The 5 most epic Iceland activities: local guide's top picks
Land of fire and ice, Iceland stands majestically in the North Atlantic, just a stone's throw from the Arctic Circle. This extraordinary island, about the size of half of France, is a true playground for adventurers seeking thrills and breathtaking landscapes. With its active volcanoes, ancient glaciers, natural hot springs, and black sand beaches, Iceland offers a unique natural spectacle unlike anywhere else in the world. Whether you're planning 1 week in Iceland or more, each day holds its own surprises!
Advice from our team
- For an unforgettable experience in Iceland, choose the summer, between June and September, when the endless days let you fully enjoy the activities.
- The best time to spot whales is from May to September.
- Hiking on the Laugavegur trail takes place from June to September.
- For snorkeling at Silfra, it's best to go in the morning for better visibility.
- Our semi-independent road trip in Iceland, the Iceland Nomads, combines all these highlighted activities for a complete 7-day adventure.
1. Whale watching: meeting the giants of the sea
Summer in Iceland is the perfect time to meet the whales! From the port of Húsavík, the whale watching capital of the world, you might get the chance to see humpback whales, minke whales, and even orcas. The excursions last about 3 hours, and the show is often spectacular: these sea giants love to entertain by jumping out of the water! The best part? Puffins, those adorable “clowns of the sea,” often accompany you during the trip.
This activity is also offered during the adventure Iceland Nomads.
2. Snorkeling at Silfra: dive between two continents
Imagine swimming between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, in water so pure that it offers visibility of over 100 meters! This is the unique experience that snorkeling at Silfra in Thingvellir National Park offers. The water is indeed cold (2-4°C), but the dry suits keep you dry and relatively warm. It's a must-do activity for your road trip in Iceland, accessible even to beginners.
3. Hiking on the Laugavegur: the adventure in the heart of the Highlands
The Laugavegur trek is considered one of the most beautiful in the world, and for good reason! Over 54 km, you'll cross lunar landscapes, lava fields, natural hot springs, and colorful valleys.
With Travelbase Treks, embark on a 7-day guided expedition on this legendary trail. It's an intense experience that truly deserves its place in your week in Iceland!
4. Icelandic Horse Ride: At the Pace of the Vikings
The Icelandic horse, with its unique gait called the tölt, is a purebred breed that has been preserved since the Viking era. Smaller than its European cousins but incredibly hardy, it takes you through wild landscapes that are inaccessible by car. These rides are suitable for all levels and offer a unique perspective on the Icelandic scenery.
5. Glacier expedition: walk on the ancient ice
Equipped with crampons and an experienced guide, set out to conquer the Icelandic glaciers. The Sólheimajökull, easily accessible during a road trip in Iceland, offers a perfect introduction to glacier hiking. You'll discover crevasses, glacier mills, and crystalline blue ice. Summer in Iceland is ideal for this activity, with more favorable weather conditions.
To combine all these activities without the stress of organization, our trip Iceland Nomads offers a unique semi-independent format. Staying in comfortable rooftop tents, you enjoy the assistance of our local guides while keeping your freedom. We include key activities like snorkeling at Silfra and facilitate the booking of other experiences for a hassle-free trip.
