Icelandās National Parks: Your Guide
From the glacial expanse of Vatnajƶkull to the historic wonders of Ćingvellir, Icelandās national parks are varied and breathtakingly beautiful.
January 6, 2023
Icelandās National Parks: Your Guide
From the glacial expanse of Vatnajƶkull to the historic wonders of Ćingvellir, Icelandās national parks are varied and breathtakingly beautiful.
January 6, 2023
On a trip to the Land of Ice and Fire, discover these awesome places for yourself. Whether youāre visiting Iceland for outdoor adventures or to delve into the world of Icelandic culture, exploring the countryās protected areas is a must. In this article, learn everything you need to know about the majestic national parks in Iceland. Find out the most famous parks and how to visit safelyāand discover the answers to most common questions.
- Explore our tours in Iceland to find out how to visit Icelandās national parks yourself
What to know about national parks in Iceland
Iceland has three national parks, stretching from the peaks of the highest mountains down to the rugged shoreline. In these parks, youāll find the whole range of natural wonders that the country has to offer. While there used to be a greater number of parks (five in total), different areas have been absorbed and combined, creating Icelandās three national parks today:
Vatnajƶkull National Park. Including the enormous Vatnajƶkull icecap, this is the largest of Icelandās protected parks. In fact, itās said to cover 13% of the whole surface of Iceland. Skaftafell National Park and JƶkulsĆ”rgljĆŗfur are two former national parks that were incorporated into Vatnajƶkull.
Ćingvellir National Park. The oldest protected area in Iceland, Ćingvellir is the countryās cultural and historical heart.
SnƦfellsjƶkull National Park. On the west coast of Iceland, SnƦfellsjƶkull is one of Icelandās most famous outdoor destinations. On a good day the peaks of its mountains can be seen from Reykjavik.
Together, these three parks make up the majority of the 25% of Icelandās surface that comes under some form of environmental protection. And among them are two of Icelandās UNESCO World Heritage sitesāĆingvellir and Vatnajƶkullādesignated for their cultural and natural importance.
The cool thing is that Icelandās national parks are only expected to grow further, as governments commit to greater environmental protections. For example, plans for a national park in Icelandās highlands are underway, to protect an area thatās one of Europeās last great wildernesses.
Ready to learn more about Icelandās national parks? Read on.
Ćingvellir National Park
Ćingvellir National Park is the oldest protected area in Iceland. Established in 1930, it covers a vast area of cultural and natural importance, which has since been recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
The national park holds a special place in the history of Iceland as it was the site of the nationās very first parliament, the Alþing. This was set up in the year 930, when the different groups that had settled in Iceland decided they needed a place where collective decisions could be made. That place would be Ćingvellir.
Today youāll find Ćingvellir on the Golden Circle, one of the most famous travel itineraries in Iceland. Just a short distance from Reykjavik, you can explore the park in a day, alongside other jaw-dropping sights such as Gullfoss Waterfall and the Geysir geothermal area.
The park boasts more than its role as the political heart of the country for over a thousand years. Here youāll also find natural wonders including the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, one of the few places in the world where you can walk between two tectonic plates. Strolling in the rift, you wonāt be in either Europe or America, but in the space in between.
If youāre brave enough, why not go snorkelling in the Silfra rift, a tectonic trench in Ćingvallavatn, the largest natural lake in Iceland. Itāll reward you with some of the clearest waters on the planet. Alternatively, explore some of Ćingvellirās hiking trails, for example up to ĆxarĆ”rfoss, the stunning waterfall.
- Discover more in our Golden Circle guide, or book your Golden Circle tour now.
Skaftafell National Park?
Many visitors to Iceland ask about visiting Skaftafell National Park. However, the truth is that it no longer exists. In 2008, Skaftafell was incorporated into the larger Vatnajƶkull National Park.
While its name has changed, all of Skaftafellās unique beauties remain. With miles of hiking trails that link black-sand plains to majestic waterfalls and glacial lagoons, Skaftafell is an incredible destination, where you can see many of the different geological forms Iceland has to offer.
Need convincing that Skaftafell is a truly special place? Take a look at Svartifoss, perhaps one of the most dramatic waterfalls in the world. Its strange form inspired the shapes of HallgrĆmskirkja, one of Icelandās most iconic buildings.
Vatnajƶkull National Park
Vatnajƶkull National Park holds a special place in the hearts of Icelanders as well as in the geography of the country. Itās here that youāll find some of the nationās extremesāthe highest peak, the largest glacier, the deepest lake.
Set in the heart of the south coast of Iceland, Vatnajƶkull takes its name from the glacier that covers most of its area. This glacier is Icelandās largestācovering 8% of the whole countryāand the second-largest glacier in Europe. Itās truly vast, and itās something you really should see when you come to the Land of Ice and Fire.
In fact, at its thickest point, the Vatnajƶkull glacier is 950 metres deep, nearly half the height of Icelandās highest mountain peak, HvannadalshnĆŗkur, which can be found in this national park.
However, the ice cap is slowly retreating, due to rising global temperatures. While thereās no doubt this is an ecological tragedy, in its wake the ice is leaving behind incredible landforms, such as the JƶkulsĆ”rlón glacial lagoon. Youāll find a glacier tour on this deepest lake in Iceland to be one of the most enchanting sights in all of the country.
Visit this changing landscape while you still can. On a snowmobile tour of Vatnajƶkull, you can power across the white expanse and marvel at the endless ice. Or take things slow on an easy glacier walk. Youāll explore the many beauties of this rugged place, while learning the ins and outs of ice hiking.
Whichever way you prefer to visit, youāll find a marvellous region showcasing Icelandās most dramatic landscapes.
Explore Icelandās glaciers
Ice covers over a tenth of Icelandās surface. And no visit to this northern nation would be complete without an adventure across the ice.
You can explore these miraculous places in whichever way suits you. Jump aboard a snowmobile and zoom across the ice, or embark on a high-octane glacier experience in the back of a monster truck. Alternatively, stick to your own two feet and hike across the snowy landscape.
Yet the magic of exploring glaciers is that youāre not limited to what you see above the ice. Thereās a whole world to delve into below, as ice caves open up beneath the glaciers. Led by an expert guide, you can venture into the blue tunnels created by the powerful movement of the ice.
Itās not only Vatnajƶkull that you can explore either. Langjƶkull, in the heart of the Golden Circle, is a great option if youāre based in Reykjavik. Or you might remember the mischievous Eyjafjallajƶkull, which caused international travel disruption in 2010 when the volcano beneath it erupted.
- Book your ideal glacier tour now
SnƦfellsjƶkull National Park
Probably Icelandās less-visited national park, SnƦfellsjƶkull is a paradise of natural beauty. In fact, the SnƦfellsnes peninsula is often known as Iceland in miniature, thanks to the sheer range of different landforms that are squeezed into this smallest of national parks.
The most famous of SnƦfellsjƶkullās sights is no doubt the volcano and glacier that gives the park its name. The writer Jules Verneāin his nineteenth-century novel, Journey to the Centre of the Earthāimagined this volcano as the magical entrance to the centre of the world. Even if it isnāt that supernatural gateway, itās pretty special nonetheless.
Whatās more, SnƦfellsjƶkull is the only Icelandic national park that stretches from the mountain to the sea. One of the most breathtaking experiences is to see the immense and complex cliffs at Arnarstapi. Among the hiking trails, youāll find natural harbours and the relics of mediaeval fishing communities that once populated this part of the world.
Thereās so much more to discover on a SnƦfellsnes tour too. Discover black-sand beaches, volcanic craters, and magical caves. And thereās the iconic mountain of Kirkjufell, that rises from the surrounding land like the spire of a timeless church.
- Design a tailor-made tour of SnƦfellsjƶkull, or join us for our classic 2-day SnƦfellsnes tour
Book a family trip to Iceland
Iceland is an excellent holiday destination for you and your kids. With friendly locals, incredible outdoor adventures, and interactive museums that will take your breath away, thereās no better place to enjoy a family holiday.
No matter what age your children are at, enjoy family fun on a sightseeing tour. With Reykjavikās hop-on hop-off bus, for example, itās super easy to see impressive architecture and beautiful views across the city.
Thereās plenty more outside of the city. The Golden Circle, with its range of amazing sights close to Reykjavik, is a perfect family day out. Or, for those that want to explore the south coast even further, you can head to JƶkulsĆ”rlón for a mesmerising natural adventure.
Why not take the family for a wildlife tour too? With whale-watching trips, puffin-spotting experiences, and even horse riding, Iceland animals promise to fill everyone with joy.
And then thereās Christmas. With mischievous Christmas trolls, northern lights adventures, and unforgettable cultural displays, Icelandic Christmas traditions offer something for everyone.
- Learn more about your family trip to Iceland
What to know before visiting Icelandās national parks
National parks in Icelandāand in any country for that matterāare protected areas that are loved by many. That means that if youāre out and about exploring these natural treasures, there are some things you need to know.
The first rule of Icelandās national parks is that you leave no trace. To keep these spaces beautiful for those that come after you, itās best to leave no sign that youāve been there. That means taking all of your rubbish with you, not damaging any wildlife or anything else, and not bothering other visitors while youāre there.
The protection of nature also regulates fishing. In most national parks, youāre only permitted to fish if you have a licence. Generally, though, if you return the animals to the water, itās acceptable.
Then, while camping on uncultivated land is legal in theory in Iceland, thatās not true in the national parks. All three parks prohibit wild camping, to better protect the natural area. However, there are plenty of campsites where you can easily pitch up.
Finally, letās talk about driving. Of course, youāre more than welcome to drive on public roads that lead to all of Icelandās national parks. But if youāre on unpaved roads, youāll need to have an appropriate vehicle. What you canāt do is drive off-road, as this will negatively impact the natural environment.
FAQs about Icelandās national parks
What else do you need to know about national parks in Iceland? Here we try to answer any further questions you may have.
Dos and donāts while visiting national parks in Iceland?
The national parks are one of the most incredible things about Iceland. And to keep it that way, there are some rules that it is good to follow. While this is not an extensive list, these are some things to keep in mind:
Leave no trace. āLeave no traceā is the fundamental principle of national parks and wild areas the world over. Ideally, you should leave no mark that you have been there at all. That means take your rubbish home, donāt damage anything, and donāt light fires.
Keep your vehicle to car parks and main roads. Icelandās national parks are not the place for offroading.
Stay safe. If youāre heading into the outdoors, some basic precautions are smart. Let someone know where youāre going, take a map, and pack the right equipment to keep you warm, dry, and safe. That means if youāre walking on snow, for example, youāll need crampons and an ice pick.
Stick to the path. Think of it like this: in a national park, youāre natureās guest. Paths can take you to the places where you want to be, but if you stray off them youāll likely damage the wildlife and natural environment. And thereās the risk youāll get lost too!
Only take souvenirs from the gift shop. National parks are full of beautiful things. But we want them to stay that way. Please donāt take stones, sand, or plants home with you.
What do I need to know before going to a national park in Iceland?
Icelandās national parks are some of the most beautiful places in the world. But theyāre vast and wild, and youāll need to be prepared before visiting.
Obviously, the level of preparation will depend on what youāre intending to do. If youāre attempting multi-day hikes, ensure you have the right knowledge, fitness, and equipment to make sure you stay safe. And let someone know where youāre going before you leave.
If youāre just visiting for the day, all you need to know is where youāre heading. Of course, basic safety information applies: pack a map, have the right gear, and tell someone your plans. But if youāre careful and follow the signs, itāll just be an incredible day out!
What can you not bring?
Thereās nothing in particular that you cannot bring into an Icelandic national park.
Of course, you shouldnāt be carrying anything thatās prohibited under Icelandic lawāincluding illicit drugs, unlicensed firearms, or other dangerous weapons. However, pretty much everything else goes.
How many national parks does Iceland have?
Iceland has three national parks: Vatnajƶkull National Park, Ćingvellir National Park, and SnƦfellsjƶkull National Park.
There used to be two more: Skaftafell and JökulsÔrgljúfur. However, in 2008, these were incorporated into Vatnajökull to create the largest national park in Iceland.
In years to come, new national parks might be created in Iceland. For example, there are already plans to create a national park in the Icelandic highlands.
What does Vatnajƶkull mean?
Vatnajƶkull is the name of the largest ice cap in Iceland. Its name is the combination of two Icelandic words: vatna meaning āwaterā or ālakeā, and jƶkull meaning āglacierā. Together, it means āwater glacierā or āglacier of the lakesā.
What is the most frequently visited national park in Iceland?
The most frequently visited national park in Iceland is Ćingvellir National Park. Set in the heart of the Golden CircleāIcelandās most famous travel itineraryāĆingvellir benefits from being just a skip and a jump from Reykjavik. And, of course, itās packed with incredible historical and natural sights too.
Of the two million visitors that venture to Iceland each year, most of them will explore Ćingvellir on their trip.
What are tips to remember when you are in a national park?
The first tip to remember in a national park is to leave no trace. This is the number one rule when visiting any wilderness area, as it benefits both the environment and any future visitors.
But here are some other tips to bear in mind:
If youāre hiking, go with a friendāor tell someone where you are going. This way, if someone gets hurt, someone else can get help.
Take a map and know how to use it. Even if youāre sticking to popular trails, itās always important to know where you are.
Stay away from wildlife. If you see any animals in the wild, let them be. They wonāt want to be disturbed, and if they feel in danger, they may attack.
Follow the park rules. Before you visit any particular national park, read up on the local rules. There may be some places where campfires are permitted, for example, or there may be others that are closed off for safety reasons. Itās good to be informed.
Do you have to pay for national parks in Iceland?
Admission to all of the national parks in Iceland is free. There is no entrance fee or ticket to buy.
However, itās likely that you will have to pay something for the experience. For example, parking fees apply in most car parks across the national parks. And if youāre on a tour or guided adventure, these will likely come at a cost. How much that will be depends on what you choose!
Visit Icelandās national parks with Reykjavik Excursions
The national parks in Iceland are a must-see on any visit to the Land of Ice and Fire. And at Reykjavik Excursions, we can make your visit easy.
We run tours to all three national parks all year round. Whether you want to visit the glaciers of Vatnajƶkull or the sublime cliffs of SnƦfellsjƶkull, we can take you there. And we organise thrilling activities tooāfrom glacier rides to whale watching.
No matter when you come and where youāre heading on your trip, we can get you there in comfort, convenience and style. Check out our day tours and activities from ReykjavĆk to book.
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Read BlogIcelandās National Parks: Your Guide
From the glacial expanse of Vatnajƶkull to the historic wonders of Ćingvellir, Icelandās national parks are varied and breathtakingly beautiful.
January 6, 2023
Icelandās National Parks: Your Guide
From the glacial expanse of Vatnajƶkull to the historic wonders of Ćingvellir, Icelandās national parks are varied and breathtakingly beautiful.
January 6, 2023
On a trip to the Land of Ice and Fire, discover these awesome places for yourself. Whether youāre visiting Iceland for outdoor adventures or to delve into the world of Icelandic culture, exploring the countryās protected areas is a must. In this article, learn everything you need to know about the majestic national parks in Iceland. Find out the most famous parks and how to visit safelyāand discover the answers to most common questions.
- Explore our tours in Iceland to find out how to visit Icelandās national parks yourself
What to know about national parks in Iceland
Iceland has three national parks, stretching from the peaks of the highest mountains down to the rugged shoreline. In these parks, youāll find the whole range of natural wonders that the country has to offer. While there used to be a greater number of parks (five in total), different areas have been absorbed and combined, creating Icelandās three national parks today:
Vatnajƶkull National Park. Including the enormous Vatnajƶkull icecap, this is the largest of Icelandās protected parks. In fact, itās said to cover 13% of the whole surface of Iceland. Skaftafell National Park and JƶkulsĆ”rgljĆŗfur are two former national parks that were incorporated into Vatnajƶkull.
Ćingvellir National Park. The oldest protected area in Iceland, Ćingvellir is the countryās cultural and historical heart.
SnƦfellsjƶkull National Park. On the west coast of Iceland, SnƦfellsjƶkull is one of Icelandās most famous outdoor destinations. On a good day the peaks of its mountains can be seen from Reykjavik.
Together, these three parks make up the majority of the 25% of Icelandās surface that comes under some form of environmental protection. And among them are two of Icelandās UNESCO World Heritage sitesāĆingvellir and Vatnajƶkullādesignated for their cultural and natural importance.
The cool thing is that Icelandās national parks are only expected to grow further, as governments commit to greater environmental protections. For example, plans for a national park in Icelandās highlands are underway, to protect an area thatās one of Europeās last great wildernesses.
Ready to learn more about Icelandās national parks? Read on.
Ćingvellir National Park
Ćingvellir National Park is the oldest protected area in Iceland. Established in 1930, it covers a vast area of cultural and natural importance, which has since been recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
The national park holds a special place in the history of Iceland as it was the site of the nationās very first parliament, the Alþing. This was set up in the year 930, when the different groups that had settled in Iceland decided they needed a place where collective decisions could be made. That place would be Ćingvellir.
Today youāll find Ćingvellir on the Golden Circle, one of the most famous travel itineraries in Iceland. Just a short distance from Reykjavik, you can explore the park in a day, alongside other jaw-dropping sights such as Gullfoss Waterfall and the Geysir geothermal area.
The park boasts more than its role as the political heart of the country for over a thousand years. Here youāll also find natural wonders including the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, one of the few places in the world where you can walk between two tectonic plates. Strolling in the rift, you wonāt be in either Europe or America, but in the space in between.
If youāre brave enough, why not go snorkelling in the Silfra rift, a tectonic trench in Ćingvallavatn, the largest natural lake in Iceland. Itāll reward you with some of the clearest waters on the planet. Alternatively, explore some of Ćingvellirās hiking trails, for example up to ĆxarĆ”rfoss, the stunning waterfall.
- Discover more in our Golden Circle guide, or book your Golden Circle tour now.
Skaftafell National Park?
Many visitors to Iceland ask about visiting Skaftafell National Park. However, the truth is that it no longer exists. In 2008, Skaftafell was incorporated into the larger Vatnajƶkull National Park.
While its name has changed, all of Skaftafellās unique beauties remain. With miles of hiking trails that link black-sand plains to majestic waterfalls and glacial lagoons, Skaftafell is an incredible destination, where you can see many of the different geological forms Iceland has to offer.
Need convincing that Skaftafell is a truly special place? Take a look at Svartifoss, perhaps one of the most dramatic waterfalls in the world. Its strange form inspired the shapes of HallgrĆmskirkja, one of Icelandās most iconic buildings.
Vatnajƶkull National Park
Vatnajƶkull National Park holds a special place in the hearts of Icelanders as well as in the geography of the country. Itās here that youāll find some of the nationās extremesāthe highest peak, the largest glacier, the deepest lake.
Set in the heart of the south coast of Iceland, Vatnajƶkull takes its name from the glacier that covers most of its area. This glacier is Icelandās largestācovering 8% of the whole countryāand the second-largest glacier in Europe. Itās truly vast, and itās something you really should see when you come to the Land of Ice and Fire.
In fact, at its thickest point, the Vatnajƶkull glacier is 950 metres deep, nearly half the height of Icelandās highest mountain peak, HvannadalshnĆŗkur, which can be found in this national park.
However, the ice cap is slowly retreating, due to rising global temperatures. While thereās no doubt this is an ecological tragedy, in its wake the ice is leaving behind incredible landforms, such as the JƶkulsĆ”rlón glacial lagoon. Youāll find a glacier tour on this deepest lake in Iceland to be one of the most enchanting sights in all of the country.
Visit this changing landscape while you still can. On a snowmobile tour of Vatnajƶkull, you can power across the white expanse and marvel at the endless ice. Or take things slow on an easy glacier walk. Youāll explore the many beauties of this rugged place, while learning the ins and outs of ice hiking.
Whichever way you prefer to visit, youāll find a marvellous region showcasing Icelandās most dramatic landscapes.
Explore Icelandās glaciers
Ice covers over a tenth of Icelandās surface. And no visit to this northern nation would be complete without an adventure across the ice.
You can explore these miraculous places in whichever way suits you. Jump aboard a snowmobile and zoom across the ice, or embark on a high-octane glacier experience in the back of a monster truck. Alternatively, stick to your own two feet and hike across the snowy landscape.
Yet the magic of exploring glaciers is that youāre not limited to what you see above the ice. Thereās a whole world to delve into below, as ice caves open up beneath the glaciers. Led by an expert guide, you can venture into the blue tunnels created by the powerful movement of the ice.
Itās not only Vatnajƶkull that you can explore either. Langjƶkull, in the heart of the Golden Circle, is a great option if youāre based in Reykjavik. Or you might remember the mischievous Eyjafjallajƶkull, which caused international travel disruption in 2010 when the volcano beneath it erupted.
- Book your ideal glacier tour now
SnƦfellsjƶkull National Park
Probably Icelandās less-visited national park, SnƦfellsjƶkull is a paradise of natural beauty. In fact, the SnƦfellsnes peninsula is often known as Iceland in miniature, thanks to the sheer range of different landforms that are squeezed into this smallest of national parks.
The most famous of SnƦfellsjƶkullās sights is no doubt the volcano and glacier that gives the park its name. The writer Jules Verneāin his nineteenth-century novel, Journey to the Centre of the Earthāimagined this volcano as the magical entrance to the centre of the world. Even if it isnāt that supernatural gateway, itās pretty special nonetheless.
Whatās more, SnƦfellsjƶkull is the only Icelandic national park that stretches from the mountain to the sea. One of the most breathtaking experiences is to see the immense and complex cliffs at Arnarstapi. Among the hiking trails, youāll find natural harbours and the relics of mediaeval fishing communities that once populated this part of the world.
Thereās so much more to discover on a SnƦfellsnes tour too. Discover black-sand beaches, volcanic craters, and magical caves. And thereās the iconic mountain of Kirkjufell, that rises from the surrounding land like the spire of a timeless church.
- Design a tailor-made tour of SnƦfellsjƶkull, or join us for our classic 2-day SnƦfellsnes tour
Book a family trip to Iceland
Iceland is an excellent holiday destination for you and your kids. With friendly locals, incredible outdoor adventures, and interactive museums that will take your breath away, thereās no better place to enjoy a family holiday.
No matter what age your children are at, enjoy family fun on a sightseeing tour. With Reykjavikās hop-on hop-off bus, for example, itās super easy to see impressive architecture and beautiful views across the city.
Thereās plenty more outside of the city. The Golden Circle, with its range of amazing sights close to Reykjavik, is a perfect family day out. Or, for those that want to explore the south coast even further, you can head to JƶkulsĆ”rlón for a mesmerising natural adventure.
Why not take the family for a wildlife tour too? With whale-watching trips, puffin-spotting experiences, and even horse riding, Iceland animals promise to fill everyone with joy.
And then thereās Christmas. With mischievous Christmas trolls, northern lights adventures, and unforgettable cultural displays, Icelandic Christmas traditions offer something for everyone.
- Learn more about your family trip to Iceland
What to know before visiting Icelandās national parks
National parks in Icelandāand in any country for that matterāare protected areas that are loved by many. That means that if youāre out and about exploring these natural treasures, there are some things you need to know.
The first rule of Icelandās national parks is that you leave no trace. To keep these spaces beautiful for those that come after you, itās best to leave no sign that youāve been there. That means taking all of your rubbish with you, not damaging any wildlife or anything else, and not bothering other visitors while youāre there.
The protection of nature also regulates fishing. In most national parks, youāre only permitted to fish if you have a licence. Generally, though, if you return the animals to the water, itās acceptable.
Then, while camping on uncultivated land is legal in theory in Iceland, thatās not true in the national parks. All three parks prohibit wild camping, to better protect the natural area. However, there are plenty of campsites where you can easily pitch up.
Finally, letās talk about driving. Of course, youāre more than welcome to drive on public roads that lead to all of Icelandās national parks. But if youāre on unpaved roads, youāll need to have an appropriate vehicle. What you canāt do is drive off-road, as this will negatively impact the natural environment.
FAQs about Icelandās national parks
What else do you need to know about national parks in Iceland? Here we try to answer any further questions you may have.
Dos and donāts while visiting national parks in Iceland?
The national parks are one of the most incredible things about Iceland. And to keep it that way, there are some rules that it is good to follow. While this is not an extensive list, these are some things to keep in mind:
Leave no trace. āLeave no traceā is the fundamental principle of national parks and wild areas the world over. Ideally, you should leave no mark that you have been there at all. That means take your rubbish home, donāt damage anything, and donāt light fires.
Keep your vehicle to car parks and main roads. Icelandās national parks are not the place for offroading.
Stay safe. If youāre heading into the outdoors, some basic precautions are smart. Let someone know where youāre going, take a map, and pack the right equipment to keep you warm, dry, and safe. That means if youāre walking on snow, for example, youāll need crampons and an ice pick.
Stick to the path. Think of it like this: in a national park, youāre natureās guest. Paths can take you to the places where you want to be, but if you stray off them youāll likely damage the wildlife and natural environment. And thereās the risk youāll get lost too!
Only take souvenirs from the gift shop. National parks are full of beautiful things. But we want them to stay that way. Please donāt take stones, sand, or plants home with you.
What do I need to know before going to a national park in Iceland?
Icelandās national parks are some of the most beautiful places in the world. But theyāre vast and wild, and youāll need to be prepared before visiting.
Obviously, the level of preparation will depend on what youāre intending to do. If youāre attempting multi-day hikes, ensure you have the right knowledge, fitness, and equipment to make sure you stay safe. And let someone know where youāre going before you leave.
If youāre just visiting for the day, all you need to know is where youāre heading. Of course, basic safety information applies: pack a map, have the right gear, and tell someone your plans. But if youāre careful and follow the signs, itāll just be an incredible day out!
What can you not bring?
Thereās nothing in particular that you cannot bring into an Icelandic national park.
Of course, you shouldnāt be carrying anything thatās prohibited under Icelandic lawāincluding illicit drugs, unlicensed firearms, or other dangerous weapons. However, pretty much everything else goes.
How many national parks does Iceland have?
Iceland has three national parks: Vatnajƶkull National Park, Ćingvellir National Park, and SnƦfellsjƶkull National Park.
There used to be two more: Skaftafell and JökulsÔrgljúfur. However, in 2008, these were incorporated into Vatnajökull to create the largest national park in Iceland.
In years to come, new national parks might be created in Iceland. For example, there are already plans to create a national park in the Icelandic highlands.
What does Vatnajƶkull mean?
Vatnajƶkull is the name of the largest ice cap in Iceland. Its name is the combination of two Icelandic words: vatna meaning āwaterā or ālakeā, and jƶkull meaning āglacierā. Together, it means āwater glacierā or āglacier of the lakesā.
What is the most frequently visited national park in Iceland?
The most frequently visited national park in Iceland is Ćingvellir National Park. Set in the heart of the Golden CircleāIcelandās most famous travel itineraryāĆingvellir benefits from being just a skip and a jump from Reykjavik. And, of course, itās packed with incredible historical and natural sights too.
Of the two million visitors that venture to Iceland each year, most of them will explore Ćingvellir on their trip.
What are tips to remember when you are in a national park?
The first tip to remember in a national park is to leave no trace. This is the number one rule when visiting any wilderness area, as it benefits both the environment and any future visitors.
But here are some other tips to bear in mind:
If youāre hiking, go with a friendāor tell someone where you are going. This way, if someone gets hurt, someone else can get help.
Take a map and know how to use it. Even if youāre sticking to popular trails, itās always important to know where you are.
Stay away from wildlife. If you see any animals in the wild, let them be. They wonāt want to be disturbed, and if they feel in danger, they may attack.
Follow the park rules. Before you visit any particular national park, read up on the local rules. There may be some places where campfires are permitted, for example, or there may be others that are closed off for safety reasons. Itās good to be informed.
Do you have to pay for national parks in Iceland?
Admission to all of the national parks in Iceland is free. There is no entrance fee or ticket to buy.
However, itās likely that you will have to pay something for the experience. For example, parking fees apply in most car parks across the national parks. And if youāre on a tour or guided adventure, these will likely come at a cost. How much that will be depends on what you choose!
Visit Icelandās national parks with Reykjavik Excursions
The national parks in Iceland are a must-see on any visit to the Land of Ice and Fire. And at Reykjavik Excursions, we can make your visit easy.
We run tours to all three national parks all year round. Whether you want to visit the glaciers of Vatnajƶkull or the sublime cliffs of SnƦfellsjƶkull, we can take you there. And we organise thrilling activities tooāfrom glacier rides to whale watching.
No matter when you come and where youāre heading on your trip, we can get you there in comfort, convenience and style. Check out our day tours and activities from ReykjavĆk to book.
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