Natural attractions
 
Nature is probably the number one reason that most visitors decide on a trip to Iceland. Its wealth of attractions and activities are an added and sometimes surprising bonus for tourists, who have come with no expectations other than to escape into the expanse that is the nature of Iceland.
 
The rich greens of the rugged lava fields spanning the southwestern peninsula of Iceland are the first thing that visitors arriving by plane will see before they set foot on the country’s soil. This inviting spectacle is a good indication of the abounding sights which will occupy hours of exploration on the island.
 
The southwestern expanse has a wealth of offerings, from the natural hot springs brimming with minerals to prime whale and bird watching opportunities.
 
Farther south you will find the scenic lake and continental rifts of Thingvellir, the site of the world’s first parliament and the mighty, two-tier Golden Falls. This area is also hosts the renowned fields of geyser, where boiling waters bubble and spurts out of the ground at regular intervals, one of nature’s most fascinating phenomenons.
 
Two of the south’s most popular attractions are Thorsmok, a designated nature reserve and hiker’s paradise, and Landmannlaugar, the hotbed of Icelandic geothermal activity, surrounded by breath-seizing natural splendor.
 
Just a short journey outside of Reykjavik into the ‘wild west’ you will find a diverse landscape of woodlands, geothermal formations and lakes and rivers dominated by towering glaciers on the outer rim.
 
The West Fjords is the least inhabited among all of Iceland’s regions, with soaring mountains rising from the coastline and deep fjords. The fishing villages you will occasional encounter will give you an insight into rural life at its most pure.
 
The northern town of Akureyri is the perfect base for exploration of the northern regions. From here, you can partake in any number of activities from skiing and ice fishing to horseback riding. An hour’s drive from Akureyri, Lake Mayvatn is an oasis for bird watchers, surrounded by curious lava rock formations.
 
A trip to Jokulsargljufur is a must, where you will find the cascading waters of the Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe. Skjalfandi Bay is the centre of whale watching activity, with some of the best sighting rates.  
 
The east is wild and rugged with most habitation being farmland, which merges into the Central Highlands. The main centre of the region is Egilsstadir, with its spectacular location along the banks of the River Lagarfljot, where leisurely cruises are on offer.  
 
Hallormsstadaskogur is quite an attraction, being one of only a few forests on the island. Follow one of its walking trails where you may spot a Rudolf-like reindeer in the country’s main colony. Take a trip to the cap of the glacier Votnajokull or a breathtaking cruise around the glacial lagoon of Jokulsarlon.
 
The interior of the Central Highlands is a mind boggling mix of natural wonders where no human has ever been able to make his home. The array of natural wonders is astounding, from glaciers and active and spent volcanoes to deserts of black sand and steaming hot springs.
 Although the land is tough to cross, there are two routes where wide-eyed exploration can be achieved but only in summer time. Be careful to plan your route well and choose your vehicle wisely with help from a local expert.

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