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Iceland
Iceland is famous for its stunning landscapes of lava fields, towering mountains, waterfalls, volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, and glaciers. One of Iceland’s biggest highlights is the Golden Circle route, taking in the enormous waterfall of Gullfoss, famous geysers and Þingvellir National Park. More island highlights include the Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon, Diamond Beach, Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, and Dettifoss Waterfall. There are, in fact, about 20 plus waterfalls worthy of exploring, with some more challenging to get to than others. Volcanos are also prevalent with the constant volcanic activity, earthquakes, and thermal releases creating thermal pools where you can enjoy a relaxing soak. The capital, Reykjavik, is home to most Icelanders and also the jumping-off point for travellers. Another major highlight is the Northern Lights but you’ll need to visit from September to March, to make the most of the longer nights and darker skies.
Explore the Golden Circle route
See the Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon
Visit the cascading waterfalls
Traverse Iceland’s national parks
Spend a day in Reykjavík
See the Northern lights
Soak in a geothermal pool
Spot puffins at Dyrhólaey
See Reynisfjara beach
Explore the capital of Iceland
See a glacier up close
ICELAND WEATHER
Iceland experiences cool temperatures, and as its name suggests, there’s lots of ice, but you can sometimes wear a t-shirt and shorts in summer. During winter, the minimum temperatures drop on average to below freezing. In Reykjavik, the average summer temperature is around 13°C (55°F), while the maximum temperature in winter is approximately 0°C (32°F). Rainfall remains consistent throughout the year, with a monthly average of 25–50 mm. The good news is lots of rain equals lots of waterfalls.
TRAVEL TIPS
Bring a day bag with wet weather gear and clothes you can layer as the weather can be unpredictable. Even if the day starts out sunny, rain may set in later.
Budget more for costs, not less, as Iceland is expensive due to its geography and imported foods and fuel. A tour or cruise can be more economical than touring independently.
Take any weather alerts and road closures seriously, as high winds, ice, rain, hail and volcanic activity can put you and your fellow travellers in danger very quickly.
Book your accommodation, flights and tours in advance as there are a limited number of tour operators at each destination and Iceland is a popuar destination.
TRAVEL INSPIRATION
Our top tips for an unforgettable Iceland cruise adventure
These Iceland cruise tips will help you have the ultimate adventure exploring Iceland's glaciers and landscapes on an Iceland cruise holiday.
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8 reasons to visit Iceland
Iceland is packed with natural wonders, from thundering waterfalls and vast glaciers to spouting geysers and wildflowers sprinkled across black lava fields like confetti.
