One attraction that lets you get caught up in the magic is Hvammsvik Hot Springs. While it might mainly be marketed as a geothermal hot spring and spa, it is so much more than that! This place SHOULD be on your Iceland itinerary and if it is not, then add it right away. Not only can you visit the hot springs and thoroughly relax, but visitors can also spend the night on the estate in the most beautiful setting (more on that later).

However, this isn’t like a water park or carnival, where you can keep splashing around and do what you want. Hvammsvik is far from the madding crowd of the Blue Lagoon. Hot springs in Iceland have a certain etiquette that needs to be followed, and being prepared will go a long way.

To get the most out of your trip, and make sure you follow all the rules, read through our Hvammsvik guide below and have everything ready. You’re in for a truly magical experience!

All About Hvammsvik Hot Springs

Hvammsvik is a 1200-acre private estate located just 50 minutes from Reykjavik, the Icelandic capital, on the edge of the Hvalfjörður fjord. The drive there is very picturesque, with winding roads along the mountains and water.

The moment we walked inside Hvammsvik we were taken by the beautiful contrast of the landscape, with grey ocean water, black beaches, and white snow-capped mountains. These are the views you’re treated to while you’re lounging in the steamy hot pools and enjoying other facilities offered at Hvammsvik.

What can be significantly appreciated is how the facility has been designed to blend into the landscape, to the point of somewhat disappearing into it all. So much so that the design team painted every structure black, as the goal was to highlight the natural beauty of the surroundings and not compromise it with man-made structures.

The estate offers a lot more than beauty though. There’s a fair bit of history here as well, as the site was a Viking settlement a millennium ago, and was also used as Allied barracks during the Second World War. The current owner of the estate, Skúli Mogensen, has put in a lot of time and effort scouring through Icelandic records, both factual and mythical, to learn the estate’s history.

The best part is that you’re allowed to explore the entire area too, which makes Hvammsvik a day trip more than just a dip in a hot pool for some relaxation time. The hot pools can be the perfect way to end the day after hiking and exploring the area and its natural beauty.

What Is The Cost of Admission?

Prices start at 6900 ISK or about $52 on weekdays and at 7900 ISK or $60 on weekends. Busier time slots cost about $10 to $20 more, and there are no discounts for children aged 10 to 17. Also, you should know that children under 10 years of age are not allowed to enter Hvammsvik, and those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

The cost of admission might seem a bit steep, especially if you’re traveling with family, but, compared to other pools where there are similar prices, you get a lot more in return from Hvammsvik. Remember that this is Iceland, and nothing is cheap. We found Hvammsvik to be a far better value than the Blue Lagoon!

There are eight natural hot springs, a steam cave, other facilities, and access to the historic and beautiful grounds of the area.

How To Get To Hvammsvik

Hvammsvik is about 50 minutes north of Reykjavik and the easiest way to get there is by renting a car in Iceland. You can also book a direct transfer from Reykjavik on the Hvammsvik website as well, but you’ll be part of a larger group and it will be quite costly.

We chose to rent a campervan in Iceland because we wanted the freedom to stop to check out different places and take our time, and we’re glad we made that choice (read all about our time with Happy Campers!).

On the way, you’ll see some beautiful sights like Mosfellsdalur Valley, Þórufoss waterfall, and Hvalfjörður, which also holds the honor of a Game of Thrones shooting location. The entire drive is incredibly picturesque and despite the distance, it’s not a tiring journey at all and you have to remember to bring a camera!

About The Hvammsvik Pools and Facilities

Hvammsvik has eight hot springs/pools so you won’t have to worry about finding a place to relax. Hvammsvik asks that you book your tickets in advance, and there is a gate at the entrance to the road leading to Hvammsvik, so you’ll definitely want a reservation.

The 8 pools are spread close together, with boulders marking the boundaries of each pool. The entire setup blends into the landscape, practically becoming a part of it. The temperatures of the pool range from 97°F to 104°F. It might not seem like a big range, but trust me you can feel the temperature differences very well. We started with the lowest temperature and worked our way up to the hottest one, which is the smallest pool and where you will likely only spend a few minutes.

There’s a swim-up bar as well and I treated myself to some prosecco while we lounged in the hot water. It felt pretty good while we took in the most beautiful views of the mountains and sea!

If you want to chill inside the steam room for a while, then head to the side of the main building, where, nestled between some large boulders, is what appears to be a small wooden shack. This is the entrance to the steam room, and it’s incredibly cute.

Instead of a dedicated cold plunge like at other hot springs like the Forest Lagoon, visitors are also allowed to walk right into the chilly ocean, and the cold water is just what you need to jolt your system, and that too in the freezing Icelandic climate.

We got together with some other visitors and ventured into the ocean water for a little bit, right from one of the “pools,” and even in the dead of summer, we can assure you it’s cold. There’s also an outdoor cold shower for those who don’t want to risk swimming in the Atlantic.

If you do choose to go into the water, then make sure you’re part of a larger group, as there’s strength in numbers. Keep an eye on everyone and be careful. You’re technically in the outdoors and the surroundings can be rough and rocky in places, so it’s important to know how to swim.

Other Activities Near Hvammsvik Hot Springs

Hvammsvik has more than 1200 acres of land to its name, the vast majority of which is untouched. Hiking enthusiasts and outdoorsmen would have a great time exploring the area.

A lot of group activities also take place at Hvammsvik such as ocean swims and yoga retreats. There is even a ‘Wim Hof Method’ workshop, conducted by a certified instructor, where visitors are introduced to breathwork and gradual cold exposure, all pioneered by the world-famous Wim Hof. 

These activities are included in your admission ticket, so you won’t need to pay any extra. Keep in mind these aren’t everyday, so you’ll have to check the Hvammsvik website for their schedule. We took advantage of the opportunity and took part in the Wim Hof Method workshop and walked away feeling amazing.

There are also many things in the area that visitors can be a part of. One of the more famous ones is a tour of The Golden Circle, a reference to historical places and natural sights located around a geographic ring located close to Hvammsvik. After seeing the sights, you’ll be treated to a visit at Hvammsvik, followed by lunch at an authentic Icelandic farm.

If you’re up for a waterfall hike, Glymur Waterfall, one of the highest waterfalls in Iceland is a nice half day hike nearby!

What To Bring to Hvammsvik And Iceland Hot Pool Etiquette

It’s an Iceland fact that cleanliness is next to Godliness in Iceland. That should be your mantra whenever you’re visiting any hot pool in Iceland. Always shower thoroughly with soap before you go into the hot pool and make sure you’re wearing a clean swimsuit, if not a fresh one.

Most hot pools in Iceland don’t have private showers and changing rooms, but Hvammsvik does. However, you can’t treat it like your private hotel bathroom. Get done with your shower, change as fast as possible, and move on to the pool as it’s not a large changing room area. Shampoo and body wash are provided, but it’s best to bring your conditioner, lotion, and all your other toiletries with you that you’ll need.

Bring a swimsuit and some towels. Guests can rent towels and swimsuits for 900 ISK, but it’s best to just bring your own. This shouldn’t be taken as a slight against Hvammsvik, as everything was absolutely clean. It just comes down to personal preference at the end of the day.

We recommend bringing a pair of fresh flip-flops or slides. You’ll want to go from one pool to the next, and possibly take a dip in the ocean as well. We went barefoot, but the rocks are cold, and rocky when stepping into the Atlantic! If you want to take photos with your phone, I can’t recommend bringing a phone dry bag enough.

You Can Stay Overnight at Hvammsvík!

One of the unique features of Hvammsvík is that visitors can avail the incredible accommodation options located on the estate. Each accommodation option is more beautiful than the last!

We recommend booking the Hilltop House, a minimalist building atop a hill with gorgeous panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and fjords. The rooms are spacious, each having its own incredible view. The best feature, by far, is the private natural hot spring!

There are three other accommodation options. The Lake House is a cute and rustic lodge with amazing views of the lake, and it accommodates four persons easily. The Club House is a renovated farmhouse with a private hot tub and views of the ocean and mountains, easily accommodating seven people. Finally, there is the oldest building on the property, known as The Farm House, which houses nine people and has its fair share of spectacular ocean views.

The Food Is Incredible

The perfect way to end a day of hiking and hot pool dipping is to get some great food. Hvammsvik’s onsite bistro and bar is called ‘Stormur’ and despite all its simplicity, it packs a whole lot of flavor and character. The brown leather furniture, rope decorations, abstract sculptures, and stoneware dishes provide a brilliant ambiance, while the large windows provide spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

At the helm of the restaurant is Chef Hinrik Carl Ellertson, who was formerly associated with a Michelin-starred restaurant, and his work with Stormur is nothing short of a Michelin-esque masterpiece. All the dishes are made using local produce and ingredients, most notable of which is the rich seafood found in the waters surrounding Iceland. There’s a good selection of wines, beers, teas, and coffees as well.

We had heard rave reviews about the seafood soup, which is a specialty here, and we just had to try it. The soup is made using whatever seafood is in season and it was simply delicious. Another specialty is the algae-ginger shot. We were a bit squeamish at first after hearing ‘algae’ but were pleasantly surprised at how tasty and refreshing it was.

The rest of the menu comprises sandwiches, some finger food, and cakes. The menu is simple, but rustic and very delicious. The restaurant caters to all tastes as there are a lot of vegetarian and vegan options as well.

For Iceland and the quality of the food and the incredible ambiance, the prices are pretty reasonable. We each had soups, sandwiches, and a slice of cake, and the total bill came to almost 16000 ISK or $120.

When is the Best Time to Visit Hvammsvik?

For the best experience we recommend visiting early in the morning, or in the evening. This is when the crowds die down, and you’ll have a more relaxing experience. We booked in for three hours before closing time, and were the last in the pools. We thoroughly enjoyed ending our evening in Iceland at Hvammsvik!

How Long Do You Need at the Hvammsvik Hot Springs?

We spent two hours in the actual pools of Hvammsvik, and 30 minutes in the changing rooms getting ready, and about 45 minutes grabbing a bite at the bistro. If you want the full experience, we recommend allocating 4 hours to Hvammsvik.

However if you don’t plan on going to the bistro, don’t plan on spending long in the pools, and are a man who doesn’t take long to get ready, you could easily spend just 2 hours at Hvammsvik.

The disappearing pool

Hvammsvik Hot Springs are conveniently located along the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. The water levels and temperatures of certain natural pools here vary in sync with the tides, offering an ever-changing and distinctive bathing encounter, assuring you an unparalleled and exclusive experience on every visit.

One of the main pools sits right in the ocean, and depending on the tides, you’ll either see the 8th pool or it may completely disappear in front of your eyes. The Hvammsvik website lists the high tide every day, and this is when you can expect only to see seven pools.

What are the Hvammsvik Hours?

Operating every day from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, the final admission is granted at 8:30 PM. To secure a spot in the hot springs, it is advised to procure tickets in advance.

Is Hvammsvik Worth It?

While there might be other hot springs that rival the quality, experience, price point, and beauty of Hvammsvik, there isn’t any hot spring that comes with its very own 1200-acre private estate. That, paired with the exceptional natural beauty of the area and abundant wilderness, makes this place a must-visit.

Another thing that stands out about Hvammsvik is the entire experience. After a day exploring the incredibly beautiful sights, you can relax at the pools, and end the day with Michelin star-esque quality food.

There are very few restaurants in Iceland that have their very own signature dish and that group gets smaller when you take restaurants at hot springs into account. After some great food, you could head on over to one of the most beautifully set accommodations you’ve ever seen. It’ll surely be a memorable experience.

We visited over ten hot springs in Iceland, including the famous Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, Vok Baths, Krauma, and Forest Lagoon, and Hvammsvik was both of our favorites in Iceland. It was one of the quietest hot springs we visited in Iceland, especially in comparison to the Blue Lagoon. At less than an hour from the capital, we would urge all visitors in debate to head here over the Blue Lagoon!

Get Around Iceland

One of the best ways to get around Iceland is with a campervan. This allows you to explore on your own terms. Cook when you want, sleep when you’re tired, and take in the views all at once. A campervan is your car rental, accommodation, and kitchen! We always rent with Happy Campers when we travel Iceland, as they provide some of the most comfortable campers in Iceland!

Check Rates with Happy Campers

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Helpful Iceland Travel Tips

• Icelanders speak Icelandic, but every single person I came across spoke English.
• The local currency is the Icelandic króna (ISK). ATM’s are found throughout the country
• Have I mentioned Iceland is expensive? Well, it is! Save money by eating in and cooking for yourself. Check out our Iceland grocery store guide for all the tips!
• Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world; however, it’s always important to use common sense when walking alone at night.
• Tipping is not customary in Iceland.
• Iceland has strong internet infrastructure and you should be able to easily stay connected.

50 Iceland Travel Tips to Know BEFORE You Go

All About Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon features a rugged, moss-covered canyon carved into the land by the Fjaðrá river. From the main platform, you can view Mögáfoss waterfall on its way to the canyon floor. It is said that the canyon was formed 9000 years ago by the water erosion of glacier runoff. Visitors can view the canyon from above by walking uphill from the parking area to the viewing platform. Overall, it’s a perfect place to take in some of the unique landscapes and photo opportunities Iceland offers.

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you may also know that part of the series was filmed in Iceland. There is apparently a scene in season 8 where the dragons fly through Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon. I did not know that this particular spot was a filming location when we visited, and feel like this might mean that I need to re-watch some episodes to relive our visit!

How to get to Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon can be easily accessed when traveling along the southern section of Iceland’s Ring Road. Specifically, we visited on the second day of our itinerary as we traveled between Vik and Höfn. There is so much to see along this southern section, and it felt like we had very little driving time between stops.

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is located approximately 68 km east of Vik (a 1-hour drive) and 208 km west of Höfn (a 2.5-hour drive). It is an easy stop along the Ring Road and offers the unique views that make this drive so spectacular. There is a sign indicating the turn for Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, and the parking area is found just 3 km off the main Ring Road.

Tips for Visiting Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

When is the best time to visit Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon?

As with any popular location in Iceland, it is always best to visit either early in the day or later in the evening to avoid the crowds. July and August are peak season in Iceland and many of the country’s tourist attractions see large groups of people or even tour buses arrive throughout the day, which can impact your experience. If you are traveling the Ring Road and depending on the length of your itinerary, it can be difficult to time your visit perfectly. If you are visiting in the off-season or even shoulder season, you can expect fewer crowds. However, the weather at these times may be less desirable (and more unpredictable).

We visited in the late morning on a beautiful July day and loved the views and experience here! Our day started in Vik and included a bit of backtracking to visit the Dyrhólaey Peninsula and Reynisfjara Beach before continuing east to Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon. We arrived mid-morning, and there were maybe ten other cars in the parking lot, which was a great sign that we were going to have a quiet experience.

how far is the climb to view Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon?

The climb to the viewing platform at Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is a relatively short one. The walking path, or trail, is 3.1 km out-and-back with 103 m of elevation gain. The path is clearly marked and maintained, and I would say that this is an easy walk for visitors of all ages.

How much does it cost to visit Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon?

There is no cost to visit Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon. It is also free to park here, which is not always the case at Iceland’s tourist stops!

How long should you plan to stay at Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon?

Our stop at Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon was a quick one, as we had a very busy day planned! I would say that 45 minutes to an hour is an appropriate amount of time to spend here; you’ll get the chance to climb to the viewpoint, enjoy the surrounding area, and snap a few photos before returning to your vehicle.

What should you wear on a visit to Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon?

We were fortunate to have amazing weather on our trip to Iceland. The day that we visited Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon was blissfully warm and sunny, and we were able to enjoy the day wearing a t-shirt, pants, and comfortable hiking shoes. However, the weather in Iceland can definitely be unpredictable, so you’ll want to plan for a bit of everything when thinking about your Iceland packing list! Even though we experienced great weather, we packed rain gear and warm layers and kept these handy in our camper van in case they were needed.

As mentioned, we were traveling in a camper van, making it easy to assess the weather at each stop and determine the appropriate clothing and footwear that we needed. However, if you are not traveling this way, it’s best to pack layers and check the weather on Vedur.is before heading out.

Is Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon Kid-friendly?

I would say that Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is appropriate for visitors traveling with children. The climb to the viewpoint is not super long and the area includes guardrails and a viewing platform for safety. If you are traveling with kids who are up for a bit of an uphill walk, this is a great place to stop! If they’re anything like me, they will particularly enjoy seeing the waterfall drop into the canyon.

Our visit to Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

We spent our first night in Iceland at Vik Camping and woke up bright and early to make the most of our upcoming day. Opening the door to the van and seeing the gorgeous cliffs and sunshine, we knew it would be an amazing day (and we were right!).

Because of our jam-packed travel itinerary (we were traveling the entire Ring Road in only seven nights), most of our days were extremely busy with either driving or stopping to take in as many sights as possible. Starting our morning from Vik on our second day in Iceland, we first grabbed a coffee at Skool Beans (located at the Vik Camping area) and then drove up to view Vík i Myrdal church. We then backtracked to visit the Dyrhólaey Peninsula and Reynisfjara Beach (both of these being must-see locations, in my opinion) before continuing east on our counter-clockwise Ring Road journey.

All of these early morning stops meant that we arrived at Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon mid-morning. In planning for our trip, we knew that the weather in Iceland could vary greatly throughout the day and among different regions of the country. However, once we arrived at the Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon parking area, we were confident that the weather would remain beautiful for our visit to the canyon. I grabbed the camera and we headed up the path to check it out. The climb was short and relatively easy, although it is a bit uphill.

One of my favourite parts about visiting this spot was standing at the main viewing platform and watching and listening to the waterfall drop from the cliff and into the canyon below. We were lucky to have such a warm and sunny day for our visit, but I can imagine that the views with grey or moody skies would be equally impressive. The gravel path and viewing platforms here meant that the climb to view the canyon felt less like a rugged hike and more like a walk, but it was enjoyable nonetheless and a great way to stretch our legs. Our visit here lasted about 45 minutes, as we had many other locations on our itinerary for the day.

Next up was a hike to Múlagljúfur Canyon, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and Diamond Beach before ending the day with a late night (meaning 10:30 pm) dinner in Höfn. This jam-packed day along Iceland’s southern coast was one of our favorites for the entire trip!

Things to see in the Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon Area

As mentioned, we visited Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon on a particularly busy day in our Iceland Ring Road itinerary. Thankfully, when traveling in July, we were able to take advantage of the many hours of daylight to make the most of each travel day. Touring the country in our Happy Campervan was also very convenient as it meant that we did not need to search for restaurants or places to rest; we had everything we needed in our vehicle with us, and could stop whenever we wanted! In addition to Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, listed below are the stops that we made on our busy day of driving between Vik and Höfn.

Dyrhólaey Peninsula

If you are interested in birdwatching, this is a perfect location for puffin viewing. These little seabirds are my absolute favorite, and I could have stayed all day watching them fly out to sea and return to the cliffs. If you are visiting between the months of May to August, you will have a chance to see puffins here. It was the perfect way to start our day!

Reynisfjara Beach

Reynisfjara Beach offers a lot of unique features in one stop; black sand, hexagonal basalt columns, and crashing waves. However, be sure that you do not turn your back on these waves as this location can actually be quite dangerous. This is a must-see location along Iceland’s southern coast, but we needed to walk a little way down the beach in order to avoid the crowds and have a more peaceful experience.

Vík i Myrdal Church

This charming church is nestled at the top of a hill amongst rugged cliffs and fields of lupine (which can typically be seen in Iceland during the months of June and July). While I had this church on our list of places to visit, I was surprised at just how close it was to the campground in Vík. It was a great spot for photos; facing away from the church, you can get a great view of the coastline and ocean.

Múlagljúfur Canyon

The views at Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon are just a warm-up for the epic Múlagljúfur Canyon; the great thing is that both of these locations can be visited in the same day. If you are planning to stop at Múlagljúfur Canyon to see some of the Instagram-worthy views for yourself, you will need to reserve a few hours in your day and be prepared for a hike. However, it is totally worth it, and this was one of my favorite stops in our jam-packed, epic day!

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

We arrived here in the early evening to a nearly-empty parking lot. Because of the extended daylight in the summer months, our later arrival meant that we could still view the stunning ice formations in this glacier lagoon, with the added bonus of having the place nearly to ourselves. However, if you’re looking to take in some of the tourist opportunities here, such as the boat tours on the lagoon, you will need to plan to visit earlier in the day. I loved the way that the light showcased the different features of each iceberg, bringing out the colors and unique shapes.

Diamond Beach

Across the road from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is Diamond Beach. The ‘diamonds’ here are chunks of ice that wash up on the beach as the ice makes its way out of the lagoon and into the ocean. These chunks of ice vary in size and shape and contrast with the black volcanic sand on the beach. The day that we visited seemed not to have as many chunks of ice as I had expected, but I have seen photos where the beach is lined with more chunks of ice than you can count! This spot was still worth a stop – it’s not that often that you find a beach that is literally dotted with ice!

Is a visit to Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon worth It?

Given the choice between Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon and Múlagljúfur Canyon, I preferred the views at Múlagljúfur Canyon. However, more time is needed to visit Múlagljúfur Canyon and it involves more hiking which can be difficult if you are short on time or have mobility concerns.

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is a beautiful place that we included in a jam-packed day of visiting Dyrhólaey Peninsula, Reynisfjara Beach, Múlagljúfur Canyon, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and Diamond Beach as we traveled between Vik and Höfn. I do not regret stopping at Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon on our epic day along Iceland’s Ring Road!

I hope that this article helped you plan your visit to Iceland’s Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon!

First, we suggest you consider the length of your trip and what time of year you’re heading to Iceland. The key to packing for Iceland is to dress for the weather, from chilly to downright freezing. No matter the time of year, it’s best to pack a shell jacket, down jacket, warm base layer, and a decent pair of boots.

Don’t let any poor weather deter you, though. There’s no bad weather in Iceland, just the wrong clothes. With this packing list, we’re here to help you with what to wear in Iceland.

What to Pack for Iceland Tips

• A lightweight hiking jacket or shell jacket is a staple that should be in every traveler’s luggage, no matter the season. You will 100% want a waterproof jacket in Iceland.
• Packing cubes are excellent at separating dirty clothes from clean clothes or wet from dry. Opt for a packing cube with mesh that will allow wet clothes to dry.
• We love to pack wool base layers such as thermals, socks, and underwear to help fight off the cold.
• A good pair of boots for Iceland is vital as you’ll likely deal with inclement weather and sharp volcanic rock.
• Packing rain pants is always a good idea. We usually try to avoid packing them as they are bulky, but they can be true lifesavers in Iceland.
• A soft side duffel bag or backpack is best if you plan to drive the Ring Road. They’re easier to carry and can squeeze in the back of a car or van.
• When traveling with a warm parka or heavy winter jacket, it’s a good idea to wear the jacket on the plane to save space in your luggage.
• A good toque/hat and gloves are a great way to stay warm without much space.
• Sun protection is a good idea in the summer, so bring sunblock, sunglasses, and possibly UPF clothing.
• Remember that Iceland isn’t the end of the world, and if you forget something, it’s likely you’ll be able to find it in Iceland, though you will probably pay a premium for it.
• We have traveled Iceland three separate times now. On our most recent trip in June, I was optimistic and brought shorts and more “summery” clothing. I never wore any of it. As you’ll see from these photos, we wore many of the same clothing items every day.
• One of my top Iceland travel tips is to check the weather in Iceland on Vedur.is. We found them to give the most accurate forecasts.

The Weather in Iceland

The weather and time of year will have the most significant impact on what you wear in Iceland. Temperatures vary widely, and the seasons can be drastically different. If you need more info, read about the best time of year to visit Iceland.

Iceland’s Seasons

Iceland Packing List Essentials

• Passport – This is obvious, but you won’t make it far without a passport.
• Credit Cards – We use several travel credit cards offering purchase protection, rewards, and no foreign transaction fees.
• Visa – Make sure you have a visa if you need one.
• Debit Cards – It’s good to carry a few Króna in Iceland. We never bother with money exchanges that provide awful exchange rates. Instead, we rely on the ATM when we arrive. Charles Schwab, Ally, and Capital One offer low or no foreign transaction fees. That being said, almost everywhere, and we mean everywhere, accepts cards. On our last trip to Iceland, we never pulled out any cash.
• Driving License – If you plan to rent a car, you will need your driver’s license; a second form of identification never hurts. To drive, you must have a valid license for the last year. An IDP is required if the license is not in the Latin alphabet.

What to Wear in Iceland

Before you pack for Iceland, it’s good to determine what you’ll need for your trip. Travel plans have an enormous impact on this. Whether camping, hiking, horseback riding, sailing, ATV tours, or skiing, Iceland is all about adventures. You’ll likely need some outdoor gear that is well-suited for movement and offers protection from the elements.

There are several staple items that I would recommend everyone bring for their trip to Iceland. Pack functionality with clothes that can serve multiple purposes. Layers are key in Iceland, as the weather and temperatures can change significantly in one day. The right outfit and layers can handle just about any environment or climate.

Wool Sweater

When wondering what to pack for Iceland, you can’t forget this item. If one article of clothing is made for travel in Iceland, it’s the wool sweater. You’ll always want a sweater on your packing list, as the season does not matter. Iceland remains cool year-round, and it’s a great mid-layer in the winter.

A wool sweater is a great travel outfit staple and a classic piece for your closet at home. They’re comfortable, stylish, and warm. I have several sweaters, but my favorites are made with organic materials like wool. Collecting sweaters has become my favorite travel souvenir, and I treasure my Scottish wool and Peruvian Alpaca sweaters.

Iceland has some terrific wool and sweater producers, but you’ll have to pay top dollar to own one. It’s the most common souvenir from Iceland, but they vary significantly in quality and price. We shopped around and found they range from $150 to $400+, with the lower-priced sweaters being mass-produced by a machine abroad.

Shell Jacket

Right after you pack your wool sweater, we suggest you reach for a shell jacket. If we were taking bets, we’d make a substantial wager you’ll see some rain during your trip to Iceland. Iceland is notorious for its wind and rain, and a good shell jacket will help protect you from the elements.

We suggest a packable rain jacket for the outdoors/hiking. Any rain jacket will do, but the top-dollar ones designed for the outdoors will hold up and help in inclement weather. They are lightweight, durable, packable, waterproof, and windproof — the wind may be the most important as it can be unrelenting.

If you’re hesitant to invest in a shell jacket, you can always opt for an affordable poncho. We wouldn’t want to hike in one as they’re terrible at ventilation, but they’re adequate if you only have sightseeing plans. Plus, they can save you when the weather takes a turn for the worst.

Down Jacket

A packable down jacket is an outdoor staple and perfect for any trip to Iceland, no matter the season. They’re warm and provide decent protection against wind. Although down jackets were created for outdoor sports, their comfort and practicality have made them perfect for daily life.

It’s a rare day when the weather is too warm in Iceland to warrant a down jacket. Down jackets are lightweight by design and easy to pack in a backpack or suitcase. We always have one in our luggage on any extended trip.

Goose Down Parka

You’ll freeze your ass off in the winter months if you don’t have the right gear. That being said, Iceland remains manageable for most of the year. In general, you will be able to get by with a lightweight down jacket or a great fleece jacket, as they are warm and lightweight.

However, some places are icy in the winter months in Iceland. We’ve always appreciated a good parka if we plan to watch the Aurora, which often involves standing in the cold at night.

As much as you may want to bring a few different winter jackets for options, it’s best to settle on just one since winter jackets are cumbersome. We have many winter jackets, but our warmest are Triple Fat Goose down parkas.

Flannel Shirt

You’ll never feel out of place in Iceland wearing a flannel. The super comfy top keeps you warm and works as a fabulous mid-layer. As even the summer months are cool in Iceland, it’s always good to pack one.

They’re super easy to style for a relaxed outdoor look, and we often spend our evenings or days lounging around in a flannel. You’re not going to find locals wearing flannel, but the relaxed style matches their sensibilities. When the temperature drops, pairing a flannel with a nice vest is a good look and adds warmth.

Hiking Shirt

At least one hiking shirt that is quick, dry, and anti-microbial should be on your Iceland packing list. This can be either a synthetic blend or a wool shirt. Staying dry is essential when hiking in cold temperatures, as moisture will remove the heat from your body. Plus, if your clothes get soaked, the shirt will dry overnight.

Synthetics are a bit cheaper and lighter, but they are made from plastic and contain chemicals. That being said, they offer exceptional performance. Our favorite synthetic hiking shirts are the Outdoor Research Echo Series. They make a hooded version that is light enough to be worn in the heat with full sun protection! It’s up to your preference on the sleeve length, but we prefer long sleeves in Iceland as it’s never too hot.

Wool shirts are another exceptional option and the more sustainable option. We love wool shirts, and on our last trip, we packed them in addition to our synthetic shirts. Wool shirts are super comfortable and do an incredible job at temperature regulation. Most importantly, as a travel shirt, wool does a much better job of resisting odors. We regularly wear our wool shirts multiple times between washes.

Travel Shirt

A couple of t-shirts are an easy, no-brainer to pack for your trip to Iceland. As you spend the majority of a trip in an outdoor jacket, there is no need for fancy tops or dresses. We love to wear wool travel shirts as they do a better job at moisture management, temperature regulation, and odor resistance. So, they’re pretty much the perfect shirt for Iceland.

We love them for all the same reasons as wool hiking shirts. However, many shirts have an athletic fit that doesn’t always look the best for daily wear. That’s why we have fallen in love with Unbound Merino. They make wool clothes with casual styles for travel. Wool shirts are super soft, and the heavier fabric is more attractive than cotton shirts.

Jeans

Jeans are a fashion staple but aren’t the best packing pants. However, travelers have options, such as DU/ER jeans. The organic cotton jeans look sharp, but the blend of polyester and spandex allows the jeans to stretch. They look like quality stone-washed denim without the weight and stiff feeling.

Fit is exceptional, with a slim fit throughout the leg. You can comfortably wear the jeans on long travel days without any discomfort. Thanks to the synthetic blend, they’re great for lengthy trips as there is no need to wash the jeans. An easy favorite for those when you’re out exploring Iceland, the added water resistance is a huge bonus.

Hiking Pants

With the often wet weather in Iceland, we suggest some technical pants made from synthetic material. Most of these pants are designed for hiking but look casual, such as the Kuhl Renegade and Freeflex pants.

Technical pants are water-resistant, quick-dry, and comfortable. Iceland is all about the landscapes and spending time outside, so a pair of hiking pants should be in your suitcase. If you want to know our favorite hiking pants, we suggest the Fjallraven Keb Trouser. Or you can always hike in shorts!

Rain Pants

In all our time traveling, we’ve never felt a need for rain pants aside from Iceland and Antarctica/Patagonia. While technical hiking pants can easily handle light or brief rain showers, the torrential downpours that hammer Iceland require something more robust.

That’s why we highly recommend rain pants if you’re on a tight schedule and can’t afford to spend a day inside during a trip to Iceland. Amazon has some affordable options if you’re not a serious backcountry enthusiast who needs performance rain pants.

Performance Underwear

You can never have enough underwear or socks. We love wool undergarments on the road as they dry quicker and have antimicrobial qualities. This means they stay fresh longer and keep you more comfortable. After a lot of testing, our favorites are from Icebreaker. They make several versions and cuts for men and women to match personal tastes.

What’s best about wool underwear is that they can be washed in a bathroom sink at night only to dry by morning the next day, so you could feasibly travel with only one or two pairs of underwear. They are pricey, so we can’t don’t recommend everyone replace every pair. We still travel around with several regular cotton undies, but a couple of pairs of these for dirty clothes emergencies come in handy.

Wool Socks

We’ve learned to love our feet with a good pair of socks. You will want to keep your feet dry with all the wet weather in Iceland. Most importantly, wool socks stay fresh for several days as they have natural antimicrobial properties.

We travel with several pairs of wool socks on any trip. They make every style and cut, so finding your desired pair is easy. Our recommendations for socks are Darn Tough, Smartwool, and REI Co-op. If you still want some classic cotton socks, check out Bombas.

Thermal Layers

Thermal underwear is essential to remain warm and dry. Your base layer is the first key to wicking away moisture and keeping your body heat from escaping. We always wear quality base layers when active in cold temperatures like hiking, snowboarding, scrambling, or camping.

For the base layer, we recommend they fit snugly and are made from a noncotton material like nylon or wool. We wear wool thermals from Helly Hansen and Smartwool. You won’t need thermal layers in Iceland during the summer, but it’s a great item to pack for the Fall and Winter. Fall temperatures don’t always warrant thermals; however, it is Northern Lights season, so they’re a welcome layer of warmth on those cold nights.

Bathing Suit

When wondering what to pack for Iceland, a swimsuit may not be on your list – though it should not be forgotten! Soaking in geothermal water is essential to Icelandic culture. Geothermal pools, secret hot springs, five-star spas, and public pools all present an awesome opportunity to get wet.

For a fantastic women’s swimsuit brand, we recommend Londre and Carve Designs. They make high-quality swimsuits for women. Many of their pieces are stylish yet supportive, and I wore them nearly every day while enjoying places like the Vok Baths, Sky Lagoon, Reykjadalur Hot Springs, Myvatn Nature Baths, and Hvammsvik.

Vuori makes fantastic lightweight Cruise Board Shorts in various prints and colors. They’re super comfortable, quickly dry, and the cut is perfect. We don’t like board shorts that are too long or loose, as they look sloppy.

Travel Shoes

A comfortable pair of shoes is always nice when packing your bag for Iceland. You’ll probably spend plenty of days in hiking boots, but it’s nice to give your feet a break.

A comfortable pair of travel shoes that are easy to stash in the bag is a great idea. We love Allbirds as a lightweight shoe, but any comfortable casual shoe will work. A more casual shoe is great for heading to dinner or exploring one of Iceland’s charming towns or the capital city of Reykjavik.

Leather Boots

Another excellent suggestion for footwear is a pair of leather boots. Pack a pair of lightweight hiking boots or leather boots to help cope with all the wet weather. As Iceland is an outdoor destination, you’ll want it to be practical and comfortable.

We recommend boots with a thick sole to protect your feet from sharp volcanic rocks and that the boots have some form of weatherproofing. It’s up to your style preference and plans, but a leather or synthetic hiking boot works best.

We’re active and love hiking, so we packed trail runners and Blundstones on our last trip. The one thing you need to know about footwear is to pack one shoe for casual wear and one that is weatherproof and matches your travel plans.

Scarf, Hat, Gloves

Scarves are a travel staple and a great wardrobe choice for traveling in Iceland. They act as an accessory to your outfit and are super comfortable for an added layer of warmth. Top that off with a good toque and appropriate gloves for the season. It’s three simple things that can make you so much warmer.

They’re all wonderful to have readily available on those blustery Icelandic days. Our favorite part about these three items is they take up little to no room in your luggage. We always recommend these items for cool weather destinations.

What to Pack for Iceland: Accessories

Sunglasses

A stylish pair of sunglasses is an excellent addition to an outfit. Everyone owns at least one pair of sunglasses. However, it’s best to ensure they have UV protection for the health of your eyes. We always travel with two pairs of sunglasses as we’re pretty active. A pair of Smith Optics for hiking and outdoor adventures and a couple of stylish sunglasses to wear at the beach or around town for the day. My stylish ones are Persol, and my Active ones are always the Smith Lowdowns.

Hiking Backpack

A daypack should be enough to hold your belongings if you’re not going on an overnight backpacking adventure. No matter the hike, you will want a daypack to store your belongings. My daypack usually consists of a shell jacket, down jacket, hiking poles, snacks, water, gloves, chapstick, a buff, a camera, a first aid kit, navigation, and an emergency blanket.

While not everyone needs an alpine pack, the key to take away is to opt for the correct size pack. I love a versatile size around the 30L mark if you only have one pack. The size gives enough room for gear-heavy days, but it’s light enough for light short treks or walking around town. Of course, a nice backpack will do the job if you don’t have plans for extensive hikes. I can get around on almost any size day hike with a small 10L multi-sport vest.

Travel Towel

We always recommend you pack a travel towel on the road. Everyone needs a towel in Iceland because of the public pools and hot springs. If you go to a public pool, you will have to shower before entering, and although you can often rent towels, it’s best to have your towel. Plus, you’ll want if you have plans to visit any of the country’s natural hot springs, like the Reykjadalur Hot Spring River.

The biggest complaint about travel towels is that they often feel nothing like the plush cotton towels we are accustomed to at home and in hotels. We picked up the PackTowl you can forget about because they set out to create a towel that mimics its cotton counterparts with the technical features of a travel towel.

Rechargeable Headlamp

A headlamp is always a great idea for packing your bag. We find it most helpful on night walks, searching for the Northern Lights, and at campsites as we drove around the Ring Road in our camper van. So a headlamp for Iceland is super handy. A great option is a rechargeable headlamp like the BioLite 330 or 150.

Travel Adaptor

A universal power adaptor is an essential travel accessory for any trip to Iceland. We recommend picking up one before arriving at your destination. Once at your destination, finding one that is not overpriced or poor quality can be challenging.

Also, I never want to be searching for an adaptor when I have just come off a long travel day and need to plug in my computer. I want to have it with me and ready to go. We’ve tried a bund of adapters, but this one from Ceptics has to be our favorite in our travels. It has multiple plugs and USB ports. It also works as a surge protector.

Kindle Paperwhite

A Kindle is an essential travel accessory for travelers who love to read. As much as we love an actual book, they are too heavy and take up too much room in my suitcase. We recently upgraded to the Kindle Paperwhite and loved it. It’s small, has touchscreen functions, and has a backlight to read at night without a harsh glare. We can’t think of a better way to disconnect in Iclenad than with a good book.

Grayl GeoPress Water Filter & Purifier

A travel water bottle is at the top of our list regarding travel essentials. And when it comes to water bottles, our favorite is the Grayl GeoPress purifier bottle. It saves money, reduces plastic waste, and ensures our water is safe and free of viruses and other waterborne illnesses.

The Grayl bottle is not only practical but also innovative in design. A press-like system effectively filters out sediment, bacteria, and heavy metals, leaving only clean and safe water. Its wide-mouth top makes it easy to drink and fill, and its sleek design fits comfortably in any bag or backpack.

Yes, the water in Iceland is excellent to drink from the tap. However, we would never recommend drinking water from a stream or pond due to livestock without purification/filtration.

Toiletry Bag

Keeping your toiletries organized and separated from your clothes is a great idea. It almost feels like a toiletry bag is essential for any trip. Plus, it’s not uncommon to find small or cramped bathrooms in Iceland.

Buying a hanging toiletry bag is an excellent option if you are limited on counter space. This bag style tends to have a better organization system with various sections for storage than the traditional option. We love the Peak Design Wash Pouch. It contains a hidden hook to hang and features terrific organization.

Power Bank

I love traveling with a power bank to ensure my electronics never die. I usually don’t need to use it on long flights as some new international flights provide entertainment systems with USB ports! (Always make sure your charging cable is handy when boarding the plane)

We also find a charging point during layovers, but getting to a new city without your hotel reservations and map can be a significant pain. I recommend purchasing this power bank because it’s a great value with solid reviews.

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are phenomenal for the organization of any backpack or suitcase. They are one of those packing essentials that should be in every bag as they keep all of your clothes and toiletries organized. Cubes also keep clothes folded and protect them from wrinkles.

Our favorite packing cubes are from Peak Design. It’s a slick design, and each cube has a divider to separate clean from dirty clothes. This saves the need for additional cubes and makes organization easier.

You Need This To Travel in Iceland!

Travel Insurance

We never travel without travel insurance with Heymondo. With all the risks of travel in a foreign country and insurance coverage, we never have to worry about a good health plan. Heymondo offers incredible flexibility and great plans!

You never know if the worst could happen while you’re abroad, and your insurance plan at home often will not cover medical emergencies abroad. Having the peace of mind with a good backup plan helps us sleep at night.

What Not to Wear in Iceland?

• Cotton Clothing — Iceland is a great place to wear synthetic materials and organic fibers that offer more technical features. We love wool and nylon or polyester for clothing!
• Shorts — You’ll find shorts on very few Europeans. For the most part, Iceland never gets warm enough for you to bust out the shorts. Unless you have plans for trail running or some strenuous hikes, I’d leave them at home.
• Sweatpants — Okay, this should go without saying, but sweatpants are never really that appropriate in public. It seems to be the accepted norm in North America, but everywhere else in the world, they are for home and the gym and that’s it.

A Few Tips For A Trip to Iceland

Reykjavik is an Unconventional Capital City

Even though we used to live in New York City, we’re not city people anymore. We prefer to be off hiking, on a beach, or doing anything else, not in a busy city. However, Reykjavik is not the usual European city, and we enjoyed spending time in the charming city.

There are no high rises and few business suits, just a laid-back atmosphere surrounded by the ocean and mountains. If you only have a few days in Iceland, you can base yourself in Reykjavik and take day trips or catch the local bus to places like Esjan & Glymur.

In my opinion, Reykjavik deserves at least one day of exploration unless you’re there during one of its epic festivals – then definitely stay longer!

Credit Cards!

Never once did we use cash in Iceland. Credit cards are accepted everywhere – even at public bathroom stalls. Of course, it never hurts to have cash on you, but I wouldn’t convert much of it to Icelandic Kroner. If you need tips for travel banking we have a post.

We suggest you carry around 5,000 ISK to get out of any unknown situations. Make sure to get yourself a credit card that doesn’t have any foreign transaction fees and provides you travel rewards for using it. Here are a few of our favorite credit cards for travel.

Book a Camper!

A campervan is the best way to get around Iceland on a budget. While a camper is slightly more expensive than a car, you can sleep and cook in it! You don’t have to search for hotels or deal with expensive restaurants in Iceland.

Plus, you sleep in nature every night and still use a heater if you wish! If you want to travel with a Happy Campers van as we did, read our full review. You can easily book using this link, but make sure to book well in advance during the high season.

Iceland is Expensive!

Iceland is expensive. One of the most expensive countries in the entire world. Make sure that you plan accordingly and stay in line with your budget. It’s certainly possible to do Iceland on a budget of less than $100 if you are camping, cooking all your meals, traveling by public transport, or scoring a good deal on a rental.

The good news is that nature is free, and you’ll be able to see Iceland’s beauty without paying for it. So yes – it’s completely doable to have an affordable Iceland vacation.

If you plan on drinking, pick your duty-free alcohol before you leave the airport. A pint of beer can easily run you $15-$20!

That’s why we decided on Happy Campers and could not have been happier. We have now done two separate road trips with Happy Campers, and will continue to road trip with them if we visit Iceland again (and we will – because it’s stunning!) They have one of the best reputations for Iceland camper van rentals, and it’s easy to understand why after renting a camper van from them.

An Iceland camper rental removes some headaches around a road trip and offers greater flexibility. They’re also economical to travel around Iceland as they combine your transportation, kitchen, and accommodation.

However, that doesn’t mean a Happy Camper Iceland is cheap by any means – just affordable by Iceland standards! Iceland is one of the most expensive countries to travel to, and you want to ensure your dollars go as far as possible. If you want to rent a campervan in Iceland, here’s why you should consider the family run Happy Campers!

Is Happy Camper Rentals The Best Iceland Camper Van Rental?

The best Campervan Rental Company in Iceland?

Happy Campers Iceland was one of the first companies to offer kitted rental vans in Iceland starting in 2009. It may not seem that long ago, but since 2009, a lot has changed. It’s brought about dozens of new companies, including familiar faces like corporate car rental giants offering their own version of a camper van.

Happy Campers is still family-run by Icelanders; you can find the whole family involved. We were checked out by the Sverrir or the “Happy Boss.” While his son was responsible for setting up our booking, another picked us up from the airport. Although the company has grown, they still represent their family core values.

Their main office is a short drive from the Keflavik Airport, and they offer a free shuttle to and from the Airport. You’ll definitely want to take advantage of that, because taxis from the airport are not cheap! We paid nearly $30 for a 7 minute taxi ride when we arrived late at night.

Once at Happy Campers guests can pick up their campervans. The check-in process is super smooth; they take the time to review guest travel plans in Iceland and make helpful suggestions. That gives you plenty of time to go over any last-minute questions you may have about routes, campsites, activities, or features of the van. (Here are some of our tips)

Customer service is a real highlight here, and we trust that they’d be sure to amend any issue that may arise. They’re very much a family business and something we really appreciate when booking.

The Happy 2 Campervan

We’ve now traveled Iceland twice with Happy Campers, both times in the Happy 2. Our van came with everything we could need for a camping trip around Iceland. The Happy 2 is one of their larger model camper vans and can drive four people and sleep two.

With only two of us on the trip, we had plenty of space for our ten-day trip around the Ring Road. Three people could sleep in there, but it would be a squeeze, and it’s really more ideal for two. If you have more than two people it’s best to bump up to their Happy 3. If you plan on camping around Iceland like us these are our top Ring Road trip tips.

The Happy 2 can either be a manual transmission Renault Trafic, or an automatic. With so many Americans visiting Iceland, more and more campervans are now automatic.

The Renaults are larger vans, but it is still manageable. I had no problems driving the vehicle as I’m a confident manual driver.

Music is important on any road trip, and the vehicle has an Bluetooth, an MPS CD player with a USB/auxiliary input to hook up your phone so you can play all your travel music!

Happy Camper vans are equipped with a dual battery system that allows for you to have a running fridge and heater. The heater fan operates off of the battery while the heat is generated by burning diesel fuel in your tank. The vehicle is equipped with a solar panel on the top to ensure it stays charged.

Almost all Happy Campers come with a tablet that gives the Happy App and free unlimited WiFi. The WiFi was so good that we were able to stream 4k movies at night! Bonus of booking with Happy Campers! A welcome feature of the vehicle is the inclusion of CDW insurance. This, combined with our travel credit cards’ insurance, gave us peace of mind while driving on Iceland’s roads.

Our Happy Kitchen

Both of our Happy Camper vans came equipped with everything we needed to make a basic meal. Kitchens change slightly based on van model, but overall you’ll be able to cook things like pasta, rice, chicken, and oatmeal very easily. The kitchen boxes were equipped with a pot, pan, and a full set of dishes for four. You’re also given a camping stove with a few bottles of Butane (more than enough for our ten days of camping).

The only thing I would highly recommend bringing for yourself is some way to make coffee. We brought an Aeropress, but a French Press will do too. Happy Campers gives very basic plastic mugs, but if you’re a coffee lover like me, make sure to bring a coffee thermos to keep your drink nice and hot.

A large cubby system with drawers had enough room to store all of our dry food and cooking utensils. It offered enough cooking space for basic prep meals and cook, but I would opt for a table and chairs outside in the summertime for more room.

Each vehicle also includes a sink with running water. Water is easy to find in Iceland as almost every gas station has hoses to wash your vehicle and top up water tanks.

They offer a few extras such as a grill, picnic table, coffee press, and chairs for an extra charge. Since we traveled in the Fall with low temperatures and we’re not big meat eaters, we didn’t add the grill or picnic table. However, I’m sure they’re an awesome addition to your trip in the summer months.

Update: When we returned in the summer we did grab a table and chairs, but didn’t use them often as the weather was still very wet.

A Happy Bedtime

The Happy fold out bed was more than large enough for the two of us! The bed converts from the back seat area that fold flat. When not made, it provides plenty of seating space to relax, eat dinner, and watch a movie. Come bedtime; it’s easy to convert and takes less than a minute to set up your bed.

Honestly, we found the bed to be a little firm and uncomfortable, though in our Happy 2 it at least felt like a Queen size bed. I would recommend a camping pad and a cheap comforter to make the bed your own if you have extra space in your luggage. A comforter is provided, as well as a blanket, but they aren’t the best.

The pillows provided are also cheap and lumpy and badly in need of an upgrade, if you are fussy about your pillows definitely pack your own!

A welcome feature is a heater at night. In the Fall and Spring, temperatures often dip below freezing, so a cozy van is amazing! We even used the heater a few times in June in Iceland when we returned on another trip!

Seasonal Iceland camper rental

Happy Campers Iceland camper van rental is now open year-round and does offer winter rentals for their fleet of camper vans. This means they switch their rentals over to winter tires, which is super important in the winter. Winter tires are proven to significantly increase traction and stopping power on ice and snow.

If seeing the Northern Lights is on your bucket list, finding a better way to chase them will be tough than a camper van. This will allow you to drive away from cloud cover if it appears and to hide out in your toasty van away from light pollution while you wait for them at night.

Winter rentals benefit from cheaper rates. While we haven’t used the camper van in the dead of winter yet, we did rent during October and found the Webasto heater kept us toasty at night. Another safety note, Happy Campers offers 24/7 emergency assistance, and each rental is equipped with GPS tracking for quick location.

The winter rentals also have a warm winter kit to help out in a bind. This means you get sleeping bags, jumper cables, rope, a shovel, and a flashlight. Granted, we’d recommend you bring your own sleeping bag, warm clothes, and a headlamp if you plan to visit in the winter.

A Few Happy Camper Iceland Van Rental Tips

• If you haven’t yet, head to our comprehensive post about our time on the Ring Road and camping tips there.
• Check our guides if you’re planning on doing the Golden Circle or Reynisfjara black sand beach. 
• Don’t wear shoes in the back of the vehicle; they can get dirty fast. They provide a dustpan and brush, so make sure to use them often to keep the van clean. We also picked up wet wipes, which helped keeping everything clean for two weeks as well.
• Bring your favorite coffee roast and an Aeropress if you’re like us and love good coffee. We picked up local beans at a roaster in Reykjavik.
• Make sure to check the weather forecast and pack the right clothes for Iceland. This website is where you get the most reliable weather forecasts around Iceland.
• Stick to simple one-pot meals. It makes for easy preparation and cleaning up. Also, ensure you get all your food from the Icelandic grocery stores. Restaurants are really expensive in Iceland.
• Don’t fret over a shower if your campsite doesn’t have one or it’s closed! Icelandic swimming pools are affordable and a wonderful experience. Just be prepared for casual nudity! Check out our other Iceland travel tips for more info.

Our Overall Experience with Happy Campers Iceland

We had a great time with our Happy Camper and felt it really gave us the freedom we wanted to explore Iceland during our time. It’s something we all want when exploring the great outdoors. We loved that we could stay out exploring until 11pm if we wanted, and then drive to a campsite for the night. We could pull over at whatever random viewpoint we wanted for dinner, and never had to stick to any schedules.

Happy Campers picked us up for free from the airport, had our vehicle ready, and waited. It was an easy pick-up (and drop-off), and we were on the road in less than an hour. We were off to explore the country for a quick stop at an Icelandic grocery store! Our first journey around the country took ten days, and our second road trip around Iceland was 13 days – a perfect amount of time. Just enough time to fall into the rhythm of things, but not too long to curse living in a van!

Although many are bummed to learn you can only stay in campsites in Iceland, we found a plethora around the country. Many shut down in the low season months but leave their basic facilities open and allow for free camping. This relieved some of the stress of making it to an open campsite by nightfall, as we don’t like driving at night. 

Each day we’d wake up in a new spot and make our way on our own time. Some days we covered a lot of ground while other days, we only drove 100km because we stopped so frequently to go for hikes, relax, or take photographs.

The idea of a campervan is to disconnect and make some beautiful memories. Our memory had to be watching the Northern Lights from our “bedroom,” something we would not have experienced based in Reykjavik without a vehicle. What is going to be your memory in Iceland?

The Best Iceland Camper Van Rental?

Happy Campers vs. Go Campers vs. Kuku Campers

The companies break down into three steps, in our opinion. Happy Campers is likely the nicest company in Iceland, but their rentals also fetch the highest price than their closest competitor. Go Campers comes in right behind Happy Campers with a similar design and price point. They’ve clearly taken a close look at Happy Campers and emulated their design, using fridges, heaters, and running sinks in their vehicles.

Kuku Campers are extremely popular and the largest company in Iceland, but they’re also pretty budget. Their cheaper models include older cars with no heaters, kitchenware, or bedding. Other rental companies are Indie Camper and Wicked Campers (not very nice).

What is Included in the Happy Campers Campervan?

Our Happy Camper was equipped with everything we could possibly need for 10 days on the road. That included things like:

Insurance on the Campervan

When checking out a camper van in Iceland, you have many options for choosing insurance. Happy Campers includes CDW as it is mandatory in Iceland. If you go with the standard insurance, your liability limit is €2500. They also offer packages that reduce the waiver, such as sand and gravel damage.

We went with the gravel insurance (both trips), but I found it a waste, as the roads were great in Iceland during June and October. Had we traveled during the winter and windier months, I believe it could have been more useful.  Also, look into what your credit card covers for auto insurance.

Most American credit cards offer auto rental insurance as a benefit, and I recommend calling your credit card company beforehand to double-check what they cover. If you don’t have a credit card, it’s time to get one, as it’s an important part of travel banking.

Review Opinion: Should You Book a Happy Camper in Iceland?

Yes! Of course, we’re slightly biased as we had a two great experiences with our Happy Camper rental. The company is well run and clearly wants its customers to have a great time. Above all, we only find glowing Happy Campers customer reviews online.

This is how we know we’re not a fluke of having a good time in one of their camper vans. We even met many separate people in their vans who had booked for a second and third time because their first trip to Iceland was that great! They genuinely are the best campervan rental in Iceland!

What to pack for a campervan trip to Iceland

Remember that you’re traveling around Iceland in a campervan. The smallest models don’t leave a lot of room for a massive checked bag (although we had one, as we were on the road for a month prior to our Iceland trip, and it still fit in the van).

The obvious thing to pack is warm weather clothing, even in summer. A great option is to pack a duffel bag or backpack that has soft sides and can be stuffed under a seat.

Of course, always pack a down jacket, sweater, wool socks, and a travel towel. The towel is really important if you go to hot springs and public pools. We have a post on what to pack for Iceland if you want more clothes recommendations. It should also go without saying that Iceland is seriously photogenic, so you’ll want a great camera for travel photography.

Here are some things we’d recommend to make your campervan more at home in Iceland.

How Much Will an Iceland Campervan Rental Cost?

It depends on the season! In the summer, your rental car will cost significantly more than in the off-season months from October to February. Happy Campers offers low season, mid-season, and high season rates. So if you’re goal is to save money, book a car rental in the off-season. Here are some tips for getting a good deal on a campervan Iceland:

• The sooner you book, the better. Campervans, especially with the good companies, sell out fast.
• Do your research and go with the companies that have good reviews. They are often the ones who won’t rip you off for extra charges.
• Avoid peak season, which is late June-early September.

Pros and Cons of Renting a Camper van in Iceland

The truth is Iceland’s landscape can be found nowhere else. A mixture of hot springs, glaciers, wet deserts, lava fields, and a dizzying amount of waterfalls makes Iceland an adventure destination dream. No matter how you plan to travel to Iceland, these tips will improve your trip!

Our Best Iceland Travel Tips

There is no “Best Time” to Go

So, when is the best time to visit Iceland? The short answer is that it depends on what you want when traveling to Iceland. Are you searching for warm weather and the midnight sun? Or do brisk winter nights, fewer crowds, and the Northern Lights strike your fancy?

If I were to pick ideal times, it would be June, October, and December. Generally, November and March are the months to avoid as they’re between seasons (cold rain). However, after our most recent two-week trip in June, all I have to say is to plan for everything in Iceland – the weather truly is unpredictable.

When To See the Northern Lights

Of course, it’s possible to see the aurora in Iceland, and it’s one of the best places in the world to witness the sky light up in greens and purples. This phenomenon is typically observable from September to April. Don’t arrive in June expecting to see the aurora, as it barely gets dark during this time.

The aurora borealis is most active during the equinoxes, so October and March. We’ve been fortunate enough to witness the lights many times over the years, including at home, and the best shows have been in those months.

The key factors to spotting the Aurora include finding a location free from light pollution, having clear skies, and hoping for active aurora displays. It’s worth noting that if the aurora activity is particularly strong, it may even be visible in Reykjavík and other towns. We suggest booking accommodation outside of the city for a trip to see the lights.

It’s not AS expensive as you may think.

Iceland is known for being one of the most expensive destinations in the world—and it is! However, with some planning, it can be done more affordably. Some of the best ways to save money are to travel during the off-season and avoid eating out. Restaurants and alcohol in Iceland are costly.

If you focus more on hiking excursions and less on paid attractions like the Blue Lagoon or snorkeling the Silfra Fissure, you’ll save some money! We’ve traveled to Iceland three times now. The first time, I backpacked on a budget of $40 a day (back in 2013—inflation!). On our second trip, we visited in October to take advantage of off-season rates.

On our last trip, we visited Summer Solstice, the high season in Iceland. For two weeks, we spent $7500 for two people or $300 per person per day. This included our campervan, campsite fees, fuel, activities, food—everything. It is far from the cheapest trip we’ve ever taken, but it is not out of the realm of possibility for many travelers. Read more with our article on travel costs in Iceland.

Tipping in Iceland

It’s not customary to tip in Iceland, so rest assured that at least that high restaurant bill includes the tip!

It’s a Great Destination For a Campervan!

With its natural spaces, lack of development, and campsites, Iceland is a wonderful destination for renting a campervan or motorhome. While a camper is more expensive than a car rental, you can sleep and cook in it! You don’t have to search for hotels or deal with costly restaurants in Iceland.

While the summer rates with a campervan are quite high, we love the freedom and flexibility the campervan gives us. Having the ability to drive for as long as we want during the day, stopping at as many sights as we wish to, without worrying about making it to our hotel or dinner reservation, is the ultimate freedom.

Having a campervan also allowed us to stay well past midnight to see the famous sites without the crowd and crash in the camper for a power nap afterward. Like I said, a camper is a way to do it if you’re after freedom. Plus, you sleep in nature every night and still use a heater in the winter if you wish! We have an article on campervan travel in Iceland and a review of the company we used for our trip, Happy Campers.

You don’t have to reserve a campsite

You must stay at a campsite if you plan on camping around Iceland, whether with a tent, campervan, or RV. At least, that’s the law if you’re traveling around via vehicle. Those on foot or bike have different laws around wild camping.

Unlike camping in the US or Canada, you don’t have to reserve the campsite in advance. There are hundreds of campsites around Iceland, and you can roll up at any time, without reservation, and set up camp. If you arrive late at night and no one is there to take payment, you can pay in the morning when the office opens!

Iceland Campsites…

Speaking of campsites in Iceland, don’t arrive expecting to find private grounds in the woods with a nice place to build a fire, as we did. Campsites in Iceland are usually nothing more than a parking lot. Sometimes, there is grass, and sometimes there are trees for privacy. The nice ones have clean toilets, hot showers, and a kitchen area.

Icelandic campsites are often run by local Icelanders who happen to have some extra land for campers. We camped at 14 campsites in Iceland in the summer and paid anywhere from 1600 ISK to 2500 ISK per person per night for parking on the land, for a total of $350 for the two weeks—in addition to our campervan rental.

Most campsites only operate in the summer, so if you travel to Iceland in the off-season or winter, you’ll have to work a bit harder to find open campsites. Occasionally, some campsite owners will let you park on their land in the winter, but no facilities are usually available beyond this. We learned this the hard way when we traveled in October.

Book Your Accommodation in Advance

If you’re not camping or in a campervan/RV, you’ll need to book hotels and guesthouses. There is not nearly enough accommodation to accommodate the large number of tourists Iceland sees in the summer. If you’re traveling during the high season (summer months), you’ll want to book your accommodation well in advance.

How far in advance? We recommend six months or more to score some of the best rates and have more options. This ensures you’ll find the best places and have the best trip possible. Where you stay can make a big difference in the quality of a trip.

paid parking stations Are annoying

Most destinations in Iceland offer free parking, allowing you to drive without concern about parking fees or road tolls. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to be aware that certain locations require parking payment, and at times, travelers may unintentionally overlook checking for paid parking spots.

These fees apply in national parks like Skaftafell or Thingvellir, downtown Reykjavik, and popular attractions such as the Geldingardalir (Fagradalsfjall) volcano and Seljalandsfoss waterfall. Most of the paid parking areas in Iceland are like something out of the future, too. No parking attendant is checking to see if you paid. Instead, you’ll find a camera that takes your license plate when you pull into the lot.

That means as soon as you pull into the lot, your license plate is noted, and you’ll be subject to pay the parking fee, even if you end up not staying or didn’t mean to pull into the lot. Some parking areas give a 10-minute grace period, but some do not, and it became annoying for us as we weren’t given a chance to decide if paying 1000 ISK to park was worth the viewpoint or sight we were at. The easiest way to pay for parking is through the Parka app (Download: Google Play | App Store) or the website parka.is.

Most Roads are just one lane

The majority of roads in Iceland consist of two-lane paved stretches, and this includes the Ring Road. Nonetheless, it’s not uncommon for a “main” road to unexpectedly transition from a smooth, well-paved surface to a gravel road. Fortunately, even these gravel roads are generally well-maintained and pose no issue for all types of vehicles, even 2WD cars, ensuring safe travel conditions.

Watch Out For Sheep!

Like in the nearby Faroe Islands, sheep are everywhere in Iceland, and you’ll need to watch out for them while driving. They sometimes tend to wander into the road, and you’ll need to slow down and avoid them. Give them space and always follow the speed limit.

Do not speed

If you rent a car in Iceland and plan to drive around, adhere to the speed limits. You don’t want a speeding ticket in Iceland! There are speed cameras around Iceland, but they generally give you fair warning when they are there. Speed tickets are incredibly steep in Iceland, and you’ll be pretty sorry if you get a ticket; they often require foreigners to pay on the spot.

F Roads

In Iceland, F-roads, also known as mountain roads or highland roads, are a specific classification of roads that traverse the country’s remote and rugged interior. The “F” stands for “Fjallvegur” in Icelandic, which means “mountain road.” These roads are unpaved and typically only accessible during summer when conditions are more favorable.

F-roads are characterized by challenging terrain, including gravel, rocks, river crossings, and steep inclines. They often require vehicles with high ground clearance, four-wheel drive (4WD), and specialized equipment to navigate safely. Due to their remote nature and difficult conditions, traveling on F-roads is considered an adventure and requires careful preparation and caution.

Not every rental car or campervan can travel on F-Roads, and you’ll need to rent a 4×4 specifically if you want to get into the Icelandic Highlands. This can add to your trip’s cost, but it’s worth seeing the beautiful Highlands. Do not drive a car that is not rated to handle the F Roads down an F-Road. If you damage the vehicle, insurance from your rental car agency is typically voided, and you could pay large for your mistake.

Credit Cards Are King

We have never used cash in Iceland. Credit cards are accepted everywhere—even in public bathroom stalls. Of course, having some money on you never hurts, but I wouldn’t convert much of it to Icelandic Kroner. We have a post with tips for travel banking. We suggest you carry around 5,000 ISK to escape any unknown situations. We recommend every traveler have a credit card with no foreign transaction fees that provides travel rewards.

Drive the Ring Road

Iceland’s Ring Road, or Route 1, takes you around the entire country—like a ring! It’s one of the best road trips in the world and takes you to some of the best spots in Iceland. The route took us about 12 days, but you can do it in 5-7 days if you are short on time. Along the route, you find some amazing things to do in Iceland, including the Mývatn Nature Baths, Skógafoss, and the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.

Drive the Golden Circle

If you only have a short time in Iceland and want to leave Reykjavik, consider renting a car and driving the Golden Circle. The Golden Circle is a 300-kilometer route that loops in and out of the capital. It’s only a one-day drive or tour out of Rejykavik and will take you to fantastic sights, including Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Geysir and Strokkur. You can also loop in the Kerið volcanic crater and the town of Hveragerði, the hot springs capital of Iceland.

Head to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

If you have extra days in Iceland, one of my top Iceland travel tips is to head to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It’s only a two-hour drive from Reykjavik. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula has been dubbed “Little Iceland” because it displays a wide variety of beauty found throughout Iceland on a compact peninsula.

Waterfalls, cathedral churches, glaciers, and numerous mountains can be found on the peninsula. Side note: You can also discover Kirkjufell, the famous mountain from Game of Thrones. It’s shaped like an arrowhead.

get off the ring road

I know we said to drive the iconic Ring Road, and you 100% should; however, don’t forget to venture off the loop around Iceland. The Ring Road stays pretty busy, especially in the summer and along the south coast of Iceland. Some of our best stops were found by venturing off the Ring Road. We especially loved exploring Husavik and hiking to Glymur Waterfall!

The South Coast of Iceland

We’ve now driven the Ring Road twice, in both directions, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and other parts of the country. The one area that is significantly busier than the rest of Iceland is the southern coast. This is where famous sites like Skogafoss, Vik, and Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool are.

The southern coast is arguably the most dramatic part of Iceland, with waterfalls galore. It’s not a far drive from Reykjavik, meaning many people can take day trips to the area. This keeps the southern coast plenty busy!

Visit Landmannalaugar!

Along with getting off the Ring Road, we highly recommend you carve out time in your Iceland itinerary for Landmannalaugher. This is in the Highlands of Iceland, and to reach Landmannalaugar, you’ll need one of those 4×4 vehicles we discussed, or you’ll want to jump on a tour! Seeing this otherworldly land where so many movies have been filmed is well worth it.

Consider Skipping the Blue Lagoon

Since you’re reading our blog, I assume you aren’t living under a rock.  You’ve probably heard of the Blue Lagoon in your Iceland travel research in that same train of logic. The famous geothermal spa hosts over one million visitors a year.

The Blue Lagoon is an Instagram fanatics’ haven, and it should be for the high price tag. The Blue Lagoon is a tourist trap at its finest, and all locals will tell you that. If you’re on a budget, consider going to one of Iceland’s local pools for a swim and a chat with the locals or visiting a natural pool.

However, if you don’t mind the price and crave the mud masks and outdoor spa in Iceland, it might be right up your alley, and you’ll like it! It took me three visits to Iceland to finally cave in and book a very expensive ticket to the Blue Lagoon to see what all the fuss was about. Of the 10+ hot springs we’ve visited in the country, the Blue Lagoon is the most disappointing.

Our Favorite Thermal Baths & Hot Springs

On our trip, we visited many hot springs and thermal baths. One of our favorite things to do in the early morning or evening was hit up a hot spring. If you are camping and don’t want to be bothered with showering at the campsites, all the thermal baths and geothermal spas have luxurious showers—typically with toiletries!

Here are some of our favorites:

• Reykjadalur Hot Springs: Hike to these free hot springs and stay a few hours.
• Hvammsvik Hot Springs: Our absolute favorite hot springs in all of Iceland.
• Vok Baths: Located in Northern Iceland, these baths have floating pools
• Forest Lagoon: Located in Akureyri, these hot springs are hidden in the forest and have the best cold plunge.
• Krauma: Just an hour from Reykjavik, these are a quiet alternative to the Blue Lagoon.
• Sky Lagoon: This is a fantastic alternative to the Blue Lagoon; however, there is no milky blue water.

Don’t be Afraid to Get Naked

Speaking of pools, you must shower before entering if you go to a public pool in Iceland. This is a non-negotiable aspect of visiting an Icelandic pool. You must shower naked in an open shower. There are often private showers in the tourist thermal baths, such as the Sky Lagoon and Blue Lagoon.

The Icelandic people take their hygiene seriously and don’t want anyone’s dirty bodies infecting their pools. They use minimal water treatment in the natural geothermal water that fills the pools. I appreciate knowing that every person has showered and scrubbed when I am in the swimming pool before entering. Showers are separated by sex, so everyone is comfortable. I wouldn’t suggest skipping around the naked or shower part, as it may get you a few scowls from the locals, or you could even get kicked out! It’s okay – no one cares.

Visit sites outside of peak hours

Many of Iceland’s most famous sights, especially along the South Coast and Golden Circle, are incredibly busy. I’m talking about beautiful Skogafoss, Reynisfjara Beach, Svartifoss, and Seljalandsfoss. These places are amazing and worth stopping by, but one of our top Iceland travel tips is to visit them outside the hours of 10-6 p.m. In the summer, you’ll be rewarded if you stay up past midnight and visit – trust me! The sleepless nights are worth it when you realize you’ll have these popular destinations while the rest of Iceland sleeps.

The same goes for the Thermal Baths

This same concept also applies to the popular geothermal pools in Iceland. For instance, the Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, and Vok Baths are popular stops in Iceland. We always visited the baths either as soon as they opened or about two hours before they closed and found these periods to be the most crowd-free and peaceful—especially at the famous Blue Lagoon!

Rethink Eating Out

Iceland is one of the most expensive countries to visit, and these costs will hit your wallet hard if you go out to eat. Coffee and a bagel in a local cafe will quickly run you $18-$20, and the average meal out at a restaurant will cost anywhere from $35-$70 per person. I wouldn’t even consider ordering a cocktail with that meal if you’re on a budget – we’ve paid less in posh Manhattan bars.

The first time I visited Iceland, I went out with a few Icelanders to a Thai restaurant, expecting to get something reasonable—it was Thai food. Instead, I looked at the menu, decided against paying $30 for Pad Thai, and waited while the others ate their food. Then, I went to an Icelandic grocery store for some bread and skyr and lived off that—true backpacker style!

The grocery stores are where you will get the best value in Iceland, and you can find almost anything you want there! Our favorite grocery store is Bonus—just look for the porky pig! If possible, we’d highly suggest rentals with a kitchen to help save on food costs in Iceland.

Get Your Alcohol at Duty Free

We didn’t drink much in Iceland besides a few glasses of wine or beer while relaxing at the thermal baths. The Icelandic government imposes high taxes on alcohol to discourage excessive consumption and generate revenue. These taxes can significantly increase the retail price of alcoholic beverages.

Additionally, Iceland has a small population and limited local alcohol production, which means that a significant portion of alcoholic beverages needs to be imported. This all means that alcohol, especially liquor and wine, is incredibly expensive. If you plan to drink a bit in Iceland, one of our top travel tips is to get your bottles duty-free when you land in Reykjavik. It’s pretty much open 24/7 and is the cheapest place to score booze in Iceland.

Don’t take a taxi from the Airport to the City

Speaking of the airport, another of my top Iceland travel tips is to avoid taking a taxi from the airport to Reykjavik. If you choose to accept this taxi ride, it may be one of the most expensive in your life. A taxi from the airport to the city can cost upwards of $200!

We paid $30 to drive five minutes from the airport to our hotel in Keflavik as we arrived super late at night. Private buses will take you from Keflavík International Airport to Downtown Reykjavik for a more affordable price. You can book tickets here.

gas stations are where it’s at

Gas stations are where you can find almost everything in Iceland—not just fuel! They’re also where you can find affordable meals and quick takeaway food options. This is a fantastic way to save money if you don’t have a kitchen but don’t want to splurge on an expensive Icelandic meal.

We found many N1s to have great dining options (and often extremely clean bathroom facilities). You can usually find a meal for under 2000 ISK. They’re super popular with locals to meet for a coffee or have a quick meal on the road.

eat at food halls

Another great way to save money in Iceland is to eat at the food halls. Food halls are not everywhere in Iceland, but they are generally in the bigger cities and towns like Reykjavik, Selfoss, and Akurya. Here, you can find plenty of different eateries for the whole family without spending a fortune on lunch or dinner!

Talk to the Locals

Most Icelanders are friendly, so I encourage you to mingle with them. This can be hard as there are only 350,000 residents and 2 million tourists annually. On our recent trip there, we found more foreigners than Icelanders, and it became hard to be among the locals. If you want to integrate yourself and learn more about Icelandic culture, visit the local swimming pools and pubs, book a tour guide, and travel during the off-season when there are fewer tourists.

Most Icelanders can speak English.

We’ve yet to encounter an Icelander who can’t speak English, and they speak it almost perfectly – perhaps even better than you! So you never have to worry about communication or things getting lost in translation here.

You are Safe

Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world! It was the third country I traveled to solo and the first I hitchhiked around. The crime rate is shockingly low, making it ideal for solo female travelers. However, do not think you are 100% safe with the low crime rates because Mother Nature is brutal.

In the high season, tourists face life-threatening situations three to four times daily. It is usually their own doing. Iceland’s weather is notoriously unpredictable and life-threatening, especially in the winter. Always use your head when in the wilderness, tell someone where you’re going if hiking, and ensure you have a cell signal to call 112 if you are in unsafe conditions. The number is the universal emergency number, connecting you to all the essential response agencies for incidents.

We suggest checking out Safe Travel to stay updated on weather conditions. If visiting Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, take the waves seriously. Several tourists have drowned after being swept away by sneaker waves, and it’s become one of the most dangerous places for tourists to visit in Iceland.

Fuel is Expensive

If you plan to rent a car in Iceland, note that gas is costly.  It’s a manageable expense to forget, so add it to your budget. At over $2/liter ($8/gallon), I suggest planning your outings accordingly and not wasting fuel. We had a camper van for two weeks and spent over $600 on fuel for our ring road trip. YIKES!

Go Cabin Hopping

Iceland has some of the most charming family-run guesthouses and cottages scattered across the country. If you are driving around the Ring Road, one of my top Iceland travel tips is to scope out a cabin for a night. Compared to hotels, they are some of the more affordable accommodation options.

Before our Icelandic horseback riding tour, we stayed in one charming guesthouse near Varmahlid called Hestasport Cottages. The place was warm and cozy, with a full kitchen and a communal hot spring to enjoy in the morning or evening. You can find many of these off-the-beaten-path guesthouses on Airbnb.

Iceland is a Ski Destination

If you’re into skiing and snowboarding, Iceland has some fun ski resorts near Reykjavik, Akureyri, and Husavik. January – April is the high season for these winter activities. For the truly adventurous, you can also go arctic heliskiing in the Skíðadalur Valley. The mountains of the North are amazingly gorgeous. Unfortunately, we weren’t there in winter’s heart to participate in their heliskiing.

Bring an Eye Mask in the Summer

One of my top Iceland travel tips for the summer is to bring an eye mask. If you visit Iceland between April and September, it will still be light out when trying to sleep at 11 p.m. This may affect your sleep cycle, which may already be out of whack because of jet lag.

If your hotel or guesthouse doesn’t have black-out curtains, I suggest packing an eye mask in your carry-on luggage. Even if your hotel has blackout curtains, I would still bring an eye mask just in case – they are cheap and light, so there is no reason not to!

Pack Accordingly!

We suggest some cold-weather clothing no matter what time you visit Iceland. That means a down jacket, rain jacket, boots, and a hat. You’ll be forever grateful after one inclement weather day with wind and rain. Stores in Iceland have plenty of clothing available for purchase, as it’s common for travelers to be unprepared. The only problem is that outdoor clothing in Iceland is very expensive.

The locals say there is no bad weather in Iceland, just the wrong clothes, and I couldn’t agree more! Also, bring a bathing suit and a travel towel for all the geothermal pools! We have a great post to help you pack for Iceland with clothing recommendations.

bring rain pants

If there is one mistake we have made every time we have been to Iceland (and we’ve been three times in June, July, and October), it’s forgetting rain pants. The weather in Iceland is extremely unpredictable, and even in the summer, it can rain a lot. I’m not talking about a little shower. We’ve been caught in long torrential downpours more often than I wanted – in the dead of summer!

I can’t stress enough the importance of a good rain jacket and rain pants. We traveled everywhere with our Arcteryx Shell (which keeps us bone dry) and to Antarctica with Helly Hansen Rain Pants, a lifesaver. I wish we had them on our most recent trip to Iceland!

Bring a Water Bottle

Iceland’s water is 100% drinkable. Along with the rest of the Nordics, it is some of the cleanest water in the world, so there is no need to buy bottled water and put more plastic into the world. Get a refillable travel water bottle and save money and plastic waste. That said, we wouldn’t advise drinking from many streams as some may be contaminated by livestock such as sheep.

Pick up your Rental Car from the Airport

If you plan to rent a car or campervan to get around, pick it up and drop it off at the airport. It could end up saving you a buck. Public transport from the airport is lacking, and the Reykjavik Express, one of the only buses from the capital to Keflavik airport, is 4000 Icelandic Kroner one way. That’s a $35 airport transfer on a bus! I would recommend picking up and dropping off at the airport.

Reykjavik is an Unconventional Capital City

Even though we lived in New York City, we’re not city people anymore. We prefer to be off hiking, on a beach, or doing anything else, not in a busy city. However, Reykjavik is not a typical European city, and we enjoy spending time in this charming city.

There are no high rises and few business suits, just a laid-back atmosphere surrounded by the ocean and mountains. If you only have a few days in Iceland, you can easily base yourself in Reykjavik and take day trips or catch the local bus to places like Esjan.

Reykjavik deserves at least one day of exploration unless you’re there during one of its epic festivals—stay longer! Nordic culture is often quirky, and people love to embrace the weird while celebrating the arts. There is always something worth exploring around their cities.

Get ready to hike

Are you sick of spending money on activities? One of the best things to do in Iceland is hike! There are plenty of amazing and beautiful hikes in Iceland, all free to enjoy. The most you’ll have to pay for is parking your vehicle at some locations at the trailhead. A few of our favorite hikes in Iceland are Glymur Waterfall, Mulagljufur Canyon, and Reykjadalur Hot Springs.

An Abundance Of Waterfalls

There are over 10,000 waterfalls in Iceland! We don’t think anyone truly knows how many waterfalls there are. The country is littered with waterfalls, and many are spectacular. We made it a mission to see as many waterfalls as possible, but even trying our best, we couldn’t even scratch the surface.

Sometimes, especially along the Southern Coast, you’ll see a new waterfall every two minutes. Some are easily accessible, while others require a hike. Our best advice is to pinpoint the ones at the top of your bucket list and try to see those first—any extra waterfalls are just a bonus! However, some notable waterfalls make for a picture-perfect postcard opportunity. We have an article on the most popular waterfalls in Iceland, but below are some of the most notable ones.

• Goðafoss: Waterfall of the gods in the Northeast.
• Háifoss: A bit off the beaten track, but one of the highest in Iceland.
• Morsárfoss: The highest waterfall in Iceland.
• Dettifoss: The most powerful waterfall in Europe.
• Gullfoss: Along the Golden Circle and one of the most famous falls to visit.
• Seljalandsfoss: You can stand behind this waterfall.
• Skógafoss: A unique waterfall that comes directly from two glaciers.

Please, don’t walk on the moss

While traveling in Iceland, you’ll surely see all the moss around the country. This moss is very special and delicate. Moss in Iceland grows extremely slowly, sometimes just a few millimeters per year. It is fragile and can take decades or even centuries to recover if damaged.

Avoid stepping on the moss-covered areas and stick to designated paths or trails. Even if you see something you want to get close to, and there’s no set path to it, please leave it be, admire it from a distance, and keep it pristine. Always practice Leave No Trace principles.

The number of tourists we saw in Iceland trampling on so much delicate moss without even realizing it was also troublesome, all for the sake of a photo. Please respect the trails and environment, and leave the area as wild as you found it.

The weather is better in the north

This is completely based on our own experiences in the country, but what we have heard from locals is a true realization. The weather in Iceland is better in the north than in the south. In general, South Iceland tends to be milder and wetter due to the influence of the Gulf Stream; on the other hand, North Iceland tends to have a more pronounced continental climate, with colder winters and warmer summers.

We would constantly check the webcams and weather forecasts on the Iceland Met Office, and every time it was sunshine in the north, it was dreadful in the south. Iceland’s weather is notoriously unpredictable, and conditions can change rapidly regardless of the region.

you won’t be able to do it all

I will end these Iceland travel tips with something every traveler needs to hear—chill out because you won’t be able to do it all. It’s a big country with a zillion things to do, and you’ll need a lifetime to see it all. So focus on your highlights and aim to visit Iceland more than once in your life!

You won’t have time for them unless you want to get pruney and never dry off. Some of these Iceland hot springs are popular tourist attractions, while a few aren’t more than a hole in the ground. We’ve broken down some of the best hot springs in Iceland, and no, there is no mention of the Blue Lagoon because you’ve likely heard about that one already!

Why Are There So Many Hot Springs in Iceland?

Iceland’s terrain boasts a striking juxtaposition of elements. Positioned atop one of Earth’s geothermal hotspots, the island teems with geothermal activity. Furthermore, due to its proximity to the Arctic, Iceland is adorned with many glaciers, earning it the moniker “Land of Ice and Fire.” This blend of geothermal energy has given rise to countless waterfalls, lakes, and hot springs scattered throughout the island, providing year-round opportunities for enjoyment, regardless of the prevailing weather conditions!

Nearly half of the hot water in the capital region is sourced from geothermal springs, delivering hot water directly into people’s homes at near boiling temperatures. Instead of requiring heating, it needs to be cooled down before it’s suitable for bathing. Unlike man-made swimming pools, Iceland’s natural hot springs are scattered throughout the country. Some are nestled in remote areas accessible only by hiking, while others are easily reached by car.

Iceland’s hot springs take various forms, from seething fumaroles and bubbling mud pits to erupting geysers. Many of those would not be pleasant bathing experiences! However, there are also serene pools of water with the perfect temperature for bathing. Soaking in a hot spring is one of the best things in Iceland. They are an intrinsic part of Icelandic culture, and a trip to the country is incomplete without soaking.

The Best Iceland Hot Springs

Hvammsvik Hot Springs

• Location: Hvammsvík, 276 Mosfellsbær (GPS)
• Website: Hvammsvik Hot Springs

The Hvammsvik Hot Springs are easily our favorite of all the hot springs in Iceland. A spa in a fjord can’t be anything but spectacular, right? This certainly rings true regarding Hvammsvik Hot Springs in the Hvalfjordur Fjord! Just picture yourself bathing in relaxing hot springs while admiring the dazzling Northern Lights. This spa features eight natural hot spring pools of different sizes and varying water temperatures.

The spa is built into old barracks used during World War II, but its most unique feature is how well it incorporates the best of both worlds: the authentic spa experience and nature. One of the pools is close enough to the shoreline that ocean water flows into it during high tide, and it is cooled during certain hours of the day. We enjoyed slowly cooling the pool before swimming out into the frigid fjord waters.

Also on site is a steam room and the Stormur Bistro and Bar. If you want a cold plunge, just make your way to the sea, which is easily accessible from the hot springs. All this is surrounded by the area’s spectacular mountain and coastal scenery and is located only a short distance from Reykjavik, making it a fantastic alternative to the Blue Lagoon!

Vok Baths

• Location: 8H33+G5 Fellabær, Iceland Vok vid Urridavatn, 701 Egilsstadir (GPS)
• Website: Vok Baths

While every hot spring in Iceland is different, Vök Baths are truly unique. The geothermal pools float on a beautiful lake! Hot springs are not all that common in Eastern Iceland, but not long ago, Lake Urridavatn revealed a long-hidden secret after residents noticed that some parts of the lake didn’t freeze in the coldest weather.

On-site, you’ll find two floating pools, a regular pool with a swim-up bar, a steam room, and a bistro. You can even take a cool dip in the lake if you wish! The geothermal water in this region is the only water in the country used to brew teas, and you can enjoy a selection of these organic herbal teas during your visit—which is included in the admission price!

Sky Lagoon

• Location: Vesturvör 44-48 200, 200 Kópavogur (GPS)
• Website: Sky Lagoon

Sky Lagoon is very popular with both residents and tourists alike. This geothermal spa in Kopavogur is fairly new, having just opened in 2021. It’s a favorite with tourists who make their base in the capital city of Reykjavik because it’s only 15 minutes away, making it one of the best Reykjavik hot springs!

Being a short distance from the airport, it’s giving the Blue Lagoon quite a run for its money. While it doesn’t have the milky blue water the Blue Lagoon has, the Sky Lagoon provides a much quieter experience, better vibes, and luxurious facilities. Regulars often refer to the spa as where the sea meets the sky due to the spectacular views. Many people plan their visit when they are most likely to catch the northern lights or a colorful sunset.

Of course, there are always views of scenic Skerjafjordur Bay! The lagoon is surrounded by natural features, and on-site, you’ll find an infinity pool with water temperatures reaching 37°C to 40°C, a sauna, a steam room, a cold mist room, a glacial pool, and a swim-up bar serving a variety of beverages. The Sky Café serves light meals and snacks, and the Smakk Bar serves authentic Icelandic dishes.

Reykjadalur Natural Hot Spring River

Given its proximity to Reykjavik, Reykjadalur is one of Iceland’s more popular natural hot springs. It’s a 40-minute drive southeast to the trailhead and makes a great day hike. Reykjadalur means “steam valley” in Icelandic, and once you get to Reykjadalur, you will understand the name.

Steam is abundant and heavy, with a strong sulfur smell—but you’re in Iceland, so embrace it! There is a nice wooden boardwalk along the river with changing dividers. It’s a bit of a hike (45 minutes) to get here, so prepare to take a backpack with all your essentials, like a water bottle and towel. This is easily one of the best free Iceland hot springs near Reykjavik you can find, although you will have to pay to park.

[Google Maps Location]

Forest Lagoon Hot Springs

• Location: Vaðlaskógur 605, 605 Akureyri (GPS)
• Website: Forest Lagoon Hot Springs

As the name suggests, Forest Lagoon and its two geothermal infinity pools are bordered by trees and lush foliage. It looks out over the Eyjafjordur Fjord in a beautiful region of northern Iceland right near Akureyri. In addition to the two pools, a sauna, a quiet room, a cold tub, and a restaurant are also on site. The spa is open until almost midnight each day, so it’s the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring. We visited later in the evening during the midnight sun and had a beautiful sunset from the pools!

Gamla Laugin

Gamla Laugin, the Secret Lagoon in Fludir, is a natural hot spring in Iceland that can accommodate many people. In the late 1800s, It was a place for locals to bathe and learn how to swim. It fell into disrepair in the 1940s but has since been renovated.

It’s almost comparable to the famous Blue Lagoon, but at ISK 3,600, it is a fraction of the price. Towels are not included and cost another ISK 1,000. The water at the Secret Lagoon is always between 38 and 40 C, and guests can enjoy a little geyser nearby while relaxing. If you’re here in the winter, you may even be able to spot the Northern Lights while soaking up the pure Icelandic air.

[Google Maps Location]

Seljavallalaug Hot Mountainside Pool

I’ve discussed the beauty of Seljavallalaug before on this blog, and I truly think it’s one of the best places to visit in all of Iceland. Seljavallalaug itself is a 25-meter pool set deep in a beautiful valley. It was built in 1923, making it the oldest pool in Iceland that is still in operation. Once you arrive after a bumpy car ride and 15-minute hike, you’ll see how old and majestic this pool remains and why it’s one of the best Iceland hot springs.

While this pool is fed by hot springs, we found it lukewarm when we arrived. There is no maintenance at this pool, and it’s said that it is only cleaned once a year, so be prepared for that. Also, arrive with your swimsuits on as the changing rooms are, uh…less than desirable. Most people come here for the stunning valley views and Instagram photos. The whole experience underwhelmed us, and we suggest skipping it.

[Google Maps Location]

Gudrunarlaug Natural Hot Pool

Gudrunarlaug is a hidden Iceland hot spring in the west of the country that is tiny and not anything fancy. The current pool, built in 2009 after a mudslide, is shallow and can comfortably fit six to eight people at a time. The area surrounding Gudrunarlaug is considered a Viking area and is where the Vikings from a few Icelandic Sagas lived. This hot spring is set in the great Icelandic nature and isn’t very well worn on the tourist trail. There is no entrance fee, and you can still find small changing rooms nearby!

[Google Maps Location]

Landbrotalaug Natural Hot Spring

Landbrotalaug is one of those Icelandic hot springs that is a bit harder to find. However, it is under a two-hour drive from Reykjavik, right after Eldborg and right before the Snaefellsnes peninsula. Google Maps has the correct position marked for this hot spring, even though it is tiny.

How tiny? You can fit two people – maybe three if you’re lucky. Landbrotalaug is hidden and off the main tourist path, but if you time it wrong, you won’t get a chance to enjoy it. That happened to us when we changed and prepared to soak up the warm water.

When we walked up to the small hole, we found a naked couple enjoying their time with no intention to leave. Just be warned that it does not fit many people, so it may not be worth a special trip, but rather a stop if you are already driving by.

[Google Maps Location]

Stóragjá

Stóragjá is one of the most stunning Icelandic hot springs. It is located next to the village of Reykjahlið near Lake Mývatn, another fantastic natural hot spring in Iceland. It can be hard to find and overlooked by Grótagjá Cave.

Because of the journey to get here, it may not be great for everyone. Visitors must squeeze through a tight ravine and enter a cave using ropes and steps to see the beautiful blue water. However, when you reach the crystal-clear warm water, your efforts will be well rewarded. The temperatures here are technically considered safe for bathing, but it can get scorching, so it is discouraged, and you must enter at your own risk.

[Google Maps Location]

Hoffell Hot Tubs

• Website: GlacierWorld

If you’re traveling around the Ring Road, this place is easily accessible when driving towards east Iceland near the town of Höfn. Hoffell Hot Tubs are natural hot tubs in the middle of nowhere where you can relax with your friends or even meet new ones and drink an Icelandic beer together.

These hot springs used to be self-service, and you paid 500 ISK to enter, but now they are more commercialized and expensive. Run by Glacier World, they offer hot springs for 2000 ISK and other activities in the area, like short hikes and enjoying the scenery and wildlife. There are also charming old renovated houses to stay in. Booking accommodation includes admission to the hot tubs as well!

[Google Maps Location]

Fosslaug Hot Spring

Unlike the Blue Lagoon, Fosslaug is entirely natural, and its picturesque location right next to the Húseyjarkvísl River and Reykjafoss makes it even more special. The experience of immersing oneself in the freezing cold river and soaking in the perfectly warm Icelandic hot spring is nothing short of magical.

To find the elusive Fosslaug, travel to Varmahlíð in northern Iceland. From there, head to a dirt parking lot at 65°29’57.2″N, 19°22’47.8″W (65.499222, -19.379944 if using Google Maps). Once you pass through the pedestrian gate, follow the path toward Reykjafoss and cross the bridge just after the waterfall. As soon as you cross the small, grassy hill, you’ll arrive at Fosslaug!

[Google Maps Location]

Mývatn Nature Baths

• Website: Myvatn Nature Baths

If you’re looking for amazing hot springs in Iceland, Mývatn Nature Baths are among the best. Comparable to the Blue Lagoon in South Iceland, these baths in North Iceland are more affordable and, in my view, more delightful. I highly recommend taking a soak here – it’s one of the top things to do in Myvatn.

The atmosphere is incredibly calm and peaceful, making it the perfect spot to unwind in nature. The water temperature is carefully maintained at a comfortable range of 36° to 40°C, cooled from its original temperature of 130°C.

The surrounding scenery is breathtaking, particularly during the winter when the area is blanketed in snow. Since these baths are situated in a less-traveled region of northern Iceland, particularly during the challenging winter weather, you can enjoy the solitude while soaking in the baby blue milky water.

[Google Maps Location]

Laugarvatn Fontana Hot Springs

• Website: Laugarvatn Fontana Hot Springs

Situated conveniently between Þingvellir and Geysir on the Golden Circle route, Laugarvatn Fontana is a stunning geothermal hot spring and spa that offers the perfect opportunity to unwind in the afternoon. You can dip in the picturesque lake or choose from the variety of pools, each of which is maintained at a different temperature, ranging from lukewarm to hot tub temperature.

Personally, I adored having the option to switch between my preferred pools when I got too hot or cold, and there’s something for everyone here! In addition, there’s a dining area where you can try out the traditional rye bread baked by burying it in hot sand.

[Google Maps Location]

Laugavallalaug Hot Spring

• Location: 701, Iceland (GPS)

You’ve likely heard of hot springs and geothermal pools before reading this article, but have you heard of natural hot waterfalls? I know I haven’t, but the next time I visit Iceland, I’ll check out Laugavallalaug, where one of these waterfalls exists.

Located in a remote area of the Eastern Highland region of the country, this unique site requires some effort to reach. You’ll need a rugged vehicle to navigate the rough seven-kilometer road, and once there, it’s only a 200-meter hike to the main hot pool. Alternatively, you can hike the whole way. The waterfall pours into the natural pool and is a sight to behold!

Kvika Foot Bath

• Location: 5X6R+XM5, 170 Seltjarnarnes (GPS)

It’s a hot tub, but perhaps not the kind you’re used to because it’s only deep enough to soak your feet! I’m talking about the Kvika Foot Bath, which is found near Reykjavik. While it’s not naturally made, it’s surrounded by lovely coast views and distant mountains.

The warm water of this bath reaches up to 39°C. The location is also popular for watching the sunset or catching a glimpse of the northern lights, and it’s always free to use the pool and hang out in the area. Please treat it with respect!

Hveravellir Hot Spring

• Location: 541, Iceland (GPS)
• Website: Hveravellir Hot Spring

The central highland nature reserve that’s home to the Hveravellir hot springs is considered by many to be one of the most pristine natural areas left on the entire European continent. Part of the area is dotted by lava fields, bubbling, steaming fumaroles, and, of course, the hot spring lagoon itself. It’s bordered by two of Iceland’s biggest glaciers, so you can imagine the view you’ll have as you soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters.

Krauma Spa

• Location: Deildartunguhver, 320 Reykholt (GPS)
• Website: Krauma Spa

Located in western Iceland, just an hour from the capital city, Krauma Spa is strategically placed adjacent to the most powerful hot spring in Europe. The water from the Deildartunguhver Hot Spring is boiling hot, so before you enjoy it, it’s cooled with fresh glacial water.

There are six marble tubs to choose from, and as one of the best Iceland hot springs, they all have spectacular views. We loved soaking for a few minutes in their cold plunge before walking just a few feet to one of the 40-degree pools.

Since it’s so close to the city,, you would expect this place to be crowded, but it’s a much quieter alternative to the Blue Lagoon and even the Sky Lagoon. We arrived around 7 p.m. in the summer and were some of the only souls around. Also on-site are several saunas and a restaurant. You can purchase alcoholic drinks from the indoor bar and bring them to the hot springs.

Hreppslaug Hot Spring

• Location: 311 Borgarnes, Iceland (GPS)
• Website: Hreppslaug Hot Spring

Hreppslaug Geothermal Pool in the Skorradalur Valley of western Iceland has been around much longer than many of the newer spas. It was built in 1928 but recently saw some renovations to the on-site facilities. The facility has historical significance and is currently protected by the Cultural Heritage Agency of Iceland. Preservation of the site is ongoing to ensure it can be enjoyed for generations to come.

On-site, you’ll find two hot pools, changing rooms, and showers. While you won’t find any of the luxury facilities that some of the more modern spas around the country have, you’ll appreciate the appeal of the countryside and the natural surroundings without the huge crowds.

Hrunalaug Hot Spring

• Location: Sólheimar, 846 Flúðir (GPS)

Fludir is situated just outside Reykjavik and is home to a small but magical hot spring surrounded by stone walls that are immersed in nature. Its location on private property and maintenance with donations provided by visitors distinguish it from many of the other hot springs in the country.

The owner is very welcoming as long as visitors respect the property. Once upon a time, the owner kept sheep, and the Hrunalaug pool was used to wash the animals. No worries, though; today, only humans bathe in the warm, relaxing water of Hrunalaug Hot Spring.

Hellulaug Hot Spring

• Location: HRGR+V66, 451 Flókalundur (GPS)
• Website: Hellulaug Hot Spring

Located in the Westfjords, Hellulaug features a small pool with geothermal waters reaching a relaxing 38°C. Despite its position right next to a road, you wouldn’t even know it’s there unless you’re looking for it! Access to the sea is nearby so you can cool off after relaxing in the warm water.

Hljomskalagardur Wading Pool

• Location: 43Q6+V95, 101 Reykjavík (GPS)

If you’re traveling with young children and want to introduce them to the wonders of geothermal pools, the Hljomskalagardur Wading Pool, located in a beautiful park right in the center of Reykjavik, is the perfect place to start! The pool is only 30 centimeters deep and next to Lake Tjornin. Adults can soak their feet in these Reykjavik hot springs and enjoy warm mineral waters while kids enjoy running and splashing around.

Landmannalaugar Hot Spring

• Location: 851, Iceland (GPS)

The landscape of the Iceland Highlands is unique and beautiful. Deep in that mountainous terrain is an incredible place only adventurous souls would attempt to reach! This place, Landmannalauger, is home to several natural geothermal pools. These are just the right temperature to provide a relaxing rest to the hardy adventurers and nature lovers who trek in the area during summer.

The catch? You can only reach the area by four-wheel drive because you’ll need to cross some rivers and streams. As you laze around in those warm waters, you’ll enjoy incredible views of meadows bordered by towering mountains.

Viti in Askja

• Location: 660, Iceland (GPS)

A volcanic eruption in 1875 created the Viti Crater in Askja, eastern Iceland. Today, inside this crater, there is a natural geothermal pool with temperatures that can reach 30°C. People come from all over to bathe in these waters, but the site comes with a precaution; the water in certain parts of the crater can become unbearably hot, so you need to know where it’s safe to enter. It’s also quite a hike down to the crater, and keep i mind you are swimming in active volcano, so do all your research and pay attention to conditions.

Krossneslaug Hot Spring

• Location: 524 Árneshreppur (GPS)
• Website: Krossneslaug Hot Spring

The water that flows into the Krossneslaug Pool near the Westfjords comes from the hot springs in the nearby mountains. The long drive on a gravel road gives the location a remote feel, making it much more relaxing. The views are a welcome bonus!

Kerlingarfjöll Hot Spring

• Location: 846, Iceland (GPS)

Situated in a serene setting between two mountains, Kerlingarfjoll Hot Spring is unique due to the amount of iron in the water. If your body is low in this mineral, soaking in this hot spring is a great way to get your iron level up but anyone can reap the benefits! While facilities are minimal at the actual hot spring site, a lovely resort is close by so you have somewhere to stay if you want to hang around the area a bit longer.

Geysir

• Location: 806, Iceland (GPS)

Some hot springs in Iceland are unsuitable for bathing but are still worth visiting! Geysir is currently dormant, but the water is way too hot to bathe in. You can see the steaming pools as you explore the area, and several smaller geysers nearby erupt every few minutes, creating a fascinating natural display. It’s very important to follow the signs and warnings posted because the water can reach 100°C, and even the ground in some areas is too hot to walk on. Bring the camera and get ready to watch this water fly into action!

Nautholsvik Hot Spring

• Location: 43CC+JFR, Nauthólsvegur, 101 Reykjavík (GPS)
• Website: Nautholsvik Hot Spring

Among the many pools and hot tubs around Reykjavic, Nautholsvik stands out. This geothermal-heated beach features a hot tub at the edge of the sea with temperatures hovering around 35°C and a shallow warm pool. A sauna and café are also on-site, and entry to this attraction is free during the summer.

Grjotagja Hot Spring

• Location: J4G8+FQW, 660 Reykjahlíð (GPS)

Grjotagja is most famously known for being featured in a scene on a popular television drama. Still, despite looking like a beautiful place to submerge into some warm geothermal waters, it’s currently not suitable for bathing. The water is getting hotter with time and can reach up to 50°C. However, the beauty of the spring alone is worth the stop if you happen to be exploring northern Iceland!

GeoSea Sea Baths

• Location: Vitaslóð 1, 640, Húsavík (GPS)
• Website: GeoSea Sea Baths

Situated in Husavik, the warm waters in the geothermal baths at GeoSea Sea Baths are heated by seawater instead of natural spring water like many of the other hot baths around the country. This means the water is infused with salt and other soothing minerals for the mind, body, and soul. As a bonus, due to the salt content, this water, which hovers around 37°C, doesn’t need to have any chemicals added.

As you soak in the relaxing pools, you’ll enjoy views of Skjalfandi Bay and the distant mountains. If you’re there at the right time, you may even glimpse a whale swimming by or the Northern Lights glimmering in the night sky.

Iceland Hot Springs FAQ

The Best Hot Spring Resorts in Iceland?

If you want to stay at the hot springs, several resorts allow guests to book a room for the night. The Retreat at the Blue Lagoon and the Hvammsvik Nature Resort & Hot Springs are some of the best.

Do You Need to Pay for These Hot Springs in Iceland?

Most hot springs are privately run and do cost to get into, especially the spas like Krauma, GeoSea, and Forest Lagoon. Some hot springs are on private land, and you pay the owner to access them. One of the best free hot springs we found is Reykjadalur Hot Springs, which requires a short hike to reach, but it’s well worth it!

When is the Best Time to Visit?

The best time to visit the Icelandic hot springs is early morning or late evening. Midday is always the most crowded and less idyllic.

Can you swim in hot springs in Iceland?

Don’t plan on doing laps at the hot springs. Save those for the Icelandic public pools! The Iceland hot springs and spas are more for relaxation than actual swimming.

Are the Iceland hot springs good for you?

Many of Iceland’s geothermal hot springs boast a wealth of minerals, including calcium, magnesium, silica, and lithium, some of these are known for their muscle-relaxing and potential healing properties. Soaking in the hot springs can also be good for skin, pain relief, and good vibes.

What is the giant hot spring in Iceland?

One of Iceland’s largest and most famous hot springs is the Blue Lagoon.

What is the best time of year to visit Iceland’s hot springs?

The best time to visit Iceland’s hot springs depends on your preferences and what you want to experience. During the summer, the hot springs are open late; however, they are the most crowded, so it’s best to soak in the morning or evening. During the winter, you have a chance to see the aurora!

Are Icelandic hot springs clothing optional?

A bathing suit is required in nearly all public Iceland hot springs.

Is showering mandatory at hot springs in Iceland?

All visitors must shower before entering public pools and hot springs in Iceland. You are expected to shower without your swimsuit on and use soap! Don’t worry—no one cares that you are naked, and changing rooms are always separated by sex. If you’re a bit shy, some hot springs have private showers.

Should you shower after visiting hot springs in Iceland?

Showering after your hot springs visit is not required, but you’ll likely want to, as your skin may feel dry.

How do I protect my hair in Iceland hot springs?

The worst place for your hair is the Blue Lagoon, where geothermal seawater contains high concentrations of minerals such as sulfur, silica, and magnesium. It’s great for your skin, but these minerals can wreak havoc on hair, so do your best not to get it wet.

To avoid damage, soak your hair in conditioner and put it in a bun before entering the Blue Lagoon. Although the silica at the Blue Lagoon and Myvatn can ruin hair, I did my best not to get my hair wet at any of these hot springs in Iceland.

Should you bring a towel to Iceland?

Most hot springs in Iceland don’t include a towel, even after charging over $50 for entrance. We recommend traveling to Iceland with your own towel to avoid always renting one. The more luxurious spas include one in the ticket price, but you indirectly pay for that with the elevated cost.

Best Hot Springs in Iceland Maps

The amount of beautiful sights you can see within a day will have you aching to visit over and over, and the interesting Icelandic culture, people, and customs only add to the allure of the country.

Beauty attracts you, but diversity makes you never want to leave.  In a place as engrossing as the country is, it can be tough to narrow down what to do in Iceland. Here’s our ultimate list of things to do in Iceland to help you plan an epic trip.

The Best Things to Do in Iceland

Rent a Camper

We found one of the best ways to experience Iceland was by renting a campervan in Iceland. It should be no surprise that accommodation is expensive in Iceland. A campervan can minimize your accommodation expenses; and as most also come with a mini kitchen, you can save a lot of money by cooking all your meals in (dining out is extremely expensive in Iceland!)

We loved the freedom we had with the campervan. For a good rental company, try Happy Campers. They are family-run, have excellent reviews, have great customer service, and some of the best vans in Iceland! You can easily book using this link, but make sure to book well in advance during the high season.

Explore Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital city, offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and history. We’re not much for spending time in capital cities, however Reykjavik is quite different from any other European city you may have traveled to. It’s hip and vibrant, and has a hard-to-describe vibe to it that you can only find in the Nordics.

A few of the best things to do are take a stroll around the charming Old Harbor or marvel at the modern architecture of Harpa, a world-class concert hall that hosts various cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions. On a nice day discover the beautiful Sun Voyager sculpture on the waterfront, representing the Viking age, exploration, and dreams of a new, uncharted territory.

Iceland is one of the most expensive countries globally, and the high costs are reflected in food and alcohol. However, when you are in one of the hippest capital cities in the world, you should have at least one or two nights out in Reykjavik.

There is a large nightlife scene that’s vibrant on weekends and summer months, making bar life one of the best things to do in Iceland in the summer.  The best food we had in Reykjavik was at Matarkjallarinn, which serves modern Icelandic cuisine. They have live music or a pianist playing every night, and on weekends the cocktail bar here is packed with patrons.

Keep in mind that the sun never sets during the Icelandic summer, so when you walk out of the bar at 2 am, you may be slightly confused.

Have a World Famous Hot Dog

Icelandic hot dogs, known locally as “pylsur,” are considered a national delicacy and are loved by both locals and visitors. One of the most famous places to have them is Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, a small hot dog stand just a short walk from Downtown.

They have been serving up signature hot dogs dating back to 1937, and were brought to global scale when Bill Clinton had a hot dog in 2004. While trying their snappy, high quality hot dogs may not seem like one of the best things to do in Iceland, we urge you to try one for yourself. Especially because this is one of the most affordable meals you can have in Iceland!

Go to the Top of Hallgrímskirkja Church

Going to the top of Hallgrímskirkja Church is the best thing to do in Reykjavik, Iceland. Designed by Guðjón Samúelsson in 1937, this church is an iconic piece of architecture in Reykjavik that any visitor should take the time to see.

It’s fun to see the beautiful church from the outside, but once inside, you’ll hear chords from the gargantuan pipe organ. For a great view of the city, venture to the top of the tower inside for 1000 ISK and see the amazing views over Reykjavik.

Drive Iceland’s Ring Road

We’ve now driven the Ring Road twice, in both directions, at different points in the year and loved both times! Driving the Iceland Ring Road is one of the most popular things to do in Iceland. Route 1, or the “Ring Road,” circumnavigates the entire island nation and hits many great sights along the journey. What makes the trip so popular is that it allows visitors to see the diverse landscape of Iceland and presents many detours throughout the country.

The first thing we did in Iceland was pick up our campervan and hit the road for a 12-day adventure in the fall. A few years later, we returned and did the exact same thing in the summer season! Although you can drive the Ring Road all year round. The best news is that most of the best things to do in Iceland, can be found along the Ring Road! We discuss our full Ring Road itinerary and share tips here!

Have a Coffee at Skool Beans

In the town of Vik is a school bus. It doesn’t look like much from the road, but venture closer and you’ll find that this school bus is actually a coffee shop. Skool Beans is a must-visit for anyone traveling through Vik.

They serve up unique coffee creations, and also have a resident cat named Jeffrey who wanders the bus making sure all the drinks are purrfect.

Visit the Vik i Myrdal Church

If you’re in Vik already, you might as well make the short drive up to the Vik Church. It’s one of the most photogenic places in the area, and if you’re there during the lupine season you’ll find endless photo ops with the pops of purple.

Explore the Svínafellsjökull Glacier Area

11,400 km² (4,400 sq mi) of Iceland is covered by glaciers! Which is around 11% of Iceland’s total land area! While most travelers head to Vatnajökull Glacier National Park, the largest glacier in Europe, we actually really enjoyed our time around Svínafellsjökull Glacier.

This area is just past Vik and is a stunning natural landscape that is not as popular as Vatnajökull.

Snap a Photo at Kirkjufellsfoss

Still wondering what to do in Iceland? You need to visit Kirkjufellsfosson the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. This Iceland waterfall may be the smallest on this list, but the location near Mount Kirkjufell sets it apart from the rest. Kirkjufellsfoss is a great point of interest in Iceland. It’s a hotspot for photographers as they can capture the waterfall with the iconic mountain in the background.

You’ll have to battle other visitors for a sacred parking spot nearby to get this iconic photo. Yes, this place is no secret, and many people come here every day to photograph Kirkjufellsfoss with Mount Kirkjufell in the background. This truly is a must-see in Iceland.

Múlagljúfur Canyon

Múlagljúfur is located in the southeastern part of the country in the Vatnajökull National Park near the famous Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, mentioned below. Though Múlagljúfur is far from as famous as it requires some work to reach.

The powerful glacial river called Kaldakvísl created the canyon, which has been carving through the volcanic terrain for centuries. The constant flow of water has shaped the deep and rugged walls of the canyon, resulting in a breathtaking natural spectacle. The only way to witness this beautiful area is to hike to it. Don’t worry – it’s not a tough hike, and is one of our favorites in all of Iceland!

In under an hour you’ll be able to lay your eyes on this beautiful canyon, and see the magnificent Hangandifoss in the distance. Don’t just stop there though, there’s a part that leads you closer to the back of the canyon, and of course, this gives even more amazing views.

Fjaðrárgljúfur

Fjaðrárgljúfur is a spectacular canyon located in the southeastern region of Iceland, near the small village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. It is one of the country’s most famous and stunning natural attractions. The canyon was formed by the erosion of the Fjaðrá River over thousands of years, and it stretches for approximately 2 kilometers (about 1.2 miles) with walls reaching up to 100 meters (328 feet) in height.

What makes Fjaðrárgljúfur so remarkable is its unique landscape of sheer cliffs, winding paths, and lush greenery. The river flows through the bottom of the canyon, and visitors can explore the area by walking along the marked trails and viewpoints.

Fjaðrárgljúfur gained international attention and popularity after being featured in a music video by the Icelandic band Sigur Rós. Since then, it has become a popular destination for travelers seeking natural beauty and unique geological formations in Iceland.

Overlook Hraunfossar

So you’re wondering what there is to do in Iceland and want some off-the-beaten-path ideas? Hraunfossar are some of our favorite waterfalls in Iceland, and we were lucky enough to catch them as the birch trees turned orange during October. 

If you have ever been to Plitvice Lakes in Croatia, we felt Hraunfossar was very similar, just on a smaller scale. They are located off the Ring Road, but are well worth the detour!

Stand Under Skogafoss

If you could picture a waterfall in your head, it would be Skogafoss. The classic shape of this Icelandic waterfall, along with its convenient location and accessibility, makes this waterfall a hit for everyone. Visiting here is one of the best free things to do in Iceland. It was easily one of our favorites on our Ring Road trip around Iceland.

If you want to feel humbled, just stand near the waterfall’s base. If you’re feeling adventurous and up for getting wet, you are definitely able to stand just meters away from the misty base of the waterfall. There’s also a staircase to the side of Skogafoss leading to the top, where you can overlook the area.

Skogafoss is one of the most popular things to do in Iceland, and it becomes quite busy during peak times in the summer. We recommend visiting either early in the morning before 8am, or after 10pm when the crowds die down. We visited around 11 pm and had the entire waterfall for ourselves!

Goðafoss

There are waterfalls all over Iceland, so that’s why we made a list of some of the more popular ones. It’s almost impossible to get an approximate number as glaciers melt and form small waterfalls that feed rivers and streams. If you love chasing waterfalls, one of the best things you can do in Iceland is grab a camera and stop at everyone you see to snap a photo.

Goðafoss is one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland, and it sure is impressive in width! The Northeast waterfall is still spectacular as it’s 30m wide and 12m high. What makes the waterfall significant is its historical importance.

In the year 1100, the law speaker chose to convert from the Old Norse religion to Christianity. In doing so, he cast his old deities into the waterfall, giving it its new name – Goðafoss or “Waterfall of the Gods.”

Haifoss

Háifoss is the fourth highest waterfall in Iceland. It’s an awe-inspiring sight as the water rolls off the 122-meter sheer cliff to the Fossa River below. If you look at the photo above, you’ll see the waterfall “Granni” to the right of Háifoss.

I don’t want to show you the whole thing so you can be surprised when you get there. If you suffer from vertigo, you won’t want to get too close to the edge here – it’s a long way down. It is possible to hike down if you know the way!

Dettifoss

Dettifoss is said to be the most powerful waterfall in all of Europe. The waterfall is monstrous and one of Iceland’s most impressive natural landscapes. You can hike up to either side of the waterfall and feel the ground tremble beneath your feet.

Its remote location in the North of Iceland makes for fewer visitors than waterfalls on the South Coast of Iceland, but it’s worth venturing to!

Svartifoss

Svartifoss is one of the most iconic waterfalls in Iceland as it is surrounded by basalt columns. The waterfall is located in Vatnajökull National Park, the largest national park in Europe.

To reach the waterfall you must hike around 30-60 minutes from the Skaftafell Visitor Center. It’s roughly 1.5km with a slight incline so just about anyone should be able to make the hike that passes two other waterfalls along the way.

The hike is well worth the views as you can see from the photo!

Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, and for a good reason. The massive 65-meter high waterfall allows you to hike behind the falls for a unique perspective.

You’ll want to bring a packable rain jacket or a good hiking jacket if you decide to stand behind Seljalandsfoss, or you will get soaked. It’s also important to note that the path behind the waterfall may close in the winter times due to slippery and uneven surfaces.

Seljalandsfoss is located just off the Ring Road on the South Coast well before the town of Vik. It’s a stopping point for just about every tour and can easily be combined with a visit to Skogafoss, it’s also under a two hour drive from Reykjavík. Because of this it gets extremely crowded. We made it a point to visit around 12 am on a June day so we would have it to ourselves!

Gljúfrabúi 

Also known as Gljúfrafoss, is a stunning and enchanting waterfall located in Iceland, near the more famous Seljalandsfoss waterfall. Despite it being just a short 10 minute walk from Seljalandsfoss, few people venture to it.

Gljúfrabúi is often referred to as a hidden gem because it is somewhat concealed from plain view. To reach the waterfall, visitors need to walk a short distance from Seljalandsfoss and enter a narrow canyon through a cleft in the rock – it sounds simple, but it is very easy to miss.

Walking through the wet and narrow canyon feels like an adventure in itself, and once you reach Gljúfrabúi you’ll immediately feel sense of discovery as you are greeted by the powerful and beautiful waterfall.

Tour Around the Golden Circle

One of our top Iceland travel tips if you don’t have time to drive the Ring Road, would be to drive the Golden Circle. The Golden Circle in Iceland is the most popular day trip in Iceland from the capital of Reykjavik. It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Iceland if you’re short on time. It’s a 230km route that features some of Iceland’s most stunning natural landmarks, all on a day’s drive.

Most people opt for a bus tour, but we suggest picking up a vehicle and driving the Golden Circle yourself! The route covers the three main stops of Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss. Below are a few of the highlights on the Golden Circle!

Þingvellir National Park

The first stop on the Golden Circle is Iceland’s first National Park, Þingvellir. Not only is it the first national park, but it’s also the location of Iceland’s first Parliament, which started back in 930 AD. Back then an assembly of 48 chieftains would gather to discuss Viking law and hold court. It’s regarded as the founding of Iceland as a nation and historically important to Icelanders.

Most notably this is also where the Eurasian and North American plates are slowly splitting apart. The drifting continents have created deep fissures and volcanic activity. One of the fissures is famous as it is filled with shimmering glacier water. For an incredible day out, tourists can put on wetsuits and brave the glacier water for an out of this world diving and snorkeling experience between two continents.

Þingvellir is located 40km NE of Reykjavik and takes about 40 minutes from the city center. The countryside is wonderfully filled with farms, mountains, and valleys. Once you arrive you will have to pay for parking, however, it’s well worth the small fee.

Geysir Hot Spring Area

After Þingvellir you head to the Geysir Hot Spring Area, a geothermal area roughly 60km to the East. You can view two famous geysers in the area, Geysir, and Strokkur. After an earthquake, the original Geysir no longer erupts, but it’s neighbor Strokkur erupts at regular intervals.

There is an impressive gift shop/cafe that’s perfect for a pit stop. Just be prepared for Icelandic prices as a sandwich and drink will set you back almost $20. We drove the Golden Circle in our camper van so we cooked lunch off the road away from crowds. We recommend packing a picnic lunch either way.

Gullfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss is the most popular waterfall in Iceland, and it’s also one of the largest. The waterfall is a stop on the Golden Circle route along with Geysir Hot Spring and Þingvellir National Park.

You can easily access the falls from a large parking lot with a pathway and steps that allow visitors to walk along the edge of the mighty waterfall. There’s also a cafe, gift shop, and restroom nearby. Chances are you’ll be joined here by a few tour bus groups, so try to avoid midday if you want to avoid the crowds.

Kerið Crater Lake

The Kerid Crater is a worthy stop on the Golden Circle that not everyone makes. It’s a former cone Volcano that has since collapsed. It’s also the only stop on the Golden Circle that does charge an entrance fee. However, it’s not much at 400 ISK or $3.50 USD.

The bottom of the volcanic crater is a deep sapphire blue that is a sharp contrast to the red rock of the crater. It’s a marvelous sight along the Golden Circle. It’s also quick as it only takes a five-minute climb.

Stuðlagil Canyon 

Stuðlagil Canyon is a stunning natural wonder located in Northeast Iceland. It is known for its unique basalt column formations that create a visually striking landscape.

The Jökulsá á Dal river carves the canyon and features vibrant blue waters that contrast beautifully with the dark basalt columns.

Stuðlagil Canyon is situated in a relatively remote area of East Iceland, making it a hidden gem for those who venture to explore it, and you must hike 20-30 minutes to it. Though social media has kept people flowing in.

The most distinctive feature of Stuðlagil Canyon is the hexagonal basalt column formations that line its walls that you can’t help but admire. These columns result from volcanic activity and the cooling and contraction of lava flows over time. The columns create a symmetrical and almost man-made appearance, adding to the canyon’s allure.

Walk the Rainbow Road to the Seydisfjordur Blue Church

The Church in Seyðisfjörður is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Iceland. It’s become insta-famous for its colorful road leading directly to the Lutheran Church. Truly, it’s nothing more than a photo stop, but Seyðisfjörður is a charming town in its own right, and we loved hanging by the water here.

Whale Watch in Husavik

Okay, the truth is we traveled to Husavik because I love the Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams movie FireSaga on Netflix. Though it truly is a charming town in the North of Iceland, notable for it’s epic whale watching. Head here from April to October, with the peak months being June, July, and August to get a glimpse of humpback and minke whales.

Afterward, go enjoy a drink at the JaJa Ding Dong Bar, this is the best place to go if you are also a fan of the Eurovision Song Contest.

Catch Sunset at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

This lagoon in Southeastern Iceland is a highlight of any trip to Iceland and definitely one of the best things to do in Iceland. The lagoon has formed over time from the massive glacier above; as the glacier melts, cool glacier water and icebergs mix with the ocean.

It’s easily one of the most beautiful places on earth! Head here around sunset or during the midnight sun for an unreal scene as the sun glistens off the ice. You may even get lucky and spot a seal! (We saw two!)

It’s possible to also book guided tours at the glacier, or book a blue ice tour to see the bright blue ice up close!

Climb a Glacier

While you’re at Jökulsárlón, you may as well conquer the biggest glacier in Europe (Vatnajökull glacier) nearby! This challenging experience is one of Iceland’s most memorable. We suggest any active traveler strap on some crampons and prepare to climb a massive glacier with mesmerizing views.

It’s not the expansive landscape that will steal your breath away, but when you enter the ice caves within the glacier. What’s better than telling your friends back home you went ice climbing in Iceland?

Lick an Ice Cube at Diamond Beach

Seeing this beach is one of those fun things to do in Iceland you can’t miss. Right across the road from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is Diamond Beach, so be sure not to miss it.

On Diamond Beach, you can watch the giant ice pieces crash into the ocean waves. It doesn’t take long to understand the beach’s name, as large chunks of glacial ice are strung along the beach, glistening like diamonds.

This beach is better to visit in the winter when the ice chunks are massive and you can see all the glaciers nearby, though in the summer it’s still a neat experience – try and look for the most unique piece of ice. I tried to find a heart shaped block, the photo above was the best I could do!

Soak in the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is one of those famous Iceland tourist spots. You either love or hate The Blue Lagoon. It is a tourist trap and overpriced, I personally didn’t hate it, but I certainly didn’t love it. However, for many, the chance to take their vacation photos and lounge around the gorgeous milky blue pool is too much of a draw to care.

If you’re on a budget, you should give the Blue Lagoon a skip and head to one of Iceland’s many public geothermal pools. That being said, The Blue Lagoon is close to Keflavik and Reykjavik. If you have a short amount of time in Iceland, it’s not a bad place to relax for a few hours. If you want a transfer from the airport as you are short on time, here’s a good tour. It does make for a cool layover.

We recommend visiting early or late in the day. We booked the 7 am time slot and couldn’t have been happier with our decision, by 9am the pools were getting quiet and loud, and it became a scene we didn’t particularly enjoy. 7 am is opening time, and when you can enjoy an overall chill atmosphere!

Is The Blue Lagoon Worth It? (The Good and The UGLY)

Cozy Up in a Hot Spring

Iceland may be short of McDonald’s, palm trees, and Starbucks, but it does certainly not fall short in the hot spring category. All over Iceland are natural hot springs, and geysers can be found, and they are idealistic spots to take a warm (or incredibly hot) dip in (and I’m not referring to the Blue Lagoon). Don’t forget some local beer and a swimsuit!

Vok Baths

• Location: 8H33+G5 Fellabær, Iceland Vok vid Urridavatn, 701 Egilsstadir (GPS)
• Website: Vok Baths

While every hot spring in Iceland is different, Vok Baths are truly unique. The geothermal pools actually float on a beautiful lake! Hot springs are not all that common in Eastern Iceland but not long ago, Lake Urridavatn revealed a long-hidden secret after residents noticed that some parts of the lake didn’t freeze in the coldest weather.

On-site, you’ll find two floating pools, a regular pool with a swim-up bar, a steam room, and a bistro. You can even take a cool dip in the lake if you wish!

The geothermal water in this region is the only water in the country that’s used to brew teas and you can enjoy a selection of these organic herbal teas during your visit – which is included in the admission price!

25 Things To Know BEFORE Visiting The Vök Baths (Iceland)

Forest Lagoon

• Location: Vaðlaskógur 605, 605 Akureyri (GPS)
• Website: Forest Lagoon Hot Springs

Just as the name suggests, Forest Lagoon and its two geothermal infinity pools are bordered by trees and lush foliage. It looks out over the Eyjafjordur Fjord in a beautiful region of northern Iceland right near Akureyri.

Besides the two pools, a sauna, a quiet room, a cold tub and a restaurant are also on site. The spa is open until almost midnight each day so it’s the perfect place to head to when you want to unwind after a long day of exploring.

We visited later in the evening during the midnight sun and witnessed a near-beautiful sunset from the pools!

12 Things You NEED to Know About the Forest Lagoon (Iceland)

Sky Lagoon

• Location: Vesturvör 44-48 200, 200 Kópavogur (GPS)
• Website: Sky Lagoon

Sky Lagoon is very popular with both residents and tourists alike. This geothermal spa in Kopavogur is fairly new, having just opened in 2021. It’s a favorite with tourists who make their base in the capital city of Reykjavik because it’s only 15 minutes away, making it one of the best Reykjavik hot springs! It’s giving the Blue Lagoon quite a run for its money, being a short distance from the airport.

While it doesn’t have the milky blue water that the Blue Lagoon has, the Sky Lagoon provides a much quieter experience and better vibes in our opinion.

Regulars often refer to the spa as the place where the sea meets the sky due to the spectacular views of both. In fact, many people plan their visit around times when they are most likely to catch the northern lights or a colorful sunset.

Of course, there are always views of scenic Skerjafjordur Bay! The lagoon is surrounded by natural features and on-site, you’ll find an infinity pool with water reaching 37°C to 40°C, a sauna, a steam room, a cold mist room, a glacial pool and a swim up bar serving a variety of beverages.

The Sky Café serves light meals and snacks, and the Smakk Bar serves authentic Icelandic dishes.

10 Things to Know About The Sky Lagoon (IS IT WORTH IT?)

Krauma

• Location: Deildartunguhver, 320 Reykholt (GPS)
• Website: Krauma Spa

Located in western Iceland just an hour from the capital city, Krauma Spa is strategically placed adjacent to the most powerful hot spring in all of Europe. The water that comes from the Deildartunguhver Hot Spring is boiling hot so before you enjoy it, it’s cooled with fresh glacial water.

There are six marble tubs to choose from, and as one of the best Iceland hot springs all of them have spectacular views. We loved soaking for a few minutes in their cold plunge, before walking just a few feet to one of the 40 degree pools.

Since it’s so close to the city you would expect this place to be slammed, but it’s a much quieter alternative to the Blue Lagoon and even the Sky Lagoon. We arrived around 7 pm in the summer and were some of the only souls around.

Also on-site are several saunas and a restaurant. You can purchase alcoholic drinks from the indoor bar to bring with you to the hot springs.

Hvammsvik Hot Springs

• Location: Hvammsvík, 276 Mosfellsbær (GPS)
• Website: Hvammsvik Hot Springs

Out of all the hot springs we visited in Iceland, Hvammsvik was easily our favorite. A spa located in a fjord can’t be anything but spectacular, right?

Well, when it comes to Hvammsvik Hot Springs in the Hvalfjordur Fjord, this certainly rings true! Just picture yourself bathing in relaxing hot springs while admiring the spectacular Northern Lights.

This spa features eight natural hot spring pools of different sizes and varying water temperatures.

The spa itself is actually built into old barracks that were used during World War II but the most unique feature is how well it incorporates the best of both worlds; the authentic spa experience and nature.

Some of the pools are located close enough to the shoreline so that during high tide, ocean water flows into the pools and they are cooled during certain hours of the day. Also on site is a steam room and the Stormur Bistro and Bar. If you want a cold plunge, make your way to the sea, easily accessible from the hot springs.

All this is surrounded by the area’s spectacular mountain and coastal scenery and is located only a short distance from Reykjavik, making it a fantastic alternative to the Blue Lagoon!

13 Things To Know BEFORE Visiting Hvammsvik Hot Springs

Mývatn Nature Baths

• Location: Jarðbaðshólar, 660 Mývatn (GPS)
• Website: Mývatn Nature Baths

Mývatn Nature Baths is a man-made facility that has been in operation since June 2004. The water supply for the lagoon comes from the nearby National Power Company’s bore hole located in Bjarnarflag, and is drawn from a depth of up to 2500 meters.

The area surrounding the baths is a nature reserve and hot spot for geothermal activity and as a result, you may notice a slight sulphuric smell while enjoying the Mývatn Nature Baths; this is all part of the experience! The rich mineral composition of the water means that chemical disinfectants are unnecessary and the milky-blue water is perfect for bathing.

Hang with Locals at the Pool

The thermal baths and spas are quite expensive in Iceland, typically starting at 7000 ISK for a visit. Though most towns in Iceland have a public swimming pool as it’s considered a public necessity, and these are a much cheaper and more local experience.

Over the last century, pools have become an important part of Icelandic culture. It is a place where Icelanders get active, relax, and socialize. They aren’t just for locals, though; foreigners are welcome too. We tried to go to as many swimming pools as possible when camping on the ring road. If you are camping, a pool will also allow you to shower and relax the back.

Swimming pool entrance fees run between 600 and 1000 Icelandic Kroner, which is a fraction of a Blue Lagoon or Secret Lagoon ticket price. They will all have at least one main pool for swimming and two different hot tubs for relaxing. Some pools even have saunas, ice tubs, water slides, and steam rooms! Public pools are fed by geothermic water and have minimal treatment with few chemicals. Due to the few chemicals, it’s the public law to shower nude before entering the pool; showers are divided by sex.

Enjoy the Black Sand Beaches

Black sand beaches aren’t something seen every day unless you’re touring around Iceland. There are a few spots to see the dramatic black sand beaches.

Reynisfjara Beach in Iceland is a stunning volcanic black sand beach located on the South Coast near Vik, renowned for its natural beauty. With its massive basalt stacks, rugged Atlantic ocean, and picturesque landscape, it’s easily one of the most beautiful black sand beaches in the world. Despite having visited numerous beaches across the globe, Reynisfjara remains one of the most awe-inspiring we’ve seen.

If you’re planning a visit, know that it’s a two and a half hour drive, or 180km, from Reykjavik but easily accessible by car. Many tourists choose to include Reynisfjara in their Southern Iceland tour or as a stop on the Ring Road.

While here, you can enjoy the scenery as well as head inside a cave. Note that the water here is not for swimming, and visitors should stay away from the water. This beach is notorious for its “sneaker waves” that come out of nowhere and drag unsuspecting tourists out to sea. Before you get on the beach, there’s a sign noting how dangerous the water is on that particular day.

Vestrahorn

Vestrahorn, also known as Vesturhorn or Stokksnes Mountain, is a stunning and iconic mountain range on Iceland’s southeastern coast. It’s renowned for its dramatic landscapes, jagged peaks, and picturesque coastal views.

The area around Vestrahorn features several tidal pools that reflect the mountain’s peaks, creating a mirror-like effect. These pools are particularly captivating for photographers seeking unique compositions. We were surprised that this area is privately owned, and visitors must pay an entrance of 900 ISK to enter Stokksnes Beach.

When we visited the mountain was completely socked in and we couldn’t see a thing, so we recommend going here on a clear day only!

Viking Village

I would ONLY recommend this Viking Village if you have already paid the admission to Vestrahorn, as it’s included in the price.

Basically, this is an old film set for what we were told was The Witcher. Around here there are some relics here to take your photo with and walk around the village for 30 minutes or so.

Go Horseback Riding

Horses are an integral facet of Icelandic culture and a great activity to explore Iceland’s landscape. Icelandic horses are small compared to other horses you may be used to (but don’t you dare call them ponies – Icelanders do not appreciate this!), but they have a distinctive gait style that makes riding them exceptionally smooth.

The “Tölt” is one of an Icelandic horse’s five gaits, making this breed so different from any other on earth. The horses are known for being well-natured and strong horses and are even exported all over the world. Not to mention, they sure are beautiful. Check here for tour options.

Watch the Northern Lights

One of the best things to see in Iceland is the northern lights! We consider the Northern Lights one of the greatest spectacles on earth, and Iceland may be the best place in the world to witness them. This is one of the best things to do in Iceland in the winter months when the night sky is dark (October – April is the best time to see the Aurora in Iceland). Remember, they are never guaranteed, and you’ll need to be in a remote location away from city lights to see them.

Generally, the lights are active once a week, but you’ll need a clear night sky to see them. Those staying in Reykjavik offer boat tours from the harbor that take you out to sea and away from city lights. If you want to photograph the Northern Lights, you will 100% need a tripod on stable ground (not a rocking boat).

Explore Landmannalaugar

All visitors should explore the fascinating landscape of Landmannalaugar, one of the most beautiful places in all of Europe!

The rugged area feels like another planet and requires a tough 4×4 vehicle to access. You’ll find the wild rhyolite mountains, lava fields, hot springs, and the notorious Hekla volcano. It all feels like another planet and makes for amazing landscape photography opportunities.

Scuba Between Tectonic Plates

Many people don’t know that you can go scuba diving between two continents. In the Silfra fissure, it’s possible to dive into freshwater between the North American and Eurasian titanic plates.

While it may be a bit chilly, the glacier water has been filtered through the lava field and is so clear that the visibility is about 100 meters! Diving here is only available with a tour.

See Puffins!

Iceland is one of the best places in the world to spot puffins. This must be at the top of your Iceland bucket list if you love wildlife. There are plenty of places around the country to see puffins, most notably in Vestmannaeyjar, Látrabjarg, Vigur Island, and Papey.

If you have a car, you can get to these places yourself or hop on a tour and sail just outside the capital to see them in Akurey, Engey, or Lundey. Puffin sightings are only possible in the summer due to their migration patterns.  Puffin watching is one of the best things you can do in Iceland in July!

Admire the Beauty of the Diamond Circle

Another one of the best things to do in Iceland is hit up the Diamond Circle. The Diamond Circle route is in Northern Iceland, and like the Golden Circle, there are four popular stops. Lake Mývatn, Húsavík, Ásbyrgi Canyon, and Dettifoss Waterfall are the main stops, but you can also add Goðafoss Waterfall, Dark Castles, and Eider Falls to the route.

If you don’t have time to do the full Ring Road, the Diamond Circle is a good alternative that shows you some of the best of Iceland, although it is far from the capital city and is best done as an extension to the Ring Road because of its location.

Smell the Hverir Geothermal Area

When wondering what to do in Iceland, consider this must-do. Visit the Hverir geothermal area in Northern Iceland not far from Akureyri or Husavik! It’s truly like walking on another planet! Get ready for the smell of sulfur, steam vents, and plenty of geothermal pools here. The geothermal area is easily accessible as it’s right off the Ring Road by Lake Mývatn.

There is a viewing platform to take in the whole landscape, but it’s also possible to walk around and have fun around the vents. We would recommend wearing boots or shoes that you don’t totally care about (so no brand new Air Force Ones). You’re gonna get muddy here, especially if it has been raining!

Descend into a Volcano

What better activity to check off your Iceland bucket list than volcano spelunking? Inside Þríhnúkagígur, you will descend 120 meters into a gigantic chamber, only to be overcome by shimmering hues of pink, blues, and oranges. This is definitely one of the best things to see in Iceland.

The colors inside Þríhnúkagígur are sure enough to dazzle any visitor. The dormant volcano is accessible only accessible with a guided tour.

Day Hike from Reykjavik

Looking for a quick break from city life while staying in Reykjavik? There is plenty of challenging yet magnificent hikes to stretch your legs. The best part is you don’t have to travel far to get to them! Esjan, Glymur, Hveragerði, Gjáin, and Seljavallalaug are all located within an hour of Reykjavik and are accessible by public transport (and, of course, two feet).

In my opinion, these hikes are well worth a day; however, the climb up Esjan is a favorite. Once at the top, you are rewarded with a stunning view of Reykjavik. It’s not just around the capital, though. There are great spots around the whole country to get out and hike!

Glymur Waterfall

The hike up Glymur is one of our favorite hikes in Iceland, as this hiking route ends at Iceland’s second-largest waterfall. At only three and a half hours total, you can bet it’s a popular journey.

The views aren’t just at the end, though: you’ll be treated to incredible vistas the whole way. The trailhead starts about an hour’s drive north of Reykjavik. It’s a little tricky to see from the road, so watch out for signage indicating where to turn.

The waterfall drops into a beautiful mossy green canyon, so bring your camera along to capture this rugged beauty.

Despite some slightly higher climbs, this isn’t a challenging hike, so all levels should feel welcome to experience it, though there are two water crossings if you decide to do the entire loop around Glymur!

Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River

Due to its proximity to Reykjavik, Reykjadalur is one of the more popular natural hot springs in Iceland.  Just a 40-minute drive southeast, Reykjadalur makes a great spot to come for a day hike and dip. Reykjadalur actually means “steam valley” in Icelandic, and once you get to Reykjadalur, you will understand the name.

Steam here is abundant, heavy, and carries a strong sulfur smell – but you’re in Iceland so embrace it! There is a nice wooden boardwalk along the river with changing dividers.

It’s a bit of a hike (45 minutes) to get here, so prepare to take a travel backpack with all your essentials like a water bottle and travel towel. This is easily one of the best free Iceland hot springs you can find near Reykjavik – although you will have to pay to park.

15 Important Things To Know About Reykjadalur Hot Springs

Hit the Slopes

In the wintertime, Iceland becomes a ski or snowboarding fanatics playground. Iceland has a few different ski resorts around the country, but they’re mostly reserved for locals. Expert skiers will rejoice at the ski tour possibilities. 

We personally love snowboarding, but we weren’t there at the right time of year. On our next trip, it’s one of our first things in Iceland, but we’ll have to come in the winter for that! For those who visit January through April, check out the epic ski conditions.

Hop on a Snowmobile

Zoom across the top of a glacier for an adventurous thing to do in Iceland. Snowmobile tours are top-rated and make a great way to get out of the car.

If you aren’t up for hiking in Iceland along the glacier, this is an exciting experience that gets you closer and personal to the incredible glaciers.

Go Whale Watching

Still, wondering what to see in Iceland? Whale watching is a popular thing to do in Iceland. Many visitors will venture right out from Reykjavik, but one of the best places to spot whales is off the coast of Northern Iceland.

The capital of the North and second-largest city, Akureyri, makes for a great base to explore the Northern Coastline, as well as Husavik! The best time to spot whales is from May to September.

Take a Quick Dip in Seljavallalaug

Another Iceland must-see is Seljavallalaug. Seljavallalaug is the oldest pool in Iceland, and it’s set in a gorgeous valley. You need to take a short drive down a bad gravel road to reach the pool and then hike for 20 minutes, but it’s a very easy hike.

The pool isn’t much for swimming, with abandoned changing facilities, chilly water, and poor water circulation. Since it’s a bit cold in the winter, this is actually one of the best things to do in Iceland in July.  Bring your camera with you – it’s very picturesque.

Best Things to Do in Iceland Map

Helpful Iceland Travel Tips

• Icelanders speak Icelandic, but every single person I came across spoke English.
• The local currency is the Icelandic króna (ISK). ATMs are found throughout the country.
• Have I mentioned Iceland is expensive? Well, it is! Save money by eating in and cooking for yourself. Check out our Iceland grocery store guide for all the tips!
• Iceland is one of the safest countries globally; however, it’s always important to use common sense when walking alone at night.
• Tipping is not customary in Iceland.
• Iceland has a strong internet infrastructure, and you should be able to stay connected easily.

50 Iceland Travel Tips to Know BEFORE You Go

When is the Best Time to Visit Iceland?

• When Is The Best Time To Travel To Iceland For Good Weather? Summer season (June through September.
• Best Time to Travel to Iceland For Lupines: Late June and July
• When Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland For The Northern Lights? Between late September and late March
• When Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland For Whale Watching? June, July, and August
• When Is The Best Time To Go To Iceland To See The Midnight Sun? June

When is the Best Time to Visit Iceland • When to Go and Avoid

Best Places to Eat in Iceland

Most of the best restaurants in Iceland are located in the capital city. Suppose you want some amazing Iceland cuisine, head to Reykjavik for a great date night out. There are some hidden gems located around the country, and eating at one is one of the best things to do in Iceland.

• Grillmarkaðurinn: Fantastic Icelandic cuisine and tantalizing cocktails in an upscale environment in Reykjavik.
• Vogafjós Farm Resort: Located in Myvatn, Iceland, this guesthouse is family-run and dishes up amazing fish meals and even better chocolate cake!
• Tjöruhúsið: At the tip of the West Fjords is this gem of a seafood restaurant. It’s even been hailed as one of the best restaurants in the world!

Exploring Iceland in a campervan is one of the best ways to tackle the Ring Road and explore other regions like the Snæfellsnes peninsula, the Western Fjords, and even the highlands (with a 4×4 campervan rental!). Thanks to your freedom in a campervan, there is no other way to do it. However, there are some things I learned after renting a campervan in Iceland to help others on their Iceland journey!

Tips for Renting a Camper van in Iceland!

Have a General Iceland Itinerary

We’ve now driven a campervan around Iceland twice, in each direction around the country. We followed the Ring Road most of the time but had no problems venturing off. The name of the Ring Road should be pretty self-explanatory. It’s a road that covers around 1,300 kilometers and circumnavigates the whole country of Iceland – like a ring! The entire route should take about 16 hours if you drive non-stop – but who wants to do that?

It’s impossible to nail the perfect itinerary around the Ring Road as the weather is often fickle and works on its own schedule. Our suggestion is to travel at your own pace. It doesn’t matter if you go fast or slow or miss some sights. As long as you are happy traveling at the pace you are going. If you’re looking for a good amount of time, we suggest somewhere between one and two weeks. We went for ten days, and it felt like an ideal time. It left us wanting more, but never tired of the trip.

When planning your itinerary, map out all your stops beforehand, but always leave time in the schedule for unplanned stops. There will be plenty of unplanned stops in a country as beautiful as Iceland, and it’s best not to feel rushed. We try our best to avoid setting our days to a strict timetable because we know we will never be happy if we do that. There are so many extraordinary things to do and see in Iceland!

Choose a Reputable Iceland Campervan Company

Determining your rental company is one of the first steps in planning your Iceland campervan trip. We drove around the Ring Road (twice) in a Happy Campers (*use the code AURORA20 for 20% off travel between October and December 2024) van (both times) and loved it. Happy Campers is a family business run by locals; when we picked up our vehicles, we dealt with one of the family members.

We were checked out by the Sverrir or the “Happy Boss.” While his son was responsible for setting up our booking, another picked us up from the airport. They’re a family business wanting to show visitors the best of the country, and something we appreciate.

The van comes with all you could need for a camping trip in Iceland. It has awesome features, such as a heater for cold nights, a running water sink, and a fridge/freezer. If you want to learn more, read our Happy Campers review. 

Choosing Your Campervan

Manual vs. Automatic

You should be prepared to drive a manual campervan in Iceland. As with the rest of the world (besides the US), most campervans in Iceland are manual, but with so many Americans visiting Iceland, automatic vehicles have become more popular. If you require an automatic car, book well in advance and expect to pay a higher rate. Almost all the “budget” camper van companies, like Wicked Campers, are manual vehicles.

Campervan Size

Consider the size of your campervan before you book. A few different size options are ideal for one, two, three, and up to five people.  We went with a Happy 2 for the two of us. The van was spacious and comfortable for two people.

However, a larger campervan has reduced fuel economy, so you’ll be paying more for that larger vehicle in more ways than one. Gas is really expensive in Iceland, almost $8 a gallon. Think carefully about the campervan model you choose and how much driving you’ll be doing.

I’d also hesitate to try to squeeze as many people as you can in an Iceland campervan to save on costs. It will make for an uncomfortable sleep! The converted work van is far more comfortable than the budget-friendly passenger vans. We were able to work, relax, and cook within the van.

When to Book Your Campervan

If you plan on renting a campervan in Iceland during the summer, you should start planning and booking your trip at least six months in advance. Campervans sell out fast, especially between June and October, the busiest time in Iceland. It’s possible to squeeze in a last-minute trip, but you must be flexible with dates and accept a short rental period. We have a post about the best time to visit Iceland and what to expect in each season.

What is Included in the Happy Campers Campervan?

Our Happy Camper was equipped with everything we could possibly need for ten days on the road. That included things like:

• Gas Stove with Gas
• Cooler
• Privacy Curtains
• Pots and Pans
• Plastic plates, cutlery, and drinkware
• Knife and cutting board
• Dustpan
• Two pillows
• Two blankets
• Mattress
• You can pay extra for an inverter, chairs, a table, a BBQ grill, and a WiFi hotspot

Insurance on the Campervan

When checking out a camper van in Iceland, you have many options for choosing insurance. Happy Campers includes CDW, which is mandatory in Iceland. If you go with the standard insurance, your liability limit is €2500. They also offer packages that reduce the waiver, such as sand and gravel damage.

We went with the gravel insurance, but I found it a waste, as the roads were great in Iceland during June and October. It could have been more useful if we had traveled during the winter and windier months. Also, look into what your credit card covers for auto insurance.

Most American credit cards offer auto rental insurance as a benefit, and I recommend calling your credit card company beforehand to double-check what they cover. If you don’t have a credit card, it’s time to get one, as they provide a slew of benefits for travel.

Inspect Your Iceland Campervan

If you run into a guardrail with your campervan rental, you’ll be charged for damages. If someone else ran into a guardrail before you and you don’t note it when you pick up the rental car, you could also be charged for damages. Always, always, always inspect every single rental car you get with great detail—inside and out.

Note any damages with the company and take photos just in case. Cam and I are meticulous about renting car dings, scratches, windshield cracks, and cigarette burns.  Never assume that a scratch or ding is unimportant or big enough to note. When you return your rental, ensure you get a sign that everything was okay on the car so they don’t return it and try to charge you later.

We’ve been blamed multiple times for things like “excessive sand on the floor in Mozambique,” random pieces of cheap plastic falling off in Mexico, and even being charged for a small scratch on the hubcap in South Africa. Take photos and put up a fight if you think you are in the right.

Get the Right Credit Card

This brings me to my next point—credit cards with primary rental insurance. The Chase Sapphire Reserve is my favorite travel credit card for many reasons, but the primary rental insurance is one of its best perks (along with Priority Pass membership). When you put your rental campervan on your Chase Sapphire Reserve card, you get primary coverage worldwide for up to $75,000.

That works out great since we are nomadic and don’t have a car or home. Car rental companies in Iceland and worldwide love to scare customers and upsell all their insurance packages. You need to make sure if you need it or not before falling victim to their trap. Call your credit card company, and always find out before you get to Iceland

Campervan Pick-up and Drop Off

After the rental company has sorted out all the paperwork, you’ll be asked if you want to be shown around the vehicle. We always feel foolish agreeing to this, but it’s always worth it! Unless your rental vehicle is precisely the same as your home car, several systems will likely be different. If you choose an Iceland campervan, you 100% should be shown around. There are a lot of aspects to a campervan!

When the agent shows you around, ask them to show you how all the essential systems function. You should be completely happy with using your Iceland van rental when you depart – remember, you are legally responsible for it. So, ensure you know how to operate the headlights, indicator lights, hazard lights, and windscreen wipers. Also, be sure to understand how to engage reverse gear.

Expect a Hold Charge for Your Iceland Campervan

Every one of our fifty or so rental cars has put a hold on our credit card for the rental period. Holds can range anywhere from a few hundred bucks to $1000+ in some countries. The “excess charge,” as it is called, is typically stated in your reservation details, but it is easy to miss.

We know they must put this hold on our card, but it can be a massive shocker if you are unsuspecting and end up over your credit limit on your credit card. These excess charges are for scenarios where you disappear with the car, are never seen again, get in a crash, and refuse to pay.

Rent Your Campervan From Keflavik Airport (KEF)

If you plan to rent a campervan to get around, pick it up and drop it off at the airport. It could end up saving you a buck. There is no public transport, and the FlyBus, one of the only buses from Reykjavik city to Keflavik Airport, is 4000 Icelandic Kroner one way.

That’s a $30 airport transfer on a bus! I recommend picking up and dropping off your car at the airport to save on this fee. If you want to rent a camper, Happy Campers has a location at the airport. We had an enjoyable experience with them. They provide a free transfer to their offices from the airport and neighboring hotels — as we arrived late in the evening, an airport hotel made the most sense as it was cheaper than the van.

Gas for Your Iceland Camper van

Be prepared to spend some money when you head to the pump in Iceland. Gas costs a little over $2 USD a liter, or almost $9 a gallon! We paid with tap everywhere in Iceland and never needed cash for the gas stations.

Be aware of distances between fuel stations. We found them all over Iceland and never ran low on fuel, though there are some stretches where there is nothing for miles. For our 10-day itinerary, we spent around USD $400 on fuel—YIKES. On our next trip to Iceland, we spent nearly USD $600 on fuel for 13 days. Make sure to budget for this one, as it’s easy to forget.

A 4×4 Iceland Campervan is Not Necessary for Exploring

If you’re planning to drive Iceland’s iconic Ring Road (Route 1 around the country) or the Golden Circle, a 4×4 vehicle is unnecessary. Most of the roads are paved and easy to navigate with a sedan. If you want to go down an unpaved or unmarked road, ensure your car can handle it first! We saw numerous small sedans trying to push their car too much down bumpy roads and getting stuck or tearing out the bottom of their rental!

4×4 campervan if you want to get into the Highlands

If you plan to drive to places like Landmannalaugar or anywhere in the Iceland Highlands, you’ll need a 4×4 for the “F Roads.” In Iceland, F-roads, also known as mountain roads or highland roads, are a specific classification of roads that traverse the country’s remote and rugged interior. The “F” stands for “Fjallvegur” in Icelandic, which means “mountain road.” These roads are unpaved and typically only accessible during summer when conditions are more favorable.

F-roads are characterized by challenging terrain, including gravel, rocks, river crossings, and steep inclines. They often require vehicles with high ground clearance, four-wheel drive (4WD), and specialized equipment to navigate safely. Due to their remote nature and difficult conditions, traveling on F-roads is considered an adventure and requires careful preparation and caution.

Not every rental car or campervan can travel on F-Roads, and you’ll need to rent a 4×4 specifically if you want to get into the Icelandic Highlands. This can add to your trip’s cost, but it’s worth seeing the beautiful Highlands. Happy Campers offers 4×4 campervan rentals equipped to travel on these roads. Don’t drive a car not rated to handle the F Roads down an F-Road. If you damage the vehicle, insurance from your rental car agency is typically voided, and you could pay large for your mistake.

Make Sure You Don’t Have Mileage Limits

It is common for Iceland campervans to have mileage limits. Usually, this is something like 200 km/day that can be driven. Of course, they can’t know which days you drive 200km/day and which days you are not, so it all adds up. Say you rent a car for six days, and it has a mileage limit of 200 km/day.

That means that for your total rental, you will have 1200 km of free driving. If you return the car after driving 1300 km, you will be charged for the overage of 100 km. If you want complete freedom when driving around Iceland, choose a rental with unlimited mileage.

Navigation in Iceland

It’s worth mentioning that distances and speeds in Iceland are recorded in kilometers rather than miles. This can make sights seem further away than they are, although the winding country roads you’re likely to encounter mean travel times are a little longer than those in the US.

We think navigation is a must whether traveling alone or as a group. It takes much of the stress out of driving on roads you aren’t used to and relying on road signage. You might be happy using paper maps, but it’s not normal for them to be supplied with a rental car so that you may opt for the GPS instead.

Smartphone apps such as Google Maps are brilliant free alternatives. They give you the additional advantage of knowing up-to-the-minute traffic and road conditions. You should download a map of Iceland from Google Maps to your phone while on Wi-Fi. If you forget to do this, Reykjavik Airpot has free WiFi where you can download Google Maps to your phone before you hit the road. Our last rental came with free unlimited WiFi and navigation around the country.

Watch for Speed Traps!

Iceland has numerous camera speed traps around the ring road. So it’s best to always stay within the speed limit. Fines are extremely expensive in Iceland. Between ISK 50,000 and ISK 150,000, it’s best to follow the rules. The good news is there is always a sign warning you about the speed camera a few hundred meters before. If you are speeding in Iceland, now is the time to slow down!

You may think you will get away with not paying for a ticket because you are a foreigner and leaving the country. However, the rental car company has a copy of your credit card and is authorized to charge it in circumstances like this.

Drinking and Driving in Iceland

This should go without saying, but drinking and driving is a grave offense in Iceland. The threshold blood alcohol test (BAT) level is extremely low. Drivers can be charged with DUI with a BAT as low as .05%, and yes, foreigners can be charged too. The Icelandic people take this very seriously, and most do not drive if they plan on drinking. If you want to go out for a night at a bar, ensure you have a responsible way back to your accommodation.

Seatbelts and Safety in Iceland

It’s a legal requirement for all passengers to wear a seat belt or safety belt when the engine is running. Likewise, using a cell phone while driving in Iceland is not permitted to make calls or send/receive SMS text messages. You can use your smartphone for navigation purposes, but it must be hands-free only (such as safely stowed on the windscreen), and you must not program navigation while the vehicle’s engine is running. I recommend getting a phone holder for your car dashboard for your travels.

How Much Will an Iceland Campervan Rental Cost?

It depends on the season! Your rental car will cost significantly more in the summer than in the off-season months from October to February. Happy Campers offers low-season, mid-season, and high-season rates. So, if you want to save money, book a car rental in the off-season. Otherwise, you should be prepared for a moderately expensive trip.

Our last trip was in the high season. We planned a two-week trip around the summer solstice and midnight sun—the rental cost ISK 689,000 or around USD 5,000. Our other expenses, including fuel, groceries, coffee, activities (hot springs), campsites, and a couple of restaurants, came to around USD $2,000. So it was 7,000 for two people or 3,500 a person for a two-week trip. This represents the typical campervan trip, as we neither held back nor lived it up.

If you’re on a budget, here are some tips for getting a good deal on a campervan in Iceland:

• The sooner you book, the better. Campervans, especially with the good companies, sell out fast.
• Do your research and choose companies with good reviews. They are often the ones who won’t rip you off with extra charges.
• Avoid peak season, which is late June-early September.
• Opt for more affordable activities. Instead of a spa, go to a public pool. Avoid costly tours and go on free hikes.
• Make sure to cook all your own meals and coffees.
• Plan your route to minimize driving distances and save on fuel.

Emergency Numbers in Iceland

112 is the single emergency number in Iceland. Remember it and store it in your phone if you ever need it. You never know when you’ll face a life-threatening situation – but remember, only use it if necessary. Safetravel.is puts up all relevant alerts and warnings and should be checked regularly when driving in Iceland. I also like joining relevant Facebook groups to stay updated on travel situations. People are generally quite helpful!

Do You Need an Iceland Van Rental to Have a Good Time?

No! Iceland campervans are not essential to your enjoyment in Iceland. However, they will greatly enhance your experience, especially if you are short on time or want to explore as much as possible with endless freedom. There are no hotel bookings, making sure you get somewhere by a certain time, or checking out—just pure freedom. If you love the great outdoors, parking under the northern lights or midnight sun, and enjoying home-cooked campervan meals instead of expensive Iceland restaurant food, then a campervan is for you.

How to Enjoy Your Iceland Campervan to the Fullest!

Hold the Door on your Iceland Campervan

It’s not our first time in the North Atlantic, as the climate is similar to Scotland, Ireland, and the Faroe Islands. Iceland gets a lot of weather! The North Atlantic and Iceland have some seriously high winds. When you’re exiting a car, hold firmly to your car door—otherwise, it may blow right off the car and not be covered by insurance. We’re not kidding — every rental agency in Iceland has to replace several doors a season.

Enjoy Your Sleep

Expect it to be pretty cold in Iceland. Our van had a heater we could run all night if we wanted, and it kept us toasty warm in the brisk Autumn air on our first trip. On our second trip in the summer, we even used it on a few cold, wet evenings for a little added comfort in the evenings. We used the heat more as a luxury in the summer than a necessity. If you’re renting a van without a heater or don’t want to run the heat all night, bring a warm sleeping bag.

I suggest bringing a down comforter from home if you’re looking for comfort. The beds in campervans can be quite firm, and a camping pad will make all the difference. When you’re ready to camp for the night, park the van on a level surface unless you enjoy sleeping with your feet higher than your head. The key here is to bring everything you’re comfortable with to make the van feel like home for the next week or a few days. If you love your pillow from home, bring it!

There’s No Bad Weather, Just Bad Clothes

Remember that you’re traveling around Iceland in a campervan. The smallest models don’t leave much room for a massive checked bag. Packing a duffel bag or backpack with soft sides that can be stuffed under a seat is a great option. Along with a soft-sided bag, we highly recommend packing cubes — the cubes made organizing our clothing for our trip much easier.

The obvious thing to pack is warm-weather clothing, even in summer. Not as obvious is the warm-weather clothing you’ll want, even in summer. We suggest everyone pack a down jacket, rain jacket, sweater, wool socks, and a travel towel, regardless of season. The towel is really important if you go to hot springs and public pools. We have a post on what to pack for Iceland if you want more recommendations.

Here are some things we’d recommend to make your campervan more at home in Iceland.

Stay Organized

It’s crucial to keep your Iceland campervan organized on your Iceland trip. This is important in more ways than one. It won’t take long to figure out that loose items in the back go everywhere when driving. We worked hard to keep the back of the van organized so we didn’t lose anything.

This meant we could easily access anything, keeping the small space from turning into a pigsty. Two weeks in a van with two people would be easy to let everything get out of hand. Also, pick up basic cleaning supplies like a rag and multi-purpose cleaner/wipes. Our van came with a brush that we used to keep our floor clean — we also never wore shoes inside the back of the van. Without this, then it would have been a disaster zone.

Choose a Good Campsite

You can not camp freely in a motorized vehicle in Iceland. You must have written permission from the landowner or, in other words, a receipt. There are a plethora of campsites around Iceland in the summer, and Happy Campers created this map on their website to help you find one.

Iceland’s camps are generally decent, with showers, toilets, and sometimes even WiFi facilities. The average camping fee ranges from ISK 1600 to ISK 3000 per person per night. Sometimes, showers are not included in this price, and ISK 300-500 for a three- to five-minute shower is not included. We cannot recommend reading reviews enough when picking campsites.

We wouldn’t stay in a campsite below a 4.0 on Google Reviews and always ensured there was hot water and clean facilities at the campsite before paying. This led to us having a very positive camping experience in Iceland. If you don’t want

Keep in Mind…

The majority of campsites close down for the winter. We drove the Ring Road once in October and found many campsites closed on September 30th. The availability of campsites will depend on the time of year. Traveling in October, we found it to be hit or miss.

The good news is that even when the campsites are closed, they are still accessible,, and you can technically still park there and camp if need be. This means you don’t have to pay, but you won’t have access to facilities like toilets during the offseason. When we visited in October, we spent a lot of time at the public pools for their facilities.

Almost every campsite in Iceland is open by June – perfect for campervanning Iceland in the summer!

Eat Good Food!

We are no strangers to prepping easy meals, and we’ve improved. Iceland’s campervans don’t provide much prep space, so stick to simple meals. If you want to learn about food costs, we have outlined them in our guide to grocery stores in Iceland. Here are the common meals we made in our campervan.

• Wraps: These are super simple. Cameron made hot wraps by cooking a stir fry in a pan using vegan hoisin duck, frozen veggies, and mushrooms. Dish it out in some wraps and top with vegan cheese. (You can use the real stuff too!)
• Rice: It’s a staple, and finding a way to make it your own will take you for miles. We made risotto multiple nights as it’s an easy one-pan meal and super tasty.
• Soup: We love to make soup because it’s delicious, requires one pot, and it fills you up. For an easy and healthy soup, Cameron recommends the following: Saute onions in a pot until translucent, add mushrooms, tomatoes, vegetable stock (bouillon cubes to save space), rice, potatoes, carrots, and season with paprika. If you’re a meat-eater, cook it first with the onions. The key to a soup is layering flavors and letting it simmer for a long time.
• Pancakes: Who doesn’t love pancakes? They’re dead simple, and when you top them with peanut butter, they’ll keep you going for hours. For camping, we suggest the premade mix from the store.
• Pasta: Roasted red pepper, pesto, avocado, or mushroom stroganoff are just a few of the countless variations of pasta you can make. We love to mix them with frozen veggies when camping in Iceland. Fresh produce is expensive in Iceland!

BYOB

Iceland is expensive, and alcohol costs are obscene. A bottle of the budget vodka Smirnoff can cost $70. You can bring a bottle of your own booze into the country, so we came prepared with a great bottle of gin or wine before arriving.

If you’re worried about the weight of a bottle breaking, your next option is to purchase alcohol at the Airport duty-free before you enter the country, which offers a better deal than stores in Iceland. Outside of duty-free stores at the airport, you can only purchase alcohol at the state-run stores called Vinbudin.

Pros and Cons of Renting a Camper van in Iceland

We found that we weren’t the only ones wondering and that many people actually ask about the prices of Iceland grocery stores.

It’s an important part of budgeting for Iceland. Given the popularity of Iceland camper vans, Airbnb, and camping, many people find themselves cooking their own meals to avoid the crazy high food costs in Iceland. This tourist guide should help save and budget accordingly for shopping in Iceland grocery stores.

A Guide to Iceland Grocery Stores

Icelandic Supermarket Chains To Shop At

There are several different chain markets you can expect to find in Iceland. Here’s a brief overview of the different grocery stores and which are our favorites.

Iceland Grocery Store #1: Bónus

This is the most prominent grocery store in Iceland and our personal favorite. They have several locations throughout Iceland, and you can find several along the ring road. The vast majority of their stores and Iceland markets are in Reykjavik.

Bónus is a budget supermarket in Iceland. The shops are the Icelandic equivalent of a Lidl or Aldi. They offer a limited number of products and shy away from name brands.

Despite having a more limited selection, they still have more than enough for anyone’s basic needs. Unless you’re a gourmand, Bónus will be more than enough for you. This is our pick for the best grocery store in Iceland and is what we have always sought to find.

If you’re having a tough time finding a Bonus, just remember their logo is the cartoon pig with a black eye (recently changed so that many of the pigs don’t sport a black ring around their eye anymore). Don’t ask us why the pig has a black eye. Maybe he got into a fight with another pig.

Iceland Grocery Store #2: Krónan

Krónan is the closest competitor to Bónus. They carry a larger selection of products, more produce, and several healthy food options. Their prices are a close second to Bónus, but we did find Krónan to be slightly higher priced.

They do offer a large fresh meat and fish section, but since we eat mostly vegetarian, we can’t comment on the prices. This Iceland grocery store carries specialty products like organic health food and gluten-free bread.

Their logo is a smiling yellow-colored orange. If that’s too confusing, it’s like someone painted a yellow smiley on an orange.

Iceland Grocery Store #3: Nettó

Nettó is another cheap shop based in Akureyri, and we saw a few other stores throughout Iceland. They sell a wide selection of products, including things like clothes and children’s games. If you need a random household item, we recommend looking inside.

For some reason, their logo is a hollow orange apple. If there is a talented graphic artist in need of work, I believe Iceland has some openings!

Iceland Grocery Store #4: Víðir

Víðir is probably the nicest food market in Iceland. The new chain has several locations around Reykjavík. They have a nice selection of fresh fruit and vegetables. They also carry a wide range of healthy food and quality products. It is more expensive than the budget Iceland supermarkets but carries the best quality of food products in Iceland.

Iceland Grocery Store #5: 10-11

The first time we walked into one of the stores, we were just seeking some Nescafe. That was until we saw the price at a staggering $13… Even our favorite addiction of Haribo was $6 a bag.

The prices here are obscene, and it’s unlikely any locals use the shops if they can avoid it. Our advice is to steer clear as they are at least double the standard Icelandic price.  Although, we did notice the tour buses conveniently made their stop…

Iceland Grocery Store #6: Costco

I can not comment on this one. However, it was a big deal when Costco opened a store in Iceland. Even a few locals we talked to were excited about the prospect of the megastore. If you’re already a member, we’d suggest giving the store a stop as their memberships are good worldwide.

Where To Buy Food In Iceland?

You shouldn’t expect to find a grocery store in every little town, but the locals do have to eat, and most major towns contain some form of an Iceland supermarket.

We were able to drive the entirety of the Ring Road and only shopped at Bónus every couple of days. We found an Iceland grocery store in the following towns Stykkishólmur, Akureyri, Egilsstadir, and Reykjavik.

What Are The Food Prices in an Iceland Grocery Store?

The food prices in Iceland vary regarding products in the markets. We found many food products reasonable, and then we’d find produce items like an aubergine (eggplant) for $6. That’s like the cheapest vegetable next to potatoes! Iceland is one of the world’s most expensive countries, and even the food prices reflect that.

You can still get by on a budget, but it will be limited. We found products like milk, bread, rice, frozen vegetables, and apples to not be ridiculous. We made peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for lunch as a budget-saving strategy. (What American doesn’t love that?) For snacks, we ate apples and peanuts, always solid options that are healthy and keep you full.

What to Budget For Food in Iceland

We ate very modestly and completely vegetarian while cooking our own meals in Iceland. However, in 10 days of camping, we spent $225 on food (2017 prices). That’s just over $11 a day in food per person.

Update: On our 2023 Iceland trip we ate a bit more luxuriously and even got meat for a few meals. We spent 59,777 ISK, or $447 for 14 days in the campervan. Inflation man. 

It would be easy to spend more on food; I suppose we could have spent a little less. We never went hungry and had plenty of snacks throughout the day.  If you’re trying to work out a budget, it would be safe to budget $15-$20 a day per person, as it’s always better to come in under budget than over! The main takeaway is, you can eat affordably in Iceland.

Our Tips for Saving on Iceland Grocery Shopping

Pick and Choose Vegetables

Some vegetables are affordable, while others are just ridiculous. Fresh produce, in general, is high, but it can be worth it. That being said, the basic staples are within anyone’s budget. Things like tomatoes, apples, and potatoes were cheap.

Our saving grace for greens came in the form of frozen vegetables. They aren’t great, and we usually avoid them when cooking at home; however, Iceland doesn’t grow most of its produce, so the best prices come from frozen foods.

Forget the Ready-Made Food in Icelandic Supermarkets

When we’re on the road, we love to pick up ready-made food at grocery stores. It’s usually a cheap and healthy way to eat lunch.

However, in Iceland, we found the ready-made options to be expensive or downright bad. Expect a white bread sandwich with a hefty serving of mayo to cost between $10-12.

Protein Bars

Because we had lots of Iceland hikes planned, we picked up plenty of protein bars and quick snacks in Iceland for just a couple hundred kroner a piece.

Bring The Right Stuff From Home

This is really geared for campers and those doing the Ring Road. However, bringing the right products from home can save you a buck and make your trip much more enjoyable.

• AeroPress: Cutting back on needless costs like coffee is an easy way to save a budget, especially in a place like Iceland. I’d also suggest picking up a bag of your favorite brew as it will be cheaper than in Iceland. (*Full disclosure: We are coffee addicts)
• Leave the freeze-dried food at home. The quick-cooking food is unnecessary unless you plan a multi-day hike. I’ve seen a few people recommend bringing the stuff, don’t do it.
• If you plan to camp or use a campervan, make sure to bring a multi-functional camping set. Although our van came with some cooking equipment, it is a little limited by itself. It doesn’t hurt to pick up something like this set is an excellent choice.
• If you can, we recommend carrying a jet boil for both campers and those in a campervan. While our van came with one burner having an additional backpacking stove can make life much more comfortable. Like cooking breakfast and coffee in the morning!

Avoid Gas Station Food

Be warned, gas stations are expensive in Iceland! That extends beyond the whopping gas prices ($8/gallon)! We’ve seen a hot dog or cheeseburger meal in a gas station go for $15-20 a meal. The limited food products they carry are generally double the standard price in Iceland. Avoid! 

Don’t Miss the Iceland Regional Specialties

You don’t have to eat out to enjoy local food when you travel. One of our favorite things is picking specialty products in countries and then cooking them on our own.

Our two favorite products we found in Iceland were skyr and smoked char. Smoked char is similar to salmon but way better, and it’s worth the high cost.

Plan Your Trip to Iceland

Book a Camper!

A campervan is the best way to get around Iceland on a budget. While a camper is slightly more expensive than a car, you can sleep and cook in it! You don’t have to search for hotels or deal with expensive restaurants in Iceland.

Plus, you sleep in nature and still use a heater if you wish! If you want to travel with a Happy Campers van as we did (and you should. They are the BEST!), make sure to read our full review. You can easily book using this link, but make sure to book well in advance during the high season.

When is the Best Time to Visit Iceland?

In my opinion, the best times to visit Iceland are June, July, September, October, and December – but it all depends on what you want! June-August is the high season, but it is also summer in Iceland when you will find the most pleasant temperatures.

It’s also when you will experience the most amount of daylight and get the most out of your trip. December is great because it is winter, you stand a strong chance of seeing the Northern Lights, it’s low season, and the temperatures haven’t gone to complete freezing yet. 

However, my personal favorite time to travel to Iceland is during the fall months. It’s September and October when you will see the leaves change vibrant colors around the country. Temperatures are still mild, and tourism is slowing down. You can see the full month-by-month breakdown for Iceland travel here. 

Things to do in Iceland

There are literally so many things to do in Iceland I could write a book about it. Unfortunately, I don’t have that kind of time so I’m showing you the ultimate Iceland bucket list here. Some things that are a must do are go to an Iceland swimming pool, soak in a natural hot spring, stand under a waterfall, and see the Northern Lights.

Is Iceland Expensive?

Iceland is mega expensive. One of the most expensive countries in the entire world actually. Make sure that you plan accordingly and in line with your budget. It’s certainly possible to do Iceland on a budget of less than $100 if you are camping, cooking all your own basic meals, and traveling by public transport or score a good deal on a rental.

The good news is that nature is free, and you’ll be able to see Iceland’s beauty without paying for it. So yes – it’s completely doable to have an affordable Iceland vacation. If you plan on drinking be sure to pick up duty free alcohol before you leave the airport. A pint of beer can easily run you $15-$20!

Helpful Iceland Travel Tips

• Icelanders speak Icelandic, but every single person I came across spoke English.
• The local currency is the Icelandic króna (ISK). ATMs are found throughout the country
• Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world; however, it’s always important to use common sense when walking alone at night.
• Tipping is not customary in Iceland.
• Iceland has a strong internet infrastructure and you should be able to easily stay connected.
• To feel more at home we use Airbnb you can check out some tips and read more about getting an Airbnb coupon code here. Or just take this coupon for your first stay!
• Sometimes it’s nice just to have a real book in your hands when traveling. We recommend Lonely Planet to get you through those wireless nights.

While geothermal activity is common in Iceland, its Eastern region is a cold spot, which makes the Vök Baths a rarity in the area. It was by pure coincidence that this geothermal pool was discovered in the first place. Locals noticed that a specific spot of the Lake did not freeze during the freezing winter months which soon led to the discovery of the underwater hot springs.

Today, the Vök Baths are one of the best things to do in Iceland. The pools are surrounded by a beautiful visitor center, convenient amenities, and lots to do. The infinity pools make for an other-worldly experience as you relax in the natural hot springs in near-freezing temperatures taking in the views of the harsh Icelandic wilderness.

In this guide, we’ll be covering the top things you need to know before you visit the Vök Baths to ensure you get the most out of your visit!

All About the Vok Baths

On July 26th, 2019, Vok Baths celebrated its opening, yet its origins extend much further into the past. The initial concept of establishing a heated facility at Lake Urriðavatn can be traced back to 1999, originating from Gudmundur Davidsson, the District Heating Manager at that time.

Vok Baths gets its name from the openings that frequently manifest on the frozen surface of Lake Urriðavatn, caused by the emergence of geothermal heat. These openings in the ice have sparked a multitude of folk narratives and legends about mystical beings. Among these was “Tuska,” a mythical creature believed to reside beneath the lake, piercing through the icy cover during the winter. These icy apertures on the lake were commonly referred to as “Tuskuvakir.”

Vok Baths boasts a distinct feature – two floating pools situated within the lake, mirroring the form of the original “Vok.” These pools, a unique marvel in Iceland, were conceived by the Finnish design firm Bluet, renowned for its expertise in floating innovations. Notably, the water within Vok Baths’ hot springs is exceptionally pristine – to the point where it is safe for consumption.

How Many Pools Are At the Vok Baths?

There are three pools at Vok Baths. One main pool which feels much larger than ONE pool and two Vakir (two floating pools).

How Hot Are the Vok Baths?

The temperature of the pools range from 5° – 41°C (41° – 105,8°F). The two hottest are the floating pools. The pools also vary in depth and are 1.2 meters where they are the most deep. For a cold dip there are stairs leading right into the icy lake!

How Much Are the Vok Baths?

The Vok Baths are about on par with most of the other hot springs in Iceland (besides the Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon!)

• Adults – ISK 6.490
• Senior – ISK 4.690
• Disabled – ISK 4.690
• Students – ISK 4.690
• Children (age: 6-16) – ISK 3.090
• Children (age: 0-5) – Free of charge*

All admission includes a tisane brewed from the hot spring water and locally sourced herbs at the infusion bar.

You can book your ticket here!

How Long Can You Stay in the Pools?

You can stay in the pools as long as you want to! We stayed for about two hours and felt it was more than enough time. With that amount of time we still got plenty of relaxation in. I would recommend planning for a 2-3 hour experience at the Vok Baths.

Make Sure You Book Ahead 

The Vök Baths, or any of the many other hot pools in Iceland, are a very popular attraction for both tourists and locals. Expect it to get busy when you visit, and, if you don’t book in advance, expect to wait a while in line, especially during the high season (summer).

Even after buying your ticket, you’re not guaranteed entry right away. Staff need to ensure the pools don’t get too crowded so you might be asked to wait even after you have your ticket in hand. We got to the Vok Baths right before opening, and for the first 30 minutes we had the entire area all to ourselves, then around 11am they got busier and busier.

From June 1st to August 31st, Vok Baths ask all guests to book in advance, no walk ins are accepted at this time.

You can book your ticket here!

What to Bring to the Vok Baths

The only things you need to bring are a towel and a bathing suit. Even though you have the option of renting them each for around $6 each, and it makes the experience very convenient for visitors, it’s still best to bring your own.

Obviously having your own bathing suit is the best option and should be on any Iceland packing list, but if you happen to forget they are available for rent.

Bring some flip-flops as well to wear from the changing rooms to the pool if you don’t want your bare feet to touch the ground (just make sure they are clean sandals!). You’re sure to take some pictures as the Vok Baths are incredibly unique. You can bring either a phone or a DSLR, but most people get by just fine with a phone, so make sure you bring waterproof protection. We highly recommend a dry bag for your phone for visiting Iceland!

Showers Are A Must

Showering (with soap!) is mandatory before you get into the pools at the Vök Baths, or any other hot pools in Iceland for that matter.

Since there are a lot of people coming and going into the pools, it’s considered a hygienic practice to ask visitors to shower before they take a dip. This also makes sure that the water stays clean and uncontaminated for as long as possible.

One of my top Iceland travel tips is to never enter any pools in Iceland without showering. Also, it’s best to shower completely naked, Icelanders don’t appreciate foreigners who don’t take off their bathing suit to shower. Trust me, no one cars – they’ve seen it all and the bathrooms are separated by sex!

You don’t have to bring anything into the showers though as shampoo, conditioner, and body wash are provided! All I brought extra was face wash! There are also blow dryers in the changing rooms so you can get ready after your soak, just bring all your makeup, hair brush, etc.

Get A Towel That Stands Out

It pays to have a towel that you can spot from far away, otherwise, you’ll be spending a lot of time looking and might even walk off with someone else’s towel by mistake.

To avoid an embarrassing and somewhat unhygienic situation, try to bring a unique or unique towel. Think of bright colors or unique patterns.

Pack A Few Swimsuits

A lot of visitors find themselves visiting the Vök Baths for a second time real soon after visiting another hot spring!

The weather in Iceland isn’t exactly ideal for drying swimwear and other heavy clothing and you’ll be waiting a couple of days for your swimsuit to dry out. We visited countless thermal baths in Iceland and never once was there a bathing suit dryer in the changing room. Having a second suit on hand will make things a lot easier.

Take A Minute To Appreciate The Architecture

Once you see the building of the Vök Baths, you’ll realize how much of an architectural masterpiece it is. Designed by Basalt Architects and Design Group Italia, a firm based in Reykjavik, the building offers a modern setting in the middle of the historical landscape.

Wooden walls, large glass windows, and plants dominate everywhere, allowing the building to seamlessly blend into the surrounding landscape. Everything is pristine and untouched, with the main building being located downhill on the side of the lake.

The landscape, hot baths, and the building are all a testament to Nordic culture and history, making for a very memorable experience.

Are there any chemicals in the water?

Vök Baths offer a pristine natural hot spring experience, free from chlorine or any artificial additives in the pools. The water’s purity is maintained through a constant flow of fresh water.

While the natural pools remain pure, they do develop algae growth, which tends to flourish during the sunniest periods of spring and summer. Interestingly, research has highlighted the beneficial effects of algae, such as nurturing and moisturizing the skin. However, to ensure safety, as algae can create slippery surfaces, the pools are routinely drained and the algae is removed, though you can still often feel it’s slipperyness on your feet as you walk around the pools – which is SUPER COOL!

Check Out The Chic Tea Bar

Once you see the setting of the Vök Baths, it isn’t too far-fetched to think the place would have an aesthetic and chic tea bar.

Known as the infusion bar, visitors can treat themselves to some refreshing tea, and it doesn’t cost anything. You just need to serve yourself after your relaxing time in the baths.

Made using water from the spring itself (more on that later), you can choose between hot and cold tea and have a range of local herbs to choose from. Options include birch, angelica, black currant, and nettle.

Locker Room Etiquette

Before going into the locker room, make sure you take your shoes off. If you want you can wear a clean pair of flip-flops, but just make sure you don’t bring in mud with you. There’s a space to leave your shoes before you enter.

You’ll be given a cool bracelet which will also be your locker key. Do not lose your bracelet (the replacement is 5000 ISK!) and place all your valuables inside your locker. This bracelet is waterproof and can be worn in the baths themselves. If you buy any drinks you can put the charge right on the “bracelet” and pay it once you leave.

It’s Not Just Pools

There are a lot of pools at the Vök Baths (but that’s not all!). The first is the main pool located adjacent to the building, and accessible right from the locker rooms. It looks like two large pools connected by a small passage, and there are also two floating pools further back of the building.

Visitors can also treat themselves to a steam bath, with temperatures of 50 degrees Celsius, or the cold water spray tunnel, where you get a refreshing hit of 10-degree water.

Be Careful And Considerate

The water in the pools at Vök Baths is hot because of natural reasons. Geothermal energy naturally heats the water which might be incredible, but can also be a bit dangerous as there’s no way to regulate the temperature of the water.

Check the water temperature before you jump in to make sure it isn’t too hot for you. While the temperature won’t usually exceed 41 degrees Celsius, it might get slightly hotter at times.

Also, make sure you’re considerate to others and the environment. Don’t stay beyond the recommended time and make sure you don’t cause a mess or leave any litter, either in the water or around it.

The Water Is So Clean You Can Drink It

Remember the chic infusion tea bar located in the reception of the Vök Baths building? The water used for making these teas is from Lake Urriðavatn, the lake around the pools of the Vök Baths.

Before you gross out, know that the water is completely clean, uncontaminated, and is the ONLY certified drinkable hot spring water in Iceland. So it’s completely safe and hygienic.

The Vok Baths Might Not Be The Best Place For Small Kids

While the Vök Baths do not have any age restrictions, that being said it still might not be a great idea to take young kids with you if they tend to be loud and roudy. People come to relax at these pools, including you, and having kids splash around might not make for the best experience and some other visitors might get annoyed as well.

If you do take your kids, be sure to ask them not to splash around too much and to enjoy the calmness and relaxation from the warmth of the pools. 

For splashing around, you can go to the accompanying lake. Adults can even jump directly into the lake from the pools for a nice refreshing dip!

Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult chaperone.

The Lake Is Cold

There’s no cold plunge at the Vok Baths, instead visitors can get their chills on in the lake itself. There are two ladders right from the floating pools leading right into the chilly lake. If you dare you can even take a swim around, though most people just dip in and find themselves right back in the hot pools right after.

If you do decide to jump into the lake, then make sure you have experience swimming in cold water because the water can sometimes be freezing. You may want to avoid going into the lake during winter as the water is so cold you could get hypothermia within minutes of wading in. 

Always be careful when visiting sites like the Vök Baths and getting into the cold water. While it is a popular tourist attraction, it’s still a natural setting. Safety should always be kept in mind in such places.

You Can Change In Private 

This might not seem like a big deal, but you should know that almost every other hot pool in Iceland doesn’t have private changing rooms or showers. Visitors are expected to change and shower in the locker rooms, in everyone’s view.

In addition to the conventional large locker room, the Vök Baths have some private showers as well. However, just because they’re private doesn’t mean you should take an extended shower.

Clean up thoroughly but clean up fast so you can make your way to the pool and not keep others waiting unnecessarily.

Enjoy The Swim-Up Bar

Swim-up bars are common in hot pools around Iceland, and the Vök Baths are no exception. The bar makes sure you can enjoy a drink without having to leave the warmth of the water, and it can get pretty cold in Iceland so that’s a great thing!

You can buy beer, champagne, Collab energy drinks, smoothies, and even red and blue frozen slushies! Try the slushy for sure and you can have the unique experience of what it feels like to have a cold treat while relaxing in hot water.

Unlike the Blue Lagoon, the Vok Baths are not a party place and the bar does not get rowdy here; it’s all about relaxation and enjoyment.

You Can Even Opt For Day Tours 

You can also enjoy a tour of the area during your visit to the Vök Baths. Tourists are picked up from outside the building at 8:40 AM. You also have the option to be picked up from Hús Handanna in Egilsstaðir at 8:30, or from Egilsstadir airport at 8:35.

You’ll start the tour by driving to Rjúkandi waterfall in Jökuldalur, where you’ll be taking a walk up to the top of the waterfall. The next stop is Stuðlagil Canyon, one of the best places on Iceland, on the east side of Jökulsá. The Canyon’s giant rock formations are unique and magnificent and make for Instagram-worthy pictures.

After Stuðlagil Canyon, you’ll drive back to the Vök Baths for a soak in the hot pools. You’re in for an amazing therapeutic experience in the pools, especially after exerting yourself on the long strenuous walks during the tour.

The Food Is A Sleeper Hit!

People don’t speak about the Vök Bistro enough and they’re missing out!

After a day of dipping in the pools and exploring the surrounding area, you’re bound to be hungry. Before you go anywhere else, you should know the on-site Bistro is pretty delicious!

All dishes are made from locally sourced produce, and fish from the local lakes and seas. You’ll also find some interesting rustic dishes like baked soft cheese with grapes, lemon thyme, and walnuts, hummus with pine nuts, and pomegranate and pita.

There are some other interesting dishes like Pork belly bao buns with oyster mayo and scallion and a charcuterie plate. If you’ve got kids then there are some kiddy options like pizza, french fries, and nuggets.

Drone Photography Is Restricted

Drone enthusiasts would salivate when they visit the Vök Baths, with the masterpiece of a building, the beautiful landscape, and the pristine lake. However, before you take off, you should know that droning is prohibited during opening hours. 

This isn’t surprising considering there are people in swimsuits trying to relax and enjoy their time at the hot pools. The sound of the whirring blades isn’t exactly going to help anyone relax either.

The staff does request that anyone wanting to drone during off hours just contact them before doing so. So be polite and make sure you drop them a line before you start your flight. The drone photos in this post are all taken before operating hours with permission from the staff.

Stay The Night At Egilsstaðir

A trip to the Vök Baths isn’t ideal for a day trip considering it’s an 8-hour drive from Reykjavik and a 3-hour drive from Akureyri, so you’ll have to consider staying in a nearby city. Egilsstaðir is the only option and it’s a fortunate thing as this picturesque town has a lot to offer. This is where we stayed the night and refueled at the Iceland grocery stores before visiting the Vok Baths, before we continued on our Ring Road journey.

The largest town in Iceland, Egilsstaðir is a great hub not just while you go to the Vök Baths, but also if you’re wanting to explore along the Icelandic Ring Road, a 1332-kilometer-long road giving access to tourist spots in all regions of Iceland except the Westfjords and Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Egilsstaðir itself also has a fair bit to offer with Hallormsstaðaskógur, Iceland’s largest forest,  and Lagarfjlót, a mythical lake.

A Gateway To A Magical Side of Iceland

If you’re visiting the Vök Baths and staying at Egilsstaðir then it could be a chance for you to explore East Iceland in depth, which is not an opportunity to be missed.

This side of Iceland is home to some incredible natural wonders which must be seen, including waterfalls and mountains. You could also visit Seyðisfjörður nearby, an adorable small town and artsy commune perched on a fjord.

We were able to explore this whole on a whim as we rented a campervan in Iceland with Happy Campers!

Are the Vok Baths Worth It?

We visited over 10 thermal baths and hot springs in Iceland and the Vok Baths were up there as one of our favorites, along with the Forest Lagoon and Hvammsvik. They are quiet and serene, and their floating pools, tea bar, and bistro certainly are unique. I wouldn’t hesitate to visit, especially if you are already in the area!

To avoid crowds, we recommend visiting right at opening or two hours before close. This is when the crowds will be the lowest.