Things To Do In Iceland

Travel has become a popular pastime around the United States, most especially because of the increased affordability for airplane tickets and lodging in distant countries. If you are planning your next adventure, you might want to consider taking a trip to Iceland. Although it is part of the European Union, Iceland sits far up in the Northern Hemisphere near Greenland.

Iceland is arguably one of the most beautiful countries in the world and has a unique culture to match. To help convince you about going on a trip to Iceland, here is a list of some of the coolest things you can do while in Iceland.

Whale Watching

There are a lot of ways to go about touring around Iceland, such as hiring an agency like Iceland Tours. Truth is, there is no wrong way to go about Iceland. So, tour agency or not, your first consideration should be to go whale watching. While there are movements in politics to outlaw the killing of whales for food, it is still possible to go out on a boat to watch these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Just be sure to take a coat, as it can get really cold out on the waves!

Check Out the Puffins

One of the most adorable and rare birds in the world are the puffins. Luckily, Iceland is home to these magnificent little creatures. They are most easily spotted along the southern coast of Iceland and you might be able to spot a few while out whale watching. Just whatever you do, try not to get too close to them, for they are easily startled.

Visit the Waterfalls

It cannot be stated enough: Iceland is home to some of the most incredible views on the planet! It is also home to some of the most iconic waterfalls as well. Luckily, most of the coolest waterfalls are fairly close together. If you were to travel along the coast towards the southern tip of Iceland you will run into Seljalandsfoss, which is a magnificent waterfall that has an awesome path up and behind the waterfall for amazing photos. Only 20-minutes from there you can find Skógafoss, which roars away in thunderous beauty.

A Trip To the Geyser

If you were to head inland towards the center of Iceland, heading east from the capital, you will find yourself near the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall. Careful not to get too close to the edge on that one! Only a few miles away you will find the iconic Iceland geyser, Strokkur, which shoots boiling water into the air every fifteen minutes. Iceland is littered with geysers everywhere, but this is perhaps one of the most iconic.

Tour Around the Capital

Reykjavík is the capital of Iceland and is home to nearly half of the residents of the country. This city houses the iconic Hallgrimskirkja church, which is a Lutheran parish church and the tallest building in the country. Nearby the church are some fantastic eateries, including the all-time famous hot dog stand named Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur. If you have trouble saying that name, just ask any local resident where you can find the best hot dogs in Iceland, and they’ll be sure to point you out in the right direction.

Visit the Black Sand Beaches

Most of the beaches in Iceland are littered with rocks. However, there are some fantastic smooth black sand beaches. While it is not recommended to go sunbathing on these beaches, let alone swim in the ocean on these beaches, taking a stroll in the sand is an experience unlike any other.

Iceland is a beautiful country. While the best time of year to visit would be between the months of May and September, you can pretty much have a good time year-round. If you have decided to take a chance and go visit, make sure to prepare to dress warm, even in the summer. Take an extra coat too!