This Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland & These Are The Things You Should Do!

Want to visit Iceland to experience nature in its un-jaded form? Read the article to learn about the best time to visit Iceland. I will also list the things to do and places to visit in Iceland, which will help you create an itinerary with a budget.

Iceland has its fair share of folktales and historical sagas, making it an adventurous and unique experience for a person to have. There are places that you can visit which will give you some of the most unique and imaginative adventures of your life.

With a collection of 200 volcanoes, Iceland boasts remarkable features worth visiting. Visitors’ unworldly experiences should be preserved, as industrialization can easily misuse natural resources.

This Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland & These Are The Things You Should Do!

Sustainable development is one of the significant parts of the Tourism Policy Framework 2020-30 that the Ministry of Culture and Business Affairs has developed.

Quality of life of the natives, positive visitor experiences, conservation of the environment, decreasing carbon footprint, innovation, and creation are the highlights. Things to do and places to visit in Iceland reflect these highlights.

If you have an active imagination, Iceland is the place to go! The land of fire and ice gives you the feel of returning to the New Stone Ages, where horse riding is regular. Want to know the best time to go to Iceland? Read along to know the best time to visit Iceland.

Iceland

Iceland

Tourism is one of the major sectors from which the country gains economic stability; however, it was severely impacted during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2019, the tourism economy accounted for 73% of the total tourism expenditure.

However, tourism in Iceland saw a gradual fall as there was a 78% decline in the rate of tourists visiting in 2020. Even though the tourism visitation rate has recovered in 2021, it remains below the actual rate in 2019.

The country needs to have a considerable rise in the number of tourists visiting the country so that it can contribute to the GDP. So, visiting Iceland will contribute to the growth and development of the economy!

What Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland?

what is the Best Time To Visit Iceland

You can visit Iceland based on your planned itinerary, even though it is generally said that summer is the best time to visit! If you plan to check out the northern lights the best time of year to visit Iceland is to book your tickets between September and March.

If you have other plans related to summer activities, you should visit Iceland in the summer between June and August. However, if you are tight on the budget, you should visit Iceland between January to May. Flights, accommodations, and car rentals will be quite cheap.

The country as a travel destination is moderately expensive with its natural wonders and captivating landscapes. The tickets from the USA to Iceland range between $700 and $1100. You can easily save money and travel with a fixed budget!

What Are The Things That You Can Do In Iceland?

How much would we accept for a mountain? Two billion? Twenty billion?” is a line that will resonate with you from the documentary Dreamland released in 2009 internationally. The film shows some beautiful and untouched nature being exploited by industrialists and business people.

I also learned from the documentary that exploiting something that does not need improvisation can nullify all attempts to grow, develop and succeed! The country experienced a crash in the economy in its effort to make it the largest aluminum producer in the world.

It wastes the unlimited wealth of opportunities Iceland has from its natural resources and features. Based on this realization, I have composed a list of places that shows how nature can be a perfect strategy to bring in money! know more about the best time to visit Iceland!

1. Don’t Miss The Northern Lights

Don't Miss The Northern Lights

The Northern Lights is one of Iceland’s main attractions, also known as aurora borealis! They are known to be elusive as there must be perfect conditions to see them, such as less or almost no clouds, no light pollution, and flaring activity in the magnetosphere.

It is a natural display of light that can only be seen between the months of winter, from September to March. The attraction is only visible in the northernmost parts of the world. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the green, gold, and purple waves dancing in ribbon-like formation.

There is no telling when they will appear, or for long they will appear in the sky; however, there are probabilities to ensure you see them. Guides in those areas do have an understanding of the appropriate vantage points.

2. Give Horseback Riding A Shot

Give Horseback Riding A Shot

Icelandic horses are different from normal horses worldwide with their muscular build and short legs! They are quite popular for their reliability. They are sturdy and smaller in their size and are often confused with ponies instead of horses.

Going horse riding across the ice is a perfect way to experience the country and the riding. The breed is actually from Scandinavia and has evolved differently across the ages.

3. Visit The Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

The Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is a lake filled with glaciers; this should be on your bucket list if you visit Iceland. Some icebergs make a sound as they crunch and impact each other.

You can take a zodiac boat ride or stay on the shoreline, where you can watch the seals dip into the lake. You can walk down to Diamond Beach from the Lagoon with jet-black sand and glistening icebergs creating a stunning visual of the natural landscapes.

4. Go Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates

Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates

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One of the best snorkeling spots in Iceland visits Silfra Fissure, where you will experience a dramatic visual representation of a glacier melt-water-filled rift. The tectonic plates between Eurasia and North America are drifting apart.

You will find yourself a dry suit, a guide, and snorkeling equipment with an entrance fee to Silfra starting from $119. You also get cookies and hot chocolate once you have completed the activity.

5. Tour The Golden Circle

Tour The Golden Circle

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The most sightseeing route, you must take a tour of the Golden Circle as it consists of the 3 major attractions, namely Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Thingvellir National Park. These locations are accessible from Reykjavik, the capital city.

Thingvellir National Park is a natural beauty and is quite important as the tectonic plates of Eurasia and North America are drifting apart in this very area. The location has waterfalls, deep gorges, and lava fields.

The Gullfoss waterfall is 105 feet tall and cascades down two rocky tiers getting the name “Golden Falls.” Visitors often find a rainbow over the waterfall, making it a beautiful visual.

6. Voyage Into Ice Caving And Glacier Hiking

Ice Caving And Glacier Hiking

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Frozen landscapes are scattered across Iceland with floating icebergs, ravishing blue ice caves, and extensive glaciers. It is the winter months when you can see Iceland in all its glory when the environment reflects sparkling snow and obscure darkness.

The glaciers are the perfect frozen attractions you can access if you love hiking. It is something that can be performed throughout the year. You must wear crampons to walk the ice so that you encounter the indomitable giants up close!

Do not miss the ice caves just below the Katla volcano, with a variant of color in blue and white, creating a more gorgeous experience than you can ever have. However, ice caves are safer in winter as there is less risk of collapsing or falling rocks causing serious injuries.

To experience the ice caves, the best time to visit Iceland is in the winter months!

7. Hop Into Natural Hot Pool

Hop Into Natural Hot Pool

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Strokkur is the perfect place to start if you want to hop into a natural hot pool! The hot springs go up to 65 feet every 5 minutes, along with mud pools and steaming fumaroles surrounding it!

The abundance of volcanoes has created geological activities such as mud pools, hot springs, and volcanic vents; as the land of Iceland is only a few million years hence, it is still alive.

The erupting hot springs and mud pools are a perfect escape for tourists, and it helps them relax. The natural hot pools will ensure that relaxation is part of your itinerary after trying trekking or snorkeling.

8. Enjoy The Westfjords View

Enjoy The Westfjords View

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Are you a nature person? Most people travel to North and South Iceland, which is common for most. Don’t you want to experience something off-road and unique? Let me highlight some attractions that fulfill your craving for mysticism, magic, and folklore.

A cultural hub, Westfjords is engrossed in natural beauty, such as Hornstrandir with bird cliffs, Dynjandi waterfalls, Arnarfjordur Bay, Flatey Island, and Bolafjall mountain. The staggering beauty of the locales is fascinating and boasts of cultural history.

9. Swing Into The Blue Lagoon Spa

Swing Into The Blue Lagoon Spa

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A geothermal spa in Iceland has become popular as The Blue Lagoon, which has one of the most beautiful surroundings and an atmosphere that relaxes your senses. It is closer to the airport, so with a busy itinerary, you can easily visit the place.

Blue Lagoon tours and the Shuttle bus to the Lagoon make it an easier place to visit. It is, however, an expensive experience. Hence, you can choose other areas, such as the Myvatn Nature Baths and Secret Lagoon.

10. Ramble On To Lake Myvatn In North Iceland

Lake Myvatn In North Iceland

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The area of Lake Myvatn is geo-thermally active. Therefore, hot pools and nature baths are spread across one of the largest bodies of water in Iceland.

After a long day of exploring the beauty of Iceland and performing activities, enjoying the geothermal lake is the perfect way to end your day! It is also a cool place for bird spotting, as there are 58 species.

One of the biggest collections of flora and fauna, the lake is a beautiful place to visit where you can see Dimmuborgir. These volcanic rock formations are haunting and alluring while the name is equally exquisite, “Dark Fortress.”

11. Take A Food Tour Walk In Reykjavik

Food Tour Walk In Reykjavik

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You have to enjoy the crowd in Reykjavik with its delicious food and the exciting nightlife. The nightlife continues till 4 AM as in the summer. You can enjoy yourself to your heart’s content as you can see that it’s bright as daylight outside, even during the middle of the night.

The city has authentic places to visit eateries, ensuring a beautiful personal experience. You should try the modern and traditional classic items popular in Iceland, skyr and Icelandic lamb soup. The soup represents what Iceland truly means!

You can walk down Laugavegur Street, where you can find perfect places for food and drinks. Take advantage of the Icelandic Lamb hot dog you can try in one of the original food stalls from 1937.

You can visit Cafe Loki, situated across from Hallgrimskirkja church, where you can try various Icelandic delicacies. You can’t miss Rye Bread Ice Cream! I would also recommend Black Death or the special beer drinks that are well-known across Iceland.

12. Go Whale Watching On A Cruise

Go Whale Watching On A Cruise

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Whale watching is one of the best experiences when you visit Iceland, especially because there are various species of dolphins, porpoises, and whales. There are tours from Husavik, Akureyri, and Reykjavik; hence, you can visit one of these places to access the abundant animal traffic.

There is a probability of watching killer and fin whales; however, there is a higher chance of humpback and minke whales.

13. Get A View Of The Fagradalsfjall Volcano Eruption From A Helicopter

Fagradalsfjall Volcano Eruption From A Helicopter

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One of the hottest fissure openings in Iceland is Fagradalsfjall Volcano which you can visit by flying around in a helicopter. The tour is 20 minutes, and a guide will tell you all about the active volcano.

On tour from the helicopter, you can see the aquamarine waters, which are based on Faxafloi Bay, and pass over Reykjavik city, getting a bird’s eye view.

14. Try Snowmobiling From Reykjavik

Snowmobiling From Reykjavik

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It is in the Gullfoss waterfall to try a snowmobile tour based on the second-largest glacier, Langjokull. The glacier is snowy, and snowmobiling is a perfect way to feel the glide across the landscape.

Conclusion

So, what do you think? Ready for a trip to Iceland? The places I have listed will satisfy you if you are a travel bug. Experiencing amazing Iceland will ensure you see all the places that tickle your fantasy and experience nature at its best.

Iceland has a mysticism to it, so visiting quaint little towns, remote lighthouses, mountains, thermal pools, and eateries across town are different ways to explore the city’s culture and ethnicity.

Comment down below about the place out of this list that you find the most interesting or is already on your bucket list to visit.

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Sagnika Sinha is a content writer who is passionate about writing travel vlogs, entertainment and celebrity articles and literature-based pieces. With a 4 years experience in teaching, she loves reading books. A procrastinator by nature, she loves travelling, listening to music, planting and gardening.

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The Spring Mountain Trail Run is an annual marathon, and half marathon held each April, offering participants stunning scenic views of mountains, forests, lakes, and rivers surrounding this beautiful mountain town while at the same time testing their endurance. Furthermore, this festival showcases nature with various activities that celebrate it in all its beauty. Whistler Art on the Lake festival takes place annually at Alta Lake's sound end in August, drawing thousands to its gallery-style event that showcases over 30 Sea to Sky-based artists as well as arts and crafts for sale at this popular gallery-style festival. The Whistler Film Festival, an annual event that takes place each December, is a celebration of independent cinema. This festival features movie screenings, gala events, guest speakers, and artist spotlights as well as industry programs like filmmaker summits, talent programs, awards, and mentoring initiatives - an excellent chance for networking among fellow film professionals while enjoying Whistler. You can click here for networking advice. 4. The Food Set out on a Whistler Tasting Tour to experience some of its culinary secrets! From gourmet seafood and artisanal charcuterie to classic fondue, this culinary adventure will lead you through some of Whistler's premier dining spots. Whistler boasts a diverse food scene, from casual cafes to fine dining establishments and everything in between. If you are craving some fine dining, be sure to book a table at Araxi Restaurant; its Pacific Northwest-influenced dishes and unparalleled service are among its many accolades. Other top options include Mallard Pub & Grill, located at the base of Blackcomb with an incredible sun-drenched terrace, and seasonal menu options such as grilled elk with wild mushroom tartine and braised beef cheeks with Korean barbecue glaze as crowd pleasers. Furthermore, Sidecut Steakhouse recently underwent extensive renovations, boasting high-end cuts of meat (ranging from Four Seasons black label flat iron to Japanese A5 wagyu). Hunter Gather is an Australian-inspired bakery offering delicious pastries, sandwiches, and coffee that has quickly become a favorite among both locals and visitors. Function Junction, just 10 minutes south of Whistler Village, features shops, restaurants, and breweries clustered together for locals' enjoyment. Functional Pie offers New York and Detroit-style pizza that combines the thicker aesthetic of New York slices with the crunchiness you would find from Detroit slices - definitely worth checking out if you prefer your food without tourists around! Related: Winter Camping In Canada: Tips For Cold-Weather Adventures 5. The Art Whistler offers much more than snow and mountains; it also has a vibrant arts scene. Enjoy theatrical performances, art exhibits, music events, and musical shows throughout the year - and embark on an exploration journey of Whistler's cultural treasures from museums that chronicle its development to galleries that inspire your creativity! The Audain Museum is an architectural marvel with a spectacular collection of paintings and sculptures by regional Canadian artists, from Northwest Coast First Nations masks to postwar modernists such as Emily Carr as well as local Whistler talent. Take a self-guided tour through its galleries or participate in one of the many workshops such as yoga classes or summer art camps for kids! There are also a variety of galleries located throughout Whistler that specialize in local and emerging artists, including Adele Campbell Fine Art Gallery and Black Tusk Gallery; or visit Mountain Galleries inside Fairmont Chateau Whistler for further selection. Whistler's Aboriginal culture is an integral component of its identity and should not be neglected. The Squamish-Lil'wat Cultural Centre offers visitors an amazing way to learn about the history and traditions of both Squamish and Lil'wat First Nations as well as hosting dance classes, guided tours, artist talks, and summer art camps. Whistler's arts and culture scene adds another level to its already captivating destinations. Museums documenting its evolution, galleries igniting your imagination, and cultural centers celebrating heritage are all waiting to be explored. These cultural gems will leave lasting memories behind! Read Also: Aeolian Village Beach Resort: The Ultimate Destination For Relaxing Holidays This Is The Best Time To Visit The Seven Magic Mountains In Vegas! Best Tourism Villages In The World 2023