With an entire population of around 360 thousand people (and 60% of those citizens living in Reykjavík), Iceland is a delightfully bustle-free country that gives guests an intimate opportunity to see the natural world at its most authentic and most varied. From the zen-like calm of thermal pools to awesome sweeps of countryside formed of volcanic eruptions, the diversity of Iceland’s natural beauty is second to none. Step back in time as you visit sites that haven’t changed since the first Viking settlers arrived here 1,100 years ago. Iceland is widely known as a nation steeped in mythology and folklore and when you visit you will quickly understand why this very special country continues to excite the imagination of locals and visitors alike. Join us as we outline 5 of the most incredible natural phenomena you should be sure to visit on your trip. And before you begin, be sure to check out our Golden Circle Tours in Iceland. Or, if you have always wanted to experience the Aurora Borealis, why not consider our Iceland Northern Lights Tours.
Volcanoes in Iceland
With some 30 active volcanic systems across the island, Iceland’s volcanoes have erupted a third of the world’s total lava output over the past 500 years. Volcanoes have shaped Iceland both geographically and culturally; they are at the heart of Iceland’s landscape and often occupy a prominent role in the country’s myths and legends. Visitors can explore volcanic sites in many parts of the country, with Snæfellsjökull being one of the most beautiful and easily accessible. Located on the Snæfellsnes peninsula, this 700,000-year-old glacier-capped volcano can be hiked and many local companies will offer guided tours. The volcano is also famous for featuring in Jules Verne’s Journey to the Centre of the Earth.
Another notable volcanic option would be the Westman Islands which saw the eruption of the Eldfell volcano in 1973; today you can walk around the area some of the inhabitants were forced to abandon during the eruption. This is a stark glimpse of the devastating force an eruption can bring. Finally, consider enjoying a once-in-a-lifetime experience at the dormant Thrihnukagigur volcano and take an elevator into the volcano’s magma chamber — a unique and unforgettable attraction.
Seeing The Northern Lights in Iceland
No list of Iceland’s natural phenomena would be complete without mentioning the Northern Lights. This breathtaking sight is the sole reason that many visitors decide to make the trip to Iceland. A cosmic light show resulting from solar winds causing disturbances in the magnetosphere, the northern lights are a spellbinding experience that will forever remain with you. This phenomenon is most likely to be seen during the darkest months of the year, so do plan your visit between September and March. But be aware that you are not guaranteed to see the lights during your stay—we like to think its unpredictability is a part of the magic, making the spectacle all the more special when it arrives.
Iceland’s Great Glaciers
Iceland is known as the ‘land of fire and ice’, so when you are done with exploring volcanic sites, you have to then visit some of the country’s mighty glaciers and ice caves. Extending from the mountains at Vatnajökull, the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier is a sight of extraordinary beauty. Take a tour and wander through ice caves inside the glacier that have been created by flows of water tunnelling through the ice cap. You will be struck by the intense blue colours found inside the caves, the space seems to glow. It’s no surprise that this magical location has been used as a location for many films and tv shows.
Iceland’s Famous Hot Springs
You’re on holiday, so don’t spend your entire trip trekking across the hills and glaciers of Iceland. Take time to do as Icelanders do and relax in a geothermal pool. Heated naturally by the volcanic systems bubbling under Iceland’s surface, these pools will warm and relax you as their high mineral content works wonders for your skin. Visiting hot springs is a central part of Icelandic culture and you will find various types of public and private sites for bathing as you travel around the country — from the tourist-heavy, but picture-perfect, Blue Lagoon just outside of Reykjavik, to local municipal pools exclusively populated by locals. Whichever part of the country you find yourself in, look out for signposted pools and be sure to try them out for yourself. This is a slice of authentic Icelandic life, and the restorative power of lolling around in the waters will ensure you’re suitably rested before your next adventure.
Iceland’s Waterfalls
Boasting hundreds of magnificent waterfalls, visitors to Iceland could dedicate their entire trip to exploring the country’s waterfalls and they wouldn’t come close to exhausting all the beautiful spots scattered throughout the island. Iceland’s waterfalls conjure images of ancient kings, trolls, and fairy-folk. Famous sites such as Kirkjufell have recently featured in Hollywood productions such as the TV series Game of Thrones. It is tricky and arbitrary to pick a single waterfall that should rank above others, but Skógafoss should be considered for any Iceland itinerary. Legend has it that a Viking hid his looted treasure behind its falls and on sunny days visitors will often get to see two rainbows glowing across the face of the waterfall.
So ends our run-through of natural phenomena you should not miss on your visit to Iceland. And there is so much we didn’t even mention! We hope you have enjoyed these ideas and that you are feeling inspired to begin planning your trip to Iceland. If you have any comments or questions for us, we would love to hear from you, contact us here.