Nature Tours in Iceland

Best Nature Tours in Iceland

Discover Iceland's largest selection of nature tours. Explore natural attractions, immense glaciers, volcanoes, and roaring waterfalls that Iceland is famous for.
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Nature Tours in Iceland

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Benjamin Bahrman

Benjamin Bahrman

Amazing!
14/10/2024, 19:20
Review of Best Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull Glacier Starting from Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Summary: Poorly organized departure process, dangerously over crowded and poorly organized cave, no lights provided in dark cave, very little information provided, and cave little like the photo. Full review: We took our tour on the second day of the season and they kept apologizing for being a bit disorganized because of that. I'm going to still review the experience we had. The team was completely disorganized and we spent the first 15-25 minutes in a crowd of people fighting for space on a van. They had plenty of space available, but had a bunch of people and a bunch of vans and hadn't pre-assigned anyone and the last tour's vans were late coming back. We kept being told to wait in different places by different people and then people would crowd up to get onto vans, the people crowding up were getting put on vans so I worked my way to the front and got my wife into a group finally. Our guide was friendly but said his headset had gotten stolen from the van and so he couldn't make any announcements enroute to the cave, he gave us a few tidbits of information when we arrived to the lot and when we were waiting around outside the cave, but there wasn't a ton of information. The experience in the cave was chaotic and unsafe. Nobody was told to bring flashlights nor were they provided. We were told to use our phones to light our way. Most of the cave was opaque ice and so very dark. There were many groups from the same company (Glacier Mice and Crystal Cave Tours) and we were all crammed into the cave waiting around in the cold and dark. There was barely space for two way traffic so it was hard to get people in and out, everyone coming out was struggling on the uneven ground and with the limited space. The "crystal cave" could only hold 4-8 people and so we were told small groups would be taken at a time, but one guide went out of the cave all together and one went into the "crystal cave" so nobody was controlling the flow from the dark portion into the "crystal cave". Some people regulated ok, but then others went before it was their turn which ended up cramming the smaller cave. When it was my wife and my turn we went, we were posed in front of the cave while the guide shone a flashlight at us and took some blurry photos and then told to head back out. We got maybe 30 seconds to look around and the cave looked nothing like the photos advertised. I get that we're dealing with Nature here so have some understanding, but after everything else the white dirty walls and poor lighting were somewhat disappointing. They seemingly took the best year and used it for the ads and then are delivering a sub-par choice. On the way out from the "crystal cave" another group from company pushed their way in and squeezed us up against the wall. I kept yelling that there wasn't enough space, but neither the guide with our group or the other group cared at all. We had to push our way out of the cave past incoming people who didn't give a care in the world and were just standing right in the middle. At some point we were climbing on inclined sand and my wife almost twisted her ankle (it twisted and rolled but she caught herself before the point of bad injury). We were left cold, frustrated, and with a almost dead phone battery from using it as a flashlight unexpectedly (I ironically had a flashlight in the car and a headlamp which I should have just brought but thought everything was provided). I was going to give a slightly higher rating but then we took a Lava cave tour with another company (https://thecave.is/) and the contrast with this one put this in a very very negative light (the other tour provided clear information and facts about the cave, organization with one guide at the front, one guide at the back, clear confirmation of how many people went in and came out, and head lamps for all participants). The team at Glacier Mice / Crystal Cave Tours didn't seem to care at all, but if I were to make easy improvements I would suggest: 1) Pre-assign people to drivers so there's clear organization at pickup. Even if our driver wasn't back yet from the earlier tour we would have been happy to just sit to the side until called if there was a clear assignment 2) Have one guide in the crystal cave, and one guide in the main cave to regulate traffic and not create dangerous situations 3) Provide head lamps or station portable lights in the cave

Exploring Nature Tours in Iceland

Iceland is a nature lover's paradise, renowned for its stunning landscapes and unique geological features. When it comes to the best nature tours in Iceland, there are numerous options that allow travelers to immerse themselves in the country's breathtaking natural beauty.

One of the most popular nature tours in Iceland is the Golden Circle, which encompasses three iconic sites: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. This tour offers a glimpse of Iceland's geological wonders, including tectonic plate boundaries, erupting geysers, and powerful waterfalls.

The South Coast is famous for its striking black sand beaches, towering waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, and the otherworldly Reynisfjara Beach with its basalt columns and sea stacks.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, a visit to Vatnajokull National Park, Europe's largest national park, is a must. Here, you can explore vast glaciers, crystal-clear ice caves, and dramatic mountain landscapes. The park is also home to the stunning Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, where icebergs float serenely on the water's surface.

Another unforgettable adventure is touring the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, often called "Iceland in Miniature" due to its diverse range of natural wonders, from dramatic cliffs to volcanic craters, black sand beaches, and even the mystical Snaefellsjokull glacier

Beyond these highlights, there are opportunities for whale watching in Husavik, hiking in the remote Highlands, and soaking in natural hot springs like the Blue Lagoon

Whether you're into geology, wildlife, or simply reveling in Iceland's stunning landscapes, there's a nature tour for everyone, making it a destination that truly captivates the imagination of outdoor enthusiasts.

Frequently asked questions

What is the top-rated nature tour in Iceland?

The top-rated nature tour in Iceland is the Golden Circle small group minibus tour with transfer from Reykjavik, rated 4.9 out of 5 stars by more than 545 travelers. This small group day tour brings you to the Golden Circle, an essential Iceland experience and costs around 105 USD.
Another highly rated tour, given a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars by more than 265 travelers, is this small group 10-hour South Coast tour with waterfalls & Reynisfjara with transfer from Reykjavik. This best-value tour, which costs about 139 USD, explores the stunning South Coast, its impressive waterfalls, and striking black beaches.
For those wanting more than a day tour, this three-day northern lights tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle & South Coast with ice caving & glacier hiking is also highly rated, given 4.8 out of 5 stars with more than 905 reviews. If there's a must-do tour in Iceland, this is the one. Apart from seeing the top attractions, you also have the chance to witness the northern lights.
This excursion is approximately 938 USD.

Is it worth it to take nature tours in Iceland?

Absolutely, nature tours in Iceland are well worth it. They provide unparalleled access to the country's stunning landscapes, including glaciers, waterfalls, and geothermal wonders, offering a unique and immersive experience of Iceland's natural beauty. Expert guides enhance the journey, providing valuable insights into the geological and ecological wonders that make Iceland an extraordinary destination.

What is the cheapest nature tour in Iceland?

The cheapest nature tour in Iceland is the eight-hour tour of Reykjanes Peninsula with lava fields & hot springs with a transfer from Reykjavik, from 27 USD. On this tour, you’ll witness natural and geological wonders, rugged lava fields, geothermal areas, and active volcanoes.

What are the most popular natural attractions in Iceland?

The most popular attractions to visit from Reykjavik are the Golden Circle (a route consisting of Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall) and the waterfalls and black sand beaches that adorn Iceland's South Coast towards Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.
In the North, you should neither miss the town of Akureyri nor the incredibly scenic Lake Myvatn area—and West Iceland's beautiful Snaefellsnes peninsula deserves a visit any time of the year. Of course, this is a very limited summary, so have a look at our Explore Iceland section and discover more.

What is so unique about Icelandic nature?

Iceland’s nature is considered unique because of the multiple contrasting natural elements that make up the island’s unbound landscapes, where rivers run through deserts and fire erupts from ice. From a geological perspective, Iceland is one of the youngest landmasses on Earth and is still coming into being, making the land feel alive.

Why is Iceland called the land of ice and fire?

Iceland is known as the "Land of Ice and Fire" due to its remarkable geological diversity.
The "ice" part represents the presence of extensive glaciers, like Vatnajokull, which cover a significant portion of the island. These glaciers give rise to ice caves and glacial lagoons, creating a stunning icy landscape.
The "fire" aspect refers to the country's volcanic activity, with geysers, hot springs, and active volcanoes showcasing the dynamic geological forces at play.
The coexistence of these two extreme elements, ice, and fire, within a relatively small area, makes Iceland a unique and captivating destination for nature enthusiasts.

What are the main dangers one is faced with when travelling in the Icelandic wilderness?

The Icelandic wilderness can be as dangerous as it is beautiful. The major risk factors are the ever-changing weather patterns and the rough terrains that make up the uninhabited highlands. Always check the weather forecast before heading out on a journey, and make sure that you are fully prepared for what you are getting yourself into.

What wildlife can I expect to see on nature tours in Iceland?

Iceland is home to diverse wildlife, including puffins, seals, whales, reindeer, and various bird species. The specific wildlife you encounter will depend on the tour and the region you visit.

What is the weather like in Iceland?

The weather in Iceland is moderate, but extremely volatile and can change in an instant. The average temperature in summer (June to August) is around 50°F (10°C) in urban areas, and approximately 32°F (0°C) during the depth of winter (December to February), but the windchill can make it feel much colder. The air does not contain much humidity except when it rains or snows. Urban areas are usually warmer than the highlands as the more you go inland, the colder it gets.

Are there guided tours for hiking in Iceland's wilderness?

Yes, guided hiking tours are available in various parts of Iceland, including the Highlands and Vatnajokull National Park, with options for all levels of hikers.

Are tours guided, and do guides speak English?

Most nature tours in Iceland are guided, and the guides typically speak English fluently. They are knowledgeable about the local environment, history, and geology, enhancing the tour experience.

What is there to see and do in Iceland besides going on nature tours?

Multiple cultural activities are available all over the country; museums, galleries and theatres are found in every major town. Reykjavik is also a hub of music, art, culture and entertainment to explore. You can also rely on every town and village in Iceland to have a public swimming pool, as Iceland is abundant with geothermal water.

What should I pack for a nature tour in Iceland?

Packing essentials include warm clothing, waterproof gear, sturdy hiking boots, swimsuit, towel, and a good camera. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and varying temperatures.

How long is the summer in Iceland?

Icelandic summertime starts in late May and lasts throughout August. In autumn—as early as mid-August, in fact—the northern lights can be seen in the sky when the night is dark and cloudless.

How long is the winter in Iceland?

The winter in Iceland starts in November and ends in March.

What are Iceland's daylight hours like?

From mid-May to mid-August, there is perpetual daylight in Iceland because the sun only sets for around three hours on average per day. During midwinter, Iceland sees roughly five hours of sunlight per day.

Why does the hot water smell strange? Can I drink the tap water in Iceland?

In Iceland, the hot water is only used for cleaning and bathing but not for consumption; it is pumped straight from the ground where it has been warmed by the exposure to the island’s volcanism and it, therefore, smells of sulfur. The cold water, however, is amongst the cleanest in the world and is drunk straight from the tap.

Is it safe to drive in Iceland?

Yes, the Ring Road that encircles the whole island is entirely paved and accessible to any car type, but the maximum speed never exceeds 90 km/h (56 mph). During heavy winter storms, roads might close, so always check the weather forecast before driving in Iceland in winter.
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