12 Essential ICELAND TRAVEL Tips | Watch BEFORE You GO!

Summary

In this travel guide video, Alexander Ayling shares 12 essential tips for visiting Iceland, including dressing in layers for unpredictable weather, enjoying wildlife encounters, chasing waterfalls, witnessing the Northern Lights, trying local cuisine, soaking in hot springs, saving money on accommodations and food, exploring glaciers and volcanoes, renting a car for flexibility, discovering lesser-known areas, experiencing local culture, and visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds.

Takeaways

• 🧳 Iceland is known for its diverse landscapes, including volcanoes, glaciers, and unique geothermal features.
• 👋 The Icelandic culture is rich and welcoming, with a small, tight-knit community that values tradition and folklore.
• 🌍 Iceland's geographical location and geology, including the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, contribute to its distinctive landscapes and hot springs.
• 🧥 Pack for variable weather; Iceland's climate can be unpredictable, even in summer, with temperatures ranging from warm to freezing.
• 🐳 Wildlife encounters are a highlight, with species like puffins, reindeer, and whales, but remember to respect their habitats.
• 💧 Waterfalls are abundant and diverse in Iceland, with over 10,000, making them a must-see part of the natural scenery.
• 🌌 The Northern Lights are best seen from September to April and can be predicted using apps like 'Hello Aurora'.
• 🍲 Icelandic cuisine is unique, with traditional dishes like hakarl (fermented shark) and svolo (boiled sheep's head).
• ♨️ Hot springs are a major attraction, with the Blue Lagoon being the most famous, but there are many less crowded options as well.
• 💸 Iceland can be expensive, so save money by staying in hostels, buying alcohol duty-free, and eating at local markets instead of restaurants.
• 🚗 Renting a car is recommended for the freedom to explore off the beaten path and to visit less touristy areas of Iceland.

Q & A

What are the key features of Iceland's landscape?

Iceland's landscape is characterized by its volcanic activity, glaciers, and geothermal areas which give it a rugged and otherworldly appearance. It's often described as feeling like you're on a different planet due to this unique combination of natural features.

How has Iceland's history shaped its current landscape?

Iceland's landscape has been shaped by its history of volcanic eruptions, glacial movements, and geological factors such as its position on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. These events have contributed to the formation of its unique features like geothermal hot springs and geysers.

What is special about the Icelandic language and how is it related to the sagas?

The Icelandic language is a preserved form of Old Norse, which has remained unchanged from when Iceland was settled. The Icelandic sagas, which are historical and genealogical records, have helped maintain the language's original form and reflect the early struggles and conflicts of Icelandic history.

Why is Iceland considered to have a magical realism element?

Iceland is considered to have a magical realism element due to local beliefs in the existence of elves and trolls. There are even small doorways painted on rocks for elves, reflecting a cultural acceptance of these mythical beings as part of the landscape.

How has Iceland transformed economically since the second world war?

After being one of the poorest countries in Europe post-World War II, Iceland has experienced an economic rebirth. It's now rated as one of the best countries to live in and one of the safest, with tourism playing a significant role in its economic growth.

What is the significance of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge to Iceland's geology?

The Mid-Atlantic Ridge is where the European and North American continents meet, and Iceland sits atop this fissure. This地理位置 gives rise to Iceland's geothermal activity, including hot springs and geysers, which provide the country with natural hot water and geothermal energy.

What is the best way to dress for the weather in Iceland?

It's important to dress in layers due to Iceland's maritime climate, which can shift rapidly. Recommended clothing includes a waterproof rain jacket, thermals, a mid-layer jacket, and a beanie. Waterproof hiking boots are also essential due to the frequent rain and outdoor activities.

What wildlife encounters are possible in Iceland and what should tourists do to respect them?

Iceland is home to a diverse range of wildlife including puffins, reindeer, whales, dolphins, and Icelandic horses. Tourists should take guided tours to spot these animals and maintain a respectful distance to protect both the wildlife and themselves.

Why are waterfalls so abundant in Iceland and what are some must-see ones?

Iceland's location at the tectonic plate boundaries, combined with its mountainous terrain and abundant precipitation, results in over 10,000 waterfalls. Must-see waterfalls include Dettifoss, Dynjandi, Seljalandsfoss, and Gullfoss.

How can tourists best experience the Northern Lights in Iceland?

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, can be seen any time of the year but are best witnessed between September and April. Tourists should venture away from city lights and use apps like 'Aurora Alert' to increase their chances of seeing them.

What are some unique aspects of Icelandic cuisine that tourists should try?

Icelandic cuisine includes unique dishes like hakarl (fermented Greenland shark), svole (boiled sheep's head), and skyr (a type of yogurt). Tourists should also try fresh seafood dishes, as the country has an abundance of fresh seafood due to its nutrient-rich oceans.

Why is it recommended to rent a car when visiting Iceland?

Renting a car allows for the freedom to explore Iceland at your own pace, stopping wherever you wish. It's especially recommended for accessing less touristy areas and experiencing the full breadth of Iceland's diverse landscapes.

What are some tips for saving money while traveling in Iceland?

To save money in Iceland, consider staying in hostels or renting a camper van, book accommodations early, buy alcohol at duty-free shops, grocery shop instead of eating out, avoid bottled water, and use free public Wi-Fi where available.