An Island of Fire & Ice

Iceland is definitely not on everybody’s top travel destination list but it is slowly becoming one of the must-visit countries due to its unique scenery, mild climate, and lots of geothermal activity. It is simply one of the best places to see and experience, being the world’s 18th largest island with spectacular Icelandic landscapes of glaciers and volcanoes.

I have only seen photos online and heard about Iceland and all its splendor from travel blogs so I’m sharing these 5 reasons why Iceland is a must-visit for those who want to experience an exciting outdoor adventure and see the raw beauty of nature.

1. The Aurora Borealis aka Northern Lights

Witnessing the Northern Lights in Iceland by late August to early April is a pure chance or luck, but when you do, time spent waiting for it is really worth it. Iceland is an optimal destination for these dancing lights. To increase your chances of catching this mystical natural phenomenon, you must plan in advance (book or and stay for more than 5 days, or maybe longer. You may book a bus or a super-jeep tour, take a boat cruise,  or go to a popular viewing spot – Grotta Lighthouse – in Reykjavik, Iceland’s largest city, and capital.

2. The Blue Lagoon & other Natural Pools

Who doesn’t want to relax and rejuvenate in a hot spring after an exhausting work week? In Iceland, the Blue Lagoon is considered the most visited geothermal hotspot in the country. With its blue, almost milky waters with healing & anti-aging properties, it is the most popular hot spring in the island. But there are also a number of natural pools around the capital (some are hidden) that should be checked out as well such as Reykjadalur Steam Valley and Gamla Laugin aka The Secret Lagoon, the oldest swimming pool in Iceland.

Hot springs come in all shapes and sizes. Some geothermal spas are free of charge while some need booking in advance. Where you would like to take a dip and relax heavily depends on your budget. 

3. The Colossal Glaciers

According to Wikipedia, lakes and glaciers cover 14.3% of Iceland’s surface. For outdoor enthusiasts, it is recommended to take a glacier tour. Glacier hiking, glacier climbing, and ice cave tours take your Iceland adventures to a whole new level. 

You might want to consider these top 5 glaciers in Iceland and pay them a visit on your next Icelandic trip: Vatnajökull (the water glacier), Mýrdalsjökull (the glacier of the ‘mire valley’), Langjökull (the long glacier), Snæfellsjökull (the snowfall glacier) and Eyjafjallajökull (the island mountain glacier). It’s always a wise decision to take a trained guide with you when you go to these massive glaciers and snow mountains.

4. The Whales, Puffins, & Icelandic Horses

Iceland is home to many whale species. It’s best to go there during the summer months, from April through September, to watch some Orcas, Minkes, Humpbacks, and Blue Whales swimming in the freezing waters. However, whale watching tours in Reykjavik are operated all year so you can add it to your itinerary whenever you visit the island.

Puffin watching tours are also becoming popular in Iceland. In order for you to spot some cute puffins, plan a visit to one of these places from early April until September each year – Vestmannaeyjar, Lundey – Akurey, Látrabjarg, Vigur Island, Dyrhólaey, Papey, Tjörnes, and Grímsey.

Did you know that you can get a horseback riding tour? Aside from sightseeing and riding through excellent trails, you get to meet the only breed of horse in Iceland, the beautiful Icelandic horses. They’re small with sturdy builds and heavy coats. The Icelandic horses are also intelligent and friendly.

5. The National Parks

You should never miss visiting Iceland’s 3 national parks for their cultural and historical significance: Vatnajökull National Park, Snæfellsjökull National Park, and Þingvellir National Park.

The Vatnajökull National Park is divided into 4 areas or territories – North, East, South, and West. It has a variety of landscape features such as glaciers, rivers, and volcanoes. Hikers often come here to experience its geothermal activity.

Snæfellsjökull National Park or Snow-Fell Glacier is an old snow-capped stratovolcano which became famous since it was featured in the novel Journey to the Center of the Earth by Jules Verne.

Þingvellir or Thingvellir National Park is a key attraction of the Golden Circle and is the first national park in Iceland after a legislation in 1928.

Iceland’s scenery is simply stunning but what makes it more appealing is the fact that it is “strong performer” in environmental protection. Imagine visiting a place wherein the natural beauty has been preserved and well taken cared of. Iceland is definitely a must-experience not only for travel junkies but also to those who are starting to explore the world.

Published: 2018-07-23 17:26:02