Amongst the most popular travel destinations, Iceland has been attracting more tourists in the past few years than ever before. With over 1.2 million visitors in 2015, the country has become a travel destination for photographers, adventurers and families (and for good reason).
Here are 10 reasons why you should be among the 1.2 million visitors:
1. One word: waterfalls.
Iceland is home to some of the most mesmerizing waterfalls in the world. Glymur, the country's largest, falls 198 meters and entails a scenic 2 hour hike up to it's base. Seljalandsfoss, Skógasfoss and Gullfoss are a few other noteworthy falls. Don't feel up for a hike? No problem! Taking a drive down Highway 1 guarantees you at least three un-named waterfalls right off the side of the road!
2. The Blue Lagoon
If there's one place you've heard of in Iceland, it is most likely the Blue Lagoon. Constructed over a lava field, Iceland's largest geothermal spa attracts thousands of visitors who come to relax in the high-nutrient waters. A spa, waterside drink service, and restaurant are all you need to spend a day in luxury.
3. If you like horses, you'll LOVE Iceland
Due to the rugged terrain, farming is difficult for Iceland residents. The few livestock who can stand the inconsistent weather thrive on the land. Horses are one of these creatures and they are everywhere! Although the farmers encourage tourists to avoid interacting with their horses, a string of horses playing alongside the fence are hard to ignore, especially when they are so friendly.
4. The endless photo ops.
The primary reason professional and aspiring photographers make a trip to the beautiful country is no secret. Take one step off the plane and you're immediately surrounded by mountains, coast lines, lakes, rivers, wooded hills; the list continues. Iceland engulfs some of the most gorgeous landscapes on Earth and chances are you'll be in awe the entire time.
5. The Imagine Peace Tower
Calling all Beatles and John Lennon fans! The Imagine Peace Tower, located on a tiny island off the Reykjavik coast, was designed by Yoko Ono for her late husband. The cylinder-shaped tower reads "Imagine Peace" in 26 languages. Every year on October 9 (John Lennon's birthday), Yoko Ono travels out to the tower and speaks at a ceremony in remembrance of her husband and his successes. At the conclusion of the ceremony, Lennon's famous song "Imagine" plays as the tower shoots bright, blue light into the night sky.
6. Volcanoes, Volcanoes, Volcanoes.
Some may find it a little terrifying, others magical. The last volcanic eruption Iceland saw was merely three years ago in 2014! Not to mention another active volcano, Hekla, could erupt at any moment starting back in March of 2017. Although it may seem like a major reason not to travel to Iceland, the history of volcanic eruptions has truly shaped the culture and background of the land and people. Moreover, dormant volcanoes are free to hike and provide a daring story.
7. Cheap airfare!
Believe it or not, going to Iceland will not break the bank. A fairly new airline, WOWAir, offers roundtrip airfare for under $500 (dates and pricing will vary). You can even book excursions and day-trips through the airline as they are partners with excursion companies within the country. It makes planning a fun-filled itinerary easy and quick!
8. The beauty of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula
There are multiple unique areas in Iceland, one of the best being the western peninsula of Snæfellsnes. Home to one of Iceland's biggest glaciers and deepest caves (both of which are available to explore), the peninsula's milder weather and an array of fishing towns make it a great stop for visitors. This area is also known for it's frequent "pop-up" waterfalls!
9. Whale Watching
Every summer, starting in late May, a variation of whales begin reappearing off the coasts of Iceland. Humpback, sperm, minke, killer and blue whales all claim Iceland's cool waters as their summer home and aren't afraid to show-off to tourists! The northern town of Húsavik has the highest success rate of whale spotting in the country!
10. Last but definitely not least, the amazing people.
The residents of Iceland are some of the kindest. Tourism has drastically increased the flow of money in their country and they could not be any happier. Eager to show you their amazing country, the people of Iceland are helpful and inviting to ensure you have a great experience during your visit.