There are many things to see and do in Iceland: active geysers, natural parks, waterfalls, canyons, lagoons, volcanoes and glaciers. This country is an explosion of nature wherever you go, besides having beautiful fairytale villages where you can lose track of time.
What to see in Iceland
The good news is that everything, or almost everything important to see in Iceland, is easily reachable if you take the Ring Road 1 circular route, which runs around the entire country. Departing from Reykjavik you can drive all the way around Iceland. The main sights are accessible from this simple two-lane road.
Let’s see what are the places you can’t miss during your visit to Iceland, take note of the following recommendations:
The Great Geysir
Undoubtedly, this geyser is one of the must-see things to see in Iceland, in fact, it is the largest in the world. However, due to human stupidity, this incredible work of nature has stopped gushing water. Tourists, by throwing stones and objects have collapsed it.
However, if you want to see a geyser in action, you can visit the Strokkur, this one is still active, and its boiling water jet can reach 20 meters high. To get to both geysers you have to go to Laugarfjall hill in the Haukadalur valley.
Landmannalaugar
Within the Fjallbak Natural Park, is this incredible trekking route, considered one of the most beautiful in the world. You can do it in a day trip, or take it easy and spend 3 to 4 days. The route goes from Landmannalaugar to the Borsmork glacier, along 55 kilometers.
This excursion is one of the things you have to do in Iceland at least once, but keep in mind that you can only access it during the summer.
Seljalandfoss Waterfall
This famous waterfall is so impressive that you will not be able to stop photographing it. In addition to the waterfall, if you go around it you can see an incredible cave. If you climb to the top of the waterfall, the views are truly breathtaking.
Other waterfalls that you can also see taking advantage of the visit to the previous one, are those of Skógafoss, with more than 60 meters high. And also Gljufurarfosss, more unknown but also worth discovering.
Dyrholaey Arch
The stone arch of Dyrhólaey can be seen during your visit to the beach of Reynisfjöru. From there you can also climb the Reynisfjall headland cliff, home to thousands of puffins, beautiful birds that live in Iceland during spring and summer.
You can take advantage of the excursion to visit the beautiful village of Vik and see the whole area, which is a protected nature reserve. If you go in May and June, in addition to the puffins, you can see Arctic gulls, fulnars and other birds typical of the area.
Fjadrárgljúfur Canyon
Of all the things to see and do in Iceland, skirting the Fjadrárgljúfur Canyon is a must. For two kilometers you can walk along the left flank of this hundred-meter deep canyon covered in deep green.
At the end of the trail, you can see how several waterfalls pour their waters into the bottom of the great colossus. To enjoy all its splendor, we recommend a visit during spring and autumn.
Vatnajökull Glacier
This glacier is the largest in Iceland and ranks second in size in Europe. Its 8,100 square kilometers are home to an average of 400 meters of ice, and can even reach 1000 meters, so you can get an idea of the magnitude.
On the same visit, you can also see the three glacial lagoons of Jökulsárlón, Breidárlón and Fjallsárlón. The three lagoons are really spectacular, and are home to colonies of seals that, although not usually visible, maybe you are lucky and you can photograph them. Of course, always respecting their natural habitat and without contributing to the deterioration of the landscape.
Seydisfjördur
An essential place to see in Iceland is this little fishing village, which has one of the most famous harbors in the country. Here you can sample Icelandic culinary specialties, especially fish as you would expect.
Its location in the eastern fjords of the country, and its mere 676 inhabitants, make this town a truly endearing place. Its colorful houses give it a charming bohemian air.
Volcanic area of Hverir
We continue with the obligatory places to see in Iceland and we find this volcanic area next to the hill of Námafjall. Before your eyes will unfold a succession of impossible colors, huge craters, fumaroles and large clouds of sulfur.
To enjoy the whole spectacle, we advise you to follow the path that ascends to the top of the hill, and then down to the starting point, which takes about two hours. The views from the top of the mountain encompass the entire volcanic area as well as Lake Myvatn.
And to finish with everything to see and do in Iceland, what better than to immerse yourself in the relaxing and healing waters of the Blue Lagoon. This geothermal spa, located on the Reykjanes peninsula, is only 39 km. from Reykjavik. A spectacular end to a trip for a country you will never forget.
