Table of Contents
Introduction
Iceland is a island nation renowned across the world for its astounding and diverse natural landscapes. From mighty glaciers to raging waterfalls, Iceland is brimming with incredible natural sights unseen anywhere else on Earth. A journey through Iceland is a journey through some of nature’s most marvelous creations, with new wonders around every bend.
In this expansive island, one can traverse between starkly different landscapes, from icy moonscapes to bubbling geothermal fields, all in the same day. Iceland contains a magical world within its borders, waiting to be explored. Let’s dive into some of the marvelous landscapes that travelers can experience on a journey through Iceland’s natural treasures.
Volcanic Landscapes
Iceland is located right above the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. This positioning means Iceland has intense volcanic and geothermal activity, creating striking volcanic scenery throughout the island.
Some of Iceland’s most iconic volcanoes are Eyjafjallajökull and Katla. Eyjafjallajökull drew global attention in 2010 when its eruption caused enormous disruption to air travel across Europe. Meanwhile, Katla has historically erupted in tandem with Eyjafjallajökull, leading to speculation that Katla is long overdue for an eruption. In addition to their fame, these volcanoes are set amidst stunning landscapes of volcanic craters, lava fields, and roaring waterfalls.
In areas with high geothermal activity, travelers can walk through steaming vents and bubbling mud pots. The geothermal area Hverarönd near Lake Mývatn has boiling solfataras surrounded by sulfur crystals in dazzling yellows. In the Lake Mývatn area, travelers can also see volcanic rock formations and crater rows formed by ancient eruptions.
Iceland also contains vast lava fields spanning massive areas, especially on the Reykjanes Peninsula near the capital Reykjavik. The lava fields provide a glimpse into the powerful volcanic forces that have shaped Iceland’s landscapes over millennia.
Glaciers and Ice Caps
While fire dominates Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, at the other extreme exist massive glaciers and ice caps covering 11% of Iceland. Vatnajökull is the undisputed king of Iceland’s ice landscapes, as it is the largest glacier in both Iceland and entire Europe.
Spanning about 8,100 km2, Vatnajökull contains countless crevasses and ice caves begging to be explored. Glacier hiking across the icy surface provides an up-close look at the intricate blue patterns running through the ancient ice. For the truly adventurous, glacial ice climbing is also an option here!
One can also wander through the natural ice sculptures at ice caves such as the Crystal Ice Cave in Vatnajökull. At the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, visitors can embark on boat trips to marvel at the glowing blue icebergs drifting serenely across the dark waters against a backdrop of Vatnajökull.
Waterfalls
Thanks to Iceland’s unique geology and the runoff from glacial melt, Iceland is home to countless breathtaking waterfalls across the island. Some of Iceland’s most iconic falls include Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss in the south. Wide and powerful Skogafoss tumbles 60 meters over a dramatic cliff, frequently producing rainbows in its mist. Visitors can get close to feel the rumbling power of the falls! Seljalandsfoss is narrower but over 60 meters high, with a walking path behind the falls for a unique vantage point.
In the northeast, travelers will find Dettifoss, considered Europe’s most powerful waterfall. Dettifoss roars as enormous volumes of water plunge 45 meters into the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon, creating massive mist clouds. Less-visited waterfalls like Glymur offer quieter but equally captivating scenery, with Glymur falling delicately in a hidden canyon.
Black Sand Beaches
Volcanic activity not only produces lava, but also Iceland’s famous black sand beaches. When hot lava meets cold ocean water, it rapidly shatters and forms fine black sand.
The striking contrast of jet-black sand against Iceland’s icy blue waters create an intense visual landscape. Beaches like Reynisfjara on the southern coast give travelers a firsthand look at this volcanic interaction expressed through the sand.
Areas where glacial ice meets the ocean provide a twist on the classic black sand beach. Here, icebergs wash ashore onto the beach, creating a mystical scene known as Diamond Beach. On these black sand shores, adventurers can get up close and personal with the glittering blue icebergs.
Mountains and Highlands
While less visited than Iceland’s famous south coast, Iceland’s rugged highlands offer immense rewards for venturing into this remote volcanic wilderness. The isolation only amplifies the sense of tranquility to be found among Iceland’s mountains.
The Landmannalaugar area contains a landscape of rainbow-colored rhyolite ridges set against imposing mountains and valleys. Multicolored rock formations swirl through snow fields, creating an alien, otherworldly scene. Nearby, the ice-capped stratovolcano Hekla is nicknamed Iceland’s “Gateway to Hell” for the violent eruptions throughout history from this ominous peak.
Iceland’s unofficial Queen of Mountains, Herðubreið, reigns over the northeast highlands. The isolated tabletop mountain is visible from 100 km away due to the flat surroundings of Iceland’s barren interior. Though a non-technical hike, Herðubreið still allows for spectacular views over Iceland’s rocky central heart.
Lakes
From iceberg-dotted lakes to lava lake craters, Iceland has diverse lake landscapes to experience. Lake Mývatn offers a haven for migratory birds and is surrounded by volcanic pseudocraters created by steam explosions. Here, travelers can spot dozens of duck species and unique volcanic features all in one place.
The scenic canyon of Jökulsárgljúfur contains Iceland’s second-largest lake, Ásbyrgi, formed by massive flooding from an ice-dammed lake. Today, Ásbyrgi is ringed by vibrant orange and red rock cliffs. Boat rides take visitors through the canyon to see Ásbyrgi and sights like the horseshoe-shaped Hljóðaklettar basalt columns ringing the canyon walls.
Seaside Villages
Beyond the famous Golden Circle route, adventurers can discover Iceland’s peaceful seaside villages. In northern Iceland, Stykkishólmur provides a charming dose of Icelandic culture, with brightly colored wooden houses in this historic fishing village. Picturesque amounts of boats speckle the harbor here.
Along the southern ring road, Dyrhólaey’s magnificent sea arch and cliff-top lighthouse makes for an impressive seaside sight. Jet-black basalt columns lend a mystical atmosphere. Further east at Reynisfjara, the sea stacks Reynisdrangar emerge from the rolling Atlantic like solemn sentinels keeping watch over Iceland’s shores.
Wildlife
From puffins to foxes, Iceland is home to unique Arctic and marine wildlife. Atlantic puffins extensively nest around Iceland’s cliffs and sea stacks, especially in the Westman Islands. Their bright orange beaks and clumsy landings make them adorable and favorite animals to spot.
Iceland’s legendary Icelandic horses offer a cherished national symbol and reliable companion for trailriding. Visitors can admire their thick fur coats and even-tempered personality when meeting these special horses.
Well-adapted arctic foxes thrive in Iceland’s harsh northern coast, including in the remote Hornstrandir Nature Reserve. Peacefully hiking here allows sightings of these resourceful creatures hunting seabirds and reindeer. For ocean lovers, whales like humpbacks and orcas are also frequently spotted from Iceland’s shores on whale watching tours.
Conclusion
A journey through Iceland promises nature’s marvels around every turn, with landscapes that seem crafted more by imagination than reality. Massive glaciers, thundering waterfalls, lava fields and volcanoes, and surreal highland deserts all compact into one magical island. Iceland offers not just diverse landscapes, but also vibrant culture and warm hospitality waiting to welcome visitors. By traveling Iceland’s ring road and venturing off the beaten path, adventurers can experience nature at its grandest. From icy moonscapes to colorful mountains, Iceland delivers on majestic landscapes.
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit Iceland?
The summer months from June to August are ideal with mild weather, but winter can offer stunning scenery and northern lights. Ultimately Iceland offers marvels year-round!
What type of clothes should I pack for Iceland?
Pack warm, waterproof layers as weather can shift suddenly. Good hiking shoes, a waterproof coat, hat, gloves and thermal underwear make exploring comfortable.
Is it easy to get around Iceland on my own?
Yes, Iceland’s ring road and large network of highland roads allow flexibility, though 4×4 vehicles are recommended for the interior. Organized tours are also popular.
What are some budget-friendly ways to experience Iceland’s nature?
Hiking, picnicing, and free sites like waterfalls and beaches offer natural beauty cheaply. Camping and cooking your own meals helps too.
Are there any safety concerns when hiking or exploring Iceland’s landscapes?
Always check conditions and only hike where your ability permits. Beware unstable cliff edges, slippery ice, and powerful waterfall currents that can be hazardous. Guided hikes remove the guesswork.