Activities in Iceland
 
Iceland’s spectacular landscapes and thriving capital city means that you will be pressed to decide which activity to indulge in.
 
Cycling
Cycling is one of the best ways to get around both the cities and rural areas. With each glance, your eyes will have a new spectacular sight to feast upon. There are a number of companies that offer bicycle tours for guided exploration of Iceland’s finest sights.
 
Bird-watching
Iceland is a bird watcher’s paradise. Home to the largest bird cliff in the world, the West Fjords is internationally renowned for its colony of razorbills. The fascinating life of the puffin bird can be investigated on the Westmann Islands, while beautiful Lake Myvatn has the biggest colony of breeding ducks in Europe. Among the array of birds that find refuge in the fresh air of Iceland, some of the most common include eider, arctic terns and passerine.

Fishing
The crystal clear waters of this Nordic land are home to amplitude of fish species, and most visitors enjoy trying their luck and testing their patience with salmon and trout fishing. The best catches of salmon can be had from late June to mid-September, while the lakes and rivers are brimming with trout from April to October. Licences are required for both activities and the permit for salmon fishing should be applied for well in advance. 
 
Whale-watching
The waters around Iceland have recently become a top European destination for whale watching. With a rich variety of species and high sighting rates, experts and those with just a passing interest alike flock to these Nordic shores. The perky minke whale are commonly found in abundance, but there is no end of species to be spotted by those with a keen eye. Delight at the sight of the fantastic blue, sei, humpback and fin whales, but beware of the notorious killer whales.
 
There is a range of tours departing from a number of locations, including Hafnarfjodur, Breiddalsvik, Olafsvik and the Westmann Islands. Husavik however is commonly considered the capital of whale watching in Europe, with an exhibition centre and interesting displays on the various species found in the waters.
 
Glacier tours
No visit to Iceland would be complete without a tour of its astounding natural wonders - glaciers. A hair raising snowmobile ride around the island’s towering peaks is a little taste of surrealism at its best. Tour operators are found in most regions and can help you with the slightly tricky ascent to the top.
 
Museums and galleries
Icelandic culture is rich in heritage and has an impressively strong presence of artists. Even the smallest villages will have some form of museum or gallery. Reykjavik, of course, has the largest selection with the Arni Magnusson Institute, Einar Jonsson Museum and the National Gallery among the top three. Iceland seems to have a museum for everything, including ones documenting traditional clothing and metal work.
 
Hiking
With a large percentage of Iceland high above sea level, it is no wonder that hiking is a major attraction among locals and tourists alike. There are many one-day tours operated throughout the year, while summer is the best time for longer three or four-day excursions.
 
Golf
Golf is a popular sport on the island with over 50 world-class courses to choose from. Not many golfers can say they have played in the middle of the night, but those who visit during summer months will be able to add this to their golfing resume.
 
River rafting
Iceland’s tornado-like glacial waters offer the perfect challenge for those with a keen sense of adventure. If you have no previous experience in river rafting don’t worry, most tour operators offer a range of levels to suit everyone from timid first-timers to fearless experts.
 
Skiing
Iceland is a prime location for a ski holiday with a difference. Winter, of course, is the best time to partake in the sport, but there are also opportunities to hit the slopes in summer at Kerlingarkjoll near Hofsjokull glacier.
 
Horseback riding
The Vikings arrived in Iceland on horseback and today the breed is as strong and sure footed as in ancient times. For spectacular views of Icelandic nature, these docile, intelligent and exceptionally well mannered animals will take you through a wealth of terrains from rocky mountain slopes to plains of rough lava.
 
Sea angling
For those of you who would like to partake in the increasingly popular sport of sea angling in Iceland, the best time to head for the shores of the pristine waters surrounding the island is from late May to August. There are several tournaments held around the country with information on these available from tourist boards and travel agencies.
 
Reykjavik marathon
In August, Reykjavik comes alive with the anticipation of the major international event, the Reykjavik Marathon. Participants attend from around Iceland and indeed the world, and while they are arduously working for the marathon title, you can enjoy a fun day of athlete spotting.
 
Swimming
Swimming is among the most pursued activities on this island. For swimming enthusiasts, it is a joy to dive into the clean waters which are normally of a perfect temperature. There are indoor options too, with few towns throughout the country being without a pool, while most have saunas, Jacuzzis and solariums in addition.
 
Festivals
One of the world’s most innovative music festivals is held annually in Reykjavik for four days in August. Alternative artists from around the globe entertain the masses of fans who attend. Icelandair, the event sponsor, puts on special packages for the big event, including air fares, accommodation and festival passes. The final show will not leave you disappointed, an invigorated collaboration of artists which leaves most visitors not wanting to return home.
 
If you are not into alternative music, you can still catch an international festival Iceland style. Reykjavik Iceland Jazz Festival is usually held in the last few days of September and stretches to the first few days of October. Top international acts from the world of jazz all hit the streets of Reykjavik for endless entertainment.  

Information about the Icelandic  Culture and History - Facts on Iceland - Getting to Iceland - Natural Attractions - Nightlife - Activities in Iceland - Reykjavik Overview - Shopping - Wining and Dining - 10 Things to do in Iceland.