Iceland

Known for being one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly countries in the world, same-sex marriage has been legal in Iceland since 2010, and the country was the first in the world to elect an openly gay head of state. Discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity is illegal, and the country has a vibrant LGBTQ+ population.

Things to do in Iceland

Seljavallalaug Hot Spring

Nestled in a secluded valley, the Seljavallalaug Hot Spring is a true hidden treasure that promises a serene and distinctive experience. Constructed in 1923, this is one of Iceland’s oldest swimming pools, and it is supplied by a natural hot spring. The pool is enveloped by breathtaking mountains and is an ideal spot to unwind and appreciate the splendor of Iceland’s countryside. It’s worth mentioning that the pool is not maintained by the government, and it’s the responsibility of visitors to keep it tidy.

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Nestled in Iceland lies a hidden treasure known as Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon. This natural wonder offers a one-of-a-kind hiking experience, with breathtaking views that will leave you in awe. The canyon stretches for about 2 kilometers and is up to 100 meters deep, with a river flowing through its base. As you hike along the canyon’s edge, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls.

Hraunfossar Waterfall

Nestled in the western region of Iceland lies the stunning Hraunfossar Waterfall, a true hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This natural wonder is composed of a series of small waterfalls that cascade out of the lava fields, creating a breathtaking sight to behold. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery, providing a tranquil and serene environment for visitors to enjoy. Wooden walkways allow for easy exploration of the falls from various angles, making it a photographer’s dream and an ideal spot to unwind and soak in the beauty of nature.

Iceland is a prime destination for those seeking to witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. The best time to catch this natural phenomenon is during the months of September to April when the nights are the longest and the skies are clearest. To fully experience the beauty of the Northern Lights, it’s best to venture away from the bright lights of the city and head to locations such as Skaftafell National Park, Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, and the remote Westfjords.

With a variety of deluxe accommodations to choose from, including private cabins, boutique hotels, and lodges with breathtaking views, you can indulge in the ultimate level of luxury during your Northern Lights experience. Some of these accommodations even offer unique amenities like private outdoor hot tubs or observatories, allowing you to witness the beauty of the Northern Lights in style.

Iceland is a land of adventure and relaxation. While the Northern Lights is a must-see attraction, there are plenty of other thrilling activities to enjoy. Take a ride on a dog sled, hop on a snowmobile, or hike across a glacier. If you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, treat yourself to a luxurious spa treatment or soak in one of Iceland’s many natural hot springs. Whatever your preference, Iceland has something for everyone.

• January

  -3°C - 3°C

  January is right in the middle of the winter season, so expect cold temperatures of around -2°C and around 4 hours of sunlight during the day.

• February

  -2 - 2°C

  February is similar to January in the sense that it is still very cold, however, the hours of sunshine increased to around 6 hrs.

• March

  -2°C - 2°C

  Temperatures are still cold, but again the total ours of daylight increases to around 10 hours.

• April

  0°C - 5°C

  April temperatures pick up a little with the daily average in Reykjavik reaching 3°C (still very cold!). On average, the sun will rise at 06:50 and set at 20:20 so daylight sunshine increases further.

• May

  3°C - 9°C

  May sees a further increase in temperature as we get closer to the summer months. May also sees more rainfall than previous months with around 40mm of precipitation throughout the month.

• June

  7°C - 11°C

  June brings more hours of lovely sunshine, with total hours of daylight reaching around 20 hours. Average temperatures in Reykjavik are around 9°C.

• July

  9°C - 13°C

  July is very similar to June, long sunny hours of sunshine, with very little rainfall and mild to cold temperatures.

• August

  8°C - 13°C

  Temperature wise, August is similar to the other summer months with an average of around 11°C. Daylight sunshine starts to decrease slightly down to 18 hours.

• September

  5°C - 9°C

  The daily hours of sunshine continue to decrease in September down to 16 and a half. Temperatures also fall with this to an average of 7°C. September also sees an increase in rain precipitation as well.

• October

  2°C - 6°C

  October sees around 10 and a half hours of sunlight each day with daily averages hitting 4°C. From October to April is the best time to see the Northern lights, you want complete darkness for the best views.

• November

  0°C - 5°C

  In November the weather starts to enter the winter season, the snow will start to fall and temperatures will drop to sub-zero.

• December

  -1°C - 4°C

  In December daylight hours decrease down to 5 hours and with this brings a decrease in temperature and some snow. It is a great time to visit if you want picturesque scenery.

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, flying is the easiest and most popular way to get there. The country has two main airports: Keflavik International Airport, which is located about 50 km from Reykjavik, and Reykjavik Domestic Airport, which is situated in the city center. Keflavik International Airport is the primary hub for international flights, with many airlines offering direct flights from major cities in Europe, North America, and Asia. Some of the airlines that fly to Iceland include Icelandair, WOW Air, Delta, United, and British Airways.

For those seeking a more unique and picturesque way to travel to Iceland, ferries are a great option. Smyril Line is the primary ferry operator, offering a weekly service from Denmark to Iceland with stops in the Faroe Islands. The journey takes approximately three days and provides breathtaking views of the North Atlantic Ocean. While there are occasional ferry services from other countries like Norway and Germany, they are less frequent and may require multiple transfers.

While Iceland does have a public transportation system, it is limited compared to other countries. The main form of public transportation is buses, which operate in and between cities and towns. The largest bus company is Strætó, which offers both local and long-distance routes.