Iceland feels like it was made by hikers for hikers. An endless expanse rich with roaring rivers, mossy meadows, obsidian beaches, and towering volcanoes, it’s an outdoor lover’s dream come true.
We truly believe that you’re doing yourself a disservice by not paying a visit. This is why, in hopes of getting as many people as possible on the trails, we’ve listed our 5 reasons why you should absolutely add some Iceland hiking trips to your 2023 bucket list.
The scenery never gets stale
Caption: It might look photoshopped, but once you visit Landmannalaugar, you’ll see that the photo doesn’t do it justice.
Very few places on the planet can boast landscapes as diverse as Iceland. You’ll find everything from mossy green meadows, geothermal hot springs, and volcanic plains to massive glaciers, black-sand beaches, and rainbow-colored rhyolite mountains! In the land of fire and ice, every step feels like venturing into a different world.
You can have endless fun under the Midnight Sun
Caption: Falling asleep in the Midnight Sun can be tough. Good thing you can just hike instead!
Due to its position on the Earth’s axis, Iceland faces radical changes in daylight throughout the year. In the summer months, this leads to a phenomenon known as the “polar day”, meaning the sun almost never sets! Seeing it is an extremely surreal experience, and the everlasting sun brings boundless adventure opportunities.
Beginners are welcome
Caption: Some of Iceland’s most dramatic landmarks are surprisingly easy to reach.
Don’t let words like “volcanoes” and “glaciers” scare you away—some of the greatest hikes in Iceland are beginner-friendly. Take, for example, the Laugavegur trail, the most famous trail in the country, which doesn’t require any prior multi-day hiking experience, while iconic areas like Thorsmörk and Landmannalaugar offer plenty of great day hikes for children and folks over 50.
You don’t need to worry about the wildlife
Caption: How could anyone be scared of this little guy?
You’ll find no dangerous, poisonous, venomous, or otherwise harmful animals in Iceland. If, on your trek, you even happen upon any wildlife, it will most likely be birds, fish, or the occasional rabbit, reindeer, or mink, but that’s about it. The only mammal native to the island is the Arctic Fox, and they’re very afraid of humans, so you should consider yourself lucky if you spot one in the wild.
You can take a walk on the wild side
Caption: What might be hiding in this cave? There’s only one way to find out.
It may be famous for its classic trails, but we believe that Iceland shines brightest when you leave the beaten path. As you’re uncovering secluded waterfalls, traversing obsidian coves, or spelunking down long-forgotten caves, you’ll feel just like the explorers of old. No other place in the world stimulates the adventurous spirit quite like Iceland.
Whether you’re tackling famous trails, hunting for hidden gems, scouring for sweet photo-ops, or making memories with your loved ones, you’ll find just what you need in Iceland. Ready to follow in the footsteps of the Vikings?
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