík?
Yes, most museums in Reykjavík are open on Sundays. It’s always worth checking the opening hours in case you are planning to visit on a public holiday though. Also, it’s good to know that some museums in Iceland are closed on Mondays.
Planning your visit to Reykjavík
Every trip to Iceland should include a day or two in Reykjavík. As well as museums, it has exciting places to eat mixed with cozy cafés and cool bars. And in the evenings you can go for walks along the beautiful coast or unwind in one of the heated city pools.
If you take a multi-day tour from Reykjavík, you’ll be based in the city and join different excursions into the countryside each day. This will give you plenty of time to explore everything the capital has to offer and get out into Icelandic nature.
And because multi-day tours are by bus, they’re also a lower-carbon way to travel around Iceland.
Now that you’re itching to experience the best of Reykjavík’s culture, you can start planning your trip. With Iceland Tours, you can choose your own departure date and secure your booking with just a 5% deposit. So what’s holding you back?
Snæfellsnes Peninsula – Ultimate Guide
Lava fields, fishing villages, and its very own glacier – all this and more is in store for you on a trip to Iceland’s Snæfellsnes peninsula.
This slice of West Iceland is sometimes described as ‘Iceland in Miniature’, and for good reason. Its diverse landscapes capture the essence of what Iceland is all about, but it’s easily accessible and doable in a day or two.
- See all of Snæfellsnes on one of these Iceland vacation packages.
So what are the Snæfellsnes peninsula must-sees? There’s too many to squeeze into one paragraph, so read on to get the lowdown on this breathtaking region of Iceland.
Top Snæfellsnes peninsula things to do
1. Snæfellsjökull National Park
At the far end of the Snæfellsnes peninsula sits Snæfellsjökull National Park. Named after the Snæfellsjökull glacier, this nature reserve is home to a wide variety of different landscapes.
The crowning glory (quite literally) is the glacier itself. Although Snæfellsjökull can’t compete with its bigger brothers Langjökull and Vatnajökull for size, it’s no less jaw-dropping. On a clear and sunny day, you can even catch a glimpse of its white peak from Reykjavík.
- Read our Travel Guide to learn more about Iceland’s nature and landscape.
- Related: Best glaciers to visit in Iceland.
Snæfellsjökull is famous for appearing in Jules Verne’s classic novel Journey to the Center of the Earth. In the novel, the main characters find a passage leading to the center of the earth underneath the glacier.
The ice sheet covers a giant volcano, the largest in this part of Iceland. It’s inactive though, as it hasn’t erupted for a couple of thousand years. The foot of the volcano is hemmed in by giant lava fields that stretch all the way to the sea.
At the extreme western edge of the park, you’ll find a cliff-lined coast where the lava meets the Atlantic Ocean. This coast is dotted with interesting rock formations and lighthouses that are well worth checking out!
2. Stykkishólmur
The sleepy fishing village of Stykkishólmur is the largest settlement on the Snæfellsnes peninsula and the main harbor in the region. Founded in the 16th century as a trading post, the town wears its merchant history on its sleeve.
Some of the old merchants’ houses around the old harbor have been converted into trendy modern bistros serving up fresh and tasty Icelandic seafood. This is probably the best place to eat on the whole peninsula.
- Read our Travel Guide to find out more about Icelandic food & restaurants.
You might recognize the row of buildings along the harborfront from the film The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. The village was actually used as Greenland in that film!
From the harbor you can sail out into the Breiðafjörður bay (more on that below). A ferry connection is available to the island of Flatey and the Westfjords, or you can join a puffin-watching tour by boat.
It’s also worth taking a wander to the cliff on the other side of the harbor, where you can get a panoramic view across the whole bay.
3. Kirkjufell mountain and Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall
Kirkjufell is one of the most instantly recognizable mountains in Iceland thanks to its pointy peak resembling a witch’s hat.
If it seems familiar to you, that might be because you’ve seen it as Arrowhead Mountain in Game of Thrones. (Authors and filmmakers seem to love this part of Iceland!)
Kirkjufell lends its name to the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, which rolls gently into the sea through a series of shallow cascades. The waterfall is easily accessible from the 54 road, the main route around the Snæfellsnes peninsula.
Explore the area around the waterfall by following the footpaths and crossing the bridge above the falls. The scene is especially magical at sunset, so if you want to nab the best pic, this is the time of day to visit.
4. Grundarfjörður & Ólafsvík
If you’re driving to Kirkjufell along the north coast of Snæfellsnes, then you’ll pass through Grundarfjörður, one of a handful of fishing villages on the peninsula. This is a great place to stop for a coffee or a bite to eat as you admire the view of the mountain.
Whilst you’re in town, you could also pay a visit to the Saga Center. Here you’ll find an information center, the Bæringsstofa photo collection, and a small exhibit about the town’s history. The exhibit includes a replica of a shop from the 1950s, which is like a time capsule!
Grundarfjörður is located between the small towns of Stykkishólmur, the hub of the region, and Ólafsvík. The latter is a fishing community worth stopping at for the cute waterfall alone (see below), but there’s some more dining options here too.
Ólafsvík is also home to Pakkhúsið, a historical building where you’ll now find the Útgerðin fashion and lifestyle shop. Drop in here to pick up Icelandic design products and gifts.
As you drive around Iceland, you’ll no doubt notice some of its radical modernist churches. Many of these were built around the middle of the 20th century and have striking modern designs. The church in Ólafsvík is no exception, with its minimalist spire and angular roof.
5. Caves & gorges
Buried under the lava fields of the Snæfellsnes peninsula is a hidden gem: Vatnshellir cave. As you descend into the cave via a spiral staircase, you’ll be surrounded by gnarly rock formations.
To explore the cave, which was only opened to the public in 2011, you will need to join a guided tour. Exploring the actual cave is not too difficult, but you’ll need to wear the right safety gear and follow precautions.
There are a couple more awesome rock formations in the area you can check out yourself. First up is Sönghellir (‘Singing Cave’), renowned for its magical acoustics. To get here, you’ll need to turn off the coastal road onto a gravel track, so a 4×4 is required.
- Check out these Iceland adventure packages that include lava cave experiences.
- Want to explore further underground? Read our lava caves and ice caves guide.
Further up the coastal road, you’ll find the more accessible Rauðfeldsgjá gorge. This narrow passage cuts into the Botnsfjall mountain, and it’s possible to explore the inside in summertime.
The walls are lined with palagonite, a kind of volcanic rock. And a small waterfall runs into the back of the gorge, creating a mystical atmosphere!
Around a 15-minute drive from Rauðfeldsgjá is Búðakirkja. This small black church sits next to a massive lava field featuring the Búðaklettur volcanic crater. You can park near the church and follow the trail to the crater to explore it up close.
6. Breiðafjörður bay
Breiðafjörður means ‘Wide Fjord’ and it’s easy to see why: this bay that divides Snæfellsnes from the Westfjords is one of the biggest in Iceland. You can see it from pretty much anywhere on the north shore of Snæfellsnes.
- Discover Iceland’s remotest region in our guide to the Westfjords.
The bay itself is packed with small islands and skerries, home to all sorts of wildlife including puffins and eider ducks. That’s right, eider ducks as in eider pillows. Locals collect the soft feathers from the birds’ nests as they naturally shed them.
The heart of Breiðafjörður is the island of Flatey, accessible by the Baldur ferry from Stykkishólmur. This car-free island has been settled for centuries and was once an important religious and cultural center.
Today it’s fantastic to visit for its laid-back vibe and collection of traditional timber-framed houses. A great place to escape to and disconnect from the rush of daily life.
7. Yellow and black sand beaches
You may well have heard of Iceland’s famous black sand beaches, but on the Snæfellsnes peninsula you’re more likely to come across a beach with yellow or red sand. In fact, almost the entire length of the peninsula’s southern coast is yellow beach.
One particular spot worth visiting is Ytri Tunga, a golden beach ideal for spying seals. They tend to bask on the seaweed-covered rocks just off the coast.
However, if you really do want to see a black sand beach, Snæfellsnes does deliver. Stop off at Djúpalónssandur or Malarrif in the Snæfellsjökull National Park. Malarrif is right next to the famous Lóndrangar sea stacks, which you can read about below. There you’ll also find a lighthouse to add to your photo collection!
8. Sea stacks
As well as beaches that seem stolen from the Caribbean, the south coast of the Snæfellsnes peninsula has tons of otherworldly cliff and rock formations.
Within the Snæfellsjökull National Park, you’ll find Lóndrangar. This pair of basalt columns towers over a sea cliff. The bigger of the two is 75 meters (245 feet) tall, whereas the smaller is 61 meters (200 feet).
The columns are the remains of an ancient volcanic crater which has long since eroded. Today they are home to some nesting birds, including kittiwakes, murres, fulmars, and puffins.
Slightly further up the road is Arnarstapi, a set of cliffs and rock formations including Gatklettur (above). This famous rock arch is one of many you can spot in Iceland, formed by the sea wearing a hole in solidified lava.
9. Pocket-sized waterfalls
Although Kirkjufellsfoss is undoubtedly the crown jewel of waterfalls on the Snæfellsnes peninsula, there are plenty of pocket-sized gems dotted around the region.
Just above Ólafsvík is Bæjarfoss, literally ‘Town Waterfall’, which is easily walkable from anywhere in the town. It’s quite modest in size, but still charming enough to look at. It drapes over the mountainside like other ‘bridal veil’ waterfalls such as Dynjandi. And what’s more, you can enjoy it at night because it’s lit up!
Slightly more majestic is Svöðufoss (above), just west of Ólafsvík. At around 10 meters (30 feet) tall, it’s set within a cliff of basalt columns. This is similar to the famous Svartifoss waterfall in southeast Iceland.
From the same parking lot, you can also walk to Kerlingarfoss, a semi-hidden, multi-tier waterfall spanning about 60 meters (200 feet).
Despite their beauty, these waterfalls aren’t as well known, so they’re definitely a little off the beaten track. Thirst for waterfalls still not quenched? Read our guide to the best waterfalls to visit in Iceland.
How to explore the Snæfellsnes peninsula
If you’ve never visited Iceland before, adding the Snæfellsnes peninsula to your itinerary is a great way to see a lot of what the country has to offer in a short time. But what’s the best way to get to, and around, the region?
You’ll have the most freedom to explore if you rent a car. On a self-drive trip, you can set the pace and take as many detours as you like. This means you don’t have to miss any of the hidden gems of Snæfellsnes, and you can spend as long as you like at each one.
If you base yourself on the peninsula, you could also join day tours of the Breiðafjörður bay, where you could spot puffins and whales.
That said, if you’d prefer to skip the driving, you could also join a guided group tour or private tour that includes Snæfellsnes.
Browse these vacation packages and get inspired for your trip to this magical part of West Iceland.
Best Places to See Puffins in Iceland
Best known for their colorful beaks stuffed full of fish, puffins are an iconic Icelandic bird species. So if you fancy seeing one on your trip, it helps to know where the best place to see puffins in Iceland is.
Luckily, there’s not just one place you can these bright-billed birds, as they hang out in sea cliffs all over the country. So when it comes to where to see puffins in Iceland, where should you start?
Here we’ve rounded up the top places in Iceland to spy a puffin. But first, let’s get to know these famous critters a bit better.
- Take one of these self-drive tours of Iceland and spot puffins all around the country.
About puffins in Iceland
There are actually 3 different species of puffin, but by far the most famous is the Atlantic puffin (also called the ‘common puffin’).
As its name suggests, this type of puffin is found all around the North Atlantic Ocean, including in the British Isles, Faroe Islands, Greenland, Norway, and of course, Iceland.
In fact, Iceland is thought to be home to 60% of the world’s Atlantic puffins. Around 2 million pairs of puffins call the country home. And Icelanders call them lundar.
The Westman Islands off the south coast of Iceland are home to the world’s largest puffin colony. They’re hard to miss as you sail into the harbor on the ferry from the mainland.
What do puffins look like?
Puffins are very easy to spot thanks to their distinctive shape and color! The Atlantic puffin has a white belly and black back. The back of its head is also black, but its face is white and they have a bright beak colored orange-red, yellow, and black.
On land, they stand upright on their sunny orange feet. But you’ll also spot them swimming on the surface of the sea, where their posture is more like a duck’s.
Puffins spend a lot of their time at sea hunting for small fish, which is their main source of food. You have the best chance of spotting them in the morning or evening, when they’re likely to be in their nests.
Are puffins an endangered species?
Unfortunately, yes. The species as a whole is considered vulnerable, but the puffin populations in Iceland are critically endangered. This is despite the actual number of puffins around the country being so high.
All that said, they’re plentiful enough to be easy to spot. But make sure you take care not to disturb the birds or their nests. Remember you are in their habitat and that Iceland’s environment can be quite fragile.
- Get more tips on how to travel sustainably and responsibly in Iceland.
Where to see puffins in Iceland
Because puffins are seabirds, they tend to nest in sea cliffs and rocky outcrops along the coast. They mostly feed on small fish that live near the surface of the water, so you’ll see them swimming as well as flying.
Iceland has thousands of kilometers of coastline, but some places are better for puffin spotting than others. Let’s run through some of the top ones!
1. Látrabjarg cliffs
The remote Látrabjarg cliffs in the Westfjords are perhaps the most famous place to spot puffins in the whole country. This 14-kilometer (8.5-mile) stretch of cliffs forms the westernmost point in Iceland and reaches a height of up to 440 meters (1,450 feet) in places.
As well as puffins, you’ll find bird species like guillemots, razorbills, and gannets, so you’re pretty much guaranteed a bird sighting!
Of course, the reason you’re really here is to see puffins. To maximize your chances of seeing them, you’ll want to visit from May to August. In the early summer, puffins lay their eggs in Iceland and are at their most active. That said, they can be seen throughout the whole summer.
To get to Látrabjarg, you’ll need to drive. The cliff can be found at the end of the 612 gravel road, which connects up to the main 62 road that circles around the western part of the Westfjords.
- Related: Your ultimate guide to the Westfjords.
Their remoteness and isolation are part of what makes the cliffs such a great nesting spot for seabirds though. Definitely worth the detour!
2. Westman Islands
As we mentioned before, the Westman Islands (or Vestmannaeyjar in Icelandic) are home to the world’s largest puffin colony.
This chain of islands is easy to access from the mainland. Drive south along Route 1 to the Landeyjahöfn ferry terminal, a stone’s throw from the famous Seljalandsfoss waterfall.
- Find out more about Iceland’s epic waterfalls.
As you sail across to Heimaey, the main island and only inhabited one, you’ll pass a handful of smaller, cliff-lined islands. Watch out for the first signs of puffins hovering around these cliffs.
Once you arrive, you can explore the island’s coastline on foot. There you’ll find more cliffs full of seabirds, including the Atlantic puffin!
Another option is to join a boat tour out of Heimaey harbor. This way you can see the puffins from another angle and maybe even get a bit closer to them than you would otherwise.
The Westman Islands themselves make a great day trip. You can explore the town on Heimaey and visit the Eldheimar museum, which tells the story of the eruption that swallowed half the island in 1973.
3. Breiðafjörður bay
Breiðafjörður is a massive, island-studded bay that separates the Snæfellsnes peninsula from the Westfjords region. The thousands of tiny skerries and rocky outcrops in the area are home to millions of seabirds.
Boat tours of the waters around these islands sail from the harbor at Stykkishólmur, the largest town on the Snæfellsnes peninsula. Join one of these excursions and you could even see seals and dolphins as well as puffins if you’re lucky!
The island of Elliðaey is one of the main nesting grounds for puffins in the bay, and most boat rides stop here. This island, whose basalt-column cliffs rise dramatically out of the sea, was abandoned in the 1950s. Nowadays, the seabirds call it home.
If you’re planning to travel to Iceland in the summertime, Breiðafjörður bay is a great addition to your itinerary. The island of Flatey is open at this time of year and is a popular escape for Icelanders and visitors alike. You can get there on the Baldur ferry, which also sails from Stykkishólmur.
4. Tjörnes peninsula
Located in North Iceland, the Tjörnes peninsula is famous for its bird watching spots (as well as its fossils). It’s easily accessible, being just over a 1-hour drive from Akureyri and only 15 minutes from the vibrant village of Húsavík.
Drive to the Tjörnes lighthouse and follow one of the several walking trails in the area. They will lead you along the top of cliffs that tower over black sand beaches, the perfect habitat for puffins.
On the east side of the peninsula, it’s worth stopping at the Hringsbjarg cliff, where an observation deck has been set up. Perfect for hanging out over the sea and trying to spy a red-billed friend.
Tjörnes is also part of the Diamond Circle touring route, which shows you the best of North Iceland. It includes the area around Lake Mývatn, with its lava caves and unusual geological features like hot springs and mud pools.
- Explore North Iceland on a guided group tour.
So the puffins are just the start of it, there’s plenty more to see in this corner of Iceland!
5. Dyrhólaey
Dyrhólaey is a rocky arch on the south coast of Iceland, next to the famous Reynisfjara black sand beach. The arch is part of a set of cliffs that form a small cove, providing shelter and habitat for plenty of sea birds, including puffins.
This tends to be one of the more popular puffin-spotting locations. With that in mind, it’s a good idea to arrive in the early morning or late evening if you want to beat the crowds. The great thing is that puffin season coincides with the longer days of summer, so there will be plenty of daylight.
At the top of the cliff is a lighthouse, worth a visit in itself, which looks out across the North Atlantic Ocean. Dyrhólaey marks the southernmost point in mainland Iceland.
- Explore more of the area with our guide to Reynisfjara black sand beach.
6. Ingólfshöfði
Ingólfshöfði is a tidal island or headland in southeast Iceland that’s home to a lighthouse and, you’ve guessed it, shedloads of puffins. It’s a fantastic place to catch sight of a whole bunch of different seabirds, and is a favorite among wildlife photographers.
Because of its location, accessing Ingólfshöfði by yourself isn’t practical or safe. To get there, you need to join a guided expedition from the mainland by tractor. The trip takes a few hours and is suited to more experienced walkers.
Ingólfshöfði falls within the Vatnajökull National Park, a nature reserve covering much of southeast Iceland. In this part of the country, you’ll also find Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, Breiðamerkursandur (aka Diamond Beach), and the Svartifoss waterfall.
So even if Ingólfshöfði isn’t easily accessible, there’s plenty more for you to explore in the local area.
7. Lundey
Did you know there’s an island right next to Reykjavík literally called ‘Puffin Island’? That’s Lundey! If you’re short on time, you can join a boat tour from the harbor in Reykjavík around the Faxaflói bay, where the island is located.
On the boat ride, you’ll pass Lundey and see where puffins nest. The chances of seeing an actual puffin here are fairly low though. That said, you’ll probably see other Icelandic birds like the Arctic tern, a bright-white bird known for its black head, bold red beak, and distinctive shriek.
Iceland actually has more than one puffin island. There’s also an island called Lundey off the coast of Húsavík in the north of the country. There you can join boat tours where you can spot puffins, harbor porpoises, and even whales!
Now you know the best places to see puffins in Iceland, you’re probably thinking about the best way to get there and when to go.
Visit Iceland in the summer, from May to August, for the best chance of catching a glimpse of these undeniably cute seabirds.
As many of the most spectacular puffin-spotting locations are very remote, it makes sense to go for a self-drive trip. By car, you’re free as a bird to go wherever you want, whenever you want.
So why not start planning your puffin-spotting trip today?
Iceland in April: Things to See & Do
Come spend April in Iceland for an unforgettable vacation! Picture yourself walking along glacier lagoons, visiting remote corners of Iceland, and joining in local celebrations.
April marks a transition from winter to summer, meaning you’ll get to enjoy some of the benefits of both. It’s an excellent time to travel off peak and see the country changing from snowy blankets to blooming flowers.
Below you’ll find the best things to see in Iceland in April, the best activities to try, and spots to visit. We’ve also added a handy weather and packing guide to help you prepare for this trip.
- Browse Iceland winter vacation packages.
- Or look up summer trips to Iceland.
Should you visit Iceland in April?
The one-word answer is: yes! The longer answer is this whole blog where we share with you just what makes April in Iceland so special.
As a quick summary, Iceland is a country that is worth seeing in all its splendor, winter and summer alike. Visit at this time of year and you might get the best of both worlds – all dependent on the weather of course!
But April is a very changeable month, so you might experience it all in one day anyway.
It might still snow at higher altitudes, but flowers start to bring color to the lava fields and mossy landscape. With a good balance of daylight and darkness, it’s a great month to maximize your trip. Go on thrilling adventures during the day and spend your nights chasing the Northern Lights.
As the conditions start to get better after the winter, it’s also a great time to visit Iceland on a road trip. With fewer visitors before the summer vacations, you’ll have more attractions to yourself and there’ll be less traffic on the roads.
And these are just some of the reasons why visiting Iceland in April is a good idea. Keep reading for more.
- Travel to Iceland in March for more of a winter vacation.
- Or visit in May to experience summer in Iceland.
Top things to do in Iceland in April
What can you get up to if you visit in April? Iceland is a jaw-dropping country overflowing with natural gems to explore and offering so many unique activities for you to try.
Here are some of our favorite things:
- Catch sight of icicles or rainbows at waterfalls
- Warm up in a geothermal spa
- See bubbling hot springs and geysers
- Try a new-to-you activity like exploring ice caves or glacier walking
- Admire vast glaciers and bobbing icebergs
- Drive around the Ring Road to see highlights and hidden gems
- See or even go inside a volcano
And much more is available, depending on what interests you most. You could go for fun seaside walks, visit museums in Reykjavík, bathe in natural hot springs, or go snowmobiling in the pristine, glacier snow.
- Check out what kind of Iceland activities and day excursions, like whale watching tours, you could add to your itinerary.
Events in Iceland in April
There are a few cultural experiences you might want to join in during your vacation in Iceland.
Iceland’s cultural life in April revolves around the First Day of Summer (‘sumardagurinn fyrsti’). It takes place on the first Thursday following 18 April. This national day is celebrated around the country and is based on a Viking tradition.
Back in the day, this was the start of the longer days of summer when the calendar looked a bit different. It’s similar to today’s spring equinox. Locals will be off work and you might see parades, people waving flags, and musicians playing in the streets.
- See what other events take place around Iceland throughout the year with our festival guide.
Just to highlight it’s not quite summer yet, the AK Extreme snowboarding festival is also held every April. This one is hosted in North Iceland.
If you enjoy music, then consider including the Westfjords in your April itinerary of Iceland. The music festival I Never Went South is held over Easter weekend in the fjords’ main settlement, Ísafjörður.
Those traveling with kids may want to pop by the Children’s Culture Festival in Reykjavík. It’s a fun way to entertain the little ones. There are usually exhibitions and activities for a range of ages.
Best places to visit in Iceland in April
Where you go during your April visit depends on how much time you have.
In town for a few days? Stay in Reykjavík and take day tours to top locations such as the Golden Circle. If you have 1 or 2 weeks to spend on our stunning island, then drive the Ring Road on an epic road trip. Or have a private driver-guide take you on an unforgettable tour. The choice is yours!
These are the places we recommend you add to your itinerary in April:
1. Westfjords
Location: North-west peninsula of Iceland
The Westfjords are a must-see for anyone hoping to travel off the beaten path in Iceland. The roads into this region are difficult to manage or completely closed in winter, so April is when the Westfjords are finally accessible for the summer months.
Why visit? Travel here for outstanding, untouched landscapes, miles and miles of dramatic sea cliffs, red sand beaches, and wildlife encounters.
Don’t miss: A visit to the tallest waterfall in the region, Dynjandi, the main town Ísafjörður, and to the Arctic Fox Center to learn about Arctic foxes. You could also drive part (or all!) of the Westfjords Way, a touring route that’ll take you to some of the best spots on the peninsula.
- Blog: Read this ultimate guide to the Westfjords to find out what else to see.
2. East Iceland
Location: East Iceland
East Iceland is often overlooked – being located on the other side of the country from Reykjavík – but it’s worth the detour around the Ring Road.
Why visit? Travel east and you’ll encounter a variety of backdrops, each more stunning than the last. Admire the largest forest in Iceland, the serene landscape of the eastern fjords, and the vast Vatnajökull National Park.
Don’t miss: Going on a boat tour on the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, eating the local langoustine in Höfn, and spotting the wild roaming reindeer.
3. Borgarfjörður area
Location: West Iceland
This is a great day adventure to add to your itinerary if you’re traveling north from Reykjavík to visit the Snæfellsnes peninsula. It stretches from the Borgarfjörður fjord to Húsafell, the most inland farm settlement in the region.
Why visit? To experience the highlands of Iceland without traveling too far into that region. In fact, the roads into the highlands don’t usually open until late June. So in April it’ll give you a taste of the rugged landscape, with hot springs, craters, and rolling mountains.
Don’t miss: Having a wander around the village of Reykholt, being in awe of the power of the Deildartunguhver hot spring, and seeing the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls.
4. Reykjavík and surroundings
Location: South-west Iceland
When you fly to Iceland, you’ll probably stay at least one night in Reykjavík. You could then set off on an adventure around the country. Or base yourself here to explore the capital of Iceland in more depth.
Why visit? For a taste of Iceland if you don’t have time to discover more of the country. Staying in Reykjavík doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the stunning countryside either. From here, day tours can take you to the south coast, to the Snæfellsnes peninsula, around the Golden Circle, and more.
Don’t miss: Checking out a local festival, trying the local food at top restaurants, or going for a dip in geothermal spas such as the Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon.
What’s the weather like in Iceland in April?
In April, Iceland celebrates the first day of summer, but that doesn’t mean summer weather is here yet. Visit at this time of year and you can expect a month of transition where flowers start to bloom but snow may still fall. That said the days are brighter and longer than in winter.
Average temperatures are around 5°C (41°F) throughout the country but will vary slightly. You may well find it chillier on windy days, or warmer if you’re out walking on a sunny day. It’s best to also come prepared for some rainy days as average rainfall is around 20 mm in April.
- Read more about Iceland’s weather and climate in our travel guide.
Does it snow in Iceland in April?
Yes, it may well snow when you’re visiting Iceland on your April vacation. It’s unlikely to stick in the city, but you might find the countryside covered in frost on some days.
Whatever the weather is during your stay, mountain peaks in the distance are still likely to be snow-capped. It’ll give an even more magical vibe to your pics!
What are the driving conditions like in Iceland in April?
The driving conditions will depend on what kind of weather you encounter during your vacation. April is an especially changeable month, so it’s best to come prepared with winter driving in mind.
Make yourself aware of road regulations and safety precautions before your arrival in Iceland. For example, you should always have your headlights turned on, day and night, summer and winter alike. It’s also better to drive slowly, giving yourself time to react and to avoid black ice.
- Learn more on our Driving in Iceland guide.
We also highly recommend being flexible when visiting Iceland, especially between October and April. At this time of year, you might need to change your plans at a moment’s notice. Always check road and weather conditions before departing each day to know what to expect.
One of the advantages of booking with Iceland Tours is that we make sure you travel with peace of mind. You’ll benefit from in-car Wi-Fi, a detailed itinerary, and access to our 24/7 helpline if you need our support.
And the main advantage of taking on a self-drive tour of Iceland in April is definitely that there’s lighter traffic on the road. You’ll have more of the highlights along the way to yourself as you travel around the Ring Road.
What are the daylight hours like in Iceland in April?
In the spring, the daylight hours increase significantly as we head toward the summer solstice (which marks the longest day of the year). You’ll notice there’s even a big change between the beginning and end of the month. Generally, you can expect an average of 15 hours of daylight.
In early April, the sun rises in Reykjavík around 6:45 a.m. and sets around 8:20 p.m. By the end of the month, the sunrise happens just before 5 a.m. and sunset at almost 10 p.m.
Can I see the Northern Lights in April in Iceland?
Although the Northern Lights season is winding down in April, there are still chances to spot them. This is especially true in the first half of the month.
In order to witness this heavenly show, you need a dark, cloudless sky and the right solar conditions. You’re not really in control of the sun’s particles or the weather, so come when Iceland has longer nights to put all the chances on your side.
Visit Iceland between October and March for the longest nights of the year. The earlier or later in the season you come, the more balance you’ll have in terms of daylight hours.
As the Northern Lights are reliant on nature, we can’t promise you’ll see them during your time in Iceland. But it’s definitely worth putting them on your bucket list!
- Browse Northern Lights tours of Iceland.
What to pack for a trip to Iceland in April?
When packing for a visit to Iceland, it’s always good to remember its ever-changing weather conditions. As April falls at the end of winter, pack layers to keep warm and dry and you’ll be good to go!
Here are some must-have items for your suitcase:
- Insulated and waterproof winter coat
- Wooly or fleece sweaters
- Sturdy, waterproof boots
- Gloves, scarf, and warm hat
- Thermal underwear and thick socks
- Face and lip moisturizers
- Swimwear and towel to visit pools and spas
Read our Iceland winter packing guide for more useful tips and details.
Planning your trip to Iceland
Let Iceland in April charm you – why not start planning your next getaway now? Pick which spots you want to visit most and the way you want to travel, and you can start finding the ideal itinerary for you.
Browse the selection of packages Iceland Tours offers to get started. You can pick from self-drive itineraries, private travel, multi-day excursions from Reykjavík, or guided group tours. These all have their own benefits, depending on your preferences.
Then, booking online is an easy process and you can even take advantage of our 5% deposit policy. Don’t just dream of Iceland, start your vacation plans now!
Best Waterfalls in Iceland & Where to Find Them
Of all the natural wonders to see in Iceland, waterfalls have gotta be near the top of your list! The country is quite literally laced with them, so they’re pretty hard to miss. But which waterfalls in Iceland are the best to see?
Here we’ve rounded up some of our favorites for you. We’ve even put them on an Iceland waterfalls map, so you can easily find the location of these watery wonders.
What might surprise you is just how diverse Iceland’s waterfalls are. At Seljalandsfoss, you can walk behind a curtain of water as it tumbles down. Then there’s Svartifoss, which is enclosed by hexagonal columns of basalt.
You could also see Dynjandi, which resembles a bridal veil, as it cascades gently down toward the sea. Or check out Barnafoss and Hraunfossar, a whole set of waterfalls centered on the point where dozens of streams merge together.
- Get your fill of waterfalls on one of these Iceland self-drive tours.
So read on and get the lowdown on the best waterfalls in Iceland.
Iceland waterfalls map
When planning your trip to Iceland, it makes sense to figure out where in the country the main attractions you want to see are. Waterfalls are up there with the best of what Iceland has to offer, along with glaciers, hot springs, the Northern Lights, and more.
- Want to see the Aurora Borealis? Check out these Northern Lights trips.
- Travel Guide: Introduction to Iceland’s nature & landscape.
Iceland’s waterfalls come in all shapes and sizes. Some of the smaller waterfalls, like Kirkjufellsfoss, are incredibly charming – particularly on a bright day when the sun glistens in the water. At the other end of the spectrum are the heavyweights like Gullfoss and Dynjandi, which pack a punch with their sheer might.
On this map, we’ve pinned 12 of Iceland’s waterfalls that we think you’ll be blown away by:
Keep on reading to find out how to get to these waterfalls and learn what’s unique about each and every one.
Top waterfalls in Iceland
1. Gullfoss
Location: Golden Circle, South Iceland
Let’s start with Gullfoss (‘Golden Falls’), the jewel in the crown of Icelandic waterfalls. In fact, it’s so famous that it lent its name to the much-loved Golden Circle touring route.
Sitting on the Hvítá river, the Gullfoss waterfall is spread across several cascades with drops of different heights.
The first big drop is around 11 meters (36 feet), whilst the second is much deeper at 32 meters (105 feet). This creates a thunderous, roaring sound and clouds of water spray, where you can see rainbows on a sunny day!
- Check off all the sights of the Golden Circle on a guided group tour of Iceland.
Gullfoss looks even more dramatic by winter than it does by summer. Parts of the waterfall can freeze over, creating thousands of icicles. Set against the snowy landscape, and with the Langjökull glacier just over the horizon, a wintry Gullfoss makes for an unforgettable Icelandic scene.
You’ve got a choice of 2 walking routes from the upper or lower parking lots. At the upper parking lot, there’s also a visitor center and café, perfect for warming up over a hot chocolate after marveling at Gullfoss.
2. Seljalandsfoss
Location: Route 1, South Iceland
As you drive the Ring Road along the south coast of Iceland, Seljalandsfoss gradually comes into view. From a distance, it looks like a white line drawn on the mountainside. But when you get closer, you can see just how magical it is!
Seljalandsfoss is best known for the fact that you can walk behind it. Follow the walking path up a few steps and you arrive in a cavern, carved out in the rock behind the plume. Feel the mist on your face and breathe in the fresh scent of moss.
This waterfall is spectacular in wintertime because it freezes relatively easily. The spray given off by the tumbling water turns into solid hunks of ice around the base of the falls, whilst the top is frosted with delicate icicles.
- Marvel at the icy glory of Seljalandsfoss on an Iceland winter self-drive trip.
If you have a bit of extra time, there’s a bonus waterfall a 5-minute drive away. Gljúfrabúi is a true hidden gem, concealed in its very own canyon that you can glimpse into. To get to this 40-meter (130-foot) waterfall, you need to wade in some shallow water, so bring your rubber boots if you want to check this one out!
3. Skógafoss
Location: Route 1, South Iceland
Around half an hour’s drive further south from Seljalandsfoss is its bigger brother Skógafoss (‘Forest Waterfall’). At 60 meters (200 feet) tall and 25 meters (80 feet) wide, Skógafoss tumbles over what used to be a sea cliff.
This waterfall gives off a lot of spray, meaning that you can pretty reliably see rainbows there on a sunny day. If you want to get close enough to taste the mist on your tongue, take a walk along the flat pebbly beach next to the river the waterfall flows into.
- Visit Skógafoss in the summer on a camping trip in Iceland.
For a view from above, follow the hiking trail up the eastern side of the waterfall. Once you reach the top, you’ll see jaw-dropping views of Skógafoss itself and the sea in the distance.
4. Dettifoss
Location: North Iceland
The Dettifoss waterfall is located in the Vatnajökull National Park in northern Iceland. Although it’s not one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland, it’s considered a beast thanks to its sheer might. Dettifoss is the second most powerful waterfall in Europe.
Dettifoss is much wider than it is tall. It spans 100 meters (330 feet), but the drop is only around 45 meters (145 feet). The waterfall is fed by the meltwater that runs off Iceland’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull.
- Discover the delights of North Iceland on a private tour.
If you’re planning to check out the other delights of North Iceland, like the charming town of Húsavík or otherworldly nature of the Lake Mývatn area, then add a stop at Dettifoss to your itinerary.
5. Svartifoss
Location: Skaftafell, Vatnajökull National Park, southeast Iceland
Now for something a bit different. Svartifoss (‘the Black Waterfall’) is one of Iceland’s most instantly recognizable waterfalls thanks to the dark, hexagonal basalt columns that surround it.
- Read our Travel Guide for more on Iceland’s nature & landscape.
These columns were formed about 300,000 years ago when molten lava cooled down rapidly and crystalized, similar to the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland. At Svartifoss though, the lava ran down an old riverbed. Eventually the water returned, creating the waterfall you see today!
Svartifoss is around 1 hour’s hike from the parking lot at the Skaftafell Visitor Center in the Vatnajökull National Park in southeast Iceland.
6. Dynjandi
Location: Westfjords
It’s hard to know whether Dynjandi should count as just one waterfall, or several strung together. Technically, Dynjandi only refers to the largest cascade at the top of this set of falls.
You’ll find it easy to recognize, as it resembles a lace bridal veil draped over the mountainside. The waterfall is located in a fjord called Arnarfjörður, just off the 60 road that hugs the coastline of the Westfjords.
To reach Dynjandi, take a short walk up the hiking trail from the car park. On the way up, you’ll pass a series of small waterfalls. Each has its own charm, and its own name. And there’s just too many to list here!
7. Barnafoss & Hraunfossar
Location: West Iceland
This set of twin waterfalls has to be one of the most awe-inspiring sights in Iceland. Both Barnafoss (‘Children’s Waterfall’) and Hraunfossar (‘Lava Falls’) run into Hvítá (that’s the same river as Gullfoss). Because it’s a glacier river, the water is a bright, almost glowing, blue color.
What makes Barnafoss stand out is the unusual geology surrounding it. It gushes through a narrow, twisting canyon underneath a natural rock bridge. But don’t try to cross the bridge, it’s definitely not safe.
There’s a folk tale about a second natural rock bridge across the falls. Long ago, at Christmastime, there was a family of farmers who lived on one side of the river. One day, the parents used the rumored second bridge to cross over the falls on their way to church.
The parents had left their two boys behind at the farm, who decided to follow in the churchgoers’ footsteps out of boredom. The story goes that the boys fell into the falls and perished, and that the farmer’s wife had the bridge torn down soon afterward.
Today, you can safely peer into Barnafoss from the observation decks and walking trails that criss-cross the area.
As you walk up to Barnafoss, you’ll pass Hraunfossar. This is a set of countless small streams that run off the Hallmundarhraun lava fields, over a cliff edge, and into the Hvítá river. The result is stunningly beautiful!
8. Hengifoss
Location: East Iceland
Thanks to its location in the lesser-visited East Iceland, the Hengifoss waterfall is definitely off the beaten path. It runs into the Fljótsdalur valley, at the end of the Lagarfljót river.
At 128 meters (420 feet) tall, Hengifoss has an impressive drop over the edge of a pitch-black cliff. The rockface is broken up with striking horizontal stripes of red. The whole thing is hidden away in a secluded canyon, about a 2-hour walk from the parking lot.
Although it takes a fair bit of effort to get there, the payoff is incredible. As you stand at the foot of this giant plume of water, you’ll get a feeling for just how powerful nature can be.
Hengifoss is located off the 931 road, which connects up to Route 1 (the Ring Road). As you drive there from Egilsstaðir, the nearest town, you’ll pass the Hallormsstaðaskógur forest, the largest in Iceland. The scenery in this whole area is truly epic, and well worth the detour.
- See even more waterfalls on an Iceland Ring Road trip.
- Related: Your guide to car rental in Iceland.
9. Kirkjufellsfoss
Location: Snæfellsnes peninsula, West Iceland
Kirkjufellsfoss on the Snæfellsnes peninsula is probably one of Iceland’s most photographed waterfalls. But it’s not one of the biggest or jaw-droppingest, so why is it so popular? The answer is the famous Kirkjufell mountain, which can be seen in the background of almost any pic of the waterfall!
Feel like you recognize that distinctive pointy peak? Kirkjufell was used as a filming location for ‘arrowhead mountain’ in Game of Thrones.
Kirkjufellsfoss itself is very accessible thanks to its location just off the 54 road, the main coastal route around the Snæfellsnes peninsula. It’s only a 2-minute walk from the parking lot along a gently sloping path.
If you want to snap your own version of the famous Kirkjufellsfoss pic, the best location is across the bridge, from the far side of the river. But we think the waterfall is charming in its own right, so feel free to explore the whole area.
10. Goðafoss
Location: North Iceland
Goðafoss is a pearl of northern Iceland and one of the most powerful waterfalls in the country. The name can be interpreted as ‘Waterfall of the Gods’, but the legend of the name’s supposed origin is just as interesting!
In Viking times, Iceland was ruled by local chieftains known as goðar. They were Pagans, sometimes running temples and leading religious ceremonies.
The local chieftain in this part of the country was a man named Þorgeir Þorkelsson. At a session of the Alþingi at Þingvellir, Iceland’s ancient parliament, Þorgeir decided that all Icelanders would become Christians. When he returned home north, he cast his Pagan idols into the waterfall. After this, the waterfall is said to have been called ‘Waterfall of the Goðar’.
Although the story of Þorgeir’s attendance at the Alþingi is written down in the Sagas of Icelanders, there is no record of him throwing his idols into the falls. Whether or not it’s true, Goðafoss has an impressive majesty about it that will hopefully inspire awe in you too!
- Read more about the sagas in our guide to Iceland’s people & culture.
11. Glymur
Location: Hvalfjörður, near Reykjavík
Despite being just over 1 hour’s drive from central Reykjavík, the Glymur waterfall is something of a hidden gem. It sits right at the end of the Hvalfjörður fjord. Thanks to a tunnel that crosses the other end fjord, many people skip driving around it and miss out on Glymur.
Glymur long held the title of Iceland’s tallest waterfall, at 198 meters (650 feet) high. That all changed in 2007 though, when the Morsárfoss waterfall was discovered in Vatnajökull National Park.
If you want to visit Glymur, you should be prepared for a bit of a hike. The walk to the waterfall takes around 2 hours from the nearest parking spot. You should take care near the steep cliff edges. If you have a fear of heights, you might prefer to stick to some of the more accessible waterfalls listed above.
12. Faxi
Location: South Iceland, near Gullfoss
As you may have realized by now, foss means ‘waterfall’ in Icelandic. Along with Glymur, Faxi is one of only a handful of Icelandic waterfalls whose name doesn’t end in foss. Its name means ‘mane’.
If you plan on touring the Golden Circle, it’s easy to add a stop-off at Faxi. It’s only around 12 km (8 miles) from Gullfoss and the Geysir hot spring. So why not squeeze another wonderful waterfall into your itinerary?
Some people describe Faxi as a mini version of Gullfoss. It’s very wide, but only has one tier, unlike its big brother. And Faxi less popular to visit as it’s slightly off the beaten path, so if you don’t like the crowds this is a great waterfall to see.
Faxi is on the Tungufljót river, which is chock-full of salmon. Next to the waterfall is a salmon run, a ladder-like structure that allows the fish to make their way upstream to lay their eggs.
Book your Iceland waterfall trip
So now you’ve had the lowdown on all the best waterfalls in Iceland. And there’s plenty more than we’re able to list here!
If you only want to see the main waterfalls, you could go for a multi-day tour from Reykjavík. On this kind of tour, you’ll travel by bus and see hits like Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss, and Skógafoss.
But if you want to visit all the waterfalls on this list, a self-drive tour of Iceland is the best option. With a car, you have the freedom to go where and when you please, so you might even discover some more for yourself!
Go on, why not start planning your Iceland waterfall adventure today?
9 Ways to Travel Responsibly and Sustainably
Recently many of us have been thinking about ways to travel responsibly and sustainably. If it’s something you’ve been wondering about too, you’re probably looking for ways that you can reduce your impact on places you visit.
Here we’ve rounded up some of the top ways to travel sustainably. But what exactly does this mean? Sustainable travel in Iceland, and elsewhere, boils down to 2 core principles:
- Reducing your impact on the environment
- Having a positive effect on local communities
Depending on where you’re going, this can look like a lot of different things. You might have heard the buzz about ‘sustainable’ destinations like Costa Rica and Iceland. But ultimately, a great deal comes down to choices you can make as an individual.
- Explore these lower-carbon multi-day tours and guided group tours.
Sustainability is just one side of the coin. It’s also worth thinking about responsible travel. Iceland luckily makes it easy for you to do both, so you can tread lightly in nature and amongst local people.
If you’re thinking about how to be a sustainable traveler, read on for our tips. We focus mainly on Iceland, but a lot of this advice applies to other destinations too.
1. Reduce or offset your carbon footprint
This is the biggie, and often the hardest. Let’s face it, a lot of travel involves flying, especially to island destinations like Iceland. It’s not always possible or practical to avoid taking a flight, so what can you do to reduce the impact of it?
Carbon offsetting can be a good option. However, schemes vary and it’s hard to know if the money you spend offsetting your trip actually goes to eco-friendly causes. So it’s important to do your homework before paying anything to a company that claims to offset carbon emissions.
In Iceland, the Kolviður scheme, also known as the Iceland Carbon Fund, has a direct local impact. Using their handy calculator, you can work out the carbon impact of your entire trip, including flights, driving, and accommodation.
You then pay into a fund which is used to plant new trees in Iceland. This contributes directly to the reforesting of the country. And that not only helps absorb carbon, but stops desertification in Iceland’s dry landscapes.
Before the Vikings arrived, Iceland was more than 25% forest, but today it’s just 2%. The Icelandic government is looking to reverse this trend, and you can play your part!
- Find out more about the country’s environment in our Iceland nature & landscape guide.
2. Stay at a local hotel or guesthouse
Staying at a hotel might sound counterintuitive at first if you’re thinking about how to support the local economy. And actually, this might not be the best option in every destination. But let’s take the example of Reykjavík.
In recent years, the number of short-term rental (e.g. Airbnb) apartments in the city has grown astronomically. Whilst these can be great for getting a taste of local life, there’s evidence to suggest that they have had negative impacts for locals.
First, short-term rentals reduce the overall number of apartments available on the market. This pushes up the cost of living for local people. Second, the effects of a large number of people coming and going in a formerly residential apartment can create an antisocial atmosphere for neighbors.
Hotels on the other hand are purpose-built for travelers. By staying in one, you help reduce pressure on the rental market for locals. And hotels provide people with jobs. But why should you care about this?
The fact is, cities are made by the people that live in them. If locals are priced out, then cities lose the originality and spark that attracts visitors in the first place.
If you do choose a short-term rental, why not look for one where you stay with your host, rather than in a whole apartment to yourself? This ensures your money is going to a resident of the city and you could make a local friend.
Finally, guesthouses and farmstays are a great option if you’re looking for local authenticity. Especially in the countryside, they’re often run by passionate local people who’ll give you loads of tips on where to go and what to see.
3. Respect the local culture
One of the keys to sustainable travel is treading lightly. Carbon footprints are just one example of this. Your own impact as a visitor from a different culture is something you should think about too.
Exploring the differences between your home culture and another is one of the great joys of traveling abroad. You learn so much about yourself and your worldview, and you get to see things from a totally different perspective.
Let’s take an example from our home country. Icelanders are fiercely proud of their bathing culture. Swimming pools are the heart of the community in towns and villages all over Iceland.
But Icelandic bathing culture comes with its own particular etiquette. For example, you have to shower naked for cleanliness before entering the pool. If you ignore this rule, you’re likely to upset local people. And they might not hold back from calling you out on your behavior.
- Learn more about Icelandic bathing customs in our spas & hot springs guide.
- Blog: Iceland hot springs & geothermal pools.
No one wants to be the rude tourist, so it pays to learn about the place you’re visiting and adapt to local customs and norms wherever you can.
4. Leave no trace in nature
Many destinations around the world are only getting more popular, and Iceland is no exception. But this increased interest can come at a cost to nature, especially in more remote areas.
Iceland has a number of incredibly sensitive environments that bruise easily. For example, lava fields are often covered in a thick layer of green moss that takes hundreds of years to grow. If you disturb or remove this moss, the scar will be visible for decades.
Another example is off-road driving. In Iceland this is strictly banned, and not because Icelanders aren’t motorheads. Off-road driving can disrupt the growth of moss and other small plants and even cause green land to turn to desert.
- Find out more about the rules of the road with our guide to driving in Iceland.
Litter can also have a negative effect. It can get lodged between rocks, float out to sea, or be eaten by animals. So always make sure you take yours with you and dispose of it in a trash bin. In towns and cities, recycling bins are located on the street.
Top tip: If you buy a canned or bottled drink, leave the container on the purple shelf next to the trash bin if there is one. Homeless people return these to collect the bottle deposit, and this is considered a polite way to help them out.
By respecting these rules, you’re ensuring that Icelandic nature stays pristine and unspoiled for future visitors (including yourself!).
5. Eat local
One way to reduce your overall carbon footprint is to eat local. In Iceland, there’s so much locally grown produce available. You can get tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, salad leaves, and fresh herbs that are grown in greenhouses powered by geothermal energy.
Depending on the season, you can also get local potatoes, root vegetables, and berries that are grown outdoors.
Look out for Icelandic flags on produce at the supermarket. At cafés and restaurants, choose dishes that feature seasonal Icelandic ingredients.
- Learn more about what Icelanders eat in our food & restaurants guide.
Produce such as eggplant, avocadoes, zucchini, apples, citrus fruits, and tropical fruits are all imported to Iceland. They’re often flown in to preserve freshness, but this comes with a very high carbon cost.
Almost all dairy products aside from imported cheeses are produced locally in Iceland, so these are a safe bet for low food miles. Skyr is an Icelandic yogurt-like product that we’d definitely recommend with some local berries!
Icelandic seafood is also plentiful, as well as extremely fresh. Look out for white fish like cod, haddock, and ling, and freshwater fish like Atlantic salmon, brown trout, and Arctic char. Locally caught mussels and prawns are also available.
Local meats include lamb, beef, chicken, and sometimes pork. Icelandic sheep essentially roam free, grazing on mountain grass, reducing their overall carbon footprint.
6. Reduce your waste footprint
Another way to tread more lightly is to reduce the amount of waste you create on your trip.
An easy win in Iceland is skipping bottled water and drinking straight from the tap. It’s actually the same stuff! Bring a refillable bottle and top up at cafés, restaurants, pools, and water dispensers around Reykjavík to reduce plastic waste.
Bringing your own shopping bags with you is a good idea too. Single-use plastic bags were banned in Iceland in 2021, so it makes sense to bring your own tote bags for souvenirs and food shopping.
7. Shop at local businesses
As a consumer, supporting local businesses is one of the biggest ways you can have an impact. Spending your money at independent shops, cafés, and restaurants ensures that more of it goes to local people.
- Wander the city’s charming shopping streets on a multi-day tour from Reykjavík.
Luckily, this is quite easy in Iceland. Due to the country’s small size, many international chains haven’t set up shop in the country. This means there’s a vibrant community of local businesses.
And that’s not only better for Icelanders, but better for you as a visitor too. Who wants to go to the same chain shops and cafés as you would back home? Don’t be afraid to step away from familiar brands and try something different.
Of course, within Iceland there are some home-grown chains. So if you want to have the biggest impact, opt for independent cafés, pick up lunch at a local bakery, and seek out Icelandic-made souvenirs at gift shops.
Examples of great souvenirs designed or made by locals in Iceland include:
- Traditional Icelandic woolen sweaters, scarves, and gloves
- Icelandic jewelry
- Cosmetics made with Icelandic mountain herbs & angelica
- Local foods, such as artisan chocolates, berry preserves, and smoked fish
- Paintings & pottery by Icelandic artists
- Posters & prints of local artworks
- Books by Icelandic authors
- Vinyl records, CDs & merchandise by Icelandic musicians
If you’re not sure about where something comes from, check the label before buying. Sometimes items with the Icelandic flag or the word ‘Iceland’ aren’t actually made in Iceland.
8. Choose lower-carbon transport
If you’re on a self-drive tour of Iceland, go for a car with greater fuel efficiency and don’t get a bigger car than you need. Plug-in hybrid and fully electric vehicles are becoming more commonplace, so check if your tour operator can supply one for you.
A greener travel option in Iceland is a multi-day tour or guided group tour by bus. That way, you split emissions with your fellow travelers and reduce your individual carbon footprint.
- Check out these lower-carbon guided group tours.
Whilst you’re in Reykjavík, there’s no shortage of alternative modes of transportation. Much of the old city center is accessible on foot. Walking is also a great way to explore hidden streets and make the most of coastal paths.
If you’re traveling further, you can hire a bike or e-scooter. Reykjavík has miles and miles of well maintained, dedicated cycle paths.
Icelanders love e-scooters. You’ll find them dotted around the city ready for you to pick up and ride, all you need to do is download an app. There are a few competing services, with Hopp and Wind being the most popular.
Reykjavík also has an extensive city bus network. Look out for stops marked with a red S (for strætó, the Icelandic word for bus). You can pay by downloading the Strætó app on your phone.
9. Learn the lingo
A great way to show respect for the culture of the place you’re visiting is to learn a few phrases in the local language. Iceland is no exception when it comes to this.
The native language of most Icelanders is Icelandic, which is related to Norwegian, Danish, and Swedish. And even though most of them speak fluent English, they’ll appreciate and respect your efforts to speak the language!
So why not start with a few of these phrases?
| Icelandic | Pronunciation | English |
| Góðan daginn! | GO-than DIE-in | Hello! |
| Hvað segirðu? | Kvath SAY-i-thoo? | How are you? |
| Allt gott! | Alt goht | Good, thanks! |
| Takk fyrir! | Tahk FEE-rear | Thank you! |
| Einn bjór, takk | EYT-n byoer, tahk | One beer, please |
Don’t be shy about having a go. Even if you make a mistake, it can be a great way to make a connection with a local person. What have you got to lose?
Plan your sustainable travel in Iceland
So we’ve seen that sustainable tourism is about more than just being environmentally friendly. It’s also about supporting local economies and having a positive impact on local people.
But it also happens to be the case that sustainable travel experiences tend to be more authentic and enjoyable. You come into closer contact with the local culture, and try new things that you wouldn’t back home.
There’s talk about how the travel industry can do more to promote sustainable travel, and that’s something we’re committed to at Iceland Tours.
We’re actively developing ways to reduce the carbon impact of our self-drive tours. For example, we now offer the option of a hybrid vehicle on all our self-drive tours (except in the highlands), with electric vehicles coming later.
We’ll also start sharing the travel tips here with all of our customers to help them find out how to travel more sustainably. As an Icelandic-owned business, we care deeply about the effect we have on our home country.
All that said, you can start thinking about the impact you’ll have on your trip to Iceland right away. Browse these multi-day tours and guided group tours and start planning your next adventure today!
