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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

Should you need any help planning your trip to Iceland, here is some inspiration:

Inspired by Iceland

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Hitting headlines, topping bucket lists, wooing nature lovers and dazzling increasing numbers of visitors – the talents of this breathtaking northern destination are seemingly endless.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Iceland. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Vatnajökull National Park

Vast, varied and spectacular, Vatnajökull National Park was founded in 2008, when authorities created a megapark by joining the 8300-sq-km Vatnajökull ice…

Snæfellsjökull National Park

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Snæfellsjökull National Park encompasses much of the western tip of Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and wraps around the rugged slopes of the glacier…

Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

The Westfjords

Craggy mountains, precarious sea cliffs and plunging waterfalls make up Hornstrandir, one of Europe’s last true wilderness areas, covering some of the…

Tumbling in a broad sweep over a 100m-rocky scarp at the head of Dynjandivogur bay, Dynjandi is the most dramatic waterfall in the Westfjords. The bumpy…

The Golden Circle

One of Iceland’s most famous tourist attractions, Geysir (gay-zeer; literally ‘gusher’) is the original hot-water spout after which all other geysers are…

Þingvellir National Park

The world’s oldest parliament, Althingi (pronounced ál-thingk-ee; also called Alþing) was uniquely situated at this monumental site where two tectonic…

Alþingi Site

Near the dramatic Almannagjá fault and fronted by a boardwalk is the Lögberg (Law Rock), where the Alþingi (Parliament) convened annually. This was where…

Tectonic Plates

The Þingvellir plain is situated on a tectonic-plate boundary where North America and Europe are tearing away from each other at a rate of 1mm to 18mm per…

Top picks from our travel experts

14 of the best things to do in iceland.

Eiríksstaðir Reconstruction

West Iceland

The farm Eiríksstaðir was home to Eiríkur Rauðe (Erik the Red), father of Leifur Eiríksson, the first European to visit America. Although only a faint…

North Iceland

The tiny rocky islet of Drangey (drown-gay), in the middle of Skagafjörður, is a dramatic flat-topped mass of volcanic tuff with 180m-high sheer…

Arctic Henge

The striking stone arches of Arctic Henge are the darling of many a brochure, and in real life they live up to the exalted mood. The massive stone circle…

Borgarbyggð

The Langjökull ice cap is the second largest glacier in Iceland, and the closest major glacier to Reykjavík. It's accessed from the 4WD Kaldidalur or…

More than 400 buildings lie buried under lava from the 1973 eruption, and on the edge of the flow ‘Pompeii of the North’ is a museum revolving around one…

Hekla Volcano

One of Iceland's most active volcanoes, Hekla stands at 1491m, and has erupted 20 times since 874, most recently in the year 2000. In a 4x4, it's possible…

Aurora Reykjavík

Learn about the classical tales explaining the Northern Lights, and the scientific explanation, then watch a 35-minute surround-sound panoramic high…

Dimmuborgir

Mývatn Region

The giant jagged lava field at Dimmuborgir (literally ‘Dark Castles’) is one of the most fascinating flows in the country. A series of nontaxing, colour…

Perlan's mirrored dome, designed by Ingimundur Sveinsson, covers huge geothermal-water tanks some 2km from the city centre. Inside, the Wonders of Iceland…

Hótel Rangá

Just south of the Ring Road, 8km east of Hella, Hótel Rangá, with its stuffed polar bear in the lobby, looks like a log cabin but caters to Iceland’s high…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

When traveling in Iceland, pay attention to its place names, you may even recognise one from the Icelandic sagas. Read on to find out how to learn more.

Things to Know

Plan the perfect visit to Iceland with these top tips on packing, the environment and local etiquette.

Transportation

It may be small but Iceland can be mightily difficult to get around. The scale and savagery of the landscape make traveling tricky – here's how to do it.

Visa Requirements

It depends on your citizenship. Read on to find out if you need a visa to visit Iceland, and more information if you do (and even if you don’t).

Money and Costs

Make your krónur go further in Iceland with these budget tips.

Traveling with Kids

Don't let Iceland's wild terrain fool you – there are lots of amazing attractions here for kids of all ages. Here's how to plan a family trip to Iceland.

Best Road Trips

Experience Iceland's incredible landscape and stunning small towns on one of our favorite Icelandic road trips.

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Experience the real Iceland

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

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Iceland and beyond

Drinks are on us!

Take the kranavatn challenge.

Kranavatn is a premium quality drink, totally fresh and also good for the environment. Its been in the making for thousands of years in our glaciers and filtered by endless lava fields.

Find great value for time

Make the most of your time in Iceland. Short distances and a great variety of activities and experiences means that you can pack more into your vacation time, and less in your suitcase.

It's that season

Northern lights.

The extreme dark of the Icelandic winter has a few perks. Between September and April, Iceland is treated to a magnificent natural display: the phenomenon of aurora borealis, or what we commonly call the Northern Lights.

Ice Climbing

When making a trip to Iceland, it is hard not to pay special attention to the country's namesake—namely, its 4,500 square miles of glacier.

Motorized Adventure

Incredible terrain to speed over, plenty of adrenaline-filled activities to choose from!

Plan your trip to Iceland

Find accomodation, restaurants, tours, etc. .

Try the hardest karaoke song in the world

We are challenging the world to sing the a-ö of Iceland in a musical journey across the country. Sing along with Steindi and share your attempt with us on social media. We can’t wait to see you all singing along! #singiceland

Iceland A to Ö

The darker months of Iceland is the time where creativity takes over

To celebrate the Season of Creativity we have collaborated with some of Iceland's pioneering minds, to develop a series of guides to creativity in Iceland!

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Experience Reykjavík

Plan your trip – go with feeling, popular sights & landmarks, stories from reykjavík, #visitreykjavik.

From waterfalls and wildlife to the contrast of icy glaciers and dramatic volcanoes, and the natural phenomena that will leave you speechless, there are countless reasons to visit Iceland .

Planning a trip to the Nordic country? Our travel guide contains up-to-date, personal information on everything from what to see , to when to visit , where to stay , and what to eat !

• General information
• What to see
• How to get there
• Getting around
• Where to stay
• Where to eat

Why visit Iceland?

Iceland's 40,000 square miles (103,000 square km) are home to all the natural wonders one can imagine: waterfalls , geysers , volcanoes , glaciers , natural hot springs, and even  bird and   whale watching . Its complicated climate and rugged geography mean that  its beauty has remained unchanged for centuries .

The country's immense wealth of nature contrasts with the tranquillity of its towns and cities, where even Reykjavik has no more than 130,000 inhabitants. This, in turn, has made Iceland the perfect place to delve into  ancient Viking legends and Nordic traditions , as in its quiet towns, time seems to have stopped centuries ago.

Tourism in Iceland has increased exponentially in recent years, and it has become the ideal destination for travelers wanting to  immerse themselves in Scandinavian history , venture into pure nature,  and enjoy unique experiences such as bathing in the Blue Lagoon while it snows , admiring the northern lights and even feeling like Jon Snow trekking on the Vatnajökull Glacier , which was one of the filming locations for Game of Thrones .

Where to start?

The gateway to the wonders of Iceland is Reykjavik , the country's capital. As well as discovering its culture, museums, and cuisine , you can enjoy a variety of excursions and activities nearby, as many of Iceland's main tourist attractions are located nearby, such as the Golden Circle or Snaefellsnes .

Looking for a place to stay?

Booking your accommodation in advance is the best way to get great discounts. Our detailed guide on where to stay in Iceland  will help you decide the best areas to look for hotels or apartments, and our hotel search engine will find you the best deals!

top activities

Látrabjarg & Raudasandur Day Trip Experience a day full of unforgettable landscapes with a trip to the Látrajarg cliffs and Raudasandur beach. You'll also get to meet the friendly puffins.

Perlan Museum Ticket With your ticket to the Perlan Museum , you can discover the origins of Iceland and visit its impressive planetarium - a must if you're in Reykjavik !

Skaftafell Ice Cave Tour & Glacier Hike Enter a world of ice and snow: discover the wonder of Iceland's mesmerising blue ice cave and hike over the enormous Vatnajökull Glacier . Unforgettable!

Reykjavik Tourist Bus The Reykjavik Hop-On Hop-Off Tourist Bus is a great way to explore the Icelandic capital and discover its important monuments at your own pace.

Secret Lagoon Ticket Relax in a natural pool surrounded by spectacular landscapes: spend a day at the  Secret Lagoon in Fludir  and make the most of Iceland's hot springs.

Reykjavik City Card Get the Reykjavík City Card and explore the most iconic places of Iceland's capital: museums, thermal pools and even a ferry ride!

Reykjavik Airport Shuttle Have a stressfree trip, and save money and time , by booking a shuttle bus transfer between Reykjavik and the city's airport.

Waterfalls and South Coast Tour Explore the South Coast of Iceland and discover spectacular volcanic landscapes and waterfalls sure to leave you breathless. Unmissable!

Golden Circle Tour Geysir Hot Springs, Gullfoss Waterfall, Thingvellir National Park... Discover the incredible natural landscapes of Iceland on this tour of the Golden Circle.

Godafoss Waterfall & Lake Mývatn Shore Excursion If you're arriving at Akureyri by cruise ship, an excursion to Godafoss Waterfall and Lake Mývatn is a must on any route through northern Iceland!

Vatnajökull Glacier Hike Enjoy hiking on top of Vatnajökull glacier, the largest glacier in Iceland . This incredible natural location is sure to take your breath away!

Silfra Snorkelling Experience Can you imagine snorkelling between two continents?  Dive into the Silfra fissure and swim between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

Langjökull Ice Cave Tour Explore Europe's second largest glacier and walk through tunnels dug into the ice to Langjökull cave - you'll trek more than three hundred metres under the ice!

Mývatn Thermal Baths Do you want to enjoy a relaxing day at a spa? The Mývatn thermal baths are a must in Iceland. You'll soak in warm waters as you admire the volcanic landscape. 

South Coast Tour: Glaciers and Waterfalls Discover the most spectacular landscapes in the country on this south coast tour, where you'll see waterfalls, volcanic plains and the Jökulsárlón glacier lake.

Blue Lagoon Tour The Blue Lagoon is one of the most visited places in Iceland. You'll soon realise why when you bathe in its volcanic waters on this tour from Reykjavik!

Shuttle Bus to the DC3 Plane Wreck Get up close to one of Iceland's most visited spots by hopping on our shuttle bus to the DC3 Plane Wreck on  Sólheimasandur Beach .

Reykjavik Food Tour Discover Iceland's most traditional recipes and indulge in a tasting of its most typical dishes on this mouth-watering food tour of Reykjavik .

Blue Lagoon & Northern Lights Tour Relax at the famous Blue Lagoon and see the incredible Northern Lights, one of the most spectacular natural phenomena in the world, on this tour from Reykjavik.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Tour A glacer lagoon, awe-inspiring waterfalls and a traditional village: explore the icy landscapes of southern Iceland on this day trip from Reykjavik .

Whale Watching in Húsavík Be captivated by the incredible Icelandic scenery and its wonderful marine life on this whale watching experience in Húsavík .

Katla Ice Cave Tour Head deep into the  ice cave of Iceland's Kötlujökull glacier , located on the spectacular Katla volcano. Enjoy this unique activity with a guide.

Icelandic Lava Show in Vík Immerse yourself in the natural phenomena of the Land of Ice and Fire enjoying the Icelandic Lava Show. Learn all about volcanoes in Vík!

Black Sand Beach Horse Riding Tour Enjoy a unique experience with this Black Sand Beach Horse Riding Tour. You'll experience a perfect day surrounded by Vikurjfara's most fascinating nature.

Mýrdalsjökull Glacier Snowmobile Tour Enjoy an unforgettable experience on this snowmobile tour around the Mýrdalsjökull glacier . You'll discover one of the most amazing spots on southern Iceland.

Northern Lights Tour Enjoy an unforgettable day with this tour which takes you to see the Northern Lights, one of the most spectacular natural sights in the world .

Reykjavik Fishing Trip Enjoy the unique experience of fishing off the coast of Reykjavik on this angling trip: climb aboard a boat and indulge in a delicious lunch too!

Diamond Circle Tour Travel through the north of Iceland and discover spectacular locations such as the Godafoss Waterfall and Reykjadalur with this  Diamond Circle Tour .

Enjoy one of the most spectacular natural phenomena in the world with this Northern Lights tour from Akureyri, a must if you are in Iceland!

Whale & Puffin Watching Be captivated by the majestic whales  and meet the friendly puffins  on this wildlife watching boat tour from Húsavík – an unmissable experience!

Vatnajökull Glacier Tour Enter the blue ice cave of the Vatnajökull glacier and find out how it was formed. This is a must-see location if you're in Iceland!

South Iceland Snowmobile Tour Feel like an explorer touring southern Iceland's glaciers on a snowmobile , discovering the island's most incredible waterfalls on an unforgettable adventure!

Reykjavik Craft Beer Tour Beer was banned in Iceland for 74 years, but luckily, it's not anymore!  Enjoy the taste of 10 Icelandic craft beers on this pub crawl of Reykjavik .

Lava Tunnel Tour Delve into a volcanic lava tube on this tour of the caves of Raufarhólshellir, one of the longest lava tunnels in Iceland, on this tour from Reykjavik.

Reykjanes Day Trip Mesmerising lakes, active volcanoes and the rift between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates: all this and more awaits you on Reykjanes Peninsula.

Sky Lagoon is Reykjavik's latest geothermal lagoon . Here you can admire an exceptional view of the North Atlantic while enjoying a relaxing thermal bath.

Hvammsvík Hot Springs This  Hvammsvík hot springs tour  is perfect if you're in Reykjavík and are looking for a less  touristy place to relax in the Icelandic nature .

Whale Watching in Akureyri If you love wildlife, don't miss this incredible whale watching cruise in Akureyri. Spend three hours searching for the majestic creatures in Eyjafjörður.

Godafoss Waterfall Guided Tour Enjoy one of Iceland's most impressive waterfalls while exploring its volcanic landscape with this Godafoss Waterfall Guided Tour from Akureyri.

Northern Lights Private Tour On this private Northern Lights tour in Akureyri, you'll go in search of this unique phenomenon with an exclusive guide – a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Whale Watching by Speedboat Hop aboard a speedboat with us and go on a whale-watching activity in Húsavík Bay . We'll see these incredible marine animals and the famous Icelandic puffins .

Golden Circle & Horse Riding Tour Immerse yourself in the rugged natural landscapes of Iceland's famed Golden Circle on this day trip from Reykjavik and enjoy a horseback riding tour!

Blue Mountains + Leidarendi Cave Quad Tour Enjoy the winter scenery with this quad bike tour through the Blue Mountains of Iceland and explore the depths of a lava cave!

Puffin Watching in Reykjavik Puffin watching is a must-do activity on your trip to Reykjavik . Cruise around the ruggedly beautiful Icelandic islands in search of the birds.

Snaefellsnes Day Trip The Snæfellsjökull National Park is famous for its impressive landscapes . Discover them on this day trip from Reykjavik!

Induldge your sweet side  on the sweet treats   tour in Reykjavik . We'll try the best  cakes, ice cream and chocolates in Iceland .

Godafoss & Lake Mývatn Day Trip Explore the craters of North Iceland and gaze upon one of the most stunning waterfalls in Europe on our  Godafoss & Lake Mývatn day trip .

Want to experience something unique? Enjoy flying over one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the south of Iceland on this paragliding activity in Vik!

Falljökull & Fjallsjökull Glaciers Hike & Boat Trip Discover two breathtaking spots and walk along a glacier tongueon our Falljökull & Fjallsjökull Glaciers Hike & Boat Trip.

Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike Have you ever dreamt of hiking on a glacier in Iceland ? Dare to embark on this unforgettable hike to the Sólheimajökull glacier . 

Explore the Sólheimajökull glacier on this kayak tour ! You'll admire the stunning Icelandic nature as you paddle through its icy waters.

Discover the secrets of Europe's second-largest glacier , on this tour of Lagjökull glacier ice cave . An unforgettable experience!

Whales of Iceland Ticket Immerse yourself in Iceland's aquatic world with this ticket to the Whales of Iceland exhibition . You'll discover all kinds of whales!

Whale Watching by Speedboat Enjoy the unique experience of  whale watching on a speedboat tour of Faxaflói Bay off the coast of Reykjavik. Get up close to the incredible creatures!

Private Tour of Reykjavik With this private tour of Reykjavik you will have a guide exclusively at your disposal, so you can discover the main monuments of the Icelandic capital .

On this rafting tour along the Hvita River , you'll get your adrenaline pumping surrounded by a breathtaking natural setting - rafting down a glacial river!

In this activity, you'll combine two of the most incredible experiences in Iceland,  snorkelling in Silfra Fissure and whale watching , all   in one day!

Silfra Snorkeling Tour On this trip to Thingvellir National Park ,   you'll enjoy one of the most incredible experiences in Iceland: snorkelling in the Silfra Fissure .

Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss Waterfalls + Sólheimajökull Glacier The Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls and the Sólheimajökull glacier await you on this tour from Reykjavík, three must-see places in southern Iceland!

Deildartunguhver & Vidgelmir Cave Tour On this tour to Deildartunguhver Spring & Vidgelmir Cave, we'll discover the largest lava grotto in Iceland and the fastest-flowing hot springs in Europe!

Geothermal Hot Springs Helicopter Tour in Hengill Join us and discover the geothermal area of Hengill from a  totally unique perspective on this  helicopter tour from Reykjavik .

On this activity, we'll enjoy a tour of the Golden Circle and drive a snowmobile around  Langjökull , the second-biggest glacier in Iceland.

Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel + Horse Ride On this activity, we'll enjoy a fun horse ride in the outskirts of  Reykjavik and visit the  Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel . You'll love it!

Snorkeling in Silfra Fissure + Horse Ride Calling all thrill-seekers ! Challenge yourself to a new experience that combines horseriding and snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure  while in Iceland!

Northern Lights Centre + Aurora Borealis Tour Come and have an  unforgettable experience  on this Aurora Borealis tour in Reykjavik . In addition, you can visit the  Northern Lights Centre .

Lake Mývatn Day Trip Explore a beautiful lake and its surroundings on this Lake Mývatn Day Trip . You'll venture to a volcanic region in northern Iceland!

Dettifoss, Húsavík, Lake Mývatn & Ásbyrgi Day Trip Visit incredible natural areas on our Dettifoss, Húsavík, Lake Mývatn & Ásbyrgi day trip  - one of the most famous routes in northern Iceland .

Day Trip to the Arctic Coast Want to see Iceland's famous black sand beaches and visit the villages of Siglufjörður and Hauganés ? Join us on this trip to the Arctic coast and Tröllaskagi.

Northern Lights Tour + Whale Watching This activity combines the main attractions of northern Iceland in winter: seeing the Northern Lights and going whale watching in the Eyjafjord!

Snowmobile around Lake Mývatn Enjoy an adventure-filled day in eastern Iceland on this thrilling snowmobile ride around Lake Mývatn as you take in breathtaking volcanic landscapes !

South Iceland Quad Bike Tour Explore a beautiful part of Iceland in a unique way with our South Iceland Quad Bike Tour. You'll see black sandy beaches, volcanoes and abandoned planes!

Vík Zipline On this  zipline activity in Vík , you'll have the chance to  fly over an impressive river canyon . What an exciting adventure!

Helicopter Ride over Skaftafell or Lakagigar Take a  helicopter tour  over the  landscapes of Skaftafell or Lakagigar , immersing yourself in the natural wonders of  Iceland's most beautiful national parks .

On this tour, experience the crystal clear waters of the  Silfra fissure as you snorkel between 2 continents and relax at the  Laugarvatn Fontana spa . 

Solheimajokull Ice Climbing & Glacier Hike Fasten your harness and crampons and join us on this ice climbing and hiking activity on the Sólheimajökull glacier – a unique and thrilling experience!

Whale Watching in Hauganes Discover the wildlife of northern Iceland on this whale watching boat trip in Hauganes. You'll be captivated by the incredible animals here!

Patreksfjördur & Tálknafjödur Fjords Hike Discover two of Iceland's most breathtaking fjords and see incredible views on this Patreksfjördur and Tálknafjödur Fjords Hike !

Raudasandur Day Trip Visit one of Iceland's best beaches on this Raudasandur Day Trip . You'll see breathtaking Icelandic scenery and walk along Raudasandur's famous red sand!

Dynjandi, Arnarfjördur & Bíldudalur Day Trip Explore Dynjandi, Arnarfördur, Bíldudalur and many more incredible places in the Westfjords on this day trip. You'll have an unforgettable day!

On this jeep tour through the winding Icelandic roads of the  Westfjords , we'll take you to the cliffs of Látrabjarg and the iconic beach of Raudasandur .

Whale Watching Sail the coast of Iceland, and marvel at the whales of the North Atlantic in their natural habitat, seeing these impressive mammals up close .

Reykjavik Sightseeing + Golden Circle Tour Make the most of your time in Reykjavik and enjoy a day trip that includes a  city sightseeing tour and a visit to th e Golden Circle all in one day!

Golden Circle and Northern Lights Tour This tour combines the famous Golden Circle and an excursion that will take you to see the stunning Northern Lights , discovering Iceland's main attractions.

Reykjavik City Tour On this Reykjavik city tour, you'll learn about the history and see the most important corners of the Icelandic capital of today on board a comfortable minibus

Landmannalaugar Day Trip Vibrantly colourful mountains, hot springs and volcanic landscapes: discover the incredible Icelandic Highlands on this day trip to Landmannalaugar.

Northern Lights Cruise No trip to Reykjavik would be complete without seeing the incredible Northern Lights. Enjoy a tranquil boat cruise to watch this magical natural phenomena!

Northern Lights & Laugarvatn Fontana Spa Tour Experience two of Iceland's most popular attractions: enjoy its goethermal waters at the Laugarvatn Fontana Spa and see the magical Northern Lights!

Silfra Snorkelling & Golden Circle Tour Snorkel between two continents at Silfra and explore the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland on this unmissable tour of the Golden Circle from Reykjavik .

Reykjavik Christmas Tour Get into the Christmas spirit on our  Reykjavik Christmas tour . Iceland's capital is filled with craft stalls, towering trees and twinkling lights.

Explore the captivating highlands of Iceland with a journey to Kerlingaföll and a visit to the geothermal wonders of Hveravelli on this  trip from Reykjavik .

Whale & Dolphin Watching under the Midnight Sun Can you imagine anything more magical than seeing whales and dolphins swimming in the waters around Iceland under the incredible light of the midnight sun​? 

Northern Lights Jeep Tour Leave city lights behind and go in search of one of the most breathtaking sights you can see on our Northern Lights Jeep Tour.

Make the most of your stay in Akureyri and hike the Askja volcano . We'll admire the beautiful scenery of the wildest nature in the north of Iceland !

Game of Thrones Tour On this  Game of thrones tour  from  Akureyri​ you'll visit the  the places where the popular HBO series 'Game of Thrones' was filmed   in Eastern Iceland.

Askja Volcano Day Trip Delve into the Icelandic wilderness on this day trip to the Askja Volcano: marvel at the stunning natural landscapes and bathe in steaming hot springs.

Eco Boat Whale Watching Have an incredible whale watching experience in the most ecologically responsible way on this  carbon-neutral tour in Húsavík .

Whale Watching by Sailboat Sail around the coastline of northern Iceland by schooner in search of magnificent sea creatures on this whale watching sailboat trip from Husavik .

Silfra Snorkelling & Northern Lights Tour On this activity, we'll snorkel in the Silfra Fissure then head to the  Thingvellir National Park to hopefully see the Northern Lights!

Jökulsárlón Glacier Kayak Tour Explore the glacial lagoon Jökulsárlón with this fantastic kayak tour. Discover one of the most fascinating places in Iceland.

Isafjordur Kayak Tour Discover the natural beauty of the Westfjords form a new perspective on this unforgettable kayak tour around Isafjordur Bay .

Hiking in the Westfjords Grab your walking shoes and immerse yourself in the ruggedly beautiful landscapes of the Westfjords on this guided hike from Isafjordur . 

On this tour of Isafjordur , you'll enjoy a day of sports like  kayaking and cycling . The stunning natural scenery will leave you breathless!

Raudasandur Seal Watching Spot the friendly creatures on the beach with this Raudasandur Seal Watching from Patreksfjordur. You'll be able to greet these friendly animals.

Látrabjarg Bike Tour Have an adventure in Iceland on this Látrabjarg Bike Tour . We'll cycle along the Látrabjarg cliffs, see puffins and visit the famous Raudasandur Beach!

Dynjandi & Kaldbakur Jeep Tour On this Dynjandi & Kaldbakur Jeep Tour , you'll see beautiful scenery as you travel along Iceland's rugged roads and have a thrilling adventure!

Join us and bike through the West Fjords on this bike tour of Tálknafjörður. We'll enjoy unforgettable landscapes while exercising

Why is our Iceland travel guide the best?

Introducing Iceland is a guide written by travelers for travelers , and contains personalized advice to help you make the most of your trip to the country. This guide will help you discover the main tourist attractions , what the typical dishes are, the best areas to stay , our Top 10 recommendations .

All the information in this guide is valid as of December 2022. If you find any errors or have any comments, please feel free to contact us .

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10-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland with Top Attractions & Snaefellsnes

9-day summer self-drive tour of the complete ring road of iceland with a focus on the south coast, epic 13-day self-drive tour of iceland's complete ring road with snaefellsnes peninsula & westfjords, 7-day self-drive tour of the complete ring road of iceland, top tours in iceland.

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Best Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull Glacier Starting from Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Inside the volcano thrihnukagigur tour with transfer from reykjavik, the katla ice cave tour, skaftafell glacier hiking tour on vatnajokull, 1-hour zodiac boat tour of jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, snowmobile tour on langjokull glacier with transfer from gullfoss waterfall, blue lagoon comfort ticket, snorkeling tour between continents in silfra with free underwater photos & snacks, top attractions in iceland.

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Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

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18 Things To Do & Places to Visit In Iceland

Best Attractions by the Ring Road of Iceland

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New Visit Iceland website

The Icelandic Tourist Board and Business Iceland, with support from the Ministry of Industry and the Ministry of Innovation, have been working on the restoration of VisitIceland.com in recent months. The website was introduced in connection with the Vestnorden travel conference that took place in Reykjanes this week. The site's content has been reorganized considerably, and information to tourists has been greatly improved, with increased material. The collaborative project on renewing the website is for three years, and the opening of the new page is just the beginning of that process. Continuous changes and improvements to the website may be expected in the coming years.

Changes on the web

Among the changes on the web is a newly added carbon calculator that enables tourists to calculate the carbon footprint in connection with the trip to Iceland and then to equalize their carbon footprint using the assistance of companies that specialize in it. The newly added feature can be seen, by clicking here . In addition, visitor numbers of popular tourist sites can be seen, making it easier for tourists to plan their trip and distribute visits better. It enhances the sustainability of destinations and improves the overall tourist experience. The visitor numbers can be seen here .

To support the project, the Icelandic Tourist Board hired four individuals to work in content creation, all over the country in jobs without a location. They will continue to build and improve the web in collaboration with other stakeholders. Articles from the web can be read below:

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Sea kayaking, one of the most exhilarating ways to experience antarctica, the arctic and beyond..

Sea kayaking holidays in the humbling wilderness of  Antarctica ,  the Arctic , and some of the world’s most biodiverse regions, are guaranteed to stir your soul. Paddle between brash ice and icebergs of all shapes and sizes, absorbing the majestic scenery as it unfolds before you. 

In Antarctica, keep your camera on-hand for unforgettable encounters with penguins, seals and whales, and occasionally leopard seals or orcas. In the Arctic, prepare to  paddle under nesting bird colonies, past massive glaciers and around large iceberg. 

Led by  experienced guides , you and your small group of like-minded adventurers will paddle between ice floes, brash ice and icebergs of all shapes and sizes. Paddling is one of the best ways to access and intimately explore the beautiful coastlines we visit and therefore make the most of your time in the wild and remote  destinations we visit . 

‘Getting out amongst it’ is our philosophy, and that is exactly what we do. Weather permitting, the sea kayaking activity is normally available anytime the other expeditioners go out. Rather than travelling large distances, our aim is to ensure you see as much as possible. We paddle between 5 to 15 kilometres (2 to 4 hours) per outing, often taking a snack and a flask of hot chocolate to enjoy on our excursion.

Each small group of kayakers (up to 10 per guide) will have their own intimate exploration of the small hidden bays and coasts that are inaccessible to Zodiacs. Of course, we also make time for your own shore excursions and wildlife encounters.

The elements play an important role in our sea kayaking program. It is important that you have an adventurous attitude and understand that the weather can impact our kayaking time.

For all of our trips, you must be active in the outdoors and have an adventurous spirit. The level of experience differs slightly depending on the region you are visiting.

For most temperate and polar you should be an intermediate paddler. In South Georgia however, conditions can be more varied and you require solid paddling experience in ocean swell and wind.

For our tropical trips some prior paddling experience is needed. We may encounter wind on these trips, however the water is fairly protected.

You do not need to be an expert or know how to roll. However, you must be able to swim and you should have experience in a wet exit and assisted re-entry. You should also be proficient at putting on a spray skirt by yourself and be comfortable paddling on seas with up to half a metre swell. It is also important that you gain some practice getting into a kayak from a pier, wharf, or deep shoreline where you can’t step into the kayak from standing position. You can easily practice all of this at home, plus paddling in a variety of weather conditions, before your trip. 

What about beginners up to the challenge?

Our guides do not offer instructional classes for beginners. Therefore, the sea kayaking option is unsuitable for complete novices. However, there is often ample time to gain the required experience before you depart. We may be able to recommend a reputable sea kayak operator in your area for some tuition prior to the trip.

Your guide will assess your ability on the initial paddle, and if you have insufficient experience, he or she reserves the right to restrict your participation in rougher conditions.

You should be fit enough to paddle for up to three hours and climb between moving Zodiacs on the water. Regular exercise is recommended, because the fitter you are the more you will enjoy the experience. The more paddles you can do before the trip, the better. We recommend at least three outings prior to your voyage.

Polar regions

During summer the air temperature in the Antarctic Peninsula, Greenland and Spitsbergen are generally above freezing but can range from -4°C to +5°C / 24.8°F to 41°F. The water temperature in the polar regions is close to freezing and winds sweep off the glaciers, making paddling a chilling experience. In South Georgia, there are stronger winds and swells than in Antarctica. Scotland, Iceland, Norwegian coasts are warmer with water temperatures of around 12 °C/ 53.6°F.

Temperate regions

The northern waters are warmer than the polar regions but water temperatures of around 12 °C/ 53.6°F mean you may opt to wear your paddle jacket on a warm, sunny day or our dry suits on a cool day. Surf landings are not likely, but you must be capable of paddling in a small swell or wind chop, with winds up to 20 knots. With that being said, we will not paddle if wind conditions are too strong and there is no sheltered area for paddling.

Tropical regions

In Costa Rica and Panama, April is the end of the dry season. The shoulder season begins in May, bringing increased humidity. Afternoon rain showers are possible in May with temperatures ranging from 26-36 °C (80- 96 °F). Winds are generally light at this time of year. The water temperature ranges from 27 -29 °C. Surf landings are not likely, but be prepared to paddle in a small swell or wind chop, with winds up to 15 knots. Again, we will not paddle if wind conditions are too strong and there is no sheltered area for paddling.

The Sea Kayaking activity is available for an additional surcharge and includes guided excursions and kayaking equipment. Fares for this activity start from US$900, AU$1,250, £460 or €550. 

Prices are indicative only and are variable. They are calculated based on the days of voyage, ability to carry out the activity and exchange rates.

Top reasons to choose a Sea Kayaking holiday

See wildlife unobtrusively

Kayaking is one of the best ways to spot rare wildlife, from penguins to puffins.

Better access

Access intimate bays and coves that bigger crafts can’t reach.​

Knowledgeable guides

Our experienced sea kayak guides will help bring your chosen destination to life.

Become an expert

Hone your kayaking skills and gain a hobby for life!

Make friends

Become lifelong friends with your small group of like-minded adventurers.

Stay fit on your holiday

Being active every day on your holiday means you don’t have to feel guilty about being spoilt by our expert chefs!

Enhance your experience

Add another layer to your once-in-a-lifetime holiday and make the most out of your time in some of the most remote places on earth.

Have the time of your life exploring some of the wildest places on earth from the water.

Aerial Adventure to Mount Askja: Helicopter Ride from Modrudalur

Our guide to paddler ratio is 1:10 and we provide an accompanying safety Zodiac. There are 26 places available in Antarctica and tropical voyages, 20 in temperate regions, South Georgia and all Arctic trips except in Franz Josef Land where the maximum is 16 kayakers.

Kayakers must be 14 or over.

Sea kayaking is offered in place of regular shore excursions. We aim to paddle as often as possible. Depending on the voyage, we generally aim to paddle twice per day.

We will give you a drybag for extra clothing, binoculars and anything that needs to be kept dry. You should also carry a water bottle. We recommend bringing a waterproof camera or phone, or ensuring you have a good quality waterproof case.

If the weather changes during our outing we will head back to the ship and perhaps join a shore excursion. The ship’s captain, expedition leader and kayak guide always maintain close contact to ensure a safe paddling experience. We do not attempt to paddle too far away from the ship. The emphasis is on experiencing the destination rather than travelling long distances.

The kayaks are made with a hard plastic and are easily paddled in swell and conducting shore landings, and through small patches of brash ice. We manoeuvre around the larger ice chunks and floes.

Kayaking in the poles offers a unique wildlife viewing experience. In Antarctica, we have many opportunities to encounter penguins, seals and whales, and occasionally we may even spot leopard seals or orcas. In the Arctic, we’ll paddle under nesting bird colonies, past massive glaciers and around large icebergs, however we maintain a safe distance from polar bears and walruses. Our guides carry rifles and flare guns in the Arctic to ensure your safety against polar bears.

Kayakers in wild temperate regions will have a unique wildlife experience, with possible encounters with seals and basking sharks. You will have the opportunity to view some of the largest sea bird colonies in the northern hemisphere.

The superb wildlife-viewing opportunities are endless in the astonishingly biodiverse nature reserves we visit. Kayaks offer a unique opportunity to view marine and land mammals, coral reefs, tropical fish, sea birds and an astonishing range of rainforest birds. We will bring our snorkelling gear with us during our paddles and take advantage of any opportunities to view marine life up close.

In the unlikely event of a capsize, your experienced guide will assist by righting the kayak, stabilising it then pumping it out. Paddlers will re-enter with the guide’s help, or with a support Zodiac. With drysuits and warm clothing underneath you will be comfortable in cold water for up to half an hour. Note that the kayaks have separate compartments with bulkheads, which means they will float after a capsize.

No. Each kayaking place is for one person only. Passengers are unable to share a kayaking place as we customise the kayaks and dry suits for each individual kayaker at the beginning of each voyage.

Balcony Stateroom Superior

Deck:  4 & 6

Cabin and balcony combined size:  29.2m² – 35.2m² (314.3ft² – 378.9ft²)

Private en-suite (wheelchair accessible)

Private balcony

Full size window

Closet space

Room-controlled thermostat

42″ flat-screen TV

Cabin Inclusion

• 1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)

Some of these rooms are equipped with wheelchair accessible bathrooms.

*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all cabins except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite

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 .

About Iceland

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A space-like odyssey

With all of its otherworldly experiences, a trip to Iceland will take your breath away. Not literally, though. We have oxygen.

Thinking of spending

$ 0 in space.

Here’s what that money would get you in Iceland.

Hopefully we convinced you Iceland is better than space. 

But if not, maybe you’ll listen to our billboard.

The otherworldly regions of Iceland

Iceland is commonly split into seven geographical areas, each one different from the others. They offer endless opportunities to experience something that is out-of-this-world.

Best of all, they don't require years of training or supplementary oxygen to visit. Are you ready to explore strange new worlds? Expand your universe with the top three otherworldly experiences from each region!

Inner-planetary exploration

With so much to see and do, you’ll be happy you can stay longer than 15 minutes.

Volcanoes of Iceland

Vatnajökull National Park

Diving and snorkeling in Iceland

Geothermal pools

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Empty Roads and Spewing Lava: 4 Months Into Iceland’s Eruptions

Volcanic eruptions are continuing in the Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland. Streets are empty and the Blue Lagoon resort remains closed.

The plume from a volcanic eruption as viewed from Route 41 near the town of Kalfatjorn in western Iceland on Wednesday. Credit...

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By Claire Moses

Photographs by Tony Cenicola

• March 29, 2024

The scene is as spectacular as it is dangerous: flowing rivers of shimmering lava and a dramatic plume of toxic gas.

That image has been the reality for much of the past four months in the Reykjanes Peninsula in southern Iceland, which the country’s tourism website has called a “geological wonder where lighthouses outnumber villages.”

A series of volcano eruptions began in December after hundreds of earthquakes shook the peninsula, cracking open a fissure that sent lava spewing into a residential neighborhood for the first time in more than four decades. The volcanic system has erupted several more times since then.

Grindavik, a fishing town of more than 3,500 people about 30 miles southwest of the country’s capital, Reykjavik, has been evacuated, and the nearby Blue Lagoon, a popular geothermal spa, has been largely closed since early November.

While much of life goes on in the rest of Iceland, the eruptions have had an effect beyond the peninsula, disrupting the tourism operations of a country that relies heavily on visitors .

Icelandair said it has seen a negative impact on bookings because of the threat of the eruptions. While the overall number of passengers carried by the airline in February increased compared to last year, the number flying to Iceland dropped by 8 percent, according to the airline.

While the eruptions continue, the situation has been “steady” this week, according to the Icelandic Meteorological Office, the country’s weather service. But lava continues to flow from three craters toward Grindavik, the service said.

The eruptions also produce high levels of gas pollution. The concentration of sulfur dioxide in the air is “very unhealthy,” according to the Met Office, which added that “people are likely to experience respiratory symptoms if exposed.”

The Blue Lagoon, a spa and hotel complex in Grindavik, is closed at the moment. It first temporarily shut its doors in November after thousands of earthquakes, signs of the impending eruption, hit the region.

The resort has reopened occasionally, but has been closed for more than 85 days since then, the hotel said in an email. It is currently on its sixth closure since Nov. 9.

Lava damaged several houses in Grindavik when it breached a defense wall that was supposed to route it away from the town.

Around the town, earthquakes caused cracks in the streets. Breaks in the roads have been filled with gravel.

The authorities continue to warn visitors to stay away from the eruption site. “The edges of the new lava field are unstable and large chunks of lava can fall suddenly,” the Met Office said.

Claire Moses is a reporter for the Express desk in London. More about Claire Moses

Tony Cenicola is a Times photographer. More about Tony Cenicola

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