Iceland Adventure: Unexpected Landscapes and Unforgettable Experiences

We embarked on a 7-day adventure in Iceland, with two travel days and five full days for exploration. While this itinerary provided a taste of Iceland's wonders, it wasn't nearly enough time to explore the country fully, especially with a "home base" in Reykjavik.

Iceland caters to the adventurous soul, offering countless opportunities to immerse yourself in nature. We began our trip with a red-eye flight, arriving in Iceland for an afternoon walking tour of Reykjavik. The rest of the day was spent exploring the city, where Iceland's fascinating history, influenced by various cultures, came alive. Particularly interesting was learning about the unique Icelandic last name system. While we didn't have time to visit the Reykjavik museums, the Perlan Museum looked intriguing and is recommended for future travelers.

The remaining days were filled with a mix of activities and daily hikes. We embarked on a whale-watching excursion and an unforgettable freediving/snorkeling experience between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. The water's transformation from emerald green to a breathtaking bright blue was truly magical. A visit to the geothermal lagoon is a must-do. On my birthday, we indulged in the 7-step ritual at Sky Lagoon before continuing on a hike to a geothermal river. The unique experience at Sky Lagoon, along with the active volcanic activity near Blue Lagoon at the time of our visit, influenced our decision. However, both lagoons offer incredible geothermal pool experiences. Scattered throughout Iceland are natural hot springs, perfect for relaxation in the cool Icelandic weather. While initially daunting, acclimating to the hot springs only took a few minutes.

The scenic drives, though long, were undeniably beautiful. One of our most memorable journeys was to the black-sand beach, Vikurfjara. Coming from the white sand beaches of Florida's west coast on the Gulf of Mexico, the textural contrast of the black sand was alluring. We made spontaneous pit stops along the way to explore small caves and pet the adorable Icelandic horses, known for their small stature.

Here are some key takeaways to ensure a smooth and enjoyable Icelandic adventure:

• Pack for cold weather: Despite seemingly mild temperatures, Iceland's weather can turn chilly quickly. Layers are essential, as some days are sunny, while others are windy and require additional protection.

• Embrace the rain: Waterproof clothing is a necessity.

• Hot springs galore: Pack a swimsuit, towel and water shoes for soaking in the ubiquitous hot springs. Water shoes are necessary for navigating the rocky terrain.

• Car rentals in Reykjavik: If you plan to stay in Reykjavik, renting a car is essential. Opt for a 4x4 vehicle and purchase additional insurance, as rental companies charge for any rock damage. Off-roading is highly likely on some routes, and the insurance provides peace of mind. The roads themselves are generally easy to navigate, with a few hiking trails requiring off-roading for access. These trails are more challenging but manageable with slower driving.

• Base location considerations: Choosing Reykjavik as your base limits how far you can venture into other parts of Iceland due to lengthy travel times. Plan your itinerary accordingly. An offline map proved invaluable in ensuring we reached our desired destinations efficiently.

• Hiking preparedness: Many Icelandic hiking trails are rated moderate to difficult, so a good level of physical fitness is recommended.

Suggested packing list

• Thermal base layers

• Heavy waterproof jacket with fleece lining

• Waterproof snow pants

• Rain jacket and pants

• Waterproof boots or hiking boots (with additional walking shoes for comfort)

• Hat, scarf and gloves

• Hiking socks

• Swimsuit, water shoes and towel (for hot springs)

• Waterproof hiking daypack

• Reusable water bottle

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Iceland page.