Iceland Summer Destination Guide
This essential guide will help you prepare for an unforgettable journey through the Land of Fire and Ice.
Recommended Duration
7-14 Days
Mobile Network
Good Coverage
Currency
Icelandic Króna
Plug Type
Type C/F
Essential Travel Information for Iceland
Everything you need to know before your summer adventure in Iceland
Visa & Entry Requirements
- Visa-Free Travel: Most travelers from the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and EU can enter visa-free for up to 90 days.
- Passport Validity: Must be valid for at least three months beyond your departure date.
- Proof of Onward Travel: Immigration may ask for proof of onward/return travel.
- Health Requirements: Check current travel advisories and entry requirements.
Currency & Payments
- Icelandic Króna (ISK) is the official currency.
- Credit Cards: Iceland is largely cashless - cards are accepted almost everywhere.
- ATMs: Available in most towns, but less common in rural areas.
- Tipping: Not expected as service is included, but rounding up is appreciated.
Mobile & Internet
- WiFi: Widely available and generally free in accommodations and cafés.
- SIM Cards: Síminn, Nova, and Vodafone offer tourist SIM packages.
- Coverage: Excellent in populated areas, may be limited in the highlands.
- Power: Type F plugs (European two-pin), 230V.
Time Zone
- Iceland follows Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) year-round.
- Iceland does not observe Daylight Saving Time.
- During summer, Iceland is 4 hours ahead of U.S. Eastern Time.
Summer Weather
- Temperature: Averages 10-15°C (50-59°F), but can vary widely.
- Precipitation: Rain is common, even in summer. Be prepared!
- Wind: Can be strong and unpredictable. Windproof clothing is essential.
- Midnight Sun: Near-constant daylight from May to August.
Emergency Contacts
- Emergency Number: 📞 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)
- Search & Rescue: 📞 112
- SafeTravel Iceland: Register your travel plans at safetravel.is
- Road Conditions: Check road.is before driving
Additional Travel Information for Travel to Iceland
Important details to help you prepare for your Iceland adventure
- Participatory Style: Guests help set up tents and prepare meals (with guidance from the tour leader)
- Charging: Electronics can be charged in common areas—not in tents
- Meals:
- Breakfast: Hotel or cook at camp
- Lunch/Dinner: Eat out or prepare food at designated campsite kitchens
- Markets are limited; meal decisions should be made in advance
- Weather: Guides monitor closely. In severe cases (e.g., flooding), backup accommodations will be arranged
Tipping Culture
- Restaurants: 15% often included
- Guides: $10–20/day (optional)
- Drivers: $10/day (optional)
- Vatnajökull Glacier Hike: 60–90 mins, moderate difficulty (gear provided)
- Hjörleifshöfði Cape Hike: ~4.3 miles, 2–3 hours, moderate
- Hveradalur Hike: ~3.7 miles, 2 hours, moderate
Requirements
- Fitness Level: Moderate fitness required
- No glacier gear needed for this trip (unless winter—then bring microspikes)
- Vehicle: Sprinter van
- Guide/Driver: One person serves as both
- Public Transport:
- Reykjavík ↔ Keflavík: Bus or taxi (~45–60 mins)
- No Uber/Lyft in Iceland
- WiFi: Available in vehicles, hotels, and most restaurants
⚠️ Important Safety Note
Iceland's beautiful nature can be dangerous. Always check weather forecasts (vedur.is), road conditions (road.is), and register your travel plans at safetravel.is. Never underestimate the power of Icelandic weather, which can change rapidly.
Summer Packing Checklist for Summer in Iceland
Use this checklist to prepare for Iceland's variable summer weather and unique conditions
Travel Documents & Essentials
- Passport (valid for at least 3 months)
- Driver's license (if planning to drive)
- Credit/debit cards
- Travel insurance details
- Flight itinerary & accommodation details
- Small amount of Icelandic Króna (ISK)
- Printed maps as backup
- Emergency contact information
- Copies of important documents
Clothing Essentials
- Waterproof jacket (essential!)
- Waterproof pants
- Insulating mid layers (fleece/wool)
- Quick-dry shirts/t-shirts
- Thermal base layers (even in summer)
- Hiking pants (preferably water-resistant)
- Warm hat and gloves
- Warm socks (wool or synthetic)
- Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots
- Swimsuit for hot springs
- Sleep mask (for the midnight sun)
Gear & Equipment
- Day backpack (water-resistant)
- Reusable water bottle
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Portable power bank
- Universal travel adapter
- Camera and extra memory cards
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Microfiber travel towel
- Reusable shopping bag
- Thermos for hot drinks
Health & Personal Care
- Prescription medications
- Basic first-aid kit
- High SPF sunscreen (even with clouds)
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Hand sanitizer
- Insect repellent
- Motion sickness medication
- Personal toiletries
- Earplugs
Iceland Packing Tips
- Layer Up: Iceland's summer weather can change rapidly. Layering is essential!
- Quality Rain Gear: Don't compromise on your waterproof jacket and pants.
- Swimming Essentials: Pack flip-flops and a towel for geothermal pools and hot springs.
- Sun Protection: Despite mild temperatures, the sun can be intense during long daylight hours.
Top Destinations & Experiences
Discover the incredible places to explore during your Iceland summer adventure
The Golden Circle
Iceland's most popular day trip route features three stunning natural attractions all within a short drive from Reykjavík.
Must-See Highlights:
- Þingvellir National Park – Walk between two tectonic plates at this UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Geysir Geothermal Area – Watch Strokkur geyser erupt every 5-10 minutes.
- Gullfoss Waterfall – Experience the power and beauty of this massive two-tiered waterfall.
- Kerið Crater Lake – Marvel at this vibrant blue volcanic crater lake.
The Golden Circle is perfect for a day trip from Reykjavík, with each site offering incredible photo opportunities!
South Coast Wonders
Iceland's South Coast features some of the country's most spectacular waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glacier views.
Don't Miss:
- Seljalandsfoss – Walk behind this unique waterfall for an unforgettable perspective.
- Skógafoss – Powerful 60m waterfall with rainbows on sunny days.
- Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – Famous black sand beach with basalt columns.
- Vík – Charming coastal village with dramatic sea stacks.
- Vatnajökull National Park – Home to Europe's largest glacier.
Plan at least two days to explore the South Coast to avoid rushing between these magnificent sites.
Midnight Sun Experiences
During summer in Iceland, the sun barely sets, creating the perfect opportunity for unique experiences under the midnight sun.
Summer Activities:
- Midnight Hikes – Experience popular trails without the crowds.
- Evening Hot Spring Bathing – Relax in geothermal waters under the golden light.
- Puffin Watching – Visit coastal cliffs to see these charming birds.
- Whale Watching – Summer offers excellent whale sightings around Iceland.
- Photography – Capture landscapes in the magical "golden hour" light that lasts for hours.
Icelandic Summer Cuisine
Summer in Iceland brings fresh, local ingredients and outdoor dining opportunities. Here are some foods and drinks you shouldn't miss:
Fresh Seafood
Try Arctic char, langoustine, and the famous fish stew (plokkfiskur).
Icelandic Yogurt
Skyr - a high-protein, low-fat dairy product similar to yogurt.
Rye Bread
Traditional "hverabrauð" baked slowly using geothermal heat.
Lamb Dishes
Icelandic lamb is free-range and has a distinctive flavor.
Ice Cream
Icelanders love ice cream year-round, even in cold weather!
Local Beer
Try craft beers from Iceland's growing microbrewery scene.
Icelandic Culture & Responsible Travel
Tips for respectful travel and cultural awareness during your adventure
Cultural Etiquette
- Shoe Removal: Icelanders typically remove shoes when entering homes.
- Punctuality: Being on time is important in Icelandic culture.
- Swimming Pool Etiquette: Showering naked before entering pools is mandatory.
- Quiet Appreciation: Icelanders generally speak softly and value peaceful environments.
- First Names: Icelanders use first names for everyone, regardless of status or age.
Responsible Tourism
- Stay on Paths: Vegetation in Iceland is fragile and slow to recover from damage.
- No Off-Road Driving: This is strictly prohibited and heavily fined.
- Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash, especially in wilderness areas.
- Respect Closures: Some areas may be closed for environmental recovery.
- Geothermal Area Safety: Stay on marked paths at hot springs and geothermal areas.
⚠️ Important Safety Note
Iceland's beautiful nature can be dangerous. Always check weather forecasts (vedur.is), road conditions (road.is), and register your travel plans at safetravel.is. Never underestimate the power of Icelandic weather, which can change rapidly.
Final Travel Tips
- Tap Water: Iceland has some of the purest tap water in the world - no need for bottled water.
- Budget Planning: Iceland is expensive. Prepare for higher costs than many other destinations.
- Car Rental: Consider wind insurance as strong gusts can damage car doors.
- Northern Lights: Not visible in summer due to the midnight sun.
- Swimming: Public pools are in nearly every town and are a cultural experience.
- Language: While Icelandic is the official language, English is widely spoken.
We can't wait for you to experience Iceland's summer magic! 🎉
If you have any questions before you go, feel free to reach out to our support team.
🌍 Safe travels and góða ferð! ✈️
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