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Covid-19 Information About Traveling to Iceland

Iceland Removes All Domestic and Border Restrictions

What is the border policy in iceland right now, is it safe to travel to iceland right now, the current covid-19 status in iceland, what makes iceland safe during covid-19, how do i get a pcr test before returning home, what if covid-19 affects my travel booking.

• Travel delays

Are businesses and tours still operating?

Can i book after i arrive, am i safe to make a booking with guide to iceland.

Iceland is one of the world's top travel destinations for travelers. On this page, you can find up-to-date information regarding COVID-19 in Iceland and what impact it may have on your travel plans when visiting Iceland.

Below you can read about the latest COVID-19 numbers in Iceland, the current Icelandic border policy, how to safely travel in Iceland during COVID-19, the vaccination progress in Iceland, and the COVID-friendly policies at Guide to Iceland, among others.

ICELAND IS OPEN! After two years of COVID-19-related safety measures, the Icelandic Ministry of Health removed all restrictions on February 25th, 2022.

Travelers to Iceland may now cross the border through the same process in place before the pandemic. You’ll no longer need to present test results or stay in quarantine after your flight. Once you’ve reached your final destination, you’ll be free to experience the incredible culture and attractions of Iceland without restrictions.

The Icelandic border is open to all travelers with valid visas. PCR, rapid testing, and quarantine are no longer required. Travelers are advised to follow common-sense safety protocols whenever possible but are free to participate in local activities, events, and tours without restrictions.

After two years of pandemic-related limitations. Iceland is one of the most stunning travel destinations in the world. It features unique natural beauty that brings visitors from every corner of the globe. If you've been considering a journey to Iceland, now is the time to experience the natural splendor and friendly people of this amazing island.  

Iceland is a relatively small country that has been united in preventing the spread of COVID-19 by following a strict testing and tracing protocol throughout the pandemic. These proactive measures successfully kept infection rates low throughout the pandemic, making Iceland one of the most consistently safe travel destinations on the planet.

Every country in the world is dealing with COVID-19 in one way or another. However, there are a few things that make Iceland a safer place to visit than other countries. 

Small population

With just under 370,000 people, Iceland is one of the smaller countries in the world. Having a smaller population makes the virus easier to track and allows travelers to travel without interacting with many people. 

Low population density

Almost 70% of the population lives in the capital area. This leaves much of the country to be explored without many people. The population density is low at a little over three people per square kilometer.

Typical exploration activities in Iceland

Iceland is known for its vast open spaces and unique landscapes. The majority of Iceland’s activities are centered around nature. Whether chasing the northern lights or exploring the beautiful waterfalls in the countryside, travelers will likely spend most of their vacation outside in nature. This gives them a unique opportunity to protect themselves by keeping a safe distance from other people. 

Many countries require travelers to have a negative PCR test taken within a specific period before traveling back from Iceland. For many, it is within 72 hours of departure. Please be sure to check your particular home country requirements to know how close to your departure you need to take the test. 

There are multiple  testing centers around the country where you can go for your PCR test.

Travel delays 

While COVID-19 restrictions have been removed throughout the country, there is still a small chance of travel delays while the country undergoes the reopening process. If you purchase a day tour, multi-day tour , or rent a car on Guide to Iceland but test positive on arrival to Iceland or your flight gets delayed or canceled, you can choose to reschedule your trip to another date. If that is not an option for you, you will get a full refund. If you purchase a self-drive tour or guided tour package , you will also get a full refund.

As long as you cancel your booking with at least 24-hours notice, you will be able to reschedule or completely cancel your trip. Accommodation bookings are the only exceptions to this policy. Each establishment has its own cancellation policy. You can find detailed information regarding the individual policy in your email voucher.

Guide to Iceland has honored all refund requests for COVID-19 related cancellations to date. To cancel and get a full refund after arrival, don’t hesitate to contact us  via email with your booking details and test result within 4 hours after receiving the test result.

You can find the full terms of service on each of our product pages.

Guide to Iceland makes sure that every customer receives the services they have purchased. Guide to Iceland will always offer alternative options or free upgrades if a customer books a service with a company that can not deliver it. However, now that the border has reopened without restriction, Icelandic businesses offering tours and other services throughout the country are fully prepared to welcome travelers back.

Restaurants, bars, nightclubs, tours, and other attractions remain open and accept customers without disturbance to their services and hours of operation.

Iceland’s main attraction, nature, has remained open even when restrictions were in place.

Please visit Iceland’s Official Ministry of Health website  for the most up-to-date information on Iceland’s COVID-19 policies.

Yes, you can. But we highly recommend that you book in advance. You will get a full refund if your flight gets canceled or you test positive for COVID-19 on arrival. Booking after arrival will limit your options as availability is limited in Iceland right now.

If you have further questions, please drop us an email , and we will help you with your trip.

Yes, absolutely! Here at Guide to Iceland, we’re committed to ensuring those enjoying our experiences’ safety and welfare. Therefore, we are honoring our cancellation policy fully, which you can read more about in our terms and conditions . In short, you can never lose a booking with us. If you choose to cancel your booking, please email us at [email protected] , and we will process your request. 

We look forward to seeing you in Iceland!

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A simplified guide to Iceland’s Covid-19 travel rules

Those who are fully vaccinated should have a fairly easy time visiting Iceland. mbl.is/Kristinn Magnússon

[Edit: This article was updated on May 25th to account for the Faroe Islands having been classified as high-risk ]

The information published on the Covid.is information website may seem a bit complicated, confusing, and even contradictory, so for the benefit of travelers Iceland Monitor has prepared a simplified guide that’s correct and up to date as of May 18 th 2021.

• If you can show a certificate of vaccination, or a certificate that you have had Covid-19, recovered and are no longer contagious you can visit Iceland and can expect to quarantine no more than 24 hours, regardless of what country you are traveling from.
• Otherwise, if you come from, or have recently been in: Andorra, Argentina, Bahrain, Cape Verde, Croatia, Cyprus, France, Hungary, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Serbia, Seychelles, Sweden, Turkey, and Uruguay you cannot visit as a tourist but exemptions may apply. This list of countries may change at short notice. If an exemption allows you to visit you will need to quarantine for about 5 days.
• If you come from Greenland you can visit and do not have to quarantine.
• If you come from any other country you can visit as a tourist but will need to quarantine for about 5 days.

1: For travelers who are ABLE to show a certificate of vaccination or a certificate that they have had Covid-19 and are no longer infectious:

You must pre-register here , no more than 72 hours before your scheduled arrival in Iceland

You do not have to present a recent negative PCR test to your airline or on arrival in Iceland

On arrival in Iceland you will undergo testing at the border and will be required to quarantine until a negative test result is confirmed.

If you are coming from a Category II high-risk country you must quarantine in one of the quarantine hotels provided by the state, free of charge. As of May 18th 2021 the Category II countries are: Andorra, Argentina, Bahrain, Cape Verde, Croatia, Cyprus, France, Hungary, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Serbia, Seychelles, Sweden, Turkey, and Uruguay.

If you are coming from a Category I high-risk country you may ask for an exemption to be allowed to quarantine in a suitable location elsewhere. You can ask for this exemption when you fill out the pre-registration form, provided you do so at least 48 hours prior to your arrival in Iceland. As of May 18 th some 163 countries are classified as Category I.

Only Greenland is not classified as high risk. Those arriving from there do not need to quarantine.

If a negative result is obtained from the test done at the border you can end your quarantine. The results will be to you sent via text message, and if you do not receive a message within 24 hours the test result is negative.

After that you are free to explore Iceland.

2: For travelers who are NOT ABLE to show a certificate of vaccination or a certificate that they have had Covid-19 and are no longer infectious:

2a) if coming from a category ii high-risk country:.

The Category II countries are (as of May 18 2021): Andorra, Argentina, Bahrain, Cape Verde, Croatia, Cyprus, France, Hungary, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Serbia, Seychelles, Sweden, Turkey, and Uruguay.

If you are coming from one of these countries, or have visited one in the past 14 days, you are not allowed to visit Iceland as a tourist, but you may come to Iceland for certain permitted reasons, i.e. “essential travel”.

The following is considered essential travel:

• Passengers in airport transit
• Employees in healthcare services and geriatric services coming to work in Iceland
• Employees whose visit is related to them being responsible for the transportation of goods and services
• Individuals needing international protection
• Individuals traveling because of an acute family incident
• Individuals and delegations invited by Icelandic authorities, staff of diplomatic missions, and the like.
• Individuals coming to Iceland to study
• Individuals who need to travel to Iceland for the purpose of business or work that cannot be postponed or performed abroad

The following are also exempt from the Category II travel ban:

• Icelandic nationals and their family members.
• Foreigners who are resident in Iceland, and their family members.
• Foreigners who are in a long-lasting relationship with an Icelandic national, or with a foreigner who is legally resident in Iceland.

If you qualify to travel to Iceland based on the exemptions listed above you must, before your visit:

• Pre-register here no more than 72 hours before your scheduled arrival in Iceland.
• Have a PCR-test done no more than 72 hours before departure of the first leg of your journey. Note that rapid antigen tests are not valid. You can only travel if the test result is negative.

On arrival in Iceland you will undergo testing at the border and then be required to quarantine.

Since you are coming from a Category II high risk country you must stay in one of the quarantine hotels provided by the state. The stay there is free of charge and an exemption to self-quarantine elsewhere is not a possibility.

The quarantine will last for about five days and you will be re-tested at the end of the quarantine. If the result is negative you can end your quarantine and are free to explore Iceland. 

2b) If coming from a Category I high-risk country.

Category I countries are: all countries except Greenland (low risk) and those listed as Category II. As of May 18 th 2021 there are 163 countries classified as Category I.

The full list of Category I and Category II countries can be found here (in Icelandic).

You may visit Iceland whether for tourism or for other purposes, but you must quarantine on arrival.

Before your visit you must do as follows:

• Pre-register here no more than 72-hours before your scheduled arrival in Iceland.

You are required to quarantine in one of the quarantine hotels provided by the state, free of charge. You may apply for an exemption to self-quarantine elsewhere ( see rules on “appropriate housing” here ). You do this through the pre-registration form and must make the exemption request no less than 48 hours before your arrival in Iceland.

2c) Coming from Greenland

As Greenland is not categorized as high-risk you can visit Iceland freely, provided you have not been outside Greenland in the past 14 days prior to your arrival in Iceland.

You do not need to provide a negative PCR-test.

You do not need to get tested at the border.

You do not need to quarantine.

For more detailed information, and various exemptions and rules that may apply to a minority of travelers, please visit the Covid.is website. If clarification is needed use the web-chat on Covid.is, open between 10 to 12am and 1 to 5 pm weekdays, except to 4pm on Fridays, Icelandic time.

The information contained in this article has been verified by the Directorate of Health to be correct.

Later today

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Live footage from the eruption site

Planning on visiting Iceland soon?

Iceland Travel is working within guidelines set forth by the Icelandic health, safety, and tourism authorities during the covid-19 pandemic. Information can be found on the  Directorate of Health  and on  Icelandic Tourist Board .

Information on traveling to and within Iceland, as well as rules at the border can be found on  covid.is .

Some countries may require a negative rapid antigen test or PCR test for travelers to return home. Please check if these rules apply for your home country. From 1st of April 2022 there is a charge for all asymptomatic tests.

For testing and results, It is necessary to have a smart phone (or tablet) and to be able to access your email account while in Iceland. You will receive a barcode for the test to be used at the testing locations and to receive the results of your test via SMS and/or email.

We strongly recommend that you / your clients have appropriate health and travel insurance and are aware of what is covered and included before traveling to Iceland. This is a good precaution in case you / your clients test positive for COVID 19 before traveling, upon arrival or during the trip in Iceland. 

We recommend that all our guests bring their own personal protective equipment they are most comfortable using, such as a mask, gloves and sanitizer.

Covid-19 Q&A

As always, we strongly recommend that our guests obtain appropriate health and travel insurance and are aware of what is covered and included in their policies before they depart home.

If a guest on a tour has any Covid-19 symptoms, it is important to notify the guide/staff on tour and think carefully of your own personal protection and that of your travel companions.

As of February 24, 2022, all COVID restrictions in Iceland will be lifted. However, if health authorities or government recommend or implement restrictions, we will make necessary alterations to the tour for the safety and enjoyment of our guests.

Some countries now require passengers to present a negative COVID-19 test on arrival. You can find more information about how to order a test in Iceland here in the section “Testing of Asymptomatic Individuals for Travel Abroad.” You should book your RAPID ANTIGEN COVID test in advance of your desired test date. Most authorities do not accept SMS results and will require a certificate of your COVID-19 test. You should check whether authorities in your home country will accept an electronic certificate or require a printed one.

Rapid Antigen COVID testing is available in Reykjavík, Akureyri, and the town of Keflavík on the way to the airport. Test results are available within 15 minutes. You can book a test here or here .

The Ísland.is App

Welcome to Iceland

There are currently no travel restrictions due to COVID-19 in Iceland, neither domestically nor at the border.

Finally the time has come that all travel restrictions have been lifted in Iceland, both domestically and at the border. Thereby all rules regarding limitations on social gatherings and school operations as well as the quarantine requirement for those infected by COVID-19 are removed.

Additionally, no disease prevention measures will be in place at the border, regardless of whether individuals are vaccinated or unvaccinated.

For further information please read the full  Government‘s press release . Information about testing due to symptoms .

Please note that visa requirements may apply.

Inspiration

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Iceland Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, iceland - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Last Update: Reissued with updates to health information.

Exercise normal precautions in Iceland.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Iceland.

If you decide to travel to Iceland: 

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Iceland. 
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist . 

Travel Advisory Levels

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Is it safe to travel to Iceland? The latest Foreign Office advice amid fears of volcanic eruption

An eruption is probable in the coming days, say authorities, and the popular blue lagoon tourist attraction has closed temporarily.

Iceland has declared a state of emergency with the country’s Met Office warning that there is “significant likelihood” of a volcanic eruption in the coming days.

The volcano is expected on, or just off, the Reykjanes Peninsula, around 35 miles south-west of the capital Reykjavik and around 12 miles north of Keflavik international airport.

Hundreds of earthquakes have hit the peninsula leading to the evacuation of Grindavik, a town that is around 1.9 miles south of the area where a series of earthquakes occurred.

A magma-filled crack that is around nine miles long has appeared through the town and Icelandic authorities are building defences around Grindavik geothermal power plant.

Blue Lagoon Iceland, a geothermal tourist attraction near Grindavik, has been closed since last Thursday.

Here is what you need to know if you are planning to travel to Iceland.

Is it safe to travel to Iceland?

The UK Foreign Office is not warning against travel to Iceland.

Airlines are continuing to run UK–Iceland flights and Keflavik airport is operating as normal.

“While there is no current eruption, it is increasingly possible that one could occur,” reads the Foreign Office advice page for travel to Iceland.

“You should monitor local media for updates and follow the authorities’ advice on travel to the area,” it continues.

When will there be a volcanic eruption?

An eruption is expected over the coming days. The Icelandic Met Office has declared that there is a “considerable” risk of an eruption on or just off the Reykjanes Peninsula, which is a volcanic and seismic hotspot.

The fissure filled with magma is still active, and Thor Thordason, professor of volcanology at the University of Iceland, told the BBC that “the most likely eruption side appears to be within the boundary of the town of Grindavik”.

Could there be an ash cloud that affects flights?

In 2010, an ash cloud from Iceland’s Eyjafjallajokull volcano led to the cancellation of around 100,000 flights and airspace restrictions in Europe .

Experts have conflicting views on whether an eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula could result in a volcanic ash cloud that would have a similar impact.

Paavo Nikkola of the Geological Survey of Finland told Finnish publication Yle : “A volcanic ash cloud like 2010 is not possible now.

“Back then, the ash was generated by a large explosive eruption beneath a glacier. Now, the eruption is likely to occur underground. It’s a calm lava eruption that doesn’t produce ash.”

However, Kristin Jonsdottir, head of the Geoscience Research Department at the Icelandic Met Office, told Sky News that an ash cloud is something that “we cannot exclude”.

Are flights running as normal?

Yes, easyJet, Wizz Air, Icelandair, British Airways and Play are all continuing to operate flights between the UK and Keflavik airport.

Flight schedules are running as planned and Keflavik airport is open as usual.

Britons planning to visit Iceland in the coming days should continue to check for any updates from their airline or travel provider.

I am due to travel to Iceland, can I cancel my trip?

Should you choose to cancel, you are likely to lose the money you have spent on your holiday as the Foreign Office has not warned against travel to the country.

However, if you have booked with a tour operator, you could contact them to see if they will allow you to move your trip to a later date.

Or, if you have booked flights and accommodation separately, you could contact each provider to see if they will permit you to change the dates without charge.

Unless the Foreign Office advises against travel to Iceland, you are unlikely to be able to make a claim on your travel insurance if you decide to cancel your trip.

How can I keep safe while in Iceland?

Follow the advice of Icelandic authorities and the UK Foreign Office.

Keep the emergency contact details of your travel provider on hand.

Is there anything else I should know?

Blue Lagoon Iceland is closed until at least 16 November.

The Government of Iceland and the Icelandic Met Office are useful resources for warnings and advice while in the country.

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Why You Should Go to Iceland in the Off-Season

From chasing waterfalls to surfing uncrowded breaks and watching the northern lights, Iceland is jaw-dropping—and a lot less visited—September to May. Here’s the perfect first-timer itinerary.

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There’s a saying in Iceland that’s sort of the country’s unofficial motto: Þetta reddast (sounds like “thetta rettast”). Like so many Icelandic words there isn’t a direct translation into English, but the essence of it is, “Ehhh, it’ll be fine…” My good friend Pétur Magnusson , who lives in Reykjavik, tells me, “It’s a big part of our national identity. It’s what we say when we’re rolling with what’s going on, in the face of any kind of adversity.” It’s not as passive as it sounds, though. Rather, it’s about accepting the things you can’t control, and pivoting to adapt and alter the things you can.

This is sage advice for first-timers visiting one of the most rugged and remote island countries in the world. To call the weather “unpredictable” would be generous, and you never know what strange obstacles you might encounter—hello, volcanoes. There have been ongoing eruptions in the town of Grindavik in southern Iceland and tourists have been advised to avoid that area. But the rest of the country is open and if you’re willing to embody the Þetta reddast spirit, you’ll have an incredible time in an otherworldly place, especially if you’re game to travel to Iceland in the off-season.

In October, I finally went to scope it out for myself. My aforementioned buddy Pétur was born and raised in Iceland before moving to California where he and I became friends in high school. He moved back during the pandemic, so I took the rare opportunity to see this majestic place through a local’s eyes. I spent two weeks traveling all over with him and other friends, pivoting a lot, experiencing weird weather, taking thousands of photos, and having an absolute blast. Here’s what I learned.

Why Travel to Iceland in the Shoulder Season?

An Icelandic adventure in the off-season (roughly autumn and spring) has a few distinct advantages:

It’s markedly cheaper.

While flights to Iceland are usually reasonable (I flew Iceland Air , which has a ton of direct flights from the U.S.), life on the ground can be pretty pricey. Accommodations, rental vehicles, tours, and just about everything that isn’t edible is less expensive if you don’t go during the summertime rush.

There are a heck of a lot less people.

Speaking of rush, you will see noticeably fewer tourists in the off-season. That translates to less-crowded trails, better photographs, and critically, easier last-minute bookings—key to your ability to adapt to changing conditions and still get the most out of your trip. More on that in a bit.

You actually get to see the Aurora Borealis.

You can usually only view the Northern Lights in the off-season. Iceland is so far north that during the summer high-season, the sky never gets dark enough for the aurora borealis to be visible. Iceland is one of the best places on the entire planet to see the lights, so if that’s on your bucket list, then bundle up and visit in the off season. (Stay tuned for specific recommendations on where to view them.)

Know Before You Go: Tips for Shoulder-Season Visits

Of course, visiting Iceland during shoulder season isn’t without its challenges. First and foremost, there’s the weather. Battered by the Atlantic Ocean just south of the Arctic Circle, you’re more likely to encounter rain, snow, and the notorious wind in colder months. Days are shorter, too, so you’ll want to get after it early.

Gear You Should Pack for Iceland

Layers will most definitely be your friend. And bring plenty. My daily outfit consisted of:

• Thermal tops and bottoms
• Thick wool hiking socks
• Pair of Altra Lone Peak hiking boots
• Smartwool hoodie
• REI XeroDry GTX Gore-Tex rainproof pants (also a good windblocker)
• Pair of Mountain Hardware Boundary Ridge gloves
• Super-warm wind/rain-proof Helly Hansen Tromsoe Jacket
• Wind-proof Mountain Hardware Dome Perignon Pro hat

With that kit, I was plenty toasty even when the rain came down nearly sideways.

Get Your Tech Dialed: Oh, and make sure you bring a power adapter, because Iceland uses European plugs. I’d recommend grabbing at least one or two, plus an extension cord with a three-way splitter so you can charge up more gadgets at once.

Now, the fun stuff.

Getting Around Iceland: The Best Transportation Options

Iceland is one of those countries where you really want to have your own wheels. There are buses here and there, but if you’re chasing rugged adventures, vehicular autonomy is a must. Of course you could join a tour group, but then you’re stuck with someone else’s agenda and schedule, and you’ll likely be surrounded by tourists.

Be Sure to Rent the Right Rig

Selecting a vehicle plays a significant role in where you can and can’t go. Once the colder months hit, the roads get icy and snowy. Even if you plan to stay in hotels and avoid sleeping in your vehicle, I strongly recommend you rent a rig with all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive that has burly tires to match and that comes with ample clearance. This will enable you to drive safely off the beaten path and check out more of the country, with even fewer tourists around during the day. (As a starting point, check out MyCar Iceland , which features a fleet of different 4WD-equipped Toyotas starting from $84 per day.)

For a Bed on Wheels, Consider a Campervan or 4X4 with a Rooftop Tent

Cruising around Iceland by campervan or a rig with a rooftop tent is another solid option. You’ll see tons of these on the road, as most outdoor adventure enthusiasts go this route. There are a lot of cool camp spots all around the island, and combining your accommodations with your wheels can be a huge cost saver. Just make sure the van you’re renting has some sort of heater (diesel or propane) and make sure it has AWD or 4WD (again, plus rugged tires and clearance). If you opt for a rooftop tent, make sure you visit in the (warmer) colder months, like September and May, otherwise sleeping on top of your car in winds and frigid temps will be brutal otherwise.

No matter what, read reviews of your outfitter before you commit, because some offer SOS services—in varying degrees of reliability—and you don’t want to deal with a breakdown when you’re deep in Iceland’s backcountry.

Most campervans and roof tent rigs come with bedding, a camp kitchen, stove and fuel, and a plug-in cooler, all of which help facilitate maximum autonomy. For a small upcharge, you can opt for a WiFi router, which makes booking last-minute campsites and navigation easier. (As a starting point, check out Rent for rooftop tent and campervan options. Prices vary.)

Stay on Top of Your Road Conditions Beta

Whichever vehicle you choose, the UMFERDIN website shows up-to-date road conditions and closures, and will save you essential time.

And be careful out there. Know your driving skills, and the limits of the vehicle you’re renting, and make sure the tires have tread that can handle the conditions you’ll encounter. If in doubt, don’t be an idiot and drive it .

Eating in Iceland: Always Expensive, Rarely Fantastic

Now would be a good time to mention food, and it’s not great news. For starters, grub in Iceland is almost universally pricey, owing largely to the fact that nearly everything has to be imported. It’s also not exactly a foodie haven (with some notable exceptions), so I’d recommend stocking up at a supermarket, like Bonus or Krónan, before you leave Reykjavik. Aside from staples like PB&J, grab an assortment of Icelandic yogurt (a.k.a. skyr). It’s delicious.

Don’t miss the cod jerky, either, which my friend Pétur says is commonly dragged across a tub of Icelandic butter when you eat it. (I tried it, and can confirm it’s indeed tasty.) I also found the sweetest, crunchiest carrots I’ve ever had in my life, and you’ll want to try (or at least force yourself to try) the divisive, salted black licorice (aka salmiakbitar ) the island is famous for.

When You Arrive in Iceland

You’ll land at Keflavík International Airport. If you’re coming from the U.S. you’ll likely arrive early in the morning on a red-eye, and may be very discombobulated. If so, and you’ve got the time, take it easy on your first day there by checking out the Reykjanes peninsula. Then, head to Reykjavik to scope out some of the museums and cultural sites (see below for specifics).

Must-Dos on the Reykjanes Peninsula

The 40-minute drive from the airport to the capital city is also absolutely stunning. You’ll pass fields of lava rock that seem to go on forever, and zip by the Instagram-famous Blue Lagoon . (Note: every Icelandic person I met rolled their eyes at it, though. It’s pretty, but overpriced, from $72, and loaded with tourists. It may also be closed depending on nearby volcanic eruptions.)

If you somehow manage to sleep on the plane and want to hit the ground running, there are a ton of cool spots right on the Reykjanes peninsula before you get to Reykjavik. Don’t miss:

• Seltún Geothermal Area , with sulfury, bubbling, steaming mineral pools
• Krísuvíkurberg Cliffs , with a sheer drop into the pounding ocean below. (It’s so abrupt it looks like the ground just snapped off.)
• Reykjanes Lighthouse , right next to the beautiful rocky shore of Valahnúkamöl—both well worth exploring.

I had an absolutely incredible lobster soup at the Café Bryggjan in Grindavík, but unfortunately between then and writing this piece, a cluster of earthquakes and several nearby volcanic eruptions has effectively brought the quaint fishing village to its knees. The town literally sunk several feet and now has a deep, 1.2-mile long fissure running through the middle of it. Its future is currently unknown. Again, why you have to be ready to adapt in Iceland.

Explore Iceland’s Capital: What to See and Do in Reykjavik

Hit Up a Street Vendor or Restaurant for a Hot Dog: When you get to Reykjavik, first things first: Get yourself a hot dog. I regret to inform you, my fellow Americans, that we have been surpassed in hotdoggery, and not by a little. Icelandic dogs have crispy fried onions, multiple sauces, soft buns, and snappy wieners. I ate them almost every day.

Scope Out the Historic Downtown: Work off the hotdogs by checking out the historic downtown area on foot. The Einar Jónsson Museum features some statues that would make Rodin jealous, and there’s a lot to see around the waterfront, including the massive Harpa Concert Hall.

Visit a Real Locals’ Hot Spring: If you’re craving some hot spring action, check out one of the dozens of public pools (like Laugardalslaug , for roughly $10 per entry) in Reykjavik. No, they’re not glamorous like the aforementioned Blue Lagoon, but all of the heating in Iceland (including hot water) comes from geothermal activity. The water is high in mineral content and it’s deeply soothing. The pools are a massive part of the culture there and they feature several hot tubs at different temperatures, saunas, cold plunges, and even some waterslides.

Just make sure you adhere closely to the showering instructions (i.e. shower naked beforehand and wash your whole body with soap). The waters there are considered sacred to the locals, and disrespecting them by not following pre-soak protocol is one of the rare ways to piss Icelanders off. The public pools are also for socializing, and you’re likely to meet some friendly folks who may offer you insider tips. Effectively everybody in Iceland speaks English, but if you learn a few basic phrases in Icelandic before you show up, it’ll go a long way.

Dine Out on Lamb Stew: For dinner, grab yourself lamb stew (known as Kjötsúpa, an Icelandic specialty), and pass out for the night before you hit the road bright and early.

The Shoulder-Season Adventure Itinerary for Iceland Newbies

As cool as Reykjavik is, that’s not what you came for, is it? Here’s what I did. My play-by-ear trip turned into a nice little loop through the west and south, though I recommend you use these ideas more for activity inspiration as opposed to an exact prescription. After all, no two days in the shoulder season are the same and there are endless possibilities. Here were my highlights:

Day 1: Hit Up Some Waterfalls and Hot Springs

Out of the city, our first big stop was Barnafoss, a couple hours northeast of Reykjavik, an utterly massive conglomeration of waterfalls. (FYI, “foss” means waterfall in Icelandic.) If there’s wind, wear your waterproof layers because the mist will soak you to the bone. It’s almost overwhelming to see so many waterfalls from one vantage point, and it’s an excellent place to work on your long exposure photography. (I recommend a tripod and a variable ND filter, along with a few absorbent lens-wipes.)

From there, we backtracked 20 minutes west and hit the natural hot springs at Krauma ($50). It’s not as Instagrammable as the Blue Lagoon (phones are actually discouraged at both), but you’ll find a nice array of geothermally heated tubs and saunas, along with traditional cold plunges. Plus, the mountainscape views are lovely.

Then, head west and drive out onto the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It’s a 55-mile strip of land that is basically a photographic sample platter of Iceland, including lava fields, waterfalls, epic black sand beaches, fjord views, hot springs, and the imposing Snaefellsjökull glacier volcano. I found the lava fields to be particularly gripping, with bright green moss covering an endless sea of black boulders.

We spent that night at the Fosshotel in Hellnar (“Oh hell nar,”) which was modest but clean, and it had some gorgeous ocean views (from $125 USD a night in the off-season).

Day 2: Hike the Rugged Coastline

From there we set out to the western tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula stopping at a few viewpoints around Londrangar, where you can stand atop some of the most rugged coastline you’ll ever see, featuring massive blue waves pounding jagged volcanic rock spires.

Make your way down to Djúpalónssandur Beach and the Djúpalón Lagoon, where you can hike along a shore covered with smooth, marble-like pebbles and a pool that looks like a prehistoric creature could emerge from it at any moment. This whole area gives strong “Land Before Time” vibes.

After that, we headed back east along the northern border of the peninsula, stopping at the stunning Bæjarfoss waterfall just outside of Ólafsvík. My buddy Pétur didn’t even get out of his car for that one. There are roughly 10,000 waterfalls in Iceland, many of them jaw-dropping, and apparently this wasn’t that exciting by his local standards.

We also swung by the Súgandisey Island Lighthouse, on the northernmost part of the peninsula, where we were greeted with a rainbow, and intense wind. We spent that night at the Hotel Varmaland in Borgarnes (from $250), where I had a deliciously savory lamb steak for dinner.

Day 3: Trek to Less-Visited, Off-Road Waterfalls

Our next day was all about chasing more waterfalls. The first stop? The small but isolated Fitjarfoss. We were the only ones there, and it was incredibly tranquil. That was just a warmup, though, for the far more challenging four-mile hike to Glymur Falls, which is the second tallest waterfall in the country, at a staggering 650 feet. It’s a slippery and steep hike that involves at least one river crossing and a few scrambles over significant exposure—we’re talking hundreds of feet straight down to the rocky river below. It’s not for the faint of heart, but absolutely gorgeous on the ascent.

Unfortunately, the crossing was washed out when we visited, so we hiked up the near side of the river as far as we could go. Luckily, Pétur had a drone that could fly the rest of the way and get some great shots. Still, it was 100% worth it.

We then made our way to a gorgeous complex of outdoor hot springs called Laugarvatn Fotana Geothermal Bathsa (from roughly $35 per adult). It’s right on Laugarvatn Lake so we alternated between hot soaks and saunas and natural icy plunges—the perfect remedy for our aching joints.

Day 4: Visit the Highlights of the Golden Circle

The next part of our plan was to take a ferry out to the stunning Westman Islands, but nature had other ideas. 60 mph winds and 18-foot sea swells not only made the passage unappealing, but impossible, as ferry service was canceled for several days. But this is where having more options in shoulder season really comes in clutch. We were able to cancel all our reservations, and because virtually every hotel in the country had vacancies, we just headed away from the wind.

We bet that the harsher weather would equal fewer tourists, so we hit some of the more popular spots along the famous Golden Circle—the most visited day-trip-style route outside of Reykjavik, if you don’t have time to drive the whole Ring Road around the island.

This portion of our trip included visiting the absolutely massive, Niagara-ish waterfall, Gullfoss. Sure, there were still plenty of tourists, and the wind stirred up the mist which made it feel like it was raining, but it’s a breathtaking thing to behold.

Nearby, there’s also Geysir, which—fun fact—is the geyser that gave all other geysers their name. It’s Icelandic for “to gush.” It’s only erupted twice in the last 25 years, but the adjacent Strokkur geyser goes off roughly every 10 minutes about 60 to 120 feet into the air, and still puts on a killer show. The whole area has a lot of cool geothermal features with a sort of Icelandic Yellowstone vibe, and you can hike all around the area to get a bunch of vantage points.

It’s also well worth visiting Thingvellir National Park , a stunning area where all the old clans of Iceland used to meet annually to decide the laws and policies for the upcoming year. It also has a lake, waterfalls, and a museum with tons of artifacts. This place is steeped in history (some of it tragic) and is a sacred place to Icelanders, so be on your best, most respectful behavior here.

Day 5: Surf Your Heart Out

Surfing the Icelandic coast was one bucket-list item I thought I’d never get to check off. In the weeks leading up to my trip, though, I started reading articles about how the best, most-consistent wave in the whole country was at risk of being demolished. The point at Þorlákshöfn (near Thorli Beach) is an incredible, peeling right-hander that just goes and goes like a good day at Malibu. Unlike Malibu, though, you’re likely to have four, not 400, other people in the lineup. It’s been a secret spot for ages, but the mayor of the town of Þorlákshöfn (and other city council members) seem intent on filling it in with boulders to make room for more warehouses around an expanded harbor. So the local surfers decided it’s better to tell the world than risk its destruction. Unfortunately, the town started filling it in already, despite not yet having environmental permits to alter the coastline, and that has abruptly cut off the end section of the wave. It’s tragic. Watch more on the save-the-wave initiative, here:

I reached out to Steinarr Lár, one of the surfers leading the fight to save the wave that is at the very center of Icelandic surf culture and community. He was gracious enough to lend me a board, a thick wetsuit, booties, and gloves, though if you want to experience surfing Iceland for yourself, link up with Arctic Surfers , which organizes surf tours (starting from $350 per day) and can provide you with everything you’ll need. They’re also deeply involved in activism surrounding the wave.

After suiting up in the parking lot, I scrambled over about 80 yards of slippery, seaweed-covered boulders, and then it was pure magic. The waves were between three and four feet tall, with a gentle paddle in, and they ran for nearly a full minute (apparently longer on bigger days). The locals were friendly, the wetsuit kept me plenty warm, and we all got enough waves to turn our arms to spaghetti.

It’s an incredible natural resource, and the idea of it being filled in to fill a few people’s pockets is frankly outrageous, in my opinion. Go surf it while you can and spread the word.

Days 6 and 7: Treat Yourself to a Northern Lights Wake-Up Call

After roughing it for several days, I decided to opt for some luxury. My friend Pétur, who works for a tourism company , says that whenever people’s top priority is seeing the Northern Lights, he books them at the Hotel Rangá (pronounced ron-cow, from $340 per night in shoulder season) because it’s sort of isolated on a big dark plane. Think: 360-degree views. It also has an observatory for stargazing when the lights aren’t visible, and there’s a button on your phone to order a wake-up call in the middle of the night should the lights pop up. It was easily the nicest place I stayed during my entire trip, and it’s a perfect base camp for all south-coast adventures.

Iceland’s version of upscale is different from what you might expect, coming from the U.S. If you have Four Seasons or Ritz expectations, you may be surprised to find that things are a bit more low-key here. Hotel Rangá is still very nice, but it’s more rustic and minimalist—at least in the more basic rooms. (The master suites are each decked out like a different continent and they went all-out.)

That said, its restaurant featured the tastiest food I ate the entire time, with exquisite, tender lamb, fish, and even reindeer carpaccio. They can also organize a candle-lit dinner in a grass-covered cave that used to be an ancient dwelling centuries ago. It’s a must-stay, and wouldn’t you know it, despite none being forecast, we managed to see the aurora on two of the nights we crashed there.

My phone rang around 11 P.M. and I was told the lights were visible. I had pre-arranged many layers of clothes and all my camera gear, just in case. So I threw it all on, rushed out the door, and wow, the sky was lit up with waving, green curtains. There’s a river and a pond behind the hotel, so I played with reflections in my photos, and hooted in joy as colorful ribbons raced over the roof of the hotel. Truly, there’s no other life experience like it.

Bonus: Get Off Road to Tackle Far-Flung Backcountry Adventures

For the last few days of my trip, I wanted to get into some of the places where my friend’s little AWD hatchback couldn’t take me, so I linked up with Southcoast Adventure (also recommended by my friend’s company). We did three expeditions in three days, and each of them got me way off the beaten path. Separately, from that, I also rode some Icelandic horses. Here’s how all of that went:

Take a Buggy Tour into the Wilderness

This is one of the best ways to really get out there away from everybody else. These “buggies” are two-seat 4X4 ATVs complete with roll cages, and we headed out to Emstrur, which was an all-day adventure on dirt roads, crossing a dozen small creeks. There were waterfalls, glaciers, and stunning rock formations throughout these mountains, and we didn’t see anybody else on the long road. (Full day tours start at roughly $660, but they also have one-hour and 2.5-hour options.)

Explore the Katla Ice Caves

The next day was my favorite expedition, a trek out to explore the Katla Ice Caves (from $205 per person). This is an ever-changing system of ice caves at the end of the Myrdalsjokull glacier. It included a massive ice-arch big enough to fly a decent sized plane through, as well as the chance to explore deep into otherworldly tunnels made of light blue ice, with streams and waterfalls flowing through them.

We even got to do a bit of ice climbing. You’ll be provided with crampons, so make sure you bring boots sturdy enough to support them (this was the one day my Atras weren’t quite up to the task). On the way back we visited three more jaw-dropping waterfalls, including Gljufrabui—which is hidden in a narrow slot canyon—and Seljalandsfoss, which you can hike behind for some stunning canyon views.

Cruise Around Landmannalaugar

The last day there was spent exploring in what is affectionately known in Iceland as a SuperJeep (starting around $300). It wasn’t actually a jeep at all, but a kitted out 4WD Mercedes Sprinter van. We went deep into the interior highlands of Landmannalaugar, exploring paths cut by glaciers and massive extinct craters. Of course, there were more waterfalls (just countless!), but my highlight was a gorgeous natural hot spring in the middle of the Fjallabak Nature Reserve. It was the perfect way to relax at the end of a long trip.

Ride Iceland’s Famous Wild Horses

Of course, that isn’t the only way to relax. From Rangá you’re just a quick drive to the coast, or if you want something you truly can’t find anywhere else, go to Skeiðvellir Horse Farm (rides start around $85/person). Iceland’s horses have been isolated on the island for more than 1,000 years and they have evolved in unique ways, including developing stout bodies, luscious manes, and two specific gaits that only they can perform. They’re incredibly smooth to ride and it’s a fun way to see the grasslands of this stunning country.

Heliski Iceland’s Big Peaks March to June

There’s one more adventure I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention: heliskiing or snowboarding from the top of a peak to the shore of the Arctic Ocean. And you can do it with the boutique Viking Heliskiing operation. Based on the far north side of the island, this outfitter offers everything from three to six-day packages that include meals, rentals, avalanche gear, airport transfers, and luxurious accommodations at the Sigló Hotel . (Prices start at roughly $7,200 per person for the three-day package.)

Tragically, I didn’t get to do this myself (yet!), but from speaking with those who have (and feasting my eyes on photos and video), the terrain you’ll encounter up there is unlike anywhere else. The mountain surfaces tend to be smooth and steep, so they hold powder well and allow for massive, open-faced carves. You’re guaranteed 15,000 vertical feet a day (which is more than you get at most heliski operations), and some runs will take you all the way down to the beach. At night you can enjoy the hotel’s hot tubs, saunas, and the Northern Lights if your timing is right. The season starts in mid-March and goes until mid-June (where you may be able to ski as late as midnight). Dreamy, indeed.

The Bottom Line: I’m in Love with Off-Season Iceland

Perhaps you’ve gathered this much already, but Iceland blew my mind. And now, I really only want to come back during shoulder season. Yes, the weather was tough at times, and sure, not every road was accessible, but traveling during the shoulder season saved me money and paved the way for a better experience. Plus, you simply can’t beat having far fewer tourists around. So bundle up, plan ahead, and if you have to adapt a little? Well, Þetta reddast…

Brent Rose has been covering adventure and gear for Outside for more than a decade. When he’s not writing, you can find him surfing, snowboarding, hiking, or camping, usually somewhere in California. He’s also on Instagram at @brentdangerrose or his website at brentrose.com.

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Volcanic activity and earthquakes in Reykjanes

Travelers are advised to show caution and check information for safety., april 2-4, 2024: risk of avalanche.

Considerable avalanche danger (score 3 of 5) in mountains in Tröllaskagi peninsula, northern Westfjords, Eastfjords and Eyjafjördur. Outdoor enthusiasts are asked to be careful and not to travel where the snow conditions are unsafe. Monitor conditions on https://en.vedur.is/avalanches/forecast

March 2024: Eruption north of Grindavík

Roads to Grindavík are closed for all traffic except for inhabitants in the town, employees of companies and those who are helping inhabitants. Others are kindly asked to respect the closures, and stay away from the area.

Safetravel — be safe in Iceland

Eruptions and earthquakes in Reykjanes peninsula

Fagradalsfjall eruption area eruption area close to grindavík, good preparation is the key to successful travel.

Safetravel App

The weather and road conditions in Iceland are different from you’re used to and can change fast. To be more informed, use the app. If you’re hiking or trekking, the app lets you send your GPS location to 112 emergency services so they can find you.

We are the official source for safe travel in Iceland

Safetravel is run by ice-sar — the icelandic association for search and rescue..

Help us save lives!

Ice-sar is a non-profit, volunteer-based organization with over 4500 volunteers that specialize in providing search and rescue services. they are available, day and night, year-round. ice-sar depends on donations. if you want to help us help others, please consider donating to our cause., travel conditions.

Make a travel plan

One of the most important steps for any traveler is to ensure that a comprehensive travel plan is shared with a trusted individual who is capable of taking appropriate action..

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Do you want to get notifications/alerts through text messages while traveling in iceland, for emergencies call, for health issues and other health related information..

World Nomads offers support and guidance to Brits with Iceland travel plans

The global travel insurance company is offering advice to brits with plans to travel to iceland following a series of earthquakes on the reykjanes peninsula.

A state of emergency has been declared in Iceland after hundreds of small earthquakes erupted southwest of Reykjavik, on the Reykjanes peninsula.

While flights continue to operate as normal, the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has warned an eruption is ‘increasingly possible’, advising travellers to ‘monitor local media for updates and follow authorities’ advice on travel to the area’. 

Jonathan Frankham, General Manager, UK and Europe, World Nomads, said: “Iceland is full of natural beauty, but it is also full of natural hazards, which are perhaps its number one draw card. For Brits travelling to or around Iceland, we’d strongly recommend keeping up to date with the FCO advisories and be prepared to adjust your plans. At present, the advice remains cautionary, and travel continues as normal.” 

Iceland’s volcanoes have thrown the European air traffic network into chaos before. In spring 2010, the now infamous volcano Eyjafjallajokull erupted, causing over 100,000 flights in Europe to be cancelled. 

“It’s understandable that that some Brits may want to know what this means for their holiday plans – some may not want to or fear they’ll be unable travel if the situation escalates. We’d like to stress that if the current FCO guidance remains advisory, insurance coverage stands as normal,” said Frankham.  

“However, if a natural catastrophe such as an earthquake, flood or volcano affects your travel plans and/or injures [you], you must check your policy details. For example, at World Nomads, you need to have purchased your policy before these powerful forces of nature become a ‘known event’ and be on an Explorer Plan for us to consider coverage. In any case, the first point of call should be your airline or travel provider to see what support they may provide. The same goes if your accommodation is impacted.” 

This is an ongoing and developing story

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How to see the best of iceland on a cruise.

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The port of Isafjordur in the westfjords region of Iceland has attracted record numbers of cruise ... [+] ships in recent years.

Unlike more traditional cruise destinations, Iceland presents a rugged, untamed beauty. Known for its raw and varied landscapes, Iceland offers a seemingly endless list of natural wonders, from the steaming geothermal vents and spouting geysers to the dramatic glaciers and thunderous waterfalls.

The island's rich Viking heritage and folklore add layers of intrigue to its already captivating landscapes.

This unique terrain, coupled with the opportunity—depending on the season—to enjoy the midnight sun or mystical northern lights, makes Iceland a prime destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those fascinated by the interplay of culture and the natural world.

Cruising around Iceland not only allows travelers to experience the volcanic landscapes from a unique vantage point but also offers convenient transport between the main ports and highlights of Iceland , all from the comfort of a modern cruise ship.

The cruise industry has recognized Iceland's appeal, offering an increasing variety of itineraries that cater to different interests and time frames, including extensive circumnavigations of the island.

According to Cruise Iceland , cruise ships registered almost one million passenger visits in 2023, marking an 80% increase from 2019.

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The accessibility of remote fjords, wildlife encounters including puffins and whales, and the chance to experience the midnight sun in summer or witness the mystical northern lights in winter, are among the highlights of these voyages.

Something to bear in mind is the additional cost required for excursions, whether you book through the cruise line or choose independent options.

Unlike a Norwegian fjords cruise , which you can enjoy without leaving the ship, Iceland cruises require additional transport to reach the most iconic sites. They are also a wise idea if you want to make the most of wildlife-watching opportunities.

Whale watching is a major tourist attraction in Northern Iceland.

The most popular Icelandic cruise port is Reykjavik, followed by Akureyri in the north of the country, Isafjordur in the westfjords region, and Seydisfjordur on the east coast.

An itinerary that includes all four of these ports—Reykjavik, Akureyri, Isafjordur, and Seydisfjordur—offers guests a comprehensive appreciation of Iceland’s varied landscapes.

Fly-Cruise From Reykjavik

If you don’t mind flying, Reykjavik is the starting point for many of the more in-depth circumnavigations of Iceland.

Such cruises contain fewer sea days and may call at smaller ports, offering a more intimate experience of Iceland, while also allowing guests to spend a few days exploring the Icelandic capital before or after the cruise.

This 7-day Iceland Intensive itinerary from Celebrity Cruises begins and ends in Reykjavik and includes port calls in Reykjavik, Seydisfjordur, Djúpivogur, and Akureyri.

Iceland Cruises From The U.K.

The U.K. is a popular departure point for Iceland cruises, some of which may also include ports of call in Scotland and Norway. The Port of Southampton is the most common departure port, used by lines including Celebrity, Cunard, Norwegian Cruise Line, P&O Cruises, and Princess.

This 14-day cruise on Norwegian Prima starts and ends in Southampton and includes three Icelandic ports, including an overnight stay in Reykjavik, along with three ports of call in Norway.

Some small ship lines such as Ambassador, Fred Olsen, and Saga Cruises, offer departures from regional ports such as Dover, Liverpool, Newcastle, and Rosyth.

The gateway to the westfjords region, Isafjordur is increasingly found on Iceland cruise ... [+] itineraries.

Other popular departure points across Europe include the Netherlands (Celebrity, Holland America) and Germany (AIDA). Although the latter does welcome English speakers, some knowledge of German is advised to get the most from the experience.

Northern Transatlantic Route

Another option to consider is a one-way cruise between North America and Europe that calls in to at least one port in Iceland. Such repositioning cruises that take a northern route often include additional ports of call in Greenland, the Faroe Islands, Norway, and the United Kingdom.

Luxury Cruises To Iceland

In addition to the mainstream cruise lines, Iceland is a popular destination for luxury and ultra-luxury lines such as Seabourn, Silversea, and Windstar.

Iceland is also a popular destination for expedition cruise lines such as Aurora Expeditions, Hurtigruten Expeditions, and Lindblad. This option is worth considering for travelers interested in learning more about the science behind Iceland’s geology or the wildlife that calls its chilly waters home.

Packing For An Iceland Cruise

When packing for an Iceland cruise, remember that the weather can be as varied as the landscape itself. It's essential to be prepared for all conditions, regardless of the season.

The cornerstone of any travel wardrobe for Iceland is layering. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep you dry, add an insulating layer for warmth, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. This approach allows you to adjust your clothing to match the weather, which can change several times in a day.

A waterproof jacket and pants are crucial, as rain is possible any time of the year. Waterproof hiking shoes or boots are also essential if you plan to explore Iceland's rugged terrain during port stops.

Don't forget warm accessories such as hats, gloves, and scarves, but also sun protection including sunglasses and sunscreen. For wildlife enthusiasts, a good pair of binoculars is invaluable. To keep all these accessories safe and at hand, a sturdy daypack is useful for shore excursions.

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Is Iceland Still Safe To Visit For Travelers Amid Recent Eruptions?

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Home to areas of outstanding natural beauty, including preserved glaciers and towering waterfalls, and being well-known for its Viking heritage and aurora sightings, Iceland is one of the most popular destinations in Europe for American travelers .

However, it is not called the ‘Land of Ice and Fire' for no apparent reason.

Iceland is dotted with active volcanos that tend to erupt more often than you would think: back in January, a whole town had to be evacuated as lava spewed from a nearby volcano, and just this week , a new eruption that is undergoing is already causing disruption .

Eruptions have become a yearly phenomenon in Iceland at this point, and with the risk of flights being grounded and parts of Iceland closing down due to the threat, you may be wondering how safe it actually is for visiting:

Is Iceland Safe For Visiting In 2024?

The short answer is: yes , Iceland is perfectly safe to visit .

If there's one country that's prepared to deal with volcanos, it's Iceland: the Iceland Meteorological Office offers up-to-date information about volcanic activity around the island, informing citizens and security forces alike about the risks and imminence of future eruptions.

No known casualties have resulted from volcanic eruptions in Iceland in recent times, as authorities do not hesitate to completely clear municipalities, ground flights at the main international airport, or cordon off access to danger zones when necessary.

Their efficiency at responding to crises has been widely documented in the media , particularly back in January, when the fishing town of Grindavik was swiftly evacuated last-minute while a river of literal molten rock approached its boundaries.

That being said, while the Iceland Met Office can calculate potential eruptions and their strength – or, in technical terms, the ‘explosivity' index – ensuring Icelandic nationals and foreign visitors alike are kept up to date, the actual impact cannot always be fully estimated.

Four Eruptions In Four Months

For starters, since December 2023, Iceland has witnessed four volcanic eruptions, the last of which took place just this month and is thought to be the most powerful one of the streak, indicating the island's lava cauldrons are not ready to go dormant again anytime soon.

Once again, it is extremely unlikely that eruptions will claim lives, largely thanks to the excellent work of meteorologists, Icelandic police, and their highly qualified ICE-SAR (Iceland Search and Rescue Team), but you may be forced to lie low for a while as you wait for flight operability to be reinstated.

That is because eruptions are typically associated with the release of volcanic ash into the atmosphere.

Other than immediately reducing visibility, it can cause jet engines to fail and even damage flight control systems; in other words, flying conditions become suboptimal at best.

While there have been no issues of the sort in a number of years, it's sometimes not possible to know the extent of an eruption's graveness until it's well underway: for those of you who remember the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull incident, you know how out of control it can get.

This series of eruptions led to large parts of European airspace shutting down for an entire week as a result of the volcanic ash spewing, affecting not only Iceland but the whole continent.

It led to millions of passengers being left stranded worldwide.

Luckily, no recent activity has had as serious an effect, even though satellites show toxic gas has been emanating from Iceland towards mainland Europe.

Thankfully, aviation has not been affected , as flights into and out of Keflavik, the main gateway into Iceland, continue operating as normal.

On the downside, some tourist services have been impacted:

Which Tourist Attractions Have Closed Down?

Iceland's most popular tourist destination, the Blue Lagoon, has been closed on and off due to the intermittent eruptions, and some guided outdoor activities in the Reykjanes peninsula have been unceremoniously canceled.

The Blue Lagoon's temporary closure is particularly significant, as tourists come to Iceland from all over the world to bathe in its medicinal, pearly-white hot springs and indulge in some pampering at the local spa. If only the lagoon did not find itself in the center of the seismic zone…

If the Reykjanes peninsula is affected, you can bet your bottom dollar that the Blue Lagoon will be off-limits.

While that's tragic for visitors, who'll miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime, bucket-list experience, it's further proof that Iceland takes no chances when it comes to the safety of tourists.

Safety Tips If You're Driving In Iceland During A Seismic Period

Iceland is also one of Europe's road trip hotspots.

It is incredibly common for tourists to rent cars to explore the island's volcanic sand beaches, winding fjords, and impressive glaciers, most of which are accessible only by car.

Roads in Iceland can be narrow, but they're usually in great condition , except when tremors lead to wide cracks . If you're driving in the country amid ongoing seismic moves, and there's an eruption warning in place, you must:

• Ensure you drive carefully as road conditions may change with no warning
• Track all the relevant seismic updates on the Iceland Met Office website
• Memorize the Icelandic Rescue Team's number in the event of an emergency (112)

Volcano Tours

Once again, other than the closure of certain attractions, tourists have nothing to be overly concerned about traveling to Iceland, even when eruption alerts are present, as the risk of these events disrupting travel as it did in 2010 remains low .

Volcanic activity is also (mostly) restricted to the Reykjanes peninsula, so you are truly unlikely to be affected unless you're touring this region specifically.

Ironically enough, it is home to the international airport, so it's best to check the status of your flight on the day of departure.

As menacing as they may be, volcanos are partly behind Iceland's tourism boom in recent months, with numerous tour operators offering hikes to volcanic sites from only $97 , and even helicopter tours over active volcanos for a whopping $594 .

Iceland is pretty safe, and the fact that volcano tours are currently offered only goes to show these are not exactly treated by locals as catastrophic episodes, but we definitely don't encourage you to go chasing volcanos by yourself (unless you're good at playing Floor is Lava).

Jokes aside, do not travel to eruption sites unless you're accompanied by an authorized tour guide.

When Will The Eruptions Subside?

Blunt as it may be, never .

As Iceland sits on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, cut through by the American and Eurasian tectonic plates, it experiences frequent volcanic activity, and that is unlikely to change in the future.

Earthquakes are common, and other significant geological events are expected at this point.

That is because the American and Eurasian plates are slowly moving apart by a few centimeters per year, while magma originating from the Earth's core fills the new existing gaps, so needless to say, no trip to Iceland will ever not be a bumpy ride.

Hey, at least you can walk a bridge spanning the gap from one continent to the other.

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

The post Is Iceland Still Safe To Visit For Travelers Amid Recent Eruptions? appeared first on Travel Off Path .