Iceland has evolved from a hidden gem to a hotspot in the span of just a few years. Its position midway between Europe and North America has also helped it become a top-rated travel destination.
With so much breathtaking scenery and unparalleled natural beauty to discover in Iceland, it can get overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors.
That’s why I compiled my list of the Top 10 Things to Do & See In Iceland. This is the second installment in the 2-part Series. You can read Part 1 here.
Whale Watching
With 24 whale species—from the enormous blue whale to the gentle & tiny harbor porpoise— Iceland’s territorial waters rank as one of the world’s top whale-watching destinations.
The unique mixture of cold ocean water and warm currents off Iceland’s coast creates the perfect conditions for zooplankton and krill to flourish.
This makes it a bountiful feeding ground for hungry different Cetacea (whales and dolphins).
So, when is the best time to view whales?
Some whale species, such as the white-beaked dolphins, orcas, minke whales and harbor porpoises, are perfectly adapted to cold water temperatures and can therefore be seen year-round on the Icelandic coast.
However, other species such as blue whales and humpback whales, migrate during the winter. During summer, between April and September, you stand a higher chance of spotting the most species of whales. Also, you don’t have to battle Arctic winds and biting temperatures on the ship’s deck.
On the other hand, whale watching in the winter months comes with the bonus of beautiful and stark scenery, snow-capped mountains and smaller crowds on the ships.
Whatever time you choose, you’ll find tours year-round that give you a chance to experience rare whale sightings that will leave you in awe.
Blue Lagoon Spa
The Blue Lagoon, or “Bláa Lónið” in Icelandic, is a geothermal spa found on the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwest Iceland. It’s a fifteen-minute drive from Keflavík International Airport or a thirty-minute drive from Reykjavík.
With enchanting milky waters set against a dramatic backdrop of black lava fields, it has earned its spot as one of National Geographic’s 25 wonders of the world. The moody plumes of steam curling around lichen-topped rock formations make the experience even more magical.
The soothing geothermal waters are not only perfect for a relaxing soak, but they are also believed to have healing properties for skin disorders such as psoriasis.
Bathing in the Blue Lagoon is a great way to recharge after a long flight or action-packed holiday! That’s why many visitors—particularly those on guided packages and self-drive tours— choose to go there straight on arrival to Iceland or right before departure.
Today, the Blue Lagoon is more than a natural geothermal spa. This popular travel destination is operated as a spa resort and visitors have the option to bathe in the main Blue Lagoon pool as well as book special spa treatments.
There are also a variety of dining and lodging options such as the Silica Hotel or The Retreat Hotel.
It’s important to note that the Blue Lagoon has a maximum capacity, so make sure to book a reservation in advance to avoid being turned away at the door!
West Fjords
The Westfjords are one of Iceland’s most spectacular and under-visited regions. Poking out from the northwestern corner of the country, its relative isolation has guarded many of its treasures in pristine condition.
Highlights of this beautiful landscape include the breathtaking Hornstrandir nature reserve in the far north, the haunted and historical Hólmavík in the east and the golden shores of Rauðasandur.
You also have the dizzying Látrabjarg bird cliffs in the southwest and the exquisite Dynjandi waterfall towards the center.
Despite the Westfjords’ reputation as a far-flung paradise, a flight from the capital will have you there in as little as 40 minutes!
Once you get there, The Westfjords offer countless opportunities for outdoor adventures. The hiking is, of course, incredible. Feeling adventurous? You should also try abseiling, climbing, paragliding, mountain biking, kayaking, sea angling, or even scuba diving in the clean ocean water.
Alternatively, those who prefer a more relaxed pace will appreciate picturesque golf courses, whale watching tours, and tranquil geothermal pools. And, of course, in winter, you’ll find some of Iceland’s best ski slopes in Ísafjörður, which has both downhill and cross-country ski areas.
Skogafoss
Only a few miles away from the south shores of Iceland lies the village of Skógar along the Southern Ring Road. This famous summer resort center is home to Skogafoss, Iceland’s most scenic waterfall. Skogafoss comes directly from two towering snow-capped glaciers, Eyjafjallajokull and Myrdalsjokull.
Legend has it that in the year 900 AD, an early Viking settler named Þrasi (Thrasi) Þórólfsson hid his chest of gold under Skógafoss. To date, many have tried, but no one has found the treasure chest yet.
Standing at 197 ft tall, Skogafoss envelops any visitor who gets close enough in a cloud of spray. If the sun conditions are favorable, one can see a vivid single or double rainbow in front of the waterfalls.
If you climb to the observatory deck at the top of Skogafoss waterfall, you’ll be rewarded with a sublime view of the surrounding landscape and South Iceland’s coastline. A great hike – to say the least!
Silfra
Silfra is a crack in the Earth created in 1789 by the movement of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. This fissure cut into the underground spring filled with glacial meltwater from the nearby Langjökull glacier. Water slowly traveling underground through the porous lava fields takes 30-100 years to reach the spring that feeds into Silfra. The long filtration process results in freshwater that is so clear and pure that you can easily take a sip during your dive.
Although fish seldom venture far into Silfra fissure, there is a lot of colorful marine algae, including the famous bright green “troll hair.”
Providing over 300 ft of underwater visibility, diving or snorkeling in Silfra is unmatched anywhere else in the world.
This fantastic diving spot is located in Thingvellir National Park. It offers three main dive sites: Silfra Hall, Silfra Cathedral and Silfra Lagoon.
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If you’ve been dreaming about visiting Iceland then you’ll want to download my Ultimate Guide to the “Land of Fire and Ice.” I’ve curated this comprehensive resource to spark your imagination and inspire your next adventure.
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PLAN A TRULY SPECIAL AND UNFORGETTABLE TRIP TO ICELAND
There is so much to see and do in Iceland! With all the incredible landscapes we’ve mentioned waiting to be discovered, some planning is crucial to make the most of your time.
But what if you don’t know where to start and what to include or not in your trip? Maybe you already have a good idea but are looking for ways to make your trip extra special.
That’s where I come in! As a personal travel advisor, I can customize your trip to exactly what you envisioned. This will give you peace of mind knowing that all the details have been worked out ahead of time.
All you have to do is get on a plane, travel to Iceland and enjoy an unforgettable experience! If that sounds like something you would like, click here to request a free consultation with me.