Iceland is a land where extremes coexist: glaciers and volcanoes, black-sand beaches and steaming geothermal pools, midnight sun in summer and northern lights in winter. I – Ullrich H. Angersbach – traveled across Iceland by car, circling parts of the famous Ring Road and exploring Reykjavík, waterfalls, geysers, and glacial lagoons.

What struck me most was the rawness of nature—landscapes constantly changing within a few miles, and the sense that people live alongside nature, not against it.

For US travelers: US citizens may enter Iceland (part of the Schengen Area) visa-free for up to 90 days. Starting in 2025, ETIAS authorization will be required. Passport validity of at least 6 months is recommended.

Arrival & First Impressions

Most flights from the US arrive at Keflavík International Airport (KEF), about 45 minutes from Reykjavík. Direct flights exist from New York, Boston, Washington D.C., and other major US hubs.

Costs (USD approx.):

• Coffee in Reykjavík: USD 4–5
• Dinner in a mid-range restaurant: USD 30–45 per person
• Hotel double room: USD 150–250 per night
• Car rental: USD 70–120/day
• Fuel: USD 8–9 per gallon

Iceland is not cheap—but the landscapes are free, and most natural attractions have no entrance fees.

Reykjavík – small but full of character

Iceland’s capital feels like a large village with a cosmopolitan soul.

• Hallgrímskirkja Church: iconic modern church with a tower offering city views.
• Harpa Concert Hall: glass façade reflecting sea and sky.
• Downtown streets: colorful houses, cafés, bookstores, and street art.
• Thermal pools: public pools are part of daily life, affordable and social.

The Golden Circle – Iceland in one loop

Just outside Reykjavík, the Golden Circle is Iceland’s most popular day trip.

• Þingvellir National Park: site of Iceland’s ancient parliament and a rift valley between tectonic plates.
• Geysir & Strokkur: geothermal area where Strokkur erupts every few minutes.
• Gullfoss Waterfall: powerful two-tiered falls plunging into a canyon.

Tip: Renting a car allows flexibility to beat the tour bus crowds.

South Coast – glaciers & black beaches

Heading along the south coast reveals some of Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes.

• Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss: iconic waterfalls, one you can walk behind, the other towering 200 feet high.
• Reynisfjara Beach: black volcanic sand, basalt cliffs, and roaring Atlantic waves.
• Vatnajökull Glacier & Jökulsárlón Lagoon: floating icebergs and seals at the glacier’s edge.
• Diamond Beach: chunks of ice glittering on black sand.

Nature & Activities

• Northern Lights: best seen Sept–April in dark, clear skies.
• Midnight Sun: in summer, days are nearly endless.
• Hot Springs: from the famous Blue Lagoon to countless wild pools in valleys.
• Hiking: countless trails in national parks like Skaftafell or Landmannalaugar.
• Whale watching: tours from Reykjavík and Húsavík.

Health & Safety for US Travelers

• Vaccinations: No special requirements. Routine shots should be current.
• Water: Tap water is among the purest in the world.
• Medical care: Excellent, though expensive without travel insurance.
• Safety: Iceland is one of the safest countries worldwide. Biggest risks: slippery rocks near waterfalls, unpredictable weather, and icy roads in winter.
• Driving: Roads can be narrow, weather unpredictable. Check road.is for closures.

Practical Travel Tips

• Best time: Summer (June–Aug) for accessibility and hiking; winter (Nov–Feb) for northern lights.
• Currency: Icelandic Krona (ISK). USD accepted rarely—use card or withdraw ISK.
• Power: 230V, Type F plugs—bring an adapter.
• Food: Try lamb stew, Arctic char, skyr, and rye bread baked in geothermal ground.
• Packing: Layers are essential—windproof, waterproof clothing, plus sturdy shoes.

Conclusion: Iceland feels otherworldly

Iceland is less a destination than an experience: walking on glaciers, watching geysers erupt, soaking in hot springs under the midnight sun, or chasing auroras across the sky. For US travelers, it offers a safe, unforgettable introduction to Europe’s wildest landscapes.

Recommended Reading (English)

• Lonely Planet: Iceland – practical, detailed.
• Egill Bjarnason: How Iceland Changed the World – history through stories.
• Andrew Evans: Iceland: The Bradt Travel Guide – cultural and practical insights.

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• Greece Journey
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• Myanmar
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Disclaimer

This report reflects my personal impressions of Iceland. Weather, road conditions, and travel regulations change quickly—always check official sources before your trip.

About the Author – Ullrich H. Angersbach

I, Ullrich H. Angersbach, seek destinations where nature dominates the story. Iceland overwhelmed me with its scale and silence, its beauty and unpredictability. I write for US travelers who want more than sightseeing—they want experiences.

Copyright

© 2025 Ullrich H. Angersbach. All rights reserved. No reproduction, translation, or distribution without prior written consent.