Iceland is renowned for it’s natural wonders, it is a country of dramatic landscapes shaped by the forces of nature. From black sand beaches, deep fjords, snow-capped mountains and volcanic deserts, Iceland’s nature remains mostly unspoiled and is the perfect backdrop for photographers, amateurs and professionals alike.
Here’s a round up of the top 15 natural wonders of Iceland that will have you reaching for your camera…
1. Thingvellir National Park
2. Strokkur, Geysir
Another favourite spot along the Golden Circle is the highly active and iconic geysir, Strokkur. It erupts regularly (every 4-10 minutes) to a height of around 30m.
Where it it? Geysir is one stop on Iceland’s famous Golden Circle route.
Tip for photographers: Time your visit either early or late in the day for best lighting and fewer people.
3. Gullfoss
4. Seljalandsfoss
One of Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss cascades over a former sea-cliff before running down to meet the shore. A path leads behind and this picturesque waterfall, meaning that you can have the unusual sensation of walking underneath it.
Where is it? On the south coast of Iceland, around 125km from Reyjavik, off Road 1 which circles Iceland.
Tip for photographers: The falls face south, so the light hits them all day. You can climb above the falls as well as get behind the cascade – this is one waterfall that you can really shoot from all angles!
5. Jokulsarlon Iceberg Lagoon
6. Black Sandy Beaches at Vik
Although the long, long June days are beautiful all over Iceland, standing on the black sand beach at Vík to watch the rocks glowing red in the sunlight, and capture the famous postcard-worthy sea stack Reynisdrangur is a particularly special experience.
Where is it? On the south west coast neighbouring the Myrdalsjokull icecap – Vik is a popular pitstop for fuel and food.
Tip for photographers: Vík also has a small, traditional hilltop church as an alternative vantage point.
7. Myvatn by the Midnight Sun
8. Fjords and Fishing Villages in East Iceland
Iceland’s offer some sweepingly beautiful vistas which are overlooked by most tourists. There are rhyolite mountains, green valleys, vast inlets and hidden valleys, such as Storurd near Borgarfjordur Eystri.
Where is it? Egilsstadir is the hub town for the East Fjords. On the coast there are lots of charming fishing villages where you can hike and watch wildlife during the day.
Tip for photographers: Explore the town of Seydisfjordur – it’s painted wooden houses of Norwegian origin and influence are especially photogenic.
9. Dettifoss and Godafoss
10. Latrabjarg Bird Cliffs West Fjords
The impressive sheer cliffs at Latrabjarg are 14km long and 444m high, and are home to the country’s largest concentration of sea birds including puffins, kittiwakes, razorbills, fulmars and guillemots.
Where is it? The westernmost point of Iceland, in the remote West Fjords region. You’ll need a study vehicle to get there.
Tip for photographers: Firstly, be careful on the cliffs – they’re extremely high and can be hazardous. Then, be patient. The best months to visit are June and July, and if you sit still the birds will continue their activities around you.
11. Holuhraun, The Highlands
12. Landmannalaugar & Thorsmork
This mountainous area offers stunning views for landscape photographers. Landmannalaugar’s colourful rhyolite lava actually sparkles in the sunshine and the myriad of colours have to be seen to be believed. There’s also a naturally hot river which you can take a dip in. Thorsmork is surrounded on three sides by glaciers and criss-crossed by raging rivers and gentle streams. There’s an ice-cave that you can visit at the far end.
Where is it? Both are in a remote area southern Highlands. We recommend taking a private Superjeep excursion to get there; all roads into the valley involve fording rivers so don’t attempt the drive in an ordinary car.
Tip for photographers: Iceland’s famous Laugavegur hiking trail runs between Landmannalaugar and Thorsmork, so if you’ve got more time than just a daytrip take hiking boots and a lightweight tripod. Take notice of weather warnings and keep to established paths.
13. Svartifoss
14. Fjadrargljufur
Possibly the world’s most beautiful canyon, the tortuous Fjaðrárgljúfur is 2km long and, in places, 100m deep.
Where is it? Not far from Kirkjubæjarklaustur, on the south coast.
Tip for photographers: There are two paths you can take to capture this gorgeous gorge – one along the top of the canyon to the east, and one into the canyon itself along the river. You might have to get your feet wet on this one.
15. Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Feeling Inspired?
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For help in planning a tailor made itinerary focusing on the country’s scenic wonders, contact our team of Iceland Travel Specialists.
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