Iceland – Awesome Places to Visit

Aurora Borealis At Kirkjufell – Experience The Most Unique Light Show To Die For

Vivid green and purple hues of the Northern Lights above the distinct shape of Kirkjufell.

How does it feel to hear about people traveling thousands of miles to enjoy light shows? Well, it surely isn’t just an ordinary light show. It is the Earth’s own night sky light show – the polar lights. Previously thought to be made of spirits and souls, the dancing lights sway from green to red to purple to yellow to blue and almost hypnotize the beholders looking into the starry night. Keep reading to know more about this breathtaking phenomenon and where and when to actually see it.

What is the Aurora Borealis?

Auroras are seen at the poles – North and South poles. Why do they occur? Here is how:

Solar Winds consist of streams of energized particles like electrons and protons that flow from the Sun towards the Earth at incredibly high speeds. When these particles enter the Earth’s atmosphere, they interact with gaseous atoms in it and produce these magical dancing lights.

"Reflection of the Aurora Borealis in a still water body near Kirkjufell, creating a symmetrical visual. — See the stunning reflection of the Aurora Borealis in the tranquil waters near Kirkjufell, doubling the beauty of this natural phenomenon.

They are seen only around the poles since the appearance of auroras depends upon the manner of interaction between the solar winds and these particles, which in turn depends on the alignment of Earth’s magnetic field at a particular place.

These factors make the poles favorable, and Northern lights (aurora borealis) and Southern lights (aurora australis) are seen.

The color, on the other hand, depends on the interacting element (oxygen, nitrogen, etc.) and the altitude of interaction.

The silhouette of Kirkjufell under the starry sky lit by the green glow of the Aurora Borealis. — Marvel at the silhouette of Kirkjufell under a starry sky, illuminated by the ethereal green glow of the Aurora Borealis.

When to see aurora borealis in Iceland?

The aurora borealis attracts innumerable travelers to Iceland every year, but many return empty-handed. Sometimes the lights are less intense, while at other times, it’s the clouds to blame. The best time to visit Iceland and see the aurora borealis is from late August to mid-April, due to darker and intense nights. It’s best to use the Aurora Forecast tool before planning your aurora borealis trip.

The Aurora Borealis illuminating the night sky over Kirkjufell mountain in Iceland. — Witness the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis at Kirkjufell, where the dance of lights creates a magical spectacle in the Icelandic sky.

Aurora Borealis at the Kirkjufell in Iceland

Kirkjufell is the most visited and photographed mountain in Iceland and is situated towards the West. Kirkjufell provides some of the most amazing shots of the dancing lights and is a famous spot for tourists and photographers. Best of all, you get to see some breathtaking night views of the Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall and the Kirkjufell Mountain with the northern lights.

Places to stay in Iceland

All set to see the green and purple lights dancing in the starry night sky? Let’s find you some comfortable lodgings to spend your time while you wait for the lights to show up:

Hotel Rangá: No doubt, the best place to stay if you came to Iceland, specifically for the aurora borealis shots.

Reykjavik Domes: Offers luxurious tents with gardens so that you get to visualize the soulful lights right at your doorstep.

Hotel Kjarnalundur: For those romantic honeymooners to enjoy the lights while relaxing in an outdoor Jacuzzi!

The jaw-dropping phenomenon Aurora Borealis has no doubt fascinated mankind since forever. How skilfully the dancing lights manage to make a mark in the bucket list of travelers worldwide!

Jokulsarlon – The glacial edifice of iceland

Close-up of the intricate patterns and textures on icebergs at Jokulsarlon.

The glacial system of Jokulsarlon at Vatnajökull National Park is the spot where the largest icecap of Europe can be found. It is a series of impeccably beautiful icebergs that slowly float on the crystal blue lake water. The shores comprise the black sand Icelandic beaches that brilliantly offer a contrast to the iceberg crystals.

Jokulsarlon is the destination where contrasting natural forces come together to present a radiant spectacle to all who come here to revel in the beauty untarnished by man-made forces.

How to get to Jokulsarlon?

It will take you about five hours to cover this journey if you opt for a car ride or rental from Reykjavik to Jokulsarlon. However, the journey from Akureyri to Jokulsarlon lagoon takes significantly longer, that is, seven hours. Alternatively, you can also book a tour to Diamond Beach, Iceland, or choose public transport. The Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is on Route 1.

Icebergs floating in the crystal-clear waters of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon in Iceland. — Experience the surreal beauty of floating icebergs when you visit Jokulsarlon, a natural wonder of Iceland.

How far is Diamond Beach from Reykjavik?

The distance from Reykjavik to Jokulsarlon lagoon, and consequently Diamond Beach that is present right opposite Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is 370 kilometers.

Why is it called Diamond Beach?

Diamond Beach, Iceland is inspired by the shimmering icebergs that float to the beach from the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. They are ginormous ice blocks that drift off from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier at first. Subsequently, these ice blocks move to the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.

When tourists began visiting this beach to witness the stunning natural occurrence, the Diamond Beach name was coined to be cherished for posterity.

Photographer capturing the stunning scenery of Jokulsarlon, a paradise for photography enthusiasts. — Bring your camera to capture the unparalleled beauty of Jokulsarlon, a dream for photographers.

What is the best time to visit Jokulsarlon?

Diamond Beach is one of the perennial tourist destinations that attract tourists all around the year regardless of the seasonal changes. The only difference is that the daylight lasts longer during summer.

We recommend a visit while it is still daytime to appreciate the majesty of the icebergs. Moreover, the shore tends to get crowded as the day progresses.

So, the sooner you can get in, the better. But if you wish to see the Northern Lights, the best time to see this natural phenomenon is during winter nights.

Aerial view of Jokulsarlon, showcasing its vast size and the surrounding glacial landscapes. — From above, the vastness of Jokulsarlon and its glacial landscapes are a sight to behold.

What can you do at Jokulsarlon?

Go Hiking: One of the best hiking trails at Jokulsarlon is at Vatnajökull. Book a tour guide to show you the route and provide the hiking equipment, as the glaciers can be a tricky area to navigate.

Book a Boat Journey: There are numerous boating tours available at Jokulsarlon, especially during the months of July and August. Tourists can choose between the Amphibian boat tour on the lake that offers opportunities for seal-watching, and the Zodiac boat tour gives you a closer look at the icebergs.

Undertake Ice Carving Tours: The Ice Carving tours take tourists on an immersive experience traversing the ice caverns and tunnels. Don’t miss the Crystal Caves – it is nothing short of a modern art exhibition.

Where to stay when visiting Jokulsarlon in Iceland?

Some of the great hotels to stay include Hotel Vik, Hali Country Hotel, Reynivellir, Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, Icelandair Hotel Herad, and Vagnsstadir HI Hostel.

Blue Lagoon – The rejuvenating and healing man-made pool

Nighttime view of the Blue Lagoon, illuminated for a tranquil and mystical experience.

The story goes that Blue Lagoon was catapulted to its reputation when the Svartsengi geothermal power plant was established. This hot spring comprises mineral-rich water from the plant. The pool was formally opened to the public in 1987, and the rest is history.

How to get to the Blue Lagoon?

The distance to Blue Lagoon from Reykjavik and Keflavik Airport can be traversed within 50 and 20 minutes, respectively. You will have to venture out to the Reykjanesbraut highway and travel to the Grindavikur Vegur highway. Follow the road signs until you reach Blue Lagoon.

Taxis, car rentals, and buses are available from Reykjavik and Keflavik. The travel time is more or less the same. The transportation rates range somewhere between 20 and 30 dollars per person.

The modern architecture of the Blue Lagoon spa facilities blending with the natural landscape — Marvel at the Blue Lagoon’s seamless blend of modern architecture and natural beauty.

How much does it cost to go to the Blue Lagoon?

There are different packages that you can avail to visit Blue Lagoon, Reykjavik.

We have listed a few here:

Standard Package – This allows entrance and cream use and costs 50 dollars.

Premium Package – This includes entrance, cream use, towels, bathrobes, slippers and a drink. It is priced at 85 dollars.

Luxury Package – This includes entrance, cream use, a skincare set, face masks, bathrobes, slippers, towels, a drink, and access to the lounge. It costs 450 dollars.

You can choose any of the aforementioned packages. Subsequently, you can request the staff to add on the price for any other treatment not included in the package.

How warm is Blue Lagoon?

The water temperature at the lagoon averages from 39 to 42 degrees Celsius throughout the year.

Aerial view of the Blue Lagoon, showcasing its vast size and unique color in the Icelandic landscape — From above, the Blue Lagoon is a breathtaking sight to behold. Don’t miss it on your Iceland visit.

What is the best time to visit Blue Lagoon?

In terms of the time of the day, we would recommend avoiding a slot that is later in the day or too early in the mornings. The best slots are arguably the ones in the evening – this slot allows you to enjoy several relaxing hours. Some people also book their slots depending on whether they want to watch the sunset or the Northern Lights.

Although Blue Lagoon is a great place to visit all around the year, you might want to book your tickets based on the opening hours. The opening hours are till 23:00 and 21:00 in summer and winter, respectively.

Another pro-tip: Stay in one of the hotels in Reykjavik such as Hotel Blue Lagoon Iceland or Silica Hotel to easily access Blue Lagoon, Iceland.

People relaxing in the steamy, milky-blue waters of the Blue Lagoon in Iceland. — Unwind in the surreal blue waters of the Blue Lagoon on your visit to Iceland.

Do I need flip flops for Blue Lagoon?

It is not mandatory to carry flip flops while visiting Blue Lagoon, Reykjavik as the lagoon itself has naturally smooth silica at the bottom. Therefore, there are no risks of getting hurt through sharps objects. However, you can either carry them with you or buy a pair at the well-equipped reception desk if you personally prefer to wear flip flops.

The lagoon has single-handedly established the Icelandic bathing culture. No wonder that it has been uplifted to the status of a world-class spa that attracts tourists from all over the world.

Black Beach of Vik – The magic of Volcanoes

The iconic Reynisdrangar sea stacks seen from the Black Beach of Vik, creating a dramatic and picturesque scene

The black sand beach of Vik is the stupendous creation of nature. With the smooth black sand along the sea coast, the mesmerizing, powerful, beautiful, and magical beaches will be classic. The popular arctic country with the most amazing beaches and the mind-blowing environment makes the trip of the black sand beach Vik Iceland memorable.

The cold breeze, clear water, dark-beauty beaches, and the splendid sky above create a paradise in Iceland.

Where is the Vik black sand beach?

The alluring Vik black sand beach is located Iceland’s south coast, about 2.5 hours away from Reykjavik. Located by the beautiful small town of Vik I Myrdal, this beach is no less than a paradise.

The sparkling black sand, large basalt columns and turquoise blue sea is home to the spectacular biodiversity and various nesting birds. The exclusive home of puffins, guillemots, and fulmars is just mesmerizing and pleasant.

Sunset over the Black Beach of Vik, with the sky and sea reflecting a kaleidoscope of colors — Enjoy a breathtaking sunset at Vik’s Black Beach, where the sky and sea unite in a display of vibrant colors in Iceland

What is the best time to visit Vik black sand beach?

With the natural beauty scattered everywhere and the soothing environment, the black sand beach is breathtaking. With the beauty of cool Iceland and the most dramatic landscapes right from the phenomenal volcanoes to cascading waterfalls, breathtaking ice caves, and mystical mountains, the place is awe-interesting.

Visiting this white fairyland of ice and black sand is incredible throughout the year. The best time for the Black beach of Vik is between 2-5 PM during the day.

The rugged coastline and natural arches near Vik's Black Beach, highlighting Iceland's dramatic coastal scenery — Explore the rugged coastline and natural arches near Vik’s Black Beach, a journey through Iceland’s spectacular landscapes.

What types of rocks is the Vik black sand beach made of?

The dark-beauty of nature is alluring and soothing. The volcanic rocks formed after the lava condensed at this place makes it even more beautiful. When the rock starts to get worn, the tiny pebbles are formed. The sparkling turquoise sea, black sand, and crystal clear ice reflecting the rainbow lights create the image of the paradise at the Black beach of Vik.

What to do at Vik black sand beach?

The marvelous and classic black sand beach is beautiful in all aspects. With so much to explore and travel, the black sand beach is alluring and phenomenal. With the beauty scattered all around this black sand beach is just thrilling.

The best things to do here are:

Explore the black sand beach
Take a trip of the alluring caves
Visit the enormous cliff of Dryholey
Adore the Diamond Beach
Get amazed with the northern lights
Hike on the Glacier
Explore the Eldhraun Lava Fields

Stunning view of the black sand beach in Vik, Iceland, with its distinctive dark shoreline and powerful waves — Explore the unique beauty of Vik’s black sand beach, a natural wonder with its striking dark sands and dramatic waves in Iceland.

Where to stay in Vik black sand beach?

Spending time in the lap of nature at the black sand beach Vik Iceland is an awe-inspiring experience. The beauty of the sand and coolness of air creates magic at this place. The best places to stay at this glorious location which offer luxury are:

Black Beach Suites: The best and the modest hotel near the astounding beaches offers the polished stay studios free WiFi, and shared kitchen.

Vik Cottages: The stupefying collection of cottages with countryside views, a restaurant, and a gym.

The Barn: The well-settled line of dorms and private rooms in a warehouse-cum-chic hostel offering a bar, a kitchen, and Wi-Fi, the stay would be pre sheer luxury.

Vik Apartments: The budget-friendly apartments with kitchens, living rooms, and countryside views, topped with high-speed Wi-Fi.

Hotel Kria: The luxurious and modern hotel blended with the authentic Iceland kitchen, and a bar with the free breakfast accompanied by an adoring view of the northern lights, this is amazingly cozy.

The beauty of the sand mixed with the calmness of the sea and cool breeze creates an alluring and phenomenal picture at the Vik black sand beach. Visit this place to explore the untouched beauty of ice and water!