Iceland, the land of volcanoes and geysers, offers many dream destinations for travelers. We have picked out a few. Most tours can start as a day trip from the capital city of Reykjavik .
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
This day tour departs from Reykjavik. It leads to the beautiful Snæfellsnes Peninsula, which enchants with breathtaking landscapes, volcanic peaks, golden beaches, sea cliffs and sparkling fjords. Worthwhile and included in the program are visits to charming fishing villages such as Arnarstapi, Grundarfjordur and Hellnar. They are surrounded by spectacular mountains and volcanic craters such as Ljósufjöll and Kirkjufell. Other attractions include the black sand beach of Djúpalónssandur, the majestic glacier of Snæfellsjökull, the Black Church in Budir, and the seals off Ytri Tunga beach. The region was the model for Jules Verne’s “Journey to the Center of the Earth”.
Golden Ring
The Golden Ring, better known internationally as the Golden Circle (Icelandic: Gullni hringurinn), takes travelers to three famous landmarks:
- Thing site Þingvellir (German also Thingvellir)
- Great Geyser
- Gullfoss waterfall (“golden waterfall”, eponymous for the Golden Ring)
No Iceland traveller misses the tour to the Golden Ring. There are many guided tours from Reykjavik, but it is also possible to travel by car. The fascination of the Golden Ring is revealed by magnificent natural spectacles such as the lakes, waterfalls and geysers there, but also by the knowledge of the cause of the forces of nature: There, in the southwest of Iceland, the Eurasian and North American continental plates meet, which leads to constant geological activity. These can be experienced up close on the crater rim of the Kerið volcano.
Blue Lagoon (Bláa Lónið)
The Blue Lagoon thermal outdoor pool draws its heat from geothermal energy. It is located not far from Reykjavik at Keflavik Airport and is so busy that tickets must be booked in advance. While it’s the most famous, it’s not the only thermal bath of its kind: the Sky Lagoon recently opened in Reykjavik, as well as the Secret Lagoon and the Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths. Bathing in the warm to hot water from the earth is simply part of a trip to Iceland!
South coast of Iceland
Iceland’s south coast of Iceland is a highlight not to be missed. From Reykjavik, it can be reached on a day trip. Here, too, there is a black sand beach called Reynisfjara, as well as the famous Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, the original village of Vik and the Sólheimajökull glacier. Guided tours are offered in minibuses, which is very advantageous.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach
Right next to the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is Diamond Beach, both places are absolutely worth seeing. However, they are so far away from the capital Reykjavik that it is advisable to spread the tour there over two days. The time of year also plays a role, as Icelandic summer days are very long due to their geographical location, while winter days are quite short. A tour in summer is therefore more recommended. With enough time, you can also visit an ice cave in this region.
Whale Watching in Iceland
Whale watching can be seen in several Icelandic locations, which is an incredible spectacle. This is possible directly in Reykjavik, in Husavik in northern Iceland and in other places. Since most travelers arrive in Reykjavik, this is often the first attraction on the island for them. The best time for the whales is the months of April to September. They are best seen in Husavik, although the whale watching tour in Reykjavik is the most popular because of its proximity to the quarters. Big whale safaris are offered on boats that can be combined with puffin tours. The latter can also be booked separately. The puffins are only found in the North Atlantic and the western Arctic Ocean. The exceptionally beautiful birds are now considered endangered.
Snorkeling Tours in Silfra Fissure
The Silfra fissure is a kilometre-long fault under the sea. It can be seen in the Þingvellir National Park. It is evidence that the Eurasian and North American continental plates are drifting apart, as the fissure is growing by 7 mm per year. Its deepest point is currently at a depth of 63 m below sea level. In addition to its status as a geological attraction, the depth of which can be guessed from the crystal-clear, light blue water, it is also one of the world’s most popular snorkeling areas.
Riding Icelandic horses
The Icelandic horses are small, but not ponies in terms of breed classification. The species has developed in Iceland in this way. The small, peaceful horses are good for riding, which is a popular activity for tourists. Most of the riding trips lead over the lava fields, which are worth seeing. Anyone can participate, because the tours are tailored to people with no or very little riding experience. Children also get along well on the small Icelandic horses.
Result
Iceland has a lot to offer. We have only picked out the most beautiful tours and experiences. Depending on the length of your holiday, there is much more to see!
