Growing in popularity as a tourist destination, here we will delve into what activities and sightseeing experiences are at this beautiful destination.
This information will help you craft unforgettable itineraries for your clients, showcasing the raw beauty, unique geological wonders, and rich cultural heritage Iceland offers.
The Myvatn Nature Area:
- Myvatn Lake: This volcanic lake, the fourth largest in Iceland, boasts stunning scenery with numerous coves and small islands. Birdwatching enthusiasts will be delighted by the diverse birdlife inhabiting this area.
- Dimmuborgir: This vast lava field, formed by volcanic eruptions, creates an otherworldly landscape with dramatic lava pillars and intriguing lava caves.
- Hverfjall Crater: This enormous dormant volcano provides a challenging yet rewarding hike. The rim offers panoramic views of the surrounding geothermal landscape.
- Krafla Caldera: This 10km wide volcanic caldera is a hotspot for geothermal activity. Visitors can witness bubbling mud pools, fumaroles spewing steam, and colourful hot springs.
- Námafjall Geothermal Area: Located east of Náma skarð, this geothermal area is a photographer's paradise. Witness vibrant coloured geothermal features and steaming vents releasing a strong sulphurous aroma.
- Strokkur Geyser: No Iceland trip is complete without witnessing the power of a geyser. Watch in awe as Strokkur erupts every 5-10 minutes, spewing a column of water up to 20 meters high.
- The Great Geysir: While currently dormant, this geyser was once the most spectacular natural attraction in Iceland. Located just 20 meters from Strokkur, visitors can appreciate its historical significance.
- Geothermal Landscape: The surrounding area is a fascinating display of geothermal activity with bubbling mud pots, hot springs, and steaming vents.
- A Natural Wonder: This man-made lagoon boasts milky-blue waters due to a unique combination of white silica mud and blue-green algae. The warm, 40°C water is believed to have curative properties.
- Unforgettable Experience: Soaking in the Blue Lagoon surrounded by a stark volcanic landscape, especially during winter with snow blanketing the surroundings, is a truly unique experience.
- The Enigmatic Glacier: On a clear day, the majestic Snæfellsjökull glacier can be seen from Reykjavik, captivating imaginations with its snow-capped peak. This glacier's mystique is further enhanced by Jules Verne's portrayal of it as the entrance to the Earth's core in his novel "Journey to the Centre of the Earth."
- Diverse Landscape: This National Park offers a diverse tapestry of landscapes - from vast moorlands and vibrant meadows to dramatic rock formations, black sand beaches, and crystal-clear rivers.
- A Place of Beauty and History: While the beauty of Thingvellir is undeniable, its significance goes beyond aesthetics.
- Historical Significance: Founded in 930, Thingvellir is the site of the world's oldest existing parliament, making it a place of immense historical and cultural importance to Icelanders.
- Geological Wonder: This park sits on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates are pulling apart. Visitors can walk between the continents and witness the dramatic rift valley first-hand.
- Seasonality: Iceland experiences dramatic variations in daylight hours throughout the year. Summer offers long days with opportunities for midnight sun experiences, while winter provides the best chance to see the Northern Lights.
- Activities: Iceland offers a wide range of adventure activities, from glacier hiking and caving to whale watching and soaking in geothermal pools. Tailor activities to your client's interests and fitness levels.
- Accessibility: Iceland has a well-developed road network, making self-driving tours a popular option. However, guided tours are also widely available, providing insightful commentary and local expertise.
