The Republic of Iceland, located in the North Atlantic Ocean, has a population of almost 320,000 with Reykjavík as its largest city where approximately two thirds of the population
live. Reykjavík is a modern town with an advanced infrastructure and when you're here, it sure doesn't feel like some far-off tiny island known for its fire and ice. As soon as you leave the highways and byways of Reykjavík, you will quickly sink into the tranquility of the country-side where the fierce natural past of Iceland becomes evident. Located on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, with the eastern part resting on the North American plate and the western part on the Eurasian plate, Iceland is volcanically and geologically active on a massive scale which has defined its landscape over the past 5 millions years. In fact, in the Þingvellir National Park you can see the huge divide between the two plates which was formed as the plates moved apart, and is still moving. Volcanic activity - that's why I am here!
A few of my practical tips when visiting Iceland:
- Don't even think twice about visiting - its an amazing place;
- Renting a 4-wheel landrover is a must. Standard cars must only stay on the major ring-road which is a waste of time - you will miss all the good spots. So, while 4-wheeler does not come cheap (as the Icelanders just love to rip off tourists), it is a must;
- If your budget is limited, then take the bus, which is the better way - but then you must take it slow, hike and camp all over the island. This is the best way to see Iceland.
While a 4-wheeler let you quickly and comfortably see the island, you will be missing the best parts which are only accessible by hiking and sleeping far away from the roadways.
- Unless you go between October and about June (winter), book accommodation well ahead of time. While visiting in winter should be spectacular, the warmer months are much easier to get around. July / Aug would be the best, and really the only time for camping - so book huts well in advance on the camping trails...otherwise you just may have to set up your tent.
- I did most of the circle road and lots of side-trips...awesome!
- You think with the weak Icelandic Kronen that Iceland is now cheap?? Wrong, the Icelanders see all tourists as money bait and now charges in euro.
- What do I think of the locals? They're nice, but they smile wider the more they can get away with as much of your money as possible. What a shame!
- Many tourists skip the the interior which mainly consists of a plateau characterised by sand fields, mountains and glaciers. They do it because they don't have 4-wheelers and because its some rough riding. Go check it out!
- Avoid all the tourist traps such as overly expensive snowmobile rides on the glaciers, glacier walks, boat rides. There's enough to do-on-your-own than to fall for the rip-off organized travel "adventures".
