Iceland is a stunning destination that offers many natural wonders and unique activities. But if you want to avoid the crowds and discover some hidden gems, you might want to check out these 10 under-the-radar experiences that will make your trip unforgettable.
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Go dog sledding with huskies
If you love dogs and adventure, you will enjoy dog sledding with huskies in Iceland. You can choose from different tours that run all year round, either on dry land or on snow. You will get to meet the friendly and energetic dogs, learn how to steer the sled, and enjoy the scenic views of the countryside or the glaciers. Dog sledding is a fun and unique way to explore Iceland’s nature and culture.
Explore a volcano from the inside
Iceland is known as the land of fire and ice, and one of the most amazing ways to experience this contrast is to explore a volcano from the inside. You can join a tour that takes you to Thrihnukagigur, a dormant volcano that has a huge magma chamber that you can descend into. You will be amazed by the colours and shapes of the volcanic rock, and feel the thrill of being in a place that few people have ever seen.
Visit an Arctic island with birdlife and hotpots
If you are looking for a tranquil and charming place to relax, you might want to visit Hrisey, a small island in North Iceland. You can take a ferry from Árkógssandur and enjoy the views of the mountains and the fjord. Hrisey is home to about 160 people and many birds, such as ptarmigan, terns, gulls and ducks. You can walk along the trails, soak in the geothermal pool, or watch for whales from your cottage deck. Hrisey is also close to other attractions, such as Kaldi Brewery, Baccalá Bar and whale-watching tours.
Chase unusual green landscapes in Ásbyrgi
Ásbyrgi is a horseshoe-shaped canyon in Northeast Iceland that was formed by a massive glacial flood. It is part of Vatnajökull National Park and has a rich flora and fauna. You can hike among birch trees, moss-covered rocks and petrified trolls, or visit the Botnstjörn pond, where you can see ducks and other birds. Ásbyrgi is also a place of legends and folklore, as it is said to be the hoofprint of Sleipnir, Odin’s eight-legged horse.
Snorkel or dive between two continents
Silfra is a fissure between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, located in Thingvellir National Park. It is filled with glacial water that is filtered through lava rocks for decades, making it crystal clear and drinkable. You can snorkel or dive in Silfra and see the underwater scenery that changes from green algae to blue depths. You will also feel the sensation of floating between two continents, as you can touch both sides of the fissure at some points.
Stay in a bubble hotel under the stars
If you want to sleep in a cozy and romantic setting, you might want to try staying in a bubble hotel under the stars. You can book a transparent bubble that is surrounded by nature and has all the amenities you need, such as a comfortable bed, heating, electricity and wifi. You can enjoy the views of the forest, the mountains, or the lake, depending on your location. And if you are lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the northern lights from your bubble.
Experience an ice cave tour in Vatnajökull Glacier
Vatnajökull Glacier is the largest glacier in Europe and covers about 8% of Iceland’s surface. It has many ice caves that are formed by meltwater and change every year. You can join an ice cave tour that starts from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and takes you to one of these natural wonders. You will be amazed by the colours, shapes and textures of the ice, and learn about the glacier’s history and geology.
Relax in a beer spa in North Iceland
If you are a beer lover, you will love relaxing in a beer spa in North Iceland. You can soak in a wooden tub filled with beer, water, hops, and yeast, which is said to have many health benefits for your skin, hair and body. You can also enjoy a cold beer from the tap while you relax. The beer spa is located in Árskógssandur, near the Kaldi Brewery, where you can also have a tour and a tasting.
Watch puffins on the Westman Islands
The Westman Islands are a group of 15 islands off the south coast of Iceland. They are known for their volcanic history, their fishing culture and their puffin population. You can take a ferry or a flight from the mainland and explore the main island of Heimaey, where you can see the Eldfell volcano, the Eldheimar museum and the Stórhöfði lighthouse. You can also join a boat tour or a kayak tour that takes you around the islands and lets you see the puffins and other seabirds up close.
Learn about Icelandic history and culture in Skógar Museum
Skógar Museum is a cultural heritage museum in South Iceland that showcases the history and lifestyle of Icelanders through various exhibits and collections. You can see old houses, tools, clothes, crafts, books and more. You can also visit the open-air museum, where you can see traditional turf houses, a church, a schoolhouse, and a fisherman’s hut. Skógar Museum is also close to Skógafoss waterfall, one of the most impressive waterfalls in Iceland.
