What is Iceland famous For?

The Northern Lights

The Northern Lights are so magnificent in person that no photos capture their beauty. Among all tourist things to do in Iceland, adoring the Northern Lights is the most iconic and sought-after activity. Thousands of visitors flock to Iceland each year to witness the breath-taking Aurora Borealis light up the Arctic sky.

The best time to visit Iceland to see the northern lights is between late September and early April. This is the period when the long nights provide ideal conditions. Although the Northern Lights are active throughout the year, the summer months are too bright for visibility.

To catch a glimpse of this natural wonder, it is best to head to remote areas with minimal light pollution, such as Thingvellir National Park, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, or Northern Iceland.

Checking the local Aurora forecast and joining a guided tour can also increase your chances of witnessing this magical spectacle. It’s an otherworldly experience that requires patience and planning but is undoubtedly worth it for any travel lover.

Hot Springs in Geysir

Iceland is famous for its Geysir, a legendary natural feature that gave its name to all geysers. Geysir holds a special place in the world. Although Geysir is dormant and does not erupt anymore, it used to shoot water up to 60 to 70 meters high. Geysir has been around for about 10,000 years.

Even though Geysir is not active now, you can still see other smaller geysers and hot springs in the area. Nearby, Strokkur erupts every few minutes, allowing visitors to see a geyser in action. Geysir is included in popular tours like the Fire & Ice itinerary for visitors to experience this famous spot and its geothermal features.

Iceland's Volcanoes

Iceland is famous for its impressive count of volcanoes. This plays a crucial role in shaping Iceland's dramatic landscapes. Situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the island experiences significant volcanic activity. Some of the most notable Iceland volcanoes are Katla, Hekla, Krafla and Eyjafjallajokull, which disrupted air travel globally when it erupted in 2010.

Katla is Iceland's most active volcano, typically erupting every 50 to 100 years, with the last eruption occurring in 1918. This means it is statistically due for another eruption soon. Adventurers can hike to the summit of Hekla for stunning views.

For a more immersive experience, visitors can descend into the magma chamber of Thrihnukagigur Volcano, offering a unique perspective on Iceland's volcanic activity.

Waterfalls

Iceland boasts an incredible array of waterfalls, with around 10,000 of them scattered across the country. Some of the most famous include Gullfoss, a powerful double cascade along the Golden Circle route, and Skogafoss, known for its impressive height and width.

Seljalandsfoss is unique because you can walk behind it and experience the mist up close. Both Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss are included in the Fire & Ice trip, making them must-see destinations on your Iceland adventure.

Other notable waterfalls are Godafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods,” and Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. Many of these waterfalls are present along Iceland’s Ring Road and you can easily access them through short hikes. However, some are located in more remote highland areas and may only be accessible during summer.

Black Sand Beaches

Iceland is famous for its unique black sand beaches. These remarkable beaches result from volcanic activity and the island’s special geology. Reynisfjara Beach, on the South Coast, is one of Iceland's most renowned black sand beaches.

With its towering basalt columns and powerful waves, it offers stunning photo opportunities. However, it also requires caution due to its dangerous conditions.

Another intriguing spot is Solheimasandur, where you can see the remains of an old plane wreck on the black sand. Iceland’s beaches combine black sand, rock formations and blue waters, creating an otherworldly landscape.

Swimming in the cold waters is an option for the brave. These dramatic spots are among the top things to see and do in Iceland and are featured in popular tours like Contiki’s Iceland trip.

The Capital City - Reykjavik

Iceland is famous for its capital city, Reykjavik, the world’s northernmost capital. Reykjavik is vibrant and culturally rich. It’s perfect for exploring on foot or by bike. The city has artistic scenes, unique architecture and lively nightlife. It is an excellent base for discovering Iceland’s wonders.

In Reykjavik, you can visit iconic sites like Hallgrimskirkja, the city’s distinctive church. To find souvenirs, you can also explore Laugavegur, the main shopping street. The city combines a big city's excitement with a small town's charm.

As the start and end destination of Contiki’s Fire & Ice tour, Reykjavik offers plenty of time to enjoy Icelandic life and culture. These activities are some of the top things to do in Reykjavik, and they also rank among the top things to see and do in Iceland.

Traditional Food of Iceland

Icelandic cuisine offers a fascinating blend of traditional and modern flavours, reflecting the country’s unique culture and history. Once you have enjoyed popular dishes like Pylsur (Icelandic hot dogs), it is worth exploring the more adventurous side of Icelandic food.

Traditional dishes often include Hakarl (fermented shark) and Hrutspungar (pickled ram’s testicles), which may challenge your palate but are integral to Icelandic culinary heritage.

Icelanders pride themselves on using nearly every part of the animal so that you might find some unusual ingredients in local dishes. Additionally, traditional foods such as salted, pickled and smoked fish are common and offer a distinct taste of Iceland’s food traditions. Trying these unique dishes provides a deeper understanding of Icelandic culture and its rich culinary practices.

Glaciers

Iceland’s glaciers are a stunning highlight of its natural beauty. These glaciers are among the top places to visit in Iceland and offer unforgettable experiences. Vatnajokull, one of Europe’s biggest glaciers, covers about 14% of the country and dominates the south-eastern landscape.

This massive glacier offers thrilling opportunities for snowmobiling, glacier hiking, ice climbing and caving. You can see these amazing ice formations along Iceland’s main routes from various viewpoints. However, you will need to book a tour to explore them up close.

Another remarkable spot is the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Here, icebergs break off from the glacier and drift into the water. The ice chunks often end up on the black sand beach known as Diamond Beach. The Snaefellsjokull glacier on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula covers an active volcano and inspired Jules Verne’s "Journey to the Centre of the Earth."

The Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is the most popular sightseeing route in Iceland. This route covers some of Iceland’s most iconic attractions, including the impressive Gullfoss Waterfall and the Silfra tectonic fissure. It is an excellent choice for a self-drive adventure, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

You can complete the Golden Circle in one day or take several days to appreciate each stop fully. The route is highly customisable and fits easily into any Icelandic itinerary. Whether driving or joining a tour, the Golden Circle offers stunning views and is a fantastic way to experience Iceland’s natural beauty.

The Natural Hot Springs

Iceland is renowned for its hot springs, which offer relaxation and rejuvenation. The country’s geothermal activity has created numerous natural hot springs that are rich in minerals. One of the most famous is the Blue Lagoon, located near Reykjavik. It is a picturesque geothermal spa that is easy to access and often listed as a top thing to do in Iceland.

Another excellent option is the Sky Lagoon in Reykjavik, which offers stunning ocean views from its harbour location. In North Iceland, the Myvatn Nature Baths, sometimes called the "Blue Lagoon of the North," provides multiple pools for soaking. Although South Iceland has fewer hot springs, Landmannalaugar offers a unique and scenic experience.

These Iceland hot springs are soothing and offer health benefits like improved circulation and skin health. Whether visiting the Blue Lagoon or exploring other geothermal pools, soaking in these mineral-rich waters is a great way to unwind and enjoy Iceland’s natural wonders.

The Blue Ice Caves

Iceland is famous for its breath-taking blue ice caves. These are best explored during winter when the glaciers are most stable. These stunning ice caves are in Vatnajokull National Park, Europe’s largest glacier. They are known for their mesmerising blue hue, the colour of which comes from the unique crystal structure of the ice.

You must join a guided tour with a professional who understands glacier movement and cave navigation to explore these enchanting caves. Specialised equipment is also necessary to ensure your safety. The accessibility and conditions of the ice caves can vary each year, so it is important to check with local tour operators for the latest information.

The ice caves are formed during summer as water flows through the glacier and then freezes into intricate structures. As the ice melts and refreezes annually, the caves are always changing. This is why Iceland best time to go to see the ice caves is during the winter, as they are generally not accessible in the heart of summer.

Iceland is a beautiful country known for its stunning landscapes, including majestic waterfalls, glaciers, and geothermal hot springs. From exploring the vibrant city of Reykjavik to witnessing the Northern Lights, Iceland offers a wide range of unforgettable experiences. However, travel insurance is crucial for ensuring a worry-free adventure.

TATA AIG travel insurance Iceland offers coverage for unexpected events such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies and lost belongings. Given the remote and rugged nature of some of Iceland’s attractions, having the right coverage can make all the difference. Whether exploring glaciers, soaking in hot springs or driving the Golden Circle, a comprehensive travel insurance plan provides peace of mind.

TATA AIG travel insurance plans cater to distinct trips and individual insurance needs. Our plans help cover trip interruptions to ensure that you are protected no matter what. Investing in a good travel insurance plan from TATA AIG can safeguard your trip against unforeseen issues and allow you to enjoy Iceland’s beauty without any worries.

What natural phenomena is Iceland famous for?

• Iceland is known for its stunning natural phenomena, including:

• The Northern Lights

• Geysers

• Hot springs

What is the best time to visit Iceland?

The best time to visit Iceland depends on what you want to experience. Visit between late September and April for the Northern Lights and ice caves. For milder weather and the Midnight Sun, visit from June to August.

What is the best time to visit Iceland?

The best time to visit Iceland depends on what you want to experience. Visit between late September and April for the Northern Lights and ice caves. For milder weather and the Midnight Sun, visit from June to August.

Do I need travel insurance for my trip to Iceland?

Yes, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance for Iceland.