Marvellous reasons tourists are adding Iceland to their bucket list
Iceland: a must-see destination for travellers from all over the world in recent years, a fascinating and enigmatic region of lava rocks, black beaches, gigantic mountains and stunning scenery. Reykjavik holidays are truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences anyone will appreciate.
Here are ten reasons Iceland is so popular and why travellers should start planning their Reykjavik holidays.
Aurora borealis
Need we say more? Iceland is equally stunning at night as it is during the day. The northern lights, often known as the aurora borealis, are always present but may only be seen under very dark, clear skies. It’s possible to catch the heavenly green colours from September to early April.
Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts
In the Land of Ice and Fire, one can experience the finest of both worlds. There are several glaciers and glacial lakes to visit, such as the Jökulsárlón lake, and visitors can go into a dormant volcano core exploring the Rhnkaggur magma chamber. Iceland’s numerous mountains are a hiker’s paradise for those prepared for strenuous activity or simply willing to go to any lengths to obtain the ideal Instagram shot. That said, there are hikes to fit most comfort levels, whether for a novice or a seasoned mountaineer.
In the summer, the sun never sets
Summer in Iceland is easy to love for anyone who’s ever wished there was more time to enjoy the sun. Due to the Earth’s axis tilt and Iceland’s location in the Arctic Circle, the sun barely sets at midnight and rises again at three in the morning from mid-May to late July. When the sun reaches its zenith on 21st June the summer solstice midnight sun phenomena is fully on show.
Boasting rights
While whale watching in New England is a popular activity, visitors to Iceland almost certainly will see at least one of the 20 native species that inhabit the local seas, such as minke and humpback whales. Most whale-watching excursions include a stop at beach cliffs to see puffins, the nation’s endearing unofficial mascot.
Swim at a geothermal lake
Iceland employs geothermal energy as a source of energy, and there are natural pools across the country. However, the Blue Lagoon, a sizeable lake on the Reykjanes peninsula, is the ultimate location for swimming. Minerals like silica and sulphur, abundant in the warm ocean, are healing and rejuvenating to the skin.
The food is tasty and healthy
There is less emphasis on GMOs or artificial ingredients in Scandinavian cuisine because fresh foods from the local area are used frequently. Locals love their skyr, a creamy dairy dish that resembles cheese, and there are traditional dishes like lobster, salted fish, lamb and even hotdogs!
Journey to the Golden Circle
The 300km round trip, which begins and concludes in the nation’s capital of Reykjavik, takes travellers through the nation’s most picturesque regions in a single day, passing the Thingvellir national park, the rarely active Great Geysir at Haukadalur, and the rainbow-forming Gullfoss waterfall. A camera is an absolute must!
One of the world’s friendliest countries
Iceland continuously ranks high in the Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report of the World Economic Forum. Tourists should be ready to be welcomed with open arms by the friendly locals in addition to the abundance of transportation and attractions in Iceland.
All that’s left to do now is book those tickets and pack!
The editorial unit
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