So, you are planning a trip to Iceland, that country greener than ice. What should you see and do? Iceland has so much to offer that it’s impossible to see it all in one trip. Whatever you do, you can make your trip one to remember.
Here are some tips you should keep in mind when planning your trip to Iceland.
Rent a car
Since Iceland’s weather is unpredictable, it is best to rent Iceland car rental for your trip. When you rent a car, you have the freedom to enjoy country roads and tackle the wild weather in your own hands. You won’t find yourself caught in a rainstorm like you would if you were traveling on foot.
Go on an Excursion at Night
You might expect that some of Iceland’s attractions are better seen during the day, but that’s not necessarily the case. They are busier during the day, especially during peak travel season. If you visit Iceland in summer, you must enjoy it midnight sun where daylight lasts 24 hours.
Make the most of those long days by traveling at night. It’s a great way to escape the crowds and enjoy an intimate view of all that Iceland has to offer.
When villages and cities fall asleep, you can wander around and enjoy the beauty of nature. There are midnight sun tours, horseback riding tours, and midnight mountain biking tours if you’re afraid to go it alone.
Buy Food Direct From The Farm
Iceland’s best experiences are mixing with the locals and buying food from its native land. As you travel around Iceland, you will notice that the country offers a wide variety of restaurants and fast food chains. A better alternative to getting food at these restaurants is to buy locally produced produce from the farmers who make it.
Several Icelandic farmers offer local goods, such as fresh fish, organic fruit and vegetables, and grass-fed meat and dairy. Some farmers even have huts where you can enjoy fresh fruit and vegetables at low prices.
Cook Your Own Healthy Food
The next thing you have to do with the food you buy from the farm is to cook it yourself. While Iceland has many fine dining restaurants, one of the most economical ways to experience the country is to buy your own food and cook it yourself. Take advantage of the kitchen found in every hotel, hostel, guest house, and campsite across the country.
Your grocery bill will be the cost of one meal in Iceland. Use fresh ingredients and natural foods, such as lamb, fish and dairy. Don’t forget to add herbs and spices to each of your meals to balance the taste.
Go camping
If you visit Iceland in summer, you should definitely take advantage of the campsites this country has to offer. There’s no better way to experience Iceland than to get close to nature and enjoy the midnight sun. Most Icelandic villages and towns have their own campsites, but you can always find remote areas to pitch your tent.
Be aware of where you intend to camp. Camping in Iceland’s three national parks is strictly prohibited. You also shouldn’t camp near a farm without a permit. Camping in Iceland’s wilderness is not legal if you’re traveling in a collapsible camper, camper van, or tent trailer. Remember to plan well if you intend to camp in Iceland.
Spending the Night at the Farmhouse
Spending the night at the farmhouse is a desirable alternative to camping. It’s a great way for you to experience Icelandic culture. Several farmhouses offer bed and breakfast lodgings for travelers. You can choose from private cottage to cottage. The great thing about living on a farm is that fresh, locally sourced food is always available.
Many farmers provide guided walking tours, horseback rides and other activities. You can even interact with some of the animals on the farm. Remember to book your vacation well in advance, especially if you want the best accommodations.
Attend a Small Town Festival
Every city in Iceland has its own unique characteristics, so it’s hard to choose just one to visit. Most of the town’s residents remain true to their Icelandic heritage. Festivals are held throughout the year in Icelandic villages and towns.
Each festival focuses on the historical and environmental aspects of where they come from and often features local food, music, dance and drink. If you are open-minded and want to explore a new culture, then you should choose a festival that fits your schedule.