Iceland: Where do I start?

CONGRATULATIONS on your decision to look into Iceland as a possibility for your next adventure. With snow-covered mountains, an abundance of waterfalls, and beautiful green cliffs, it will be completely worth it!

BUT it can be overwhelming. While it may appear small, Iceland has so many different regions with countless sites to explore. Below are some general factors to consider.

Weather and Packing

People say that Iceland’s weather is very unpredictable. I thought it was an overexaggeration. It is not! You could start the day with sunshine and a nice breeze, then it quickly turns to pouring rain and needing multiple layers. Make sure to pack these essential items to prepare you:

• rain jacket

• waterproof pants

• waterproof shoes

• long sleeve shirts

• long underwear

Transportation and Parking

If you are interested in renting a campervan, please see a separate blog post, "Should I rent a campervan?" A car is definitely a must when you are traveling around Iceland. If you are planning to travel to different regions of Iceland, you will be driving a lot. BUT the drives are always scenic and have many stops along the way to make the drive feel shorter.

Make sure to download the PARKA app on your phone. Most parking lots require a fee, and the app makes it very easy. While it could be tempting to ignore the fees, each parking lot has a camera that collects license plates. When you return your rental vehicle, the company will check for any parking fines. We only forgot to pay one time the entire 2 weeks 🙌.

Camping

All camping in Iceland is first-come, first-serve. This made me a little nervous at first, but I quickly find out that campsites are in abundance. There is no need to worry.

When camping, there are two websites to visit:

• https://parka.is/camping/

  • This site accepts reservations in advance.

• https://tjalda.is/en/

  • No reservations

When choosing a campsite, you will definitely want bathrooms, showers, and an option for electrical. If you are packing light, a washer/dryer at some point is a MUST.

Different Regions

When people think of Iceland, they think of Reyjavik and the Golden Circle Area, a driving loop that hits three main attractions:

1. Thingvellir National Park

2. Gullfoss

3. Geysir geothermal area

This area is of course beautiful, but there is so much more outside of it.

1. South--Skogafoss, Fimmvorduhals Hike, Selfalandsfoss, Solheimajokul, Dyrholaey, Reynisfjara beach, Skaftafell National Park

   

2. Southeast--Diamond Beach, Glacier Lagoon, Vestrahorn

1. Northeast--Studlagil Canyon, Hverfjall, Dettifoss, Godafoss

Don't be afraid to travel outside The Golden Circle and see so much more that the island has to offer. Our favorite areas by far were the South and Southeast. If you're really adventurous and have the time, try driving around the entire Ring Road.

Purchase the "Guide to Iceland" for $10 to receive more information about van life, camping, and our 13-day itinerary that we followed.