Iceland, a paradise with amazing natural beauty, is a land for all adventures and enthusiasts. It offers a dramatic and diverse landscape, including craters, geysers, glaciers, and hot springs preserved in several national parks. Iceland’s national parks are renowned for their natural heritage and give a glimpse into the wild heart of the nation. Iceland’s national parks are a testament to the raw and untamed beauty.
Joining organized Iceland tours to these national parks would be a unique experience for those planning to visit Iceland. National parks in Iceland are treasures that showcase everything from volcanic landscapes and glaciers to lush valleys and geothermal wonders. This guide details Iceland’s national parks, highlighting their key features and activities.
Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park
This national park is located in South Iceland, about 40 km Northeast of Reykjavik. Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its geological and historical importance. In Þingvellir, the Althing (the first parliament of Iceland, established in AD 930) has deep historical and symbolic associations with the people of Iceland.
Also, Þingvellir National Park sits in the rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, which creates dramatic landscapes, including the Almannagjá Gorge and the Silfra Fissure. Here, the park is home to the largest natural lake in Iceland, namely Þingvallavatn. Hiking is the most favorable activity here, where hiking trails vary from easy walks to challenging routes. Additionally, this park offers educational exhibitions about its geology and history. It is part of the Golden Circle route, a famous tour that includes the Geysir Geothermal Area and Gullfoss Waterfall.
Vatnajökull National Park
It is in Southeast Iceland, incorporating about 14% of the country’s landmass. Due to its vast size, you should plan your visit based on the specific areas you wish to explore. Vatnajökull National Park is the largest national park in Iceland and home to Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull. It includes the most diverse landscapes in Iceland, including ice caves, volcanic craters, and lush valleys. Summer is the best time to visit here, as weather conditions are much more unpredictable during winter.
- Glaciers and Ice Caves: These ice caves are stunning in winter when the blue ice creates an ethereal glow.
- Volcanic Landscapes: Vatnajökull National Park includes various active volcanoes, such as Bárðarbunga and Grímsvötn. The area is surrounded by stark volcanic terrain and lava fields.
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: It is an unavoidable sight where icebergs break off the glacier and float in a serene lake before drifting out to sea. There are also glittering ice chunks on the black sand very near Diamond Beach.
Snæfellsjökull National Park
It is located at the edge of Snæfellsjökull in the West part of the country. It is about 183 km and is the first national park to stretch from the top of the mountain to the ocean. Snæfellsjökull National Park is frequently less crowded than other national parks, offering a calm and tranquil experience. As the weather is unpredictable, keep dressed in layers and always be prepared for sudden climate changes.
This park is dominated by the Snæfellsjökull volcano, capped by a glacier. Also it is detailed in Jules Verne’s novel “ Journey to the Center of the Earth”. The main feature here is Snæfellsjökull Glacier, which sits atop the volcano and offers many glacier hiking and climbing opportunities. Surly, it also provides enchanting views of the surrounding landscapes.
The other feature is the coastal scenery of the park. It offers dramatic coastal cliffs, black beaches, and picturesque fishing villages. Other significant spots include Arnarstapi and Hellnar. You can walk between the charming settlements along a scenic coastal trail. The important part is an exploration of Vatnshellir Cave in fascinating formations, surrounded by lava fields that provide a glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic history.
Hornstrandir Nature Reserve
It is situated in Northwestern Iceland and is readily accessible only by boat. Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is Iceland’s most remote and rugged national park, well-known for its untouched wilderness and rich birdlife. It is the right choice for those who love hiking and those seeking solitude. When planning a trip to Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, always plan for a camping or boat-based stay.
It includes scenic trails, which are always breathtaking with stunning views, and the routes incorporate trails to Hornbjarg cliffs. The other feature is wildlife, a critical habitat for Arctic foxes and many sea birds. In addition, this park is largely untouched by human development, providing an authentic wilderness experience.
Mývatn Nature Baths and Surroundings
It is located in northern Iceland near the lake Mývatn. This area is easily accessible by road and can be visited year-round. The Mývatn area is popular for geothermal activity, including the Mývatn nature baths, which provide a relaxing soak in mineral-rich waters. Alternatively, you can explore dramatic lava formations that resemble a mythical fortress and are accompanied by local folklore. In addition, the Hverir geothermal area shows bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles in the geothermal spot.
Tips for Visiting Iceland’s National Parks
- As Iceland’s weather is unpredictable, keep dressed in layers and always be prepared for sudden weather changes.
- Renting a car to explore Iceland’s national parks would be better.
- Always check with the up-to-date information and maps before heading out, especially to remote areas.
- Respect nature and follow the rules and regulations there.
- Visit national parks while considering the seasons. Some parks, like Hornstrandir, are best visited in summer, whereas ice cave exploration should be visited in winter for more opportunities.
Conclusion
Indeed, Iceland’s national parks are a treasure trove of natural wonders, featuring stunning landscapes unlike anything you will find anywhere else. This guide equips you to explore the breathtaking landscapes with adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with the enchanting nature of the spectacular national parks.
If you love hiking, are excited about the Viking lore, or love spending time in the wild, Iceland’s national parks are your best bet. Depending on the season, regardless of age group, all can enjoy the Iceland tours to the national parks, which include various features and activities.
