Iceland, the land of ice & fire, is a playground for adventure enthusiasts, and its southern coast is a treasure trove of natural wonders. From cascading waterfalls to volcanic landscapes, this region offers a diverse array of experiences that will leave you breathless. I recently had the opportunity to explore this magnificent part of Iceland, and in this guide I’ll share some of my insights for planning an adventure-packed trip to this exciting destination.
Southern Iceland: A Winter Wonderland for Adventure Seekers
While Iceland is beautiful year-round, there's something truly magical about visiting in winter. The stark contrast between the snow-covered landscapes and the dark volcanic rocks creates a monochromatic beauty that's uniquely Icelandic. The shorter days provide more opportunities to witness the ethereal Northern Lights, and the frozen waterfalls create ice sculptures that seem almost too beautiful to be real. For adventure travelers, winter in Iceland offers unique experiences like ice cave exploration, glacier hiking, and snowmobiling across vast ice fields.
Where else can you spot the aurora borealis, explore an ice cave, and hike to an active volcano all in the span of a few days? The raw beauty and untamed nature of Iceland offer a sense of exploration and discovery that's hard to find anywhere else.
Southern Iceland is home to some of the country's most iconic landmarks. The Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls are two of the most photographed natural wonders in Iceland, each offering a unique spectacle. The Black Sand Beach, with its stark contrast of ebony sand against the crashing white waves, is a sight that seems almost otherworldly. And the Fagradalsfjall volcanic system, with its recent eruptions, serves as a reminder of the powerful forces that shaped this island. These landmarks and more make Iceland the perfect destination for adventure travelers.
The Volcanic Heart of Iceland
To truly appreciate Iceland's landscapes, one must understand its volcanic origins. Iceland sits atop the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly drifting apart. This geological activity gave birth to the island, shaping its dramatic landscapes over millions of years. (Did you know? Iceland is geologically one of the youngest islands, having risen from the ocean an estimated 16 million years ago!) The country is home to about 130 volcanoes, both active and dormant, which continue to mold the terrain to this day.
Among the most stunning results of this volcanic activity are the waterfalls that dot the southern coast. Seljalandsfoss, standing at 60 meters (197 feet) tall, is famous for the walking path that leads behind the cascade, offering a unique perspective of the water's power. The waterfall is fed by melting water from the famed glacier-capped Eyjafjallajökull volcano. In winter, the frozen mist creates a glittering ice cave behind the falls, transforming the scene into a winter wonderland.
Just a short drive away, Skógafoss presents a different but equally mesmerizing spectacle. At 62 meters (203 feet) high and 25 meters (82 feet) wide, it's one of the biggest waterfalls in Iceland. According to legend, a Viking settler hid a treasure chest behind the waterfall, adding an air of mystery to its beauty. A staircase beside the falls leads to an observation platform, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and, on clear days, all the way to the Atlantic Ocean.
And, of course, no trip to Southern Iceland is complete without a visit to the famous Black Sand Beach, known locally as Reynisfjara. Located near the village of Vík, this beach is a testament to Iceland's volcanic nature. The 'sand' is actually tiny fragments of lava, crushed and smoothed by the relentless waves over thousands of years. The beach is framed by basalt columns rising from the sea, forming what locals call the 'Troll Fingers'. These, along with the Reynisdrangar sea stacks just offshore, create a hauntingly beautiful landscape that has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, including Game of Thrones.
Fagradalsfjall: A Window into Earth's Fiery Core
The Fagradalsfjall volcanic system, located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, has recently become one of Iceland's most exciting geological attractions. After lying dormant for 6,000 years, the system sprung to life in March 2021, treating visitors to a spectacular display of nature's raw power. The eruption, which lasted for six months, was the longest in Iceland in over 50 years.
My hike to Meradalir volcano, part of the Fagradalsfjall system, was a journey through a landscape that felt almost alien. The trail winds through fields of cooled lava, steam vents, and vibrant mineral deposits. In summer, the contrast between the black lava fields and the green moss that's slowly reclaiming the land is striking. In winter though, the scene transforms into a monochromatic wonderland, with snow and ice adding an extra layer of drama to the already impressive landscape.
The hike is considered moderately difficult and can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours each way, depending on your pace and the conditions. The terrain is uneven and can be slippery, especially in winter, so proper hiking boots and crampons are essential. I also recommend a guide who can provide additional layer of context to the landscapes and who carries the proper safety equipment like a volcanic activity meter and gas masks. While unlikely, there is always the possibility of another eruption, which I learned through our guide that previous travelers were made highly aware of when the volcano erupted during their hike in 2022!
While the volcano is no longer actively erupting, the area remains geothermally active, with steam rising from vents in the cooled lava, serving as a reminder of the powerful forces at work beneath your feet.
Chasing the Northern Lights
For many travelers — myself included! — witnessing the aurora borealis is the ultimate bucket list experience, and Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see this natural light show. There are several ways to chase the Northern Lights in Iceland, each offering a unique perspective on this celestial phenomenon.
Superjeep tours are popular among adventure seekers. These modified 4x4 vehicles can traverse Iceland's rugged terrain, taking you far from light pollution to increase your chances of seeing the aurora. The tours often include several stops as the guide takes you on a "chase" for the northern lights.
Northern Lights cruises offer a different experience. Sailing away from the city lights, these tours provide an unobstructed view of the night sky. The gentle rocking of the boat and the sound of the waves add to the magical atmosphere as you wait for the lights to appear.
However, for a truly unique aurora experience, I recommend Aurora Basecamp. Located about 40 minutes from Reykjavík, Aurora Basecamp offers more than just a viewing platform. It's an educational center dedicated to the science and mythology of the Northern Lights. The facility features an Aurora darkroom with a short demonstration explaining the phenomenon, and expert guides are on hand to answer questions and help you capture the perfect aurora photograph.
What sets Aurora Basecamp apart is its 'Aurora Bubble' - a glass-domed structure that allows you to view the lights in comfort, protected from the elements. The site also has outdoor viewing platforms equipped with fire pits to keep warm for those who prefer to experience the aurora under the open sky. With its combination of education, comfort, and optimal viewing conditions, Aurora Basecamp offers a comprehensive Northern Lights experience that goes beyond simple sightseeing.
There is little promise of seeing the aurora borealis, its appearance dependent on weather and geomagnetic conditions. I was lucky enough to see it twice on this trip! From the plane on our way to Iceland, I spotted a grey streak from my window seat. Sometimes, even if the aurora is apparent, the human eye is unable to make out any color. However when adjusting my camera for contrast, I discovered that what I was looking at was indeed the aurora giving us a little pre-show from the sky.
We saw the phenomenon again in it's true glory at Aurora Basecamp. Green is the most common color humans are able to see with the naked eye when viewing the aurora, however rarer colors like yellow, purple and even red can occur as well. Just when we were about to head back to the city after 2 hours of patiently waiting, a green streak appeared across the sky and began to give us a show I'll never forget!
Soaking in Iceland's Geothermal Wonders
No trip to Iceland is complete without experiencing its famous hot springs and lagoons. These geothermal pools, heated by the earth's volcanic activity, offer a unique way to relax and rejuvenate amidst stunning natural surroundings.
The Blue Lagoon is perhaps Iceland's most famous geothermal spa. Located in a lava field on the Reykjanes Peninsula, its milky-blue waters are rich in silica and sulfur, believed to have healing properties for the skin. The lagoon is actually a result of the nearby geothermal power plant, with the warm water being a byproduct of the energy production process. Despite its popularity and often crowded conditions, soaking in the Blue Lagoon while surrounded by black lava fields remains a quintessential Icelandic experience.
For a more intimate and luxurious experience, I highly recommend the Sky Lagoon. Opened in 2021, this geothermal spa offers a modern take on traditional Icelandic bathing culture. What makes Sky Lagoon special is its stunning design and location. The infinity-edge pool seems to merge with the North Atlantic Ocean, creating a breathtaking illusion of endless water. The lagoon is built into the rocky coastline, incorporating natural elements into its design for a more organic feel.
Sky Lagoon's signature experience is the seven-step ritual, which combines the warm geothermal waters with cold therapy, saunas, and skin care treatments. The ritual is designed to stimulate blood flow, reduce stress, and leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized. The spa also features a swim-up bar and a glass-walled sauna with panoramic ocean views. With its blend of luxury, tradition, and stunning natural beauty, Sky Lagoon offers a more refined and often less crowded alternative to the Blue Lagoon.
Iceland: The Ultimate Adventure Destination
Iceland truly is a paradise for adventure-seeking travelers. Its diverse landscapes offer a wide range of activities, from hiking on glaciers and exploring ice caves to walking behind waterfalls and witnessing volcanic eruptions. The country's raw, untamed beauty provides a sense of exploration and discovery.
While Iceland is beautiful year-round, winter brings a special magic to the Land of Ice and Fire. The snow-covered landscapes create a stark, otherworldly beauty, and the long nights provide ample opportunity to witness the Northern Lights. Winter also offers unique adventures like snowmobiling across glaciers.
However, planning the perfect Icelandic adventure can be challenging, especially in winter when weather conditions can be unpredictable and daylight is limited. This is where the expertise of a luxury travel advisor becomes invaluable. As knowledgeable advisors, we can help you navigate the complexities of Icelandic travel, from choosing the best time to visit for your desired activities to arranging unique experiences like private glacier hikes or helicopter tours over volcanic landscapes.
A luxury travel advisor can also ensure that your adventure is balanced with comfort, arranging stays at top-quality accommodations and reservations at Iceland's best restaurants. We can provide insider knowledge on lesser-known attractions and help you avoid tourist traps, ensuring that your Icelandic adventure is as authentic as it is exciting.
Iceland offers a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and otherworldly experiences that make it a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking something extraordinary. Whether you're chasing the Northern Lights, hiking to an active volcano, or simply soaking in a geothermal lagoon, Iceland promises memories that will last a lifetime.
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