Iceland

Introducing Iceland

Iceland seems to be on everyone’s wish list right now. Soaring demand in recent years has been sparked by people’s desire for adventure and to discover our planet’s untamed beauty.

The dramatic landscapes and the ability to witness the Northern Lights are just a couple of reasons why people are flocking to Iceland. There are giant geysers, spectacular waterfalls, and wilderness that remain relatively uncrowded and untouched. There are active holidays to be enjoyed in Secret Iceland as described in one of my guest blogs from Obeo Travel. There is also the capital Reykjavik boasting a wonderful art and music scene as well as a wealth of cultural and historical attractions.

Picking the time to visit is important as if you want long daylight hours and the mildest weather then May to September is best. For the northern lights, plan to go between October and mid-April when the nights are dark.

Key Information

Getting Around

The best and most common way for getting out and about is to hire a car or take an organised private or group trip and therefore utilise the expertise of a local guide.

In towns the best options are by taxi, bus, simply walking, or hiring a bike.

The Reykjavik bus system is excellent and reasonable.

Top Things To See & Do

Askja
The Askja caldera is in the Dyngjufjoll mountains, north of the Vatnajokull glacier. Alongside the caldera, there is a geothermal lake where you can swim. Around this area, there is a barren stark landscape where NASA’s Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin trained before their landing on the moon in 1969.

Blue Lagoon
Why not spend a few hours in this natural spa? The milky blue colours of one of Iceland’s most famous sights are caused by the silica and sulphur minerals in the hot waters and are a great place to relax and unwind.

Great Geysir
The Great Geyser in Iceland climbs to over 70 metres in height and was the first geyser known to man. A must-see when visiting. 

Hallgrimskirkja
Hallgrimskirkja is the tallest church in Iceland and overlooks the city of Reykjavik.

Northern Lights
From September through until March the Aurora Borealis or the northern lights needs little introduction. One of life’s incredible natural events and a must-see (if they come out to play).

Thingvellir National Park
Part of Iceland’s Golden Circle and a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the world’s oldest parliament.

Thorsmork National Park
A fantastic place to hike and view the three glaciers that surround Thorsmork with imposing mountains, wild rivers and creeks.

Vatnajokull National Park
One of the largest national parks in all of Europe where visitors can experience geysers and the elements of fire and ice that the country is renowned for.

Whale Watching
The country is of course famous for whale watching! There are some fantastic organised excursions from Reykjavik or Husavik to hopefully see orcas, humpbacks, minkewhales or even if you are really lucky the largest mammal on earth – the blue whale. 

Pre-Bookable Excursions in Iceland

More Information

Contact Visit Iceland or your local travel agent for more information on holidays to Iceland.