When you think about Iceland, a mental picture of a country with unending sheets of ice, snow, and freezing cold is likely. However, this is only partly true and quite an unfair representation of the real treasures of Iceland.
The people are warm and welcoming, and the land is magical in every experience. It is a land of myths and legends, and the diverse landscape, from ice to green, volcanoes to waterfalls, is breathtaking.
Indeed, the country is so picturesque it is no wonder it has become a Hollywood favorite location for shooting epic scenes.
Most people love exploring this country via a road trip; here are some great tips for your visit to Iceland as well as a 7 day Iceland road trip itinerary.
Here are some top reasons why you should go to Iceland on your next vacation.
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Reasons to Visit Iceland
If you are looking for reasons why you should visit Iceland, this post will indeed confirm your suspicions that Iceland should be at the very top of your bucket list.
Here are 12 reasons to travel to Iceland for your next vacation.
1. The Northern Lights
So why do people visit Iceland? Well, for one, they can see the Northern Lights – one of the most impressive natural wonders of the world!
The phenomenon known as the Northern Lights, or by its technical name, the aurora borealis, is one of Europe’s natural wonders.
These lights are said to be caused when the upper section of the atmosphere is struck by supercharged electrons caused by the solar wind. At night, they seem to be pure magic.
With its location at the top of the world, Iceland is the best spot to view the full wonder of the Northern Lights. They are usually seen in the Jokulsarlon Lagoon in South Iceland.
They are primarily seen over the period from September to April.
The best way to experience the Northern Lights is on tour, where the experts will know what to look for and when to expect them.
The most popular tour is the Northern Lights Bus Tour from Reykjavik. Click here to check details and pricing.
2. Blue Lagoon
Why should you visit Iceland? Well, so that you can get one of those moody, misty photos of the Blue Lagoon, of course.
There are several hot pools in Iceland, and its abundant use of geothermal power demonstrates this fact. However, one such pool takes the prize home and has earned international fame, the Blue Lagoon.
The water is geothermal heated and warm all year round, so taking a pool on the water is on most tourists’ checklists.
Lava rocks have an extra appeal thanks to the snow cover they have taken over the years, adding to the spectacle. With its sulfur and silica content, a good dip in the water is refreshing and healing to your skin and spirits.
In case you want to get away from the tourists, you can get your share of dipping from one of the different natural hot tubs that are all over Iceland.
The best way to visit the Blue Lagoon is by rental car. If you do not wish to drive yourself, I highly recommend that you grab a spot on the full-day small-group tour of the Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon. You can check prices and info on this popular tour here.
3. The Mountains
Iceland is a country with many peaks, and the mountains, with their extending ranges, provide a beautiful cherry on top of the already magnificent landscape. Some are multi-colored, like the ones found in Landmannalauger.
The mountains are made from rhyolite rock, a result of volcanic activity. Hiking on them feels like walking on multi-colored glass, made of pink, green, black, brown, purple, and even yellow.
There are mountains close to the city for those who don’t feel as adventurous, or you can go to the ones in the far ridges, which provide greater hiking opportunities and a different perspective.
No single mountain in Iceland is similar to another; each having its unique and distinct characteristics.
Again, the mountains are best discovered with a rental car, however, you can join this great tour if you wish to simply sit back and enjoy the views.
The tour starts from Reykjavik and heads out for some Landmannalaugar Hiking and Hot Springs swims. Click here if you wish to check out more details on this adventurous tour.
4. The Volcanoes
Iceland is known as the land of ice and fire, yet many people are only interested in the ice part of it.
The country has several active volcanoes that have not erupted in many years.
However, these inactive volcanoes and their volcanic activity, from volcanic crater lakes and rivers to the black volcanic beaches, are the main attraction.
If you love adventure, you can also enjoy some tours to descend right into the heart of a volcanic mountain like the Thrihnukagigur volcano.
This is usually a journey 128 meters deep and allows you to explore the volcano, seeing the stained walls that create a powerful collage—what a truly unique opportunity!
5. Waterfalls
Waterfalls are a standout feature in Iceland, and there are many of them. Thanks to the country’s landscape, which includes several peaks and slopes, it is easy to find a waterfall.
They capture the essence of the beauty of Iceland, with the water dropping majestically over lava rocks and vegetation, providing a great background. They range from high and powerful to small ones, usually in series.
The Svartifoss waterfall is one of the major ones and a prominent tourist attraction.
6. Ice Caves
The ice caves of Iceland have been featured in several movies, but they are even more breathtaking when seen firsthand. They are usually found next to or inside glaciers.
Some, like the one in the Langjokull glacier, are manmade. The crystal walls and the effect of the light on the walls are a spectacle you have to experience.
7. Glaciers
11% of the land in Iceland is covered in glaciers, and they are primarily found all over the country.
The best way to see these glaciers is via a cruise. Some have resulted in big icebergs creating great attractions with the unique wildlife they attract.
8. Food
The cuisine on the island is pretty unique. While the place’s history required farming, fishing, and gathering in harsh conditions, advances in technology and agriculture have seen the development of a new and fresh cuisine you have to sample.
You can enjoy a wide range of dishes, from lamb to seafood. They also have options that cater to specialized diets. Here are suggestions for vegan restaurants in Reykjavik.
9. Midnight Sun
This is another uniquely Iceland experience you have to experience. Iceland is located just under the Arctic Circle, which gives it bright summer nights. These never-ending days can be experienced from May to late July.
During the summer solstice, from June 20th to 22nd, the Midnight sun sets a few minutes past midnight and rises before 3 AM.
Whether alone or in a group, this experience feels out of this world and creates different perspectives on some significant landscapes.
10. Adventure Trails
Iceland is the perfect destination for adventure-loving travelers, whether you are looking for cycling, riding, or hiking adventures and tours.
It is a great country for those who enjoy Jeep journeys, while the mountain ranges provide challenges of varying difficulty to hiking enthusiasts. The Laugavegur Trail is one trail that any hiking enthusiast should not skip.
The open land is a paradise for cyclists and bikers, with hilly sections and slopes that provide the needed challenge whenever you crave it.
11. Iceland’s Black Beaches
Why do people go to Iceland? Because of the truly unique, stunning natural scenery.
Iceland is one of the few countries in the world with some truly unique black pebble beaches. The most photographed of these is the famous Reynisfjara (close to the village of Vik).
Not only does the beach have black pebbles, but it is also surrounded by black basalt cliffs and features some truly incredible gigantic rock formations.
Other black beaches to check out is Djúpalónssandur on the Snæfellsnes peninsula and the impressive “Diamond beach” of Breiðamerkursandur.
We highly recommend this beautiful tour of the South Coast. It is a full-day tour from Reykjavik.
On this tour, you will visit Seljalandsfoss waterfall and take in the incredible views from the top of the Skógar waterfall. You’ll also visit the world-famous black sand beach at Reynisfjara and the charming coastal village of Vík. Click here to check prices of this tour.
12. To See the Beautiful Icelandic Horses
Many tourists travel to Iceland to see the unique animal called the Icelandic horse.
These beautiful horses have a special skill of being able to cross the rugged, rough terrain of Iceland.
With such a gentle character, many travelers sign up for special horse riding tours to experience the wilderness on horseback.
How about you try out this popular horseback tour of the lava fields!! What an amazing experience! Check prices for this tour here.
Final Thoughts on Why You Should Visit Iceland
Concluding, Iceland stands as a beacon for those seeking unparalleled natural beauty and adventure.
From its stunning glaciers and waterfalls to the unique opportunity to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights, this island nation offers an array of experiences that are hard to find elsewhere.
Its rich Viking history and vibrant culture add depth to any visit, making it not just a journey through landscapes, but also through time.
Whether you’re soaking in a geothermal spa under the midnight sun or exploring its rugged terrain, Iceland promises an unforgettable escape that resonates with the soul of every traveler.
Yes, It’s true that Iceland is always top of my bucket list. Because of its really a very beautiful and coolest place. There are many attractive and amazing tours to visit…
I’ve always wanted to visit Iceland and I loved your article on the beauty of this place. I had no idea Iceland had so many waterfalls, ice caves, and glaciers. I will have to take your advice about visiting the Svartifoss waterfall when I get a chance to visit this beautiful country.
Iceland is incredible. Hope you get to visit there soon 🙂
Nice Post. It’s a really helpful post. Thanks for sharing the blog. After reading this blog, I get to know about the reasons to visit Iceland.
Glad you found it useful Jill 🙂