Overview
Situated in the North Atlantic ocean, Iceland is bursting with natural wonders and few people – it’s the most sparsely populated country in Europe. Interestingly, the name ‘Iceland’ is a bit of a misnomer – with only about 10% of it covered by glaciers while the rest has a fairly mild climate and plenty of hot springs and thermal pools. As such ‘The Land of Fire & Ice‘ is a more apt name, embracing Iceland’s active volcanoes, geothermal hot spots, spouting geysers, glistening glaciers and brooding icecaps. This Iceland travel guide serves as a helpful guide to Iceland for travellers seeking dramatic landscapes, geothermal wonders and unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Iceland is also known for the amazing northern lights during the winter months and beautiful summer midnight sun. Wildlife lovers can enjoy summer puffin watching and year round whale watching. Seek out puffins from May to August when they’re nesting in places like Dyrholaey and Latrabjarg, as well as other seabirds swarming around sea cliffs such as razorbills, gannets, kittiwakes, fulmars, Arctic terns and guillemots. Lake Myvatn is home to a wealth of birdlife; red throated diver and ducks such as the harlequin and Barrow’s goldeneye. Popular things to do in Iceland include glacier hiking, whale watching and joining northern lights Iceland tours during the winter season. For nature enthusiasts, discovering the unique wildlife in Iceland is a major highlight of visiting the country.
As for cetaceans, Iceland is a hotspot with over 20 species from harbour porpoise and white-beaked dolphin to orca, minke, fin, sperm, humpback and blue whales. West Iceland is one of the best places to see killer whales feeding on winter shoals of herring (Feb-Mar) – you can get some impressive sightings if you’re lucky, from both sea and land! Peak season for seeing whales is April to September when boat cruises depart from Husavik, Olafsvik and Reykjavik, amongst others, in search of dolphins and whales.
Snæfellsjokull National Park is home to a 700,000-year-old stratovolcano with a glacier covering its summit, while its coastal region contains a variety of birdlife, especially during the breeding season, and is an excellent spot for whale watching – visitors might see the white-beaked dolphin, humpback whale and seals. Much of the of the area is a lava field covered in moss which supports over 130 species of plants.
Vatnajökull National Park, the largest national park in Europe, covers approximately 14% of Iceland and encompasses Iceland’s highest mountain (Hvannadalshnúkur), largest glacier (Vatnajökull), and Europe’s most powerful waterfall (Dettifoss). In addition, the park also boasts striking scenery ranging from glaciers and rivers to volcanoes and canyons. Visitors can expect to spot many species of birds, as well as Arctic foxes and reindeer. Activities include hiking the high peaks, walking trips and volcano safaris.
Situated in the south, Thingvellir National Park is Iceland’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, situated in a rift valley where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge – there are very few places on earth where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge can be seen on land. In Thingvallavatn Lake, the largest natural lake in Iceland, the water is crystal clear with visibility ranging from 90-120 meters at times, perfect for snorkelling and diving.
FAQ - Safari in Iceland
First-time visitors to Iceland often enjoy glacier hikes, whale watching, geothermal lagoons and northern lights tours. Exploring waterfalls, volcanoes and national parks also offers unforgettable scenery and outdoor adventure.
The best time to see the northern lights in Iceland is from September to March, when nights are longest and skies are darkest. Guided winter tours improve your chances of viewing the aurora in remote locations.
Whale watching in Iceland is available throughout the year, although peak viewing season is typically from April to September. Popular departure points include Reykjavik, Husavik and Olafsvik for sightings of whales and dolphins.
Vatnajökull, Thingvellir and Snæfellsjökull are among the best national parks in Iceland. Visitors can explore glaciers, volcanoes, lava fields, waterfalls and diverse wildlife while enjoying hiking and sightseeing activities.
Wildlife in Iceland includes puffins, Arctic foxes, seals, whales, dolphins and migratory seabirds. Nature lovers visiting Iceland’s coastlines and national parks can enjoy exceptional birdwatching and marine wildlife experiences.
Iceland is ideal for outdoor travellers seeking glacier walks, volcano tours, hiking and snorkelling adventures. Its dramatic landscapes and unique geological features create memorable experiences in every season.
A 7 to 10-day Iceland travel itinerary allows enough time to explore waterfalls, glaciers, wildlife areas and scenic coastal routes. Travellers can also include whale watching, geothermal spas and northern lights excursions.
