A playground for the adventurous, Iceland is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. The land of fire and ice is an explosion of mother nature’s finest work. Welcoming over one million visitors per year, Iceland certainly knows how to put on a show for its guests. There’s certainly something magical about its landscapes and people that keep tourists wanting more.

See what we mean?

Beautiful year round with its ever-changing seasons, there’s never a bad time to visit. From the midnight sun to snow-covered cities, Iceland invites adventurers to experience its wonders. Volcanoes, glaciers, erupting geysers: there’s no shortage of backdrops for adventure activities in Iceland for those who seek the thrill.

Is adventure travel in Iceland worth it?

Nature is healing in so many ways, and Iceland certainly takes the cake when it comes to incredible landscapes and natural wonders. After visiting the beautiful country 5 times myself, I’ve tried my fair share of adventure activities. From hiking volcanoes to scaling glaciers, there’s no other time I’ve felt most alive in my life.

The backdrops for adventure activities in Iceland will leave you stunned.

I’ll never forget the first time I landed and booked my first adventure activity in Iceland. Before I knew it, I was on my way with 10 strangers to the South Coast. Black sand beaches, puffin sightings, and one of the most intense hikes I’ve ever done. Our guide handed us the ice-climbing axes and crampons for our boots, and off we went.

I had never felt so at ease yet exhilarated in my life, as we trekked across the smooth surface of the Glacier. After venturing to over 32 countries worldwide, I can safely say there’s no better place I’ve found to experience adventure travel than here. Lava fields on one side and moss-covered mountains on the other, the varying landscapes make it easy for adventurers to find an activity that suits them.

6 best adventure activities in Iceland

Adventure travel in Iceland is worth it, that much is for sure. But with so many activities to choose from, which ones are the most worthwhile? Here are some of my favorites for your adventure trip to Iceland.

1. Hiking

Hiking is one of the most valuable ways to spend your time in Iceland.

As far as adventure travel in Iceland goes, hiking is the way to see it all. With hundreds of mountains and remote areas to choose from, Iceland offers a variety of places to hike to see the best of the country’s wilderness and rugged beauty.

Whether you’re looking to hike a volcanic site or scale the smooth surfaces of a glacier, there’s plenty of adventure activities to choose from. Almost anywhere you visit in Iceland is considered a hike. Even to reach some of the country’s most popular waterfalls requires climbing a couple hundred steps, or hopping over small streams.

I remember hiking up 500 or so steps to reach the top of Skogafoss waterfall, and of course the views from the top were 100% worth the effort! Even something as simple as the Golden Circle requires a little exercise.

Depending on the time of year you’re visiting, the trek down to Gulfoss waterfall can be quite the adventure. I visited once in September, battling the slippery hike in the pouring rain. Would I do it again? YES!

2. Horseback Riding

Iceland has the best landscapes for driving, walking, and hiking, but what about another adventurous mode of transportation? Icelandic horses are known worldwide for their calm demeanor towards all, and are the perfect way to cross the country.

Strong companions and one of the purest breeds worldwide, Icelandic horses are designed for crossing glacial rivers and braving mountains. Known for having 5 gaits, these friendly animals offer a faster way to explore the rugged landscapes.

When I petted my first Icelandic horse, I was baffled by how calm they were towards humans. An almost serene presence, they’re perfect for seasoned horse riders and beginners too. What’s adventure travel in Iceland without a few horse rides?!

3. Canoeing

Want a fun and active way to see glaciers in Iceland? Try canoeing!

If you’re on the lookout for adventure travel in Iceland, canoeing around glaciers has to be on the list. With over 269 named glaciers throughout the country, many of the tour activities here include some type of glacier activity.

Canoeing across Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is an experience like no other. As you row amongst the icebergs and are greeted by a friendly seal, you’ll witness the true beauty of mother nature in all her prime.

When I first stepped foot on Sólheimajökull glacier with my ice-climbing axes, I hadn’t a clue what I was about to get myself into. Apprehensive and nervous, this turned out to be one of the best experiences of my life.

4. Climbing

With an abundance of climbing and hiking options throughout the country, you really have no shortage of trails to choose from, and no shortage of ways to explore them. Landmannalaugar is a popular choice for many adventurous visitors. With its diverse landscapes and colorful hills, it’s easy to see why you can’t miss this destination for your climbing adventure!

But you don’t have to stop there—almost everywhere in Iceland involves some sort of hike, which typically means there are climbing opportunities as well, so you’re in for a treat! Wherever you visit in Iceland, you’ll almost always see unique climbing spots on your journey.

5. Geology

This might be your only chance to safely see a volcano up close.

There was no turning back as I hiked the steep mountainside to see the first spew of lava. Yes, I hiked an erupting volcano back in 2020 (safely), and yes, it was one of the best adventure activities in Iceland I could have done. In a country called “The Land of Fire and Ice”, you’ll naturally want to put geology adventures on your to-do list.

Of course, eruptions are unpredictable, but there are plenty of dormant volcanoes to see around Iceland. Still active but carefully monitored, Eldfell Volcano is a popular spot amongst tourists. If you’re on the lookout for a volcanic crater lake, then Kerid Crater is an off-the-beaten-path area you must visit.

Hike along the rim of the crater, or explore from down below. The red rocks provide a natural contrast alongside the azul-blue waters of the lake. If you’re interested in geology and learning about formations, then you’re in luck, as most of the land is covered in volcanic rock.

6. Mountaineering

They say walking is the best way to see a new country, but what about mountaineering? This is one of the hands-down best adventure activities in Iceland. When it comes to experiencing the rugged landscapes of the South Coast, mountaineering will provide a unique perspective.

Observing black sand beaches from above and making your way over cascading streams, mountaineering is certainly a thrilling way to see it all. Climbing to the top of a peak for a different viewpoint will grant you a whole new perspective on this incredible country. So pack your pitons and crampons and get your yourself to Iceland’s adventure capital, the South Coast!

Find and compare adventure programs in Iceland with MyGoAbroad—it’s free!

Have the time (and adventure) of your life in Iceland!

So what’s first up on your list?

I have no doubt that one of my favorite places in the world may make it onto your list too. One of the adventure capitals of the world, Iceland is home to some of the best adventure activities for all visitors. Have the time of your life in the Land of Fire and Ice!

Explore ALL Adventure Activities in Iceland on GoAbroad.com