Iceland is a breathtakingly beautiful country. Camping in a campervan is an affordable way to see the sights of this unique country.
Until recently, it was legal to camp anywhere in Iceland as long as you followed the “leave no trace” camping principles. However, some disrespectful visitors led to stricter camping restrictions.
Reykjavik
One of the great things about Iceland is that you don’t have to travel far from your campsite to see awe-inspiring natural attractions. However, it also means that the country’s significant points of interest are spread out. For this reason, a road trip is the most convenient way to explore the country.
The capital city of Reykjavik is a quaint, lively place that boasts an abundance of top-class museums and eateries, along with iconic sites like the massive Hallgrimskirkja church. It overlooks the city from atop its prominent hill.
Another notable site in Reykjavik is Mount Esja, a popular hiking destination. This mountain’s bare, basalt upper reaches are strewn with wildflowers and waving grasses, while a trail leads to its highest point at a rock called Steinn.
You can look closer at Iceland’s geological wonders and fiery past at the Volcano House, a museum with mineral and volcanology exhibits, and a Volcano Cinema. A few other must-see museums in the city include the Punk Museum, located in a former public toilet, and the Culture House, which consists of a library, archives, art gallery, and collections from different museums.
Skaftafell National Park
Located adjacent to the Vatnajokull glacier, Skaftafell is one of Iceland’s most impressive national parks. The vistas here are astounding, with the dark basalt cliffs contrasting against the pure white glacial snow and ice. Visitors flock here to hike the many trails around the park and take in a panoramic view from the glacier’s edge. The park is also famous for its black sand beaches, including “Diamond Beach,” where glistening ice is strewn across the sand like diamonds.
A visit here can quickly fill up an entire day. The park is open year-round, and a campground is available in summer, but it’s best to book ahead. Hotel Skaftafell is an excellent option for those wanting to stay in the area. This luxury hotel offers guests packed lunches and can help with tour bookings.
Be sure to download an offline park map before you set out. The park’s F roads crisscross the mountains and are only accessible by 4×4 vehicles. Be careful, as these roads are closed in bad weather. You should also ask the agent at the camper rental company, like Rent.is, about gravel protection for your vehicle, as rocks are a significant concern in Iceland!
Akureyri
Akureyri, the “Capital of the North,” is a great place to start your Iceland adventure and has many exciting things to do. It is also the gateway to some of the most beautiful & remote regions in the island’s northern part.
In the city, you can visit a few museums, do some shopping or take a stroll through Old Town and enjoy the sights, sounds & feel of this unique place. Then, the Akureyrarkirkja is a striking church that overlooks the city.
Horseback riding tours are an excellent way to explore the stunning landscape surrounding Akureyri. This is especially true in summer when the days are long, allowing you to see much more of the landscape from your saddle.
Another activity you can do is whale watching. This is a popular activity in Akureyri, and there are a couple of different ways to do it, including by boat or from a pier in the town itself. It’s also possible to book a tour to see puffins and whales.
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall ranks near the top in a country with phenomenal attractions. You can stroll behind this waterfall, making it a unique and lovely experience. If you have the chance, check out Gljufrabui, a waterfall hidden behind a cave entrance about 200 meters west of Seljalandsfoss.
The best time to visit Seljalandsfoss is in the summer when the sun never sets. However, the area can get crowded at this time if you can; try to arrive early or late to avoid the crowds and enjoy the view unhindered.
As with most places in Iceland, speed limits are strictly enforced. Driving over the limit can result in a fine and should always be avoided. Furthermore, it is against the law in Iceland to drink and drive. Therefore, you should never consider having even one drink before getting behind the wheel. Before arriving, you should familiarize yourself with the Icelandic language to understand road signs and other essential information.
Jökulsarlón Glacier Lagoon
As Iceland’s most popular attraction, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is a must-see for every traveler to the country. This glacial lagoon is located in the Vatnajokull National Park and is known for its icebergs, crystal-clear blue waters, and breathtaking surroundings.
Visitors can admire the beauty of the glacier lagoon from the shore or by taking a boat tour of the lake. It’s also possible to spot wildlife in the area, such as seals and seabirds. Additionally, visitors can participate in fun activities like glacier walking, iceberg kayaking, and more.
The calving of the Breidamerkurjokull glacier has led to the formation of this beautiful lagoon and awe-inspiring scene. It’s easy to see why this destination is nicknamed “Crown Jewel of Iceland.”
In addition, the icy landscape at Jokulsarlon has been featured in several films and music videos, including the 2015 sci-fi movie Interstellar, starring Matthew McConaughey and Anne Hathaway. It is also a popular destination for photographers who want to capture this stunning natural wonder. However, please stay safe by not entering the water or stepping on ice blocks.