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Introducing Iceland

When is the best time to visit?
Choosing the right time to visit Iceland depends on what you would like to see and do. To see the Northern Lights, visit in winter—and thus brave ultra-short days and brisk weather. If your goal is to hike, road trip, and otherwise explore outdoors, the best times are late spring and early fall. Summer months bring great weather and long days, but also attract big tourist crowds. Learn more

Where should I go in Iceland?
Iceland has much more to offer than the popular (and crowded) Golden Circle and South Coast areas. We highly recommend exploring Iceland’s remote regions such as Snaefellsnes Peninsula, the Westfjords, Lake Myvatn, and the East Fjords. See our recommended tours & itineraries to get ideas on how to plan your trip to Iceland. Learn more

How many days do I need?
You can have an epic Iceland experience when you spend at least 5 days. Shorter trips are possible but won’t give you enough time to explore beyond the Reykjavik area and the western section of the South Coast. With 8 days or more, you can complete the famous Ring Road and see sights that most tourists miss, like Godafoss Waterfall, the unique volcanic hotspots surrounding Lake Myvatn, and the Westfjords. Learn more

Getting around in Iceland
Most travelers drive themselves in Iceland during the summer season (Mid-April to November), and some opt for small group or guided tours during the winter season when weather, wind, and limited daylight can make driving more difficult. The Ring Road is Iceland's iconic multi-day road trip (typically 7-10 days), with many opportunities to extend further to more remote areas such as the highlands, the Westfjords, and northern coast. Learn more

Looking for inspiration? See our top Iceland itineraries

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days

Iceland Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Entering Goðaland (the "Land of Gods") during the descent to Thórsmörk
Map of Fimmvörðuháls Hike - The Ultimate Guide to one of Iceland's Best Day Hikes
Fimmvörðuháls Hike - The Ultimate Guide to one of Iceland's Best Day Hikes

If you’re looking for a great one-day hike that combines the best of Iceland into a single trek, this is it. The Fimmvörðuháls trail takes you through some of the most dramatic scenery Iceland has to offer, from a series of canyon waterfalls to a volcanic moonscape. Keep in mind, this day-hike is as long as it is rewarding.

Explore Iceland on a road trip of a lifetime
Map of Ring Road Self-Drive Itinerary: Highlights of Iceland & the Remote Westfjords - 14 Days
Ring Road Self-Drive Itinerary: Highlights of Iceland & the Remote Westfjords - 14 Days

With two weeks in Iceland, you can complete the entire Ring Road and add incredible detours. This grand tour will take you to all the best places giving you plenty of time to hike, explore, and soak it all in. This 14-day itinerary covers all the major regions except the highlands, which you can see with a couple more days or by spending less time in some of the areas below.

Walk behind Seljalandsfoss on the South Coast
Map of 3 Days in Iceland: Blue Lagoon, South Coast & Reykjavík - 3 Days
3 Days in Iceland: Blue Lagoon, South Coast & Reykjavík - 3 Days

If you're short on time or looking for an extended layover on your way from Europe to North America or vice versa, your options in Iceland are limited to those closer to Reykjavík. Here is a three-day itinerary that will still let you experience some of the spectacular beauty of Iceland.

Godafoss waterfall in northern Iceland
Map of Iceland Relaxed Ring Road Adventure - 10 Days
Iceland Relaxed Ring Road Adventure - 10 Days

10 days on the road in Iceland is enough time to discover its highlights and off-the-beaten-path wonders. Loop around the famous Route 1 (Ring Road) on a relaxed self-drive adventure, stopping at big cities, active volcanoes, cascading waterfalls, dried lava fields, black beaches, quaint fishing towns, massive glaciers, and the star landmarks along the famed Golden Circle. It's guaranteed to be a gorgeous ride.

Make the Most of Your Time in Iceland

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Reykjavík, Iceland
How Many Days to Spend in Iceland

You can have an epic Iceland experience when you spend five days or more in Iceland. Shorter trips are possible but won't give you enough time to explore beyond the Reykjavík...

Iceland Travel Essentials

All you need to know to get started planning the perfect trip
Iceland is worth a visit at any time of year; the moodier the weather, the better the pictures like the mammatus clouds that hang over the famous Reynisdrangar rocks
Best Time of Year to Visit Iceland

While the best time to visit Iceland depends on your priorities—whether chasing the northern lights, hiking dramatic landscapes, or avoiding peak-season crowds—aim for late...

Gullfoss Falls - Iceland's second largest waterfall
5 Best Things to Do in Iceland

Dubbed the Land of Ice and Fire, Iceland is a delight for all of your senses, from the deep chill of the air to the smoky smell of the volcanoes to the sights and sounds of the...

Skogafoss waterfall, Iceland
How kimkim Trips Works in Iceland

Travelers love Iceland for its wild landscapes, Reykjavík's cultural charms, and the seasonal magic of the northern lights. Work with a kimkim travel specialist to experience it...

Iceland Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip
A view over Glymur Falls
Guide to Hiking Glymur Falls

The trail to the majestic Glymur Waterfall offers all kinds of challenges - but the stunning views from the top are well worth the adventure. Get to the trailhead prepared for...

How to Tour the Golden Circle Like a Local
How to Tour the Golden Circle Like a Local

It's no secret that Iceland is drawing more and more visitors every year. If you're joining the ranks, skip the crowds at the most popular Golden Circle attractions and visit...

Iceland Destination Guides

Detailed travel guides for the main regions of the country

Iceland Travel Interviews

Get inspired by reading about experiences by travelers like you

Iceland Hotel Advice

Unique places to stay, curated by kimkim specialists
Photo courtesy of Hótel Húsafell
kimkim gem
Reykholt
Hótel Húsafell
4.9
(15)
· Luxury
Hótel Húsafell draws travelers seeking a luxurious, nature-inspired stay among the remote landscapes of West Iceland. Located just two hours north of Reykjavík, the contemporary, eco-conscious property is powered by geothermal energy, with interiors that showcase local materials like timber and...
Photo courtesy of Hótel Búðir
kimkim gem
Arnarstapi
Hótel Búðir
4.8
(27)
· Upscale
Hótel Búðir sits on the edge of a lava field in a remote pocket of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. Travelers stay in a quiet, windswept landscape two hours from Reykjavík, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side, the Snæfellsjökull glacier in view, and only a 19th-century church as a neighbor, while the...
Photo courtesy of Hotel Rangá
Selfoss
Hotel Rangá
4.9
(15)
· Luxury
Rustic, lodge-style luxury is the theme at Hotel Rangá, which offers a peaceful setting and sweeping countryside views from its perch on a bend of the Rangá River. Just minutes south of Hella, it's an ideal base for exploring the Golden Circle and the South Coast, while the on-site observatory...

Best Experiences in Iceland

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
Reykjavík
Silfra Snorkeling Adventure
4.8
(46)
2.5 hours
·
Small group
Snorkel the world's clearest water and float between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates on this day trip from Reykjavík to Þingvellir National Park. Led by experienced PADI divemasters, you'll swim the cold Silfra fissure's breathtakingly clear waters—with visibility up to 394 feet,...
Grindavík
The Blue Lagoon
4.7
(90)
3 hours
·
Self guided
Imagine relaxing in a blend of seawater and geothermally heated water, rich in silica, minerals, and algae, all while surrounded by a lunar lava landscape. This experience is one of Iceland's most famous and a huge tourist draw. But although it attracts the masses, as soak in the Blue Lagoon is...
Reykjavík
Sky Lagoon Experience - Saman
4.9
(15)
2 hours
·
Self guided
Located just 15 minutes south of Reykjavík city center, Sky Lagoon offers a luxurious take on the traditional Icelandic bathing culture. Your entry includes access to the signature Skjól seven-step ritual, which starts in the oceanfront infinity pool fed by soothing geothermal waters. Follow with...

Our Latest Iceland Content

You'll stay warm with these tips, like this woman striking a yoga pose on top of the crashed plane at Sólheimasandur beach
How to Dress for Winter Activities in Iceland

Winter in Iceland is cold and dark (with only 4-7 hours of daylight), but beautiful—think snow-dusted lava fields, frozen waterfalls, and the glow of the northern lights above you. But to enjoy it all, you'll need to dress smartly. The key is layering: warm, weatherproof gear that keeps you dry, cozy, and ready for whatever fun outdoor activity you have planned. From glacier hikes to snowmobiling, here's how to stay comfortable while embracing chilly adventures in Iceland.

Pack right and you can hike around the hills and valleys of Landmannalaugar with comfortable ease
Ultimate Iceland Packing List

Iceland's weather is famously unpredictable, often bringing sun, rain, and wind within the same hour, which makes smart packing essential. With the right layers and a few key items, you'll be ready to explore the island's wild beauty in comfort.

Experience stylish luxury hotels on your two-week tour of Iceland (photo courtesy of The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland)
Map of 2 Weeks in Iceland - 3 Luxury Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Iceland - 3 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks to spend on a luxurious trip in Iceland, you can choose between a fast-paced excursion that hits all the highlights or a more relaxed journey exploring remote gems. Opt for a complete circular route to travel in style by yacht and Super Jeep, taking in the breathtaking landscapes in ultimate comfort. Alternatively, you could focus on South Iceland, packing your days with thrilling activities. Or, venture into the Eastfjords, where you'll explore secluded villages and unwind in luxurious cabins.

Iceland Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map Where To Go in Iceland: the Best Sights and Activities Region by Region
Where To Go in Iceland: the Best Sights and Activities Region by Region
View article
Map Explore Iceland in 5 days - Seven Optimized Itineraries to help you make the most of your Short Trip to Iceland
Explore Iceland in 5 days - Seven Optimized Itineraries to help you make the most of your Short Trip to Iceland
View article
Map 7 Days in Iceland - 4 Unique Road Trip Itineraries
7 Days in Iceland - 4 Unique Road Trip Itineraries
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Iceland
Travel specialist Guðmundur Óli Pálmason
active 2 hours ago

Guðmundur Óli Pálmason

Born in Reykjavík, Iceland, and from a young age I was already travelling all over Iceland with my parents. After a short stint as a driver guide on modified SUVs in 2004, I came back to it full...

read more...
Travel specialist Preeti Bhide
active 10 hours ago

Preeti Bhide

Travel is an experience that enriches our lives and is essential for all of us to grow as individuals. Personally, I love my holidays to be slower paced with time to stop and smell the flowers;...

read more...
Travel specialist Emanuela Grieco
active 9 hours ago

Emanuela Grieco

I am an Italian Travel Designer mostly based in Iceland. Traveling has been my passion since I was young, being always fascinated by other cultures and people. In 2005, after living and...

read more...
Travel specialist Èric D
active 4 hours ago

Èric D

A while ago I was lucky enough to get a job in Iceland, and I must admit, I was completely unaware of what was ahead of me when I first set foot in the country. Working in the tourism industry...

read more...

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Trip Reviews for Iceland

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Perfect support for our vacation
Iceland | Sep 1 - Sep 10, 2026

Gregg
Gregg H.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Sep 11, 2026
The support that we received from start to finish was exemplary. The guidance regarding how much territory to cover and the specific sites was perfect. We were not rushed and we saw a lot. The specific site were visited were amazing. The Thorsmork jeep experience was especially good as we were able to hike in a variety of different terrains. Our guide, Carlos, was wonderful. He was knowledgeable, engaging, and personable. The other outstanding location was the Jokulsarlon Glacier... Read more

The support that we received from start to finish was exemplary. The guidance regarding how much territory to cover and the specific sites was perfect. We were not rushed and we saw a lot. The specific site were visited were amazing. The Thorsmork jeep experience was especially good as we were able to hike in a variety of different terrains. Our guide, Carlos, was wonderful. He was knowledgeable, engaging, and personable. The other outstanding location was the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. It was unlike anything I have ever seen. Our Zodiac boat ride, captained by Hurdur, was a highlight. His appearance, skill, knowledge, and engagement was perfect.

The hotels were exactly what we were looking for and met all our expectations. The breakfasts were a perfect way to start our day; with a full belly. There was a wide assortment of good food and plenty of good, strong coffee.

I'm not sure whether KimKim had any control over the weather, but that worked out very well for us too! The only rain we had was during the nights or while driving. It did not affect our outdoor plans at all. And to top it off, we were finally able to see the northern lights on our last night. Great job all around for your team. I highly recommend them to assist in your vacation planning. And knowing that they were always available if we ran into problems, was another plus.

Local specialist: Noga Heyman

Our guide, Gummi, was so helpful with his sug...
Iceland | Aug 30 - Sep 10, 2026

H
Holly L.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Sep 11, 2026
Our guide, Gummi, was so helpful with his suggestions and when we had to pivot one day he quickly responded with an alternate plan. All of the hotels were great and his suggestions for lunches en route were amazing! The travel directions he provided each day were critical to us getting where we needed comfortably (although the road to Landmannalugar was not comfortable but worth it!). We spent 2 days in Reykjavik, 2 days in the Snaefellsness Peninsula, 4 days in the Hella region, including a... Read more

Our guide, Gummi, was so helpful with his suggestions and when we had to pivot one day he quickly responded with an alternate plan. All of the hotels were great and his suggestions for lunches en route were amazing! The travel directions he provided each day were critical to us getting where we needed comfortably (although the road to Landmannalugar was not comfortable but worth it!). We spent 2 days in Reykjavik, 2 days in the Snaefellsness Peninsula, 4 days in the Hella region, including a Super Jeep tour in Porsmork, a day in Vik for a glacier and ice cave tour, and a day in the Jokusarlon area, where we kayaked in the Jokusarlon Glacier Lagoon, which was thrilling. Wish we had time for the Westfjords, but we know we’ll be back!

Hotel Reviews
Tower Suites Reykjavík
Reykjavík

Wow, what a room, what a view! Very clean and largest of all the rooms we stayed in, truly luxurious but that is what I wanted for our last night in Iceland. Our room was warm and they said it had air conditioning, which is rare in Iceland, but it wasn’t working, so they set up a Dyson fan and opened an unreachable window to cool it off for us and it was fine. You can see over the whole city and the ocean. They bring breakfast to your room at the time you select. You do need a key card to get to their floor at the top of an office building, so they need to know when you arrive. We walked to a local place for dinner, Potturinn og Pannan, which was great and an 8 minute walk. A special experience.

Authenticity & Character
Location
On the outskirts of town, but not a too far walk to the main drag, about 17 minutes.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hótel Jökulsárlón - Glacier Lagoon Hotel
Hofn

Beautiful hotel, only 2 years old, just 10 minutes past the Lagoon. Nice clean and spacious room, although quite warm since it was sunny, but they had Vornado fans in our room and we used them! They said breakfast did not come with the room since it was booked through a third party, but the coffee and tea you could still get from the dining room at no charge. We had a great dinner there. There are 3 big hot tubs overlooking the glacier, which we used, and that was nice.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Black Beach Suites
Vik I Myrdal

We arrived very early, but were able to get checked in so that we could drop our bags and rest before that day’s activities. The room was spacious, clean and comfortable and had a back deck so that after dark we could monitor the Aurora situation, and they came out so that we could see them with our naked eyes, which for me was a highlight! They do not offer free breakfast and their restaurant is basic, so we went into Vik and got Black Crust Pizza, which was very good, and brought it back to the room, which had plates, utensils, and everything you’d need to do that or even make your own dinner. We also purchased breakfast fixings for the next morning, which we stowed in the small refrigerator in the room.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Nice view of the ocean in the distance.
Staff
There seemed to be one woman manning the restaurant and the check in and she was a bit overwhelmed.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Rangá
Hella

Loved this hotel! The room was very comfortable and Montana-esque, so we felt immediately at home. The staff could not do enough for you, they were wonderful! The breakfast had so many options and we ate here for dinner all 4 nights because it was so good. Don’t miss their signature mushroom soup!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Very, very kind and thoughtful staff!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hótel Varmaland
Borgarnes

In the middle of nowhere, but very quiet and comfortable room with nice breakfast and fantastic restaurant for dinner.

Authenticity & Character
Outside looks a bit sterile but inside is modern and beautiful.
Location
Good midpoint for Snaefellsness Peninsula and other activities.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Eyja
Reykjavik

On the outskirts of town, but they have parking and the walk to town and good restaurants was easy. Room was clean and nicely appointed.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Glacier Ice Cave Experience
Glacier Ice Cave Experience
Iceland

Great ride in high clearance vehicle to glacier, fitted with crampons, then followed guide through a trail up the glacier to the ice cave, which was beautiful. The ice changes every day due to melt and refreeze, so the cave was pretty small at the beginning of September, but I would still do it again.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Víðgelmir Lava Cave Experience
Víðgelmir Lava Cave Experience
Iceland

The guide was very nice and informative, but this was the least favorite of our excursions. If you go to the Perlan Museum in Reykjavik, or the Harpa exhibit in Reykjavik, you see the same thing.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Laugarás Lagoon - Lerki
Laugarás Lagoon - Lerki
Iceland

Great lagoon, very relaxing experience. Can’t be shy about showering or getting naked in front of others of the same sex. Nobody cares, though. Do it!

Quality of Experience
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Kayaking Excursion
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Kayaking Excursion
Iceland

They suited us up and gave us boots and then gave a lesson on how to kayak and how to get back on the kayak if you fall in. It was exhilarating! Getting up so close to the glaciers in the lagoon was a special feeling! A bit physically challenging, but oh, so worth it!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Thórsmörk Super Jeep Experience
Thórsmörk Super Jeep Experience
Iceland

Great guide who has spent many years in Iceland and knew some hidden gems.

Quality of Experience
Food
Decent lunch provided. Nothing fancy.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Guðmundur Óli Pálmason
Guðmundur Óli
Guðmundur Óli Pálmason
Local specialist in Iceland | Replied on Sep 11, 2026

Thank you for the kind review Holly
i am so happy to read you had such a great time in Iceland and lovely stays at all the hotels
Yes, let's start planning your return trip to the wild Westfjords! :D

Until then, take care!
Gummi

Our trip was planned from start to finish. Ev...
Iceland | Aug 20 - Sep 1, 2026

B
bryan l.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Sep 08, 2026

Our trip was planned from start to finish. Everything was taken care of. Adam did a fantastic job.

Local specialist: Adam Warszawski
Adam
Adam Warszawski
Local specialist in Poland / Iceland | Replied on Sep 08, 2026

Thanks Bryan! I'm happy to hear that you had a beautiful time in Iceland!

I hope to work with you again one day.

Safe Travels!
Adam

Why travelers love kimkim

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