If you’ve ever dreamed of a land where fire meets ice, where glaciers sit beside steaming hot springs, and where untouched wilderness stretches for miles — Iceland is calling your name. This Nordic island nation offers some of the most breathtaking nature in the world, and for travelers seeking raw beauty, adventure, and serenity, Iceland is truly unmatched.
In this article, we’ll explore the types of nature in Iceland, what makes it so special, and why it should be on your travel bucket list.
🏔️ 1. Glaciers and Ice Caves
One of the defining features of Icelandic nature is its vast ice landscapes. Over 11% of the country is covered in glaciers, the largest being Vatnajökull, which is also one of the largest glaciers in Europe.
Top glacier experiences for travelers:
- Glacier hiking on Sólheimajökull
- Ice cave tours (best from November to March)
- Snowmobiling on Langjökull
🌋 2. Volcanoes and Lava Fields
Iceland is located on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where two tectonic plates meet, making it one of the most volcanically active regions on Earth. The result? A dramatic landscape of craters, lava fields, and geothermal features.
Don’t miss:
- The black lava fields around Lake Mývatn
- Fagradalsfjall volcano (last erupted in 2021 and 2022)
- Lava tunnels like Raufarhólshellir
💧 3. Waterfalls Everywhere
Iceland is home to thousands of waterfalls, many of which are easily accessible by car. Each one is different, from thunderous cascades to elegant ribbon falls tucked into mossy cliffs.
Must-see waterfalls:
- Gullfoss — part of the Golden Circle
- Skógafoss — majestic and powerful
- Seljalandsfoss — you can walk behind it!
- Dettifoss — Europe’s most powerful waterfall
🌿 4. Geothermal Wonders
Beneath Iceland’s surface lies immense geothermal energy. This not only powers homes but also creates natural hot springs and colorful geothermal areas.
Top geothermal attractions:
- Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon
- Hverir — a bubbling, Mars-like geothermal field
- Reykjadalur — a valley with a warm river you can bathe in
🐦 5. Icelandic Wildlife and Birdlife
Though Iceland doesn’t have many wild mammals, it is rich in birdlife and marine life. The iconic Icelandic puffin draws photographers and bird watchers from around the world.
Wildlife highlights:
- Puffin watching (best from May to August)
- Whale watching from Húsavík or Reykjavik
- Arctic fox sightings in the Westfjords
- Icelandic horses — small, sturdy, and unique
🌌 6. Northern Lights and Midnight Sun
Iceland’s sky offers some of the most magical natural experiences on Earth.
- Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis): Best seen from late September to April.
- Midnight Sun: In summer, the sun barely sets, especially in June.
This makes Iceland an ideal destination year-round — whether you’re chasing the aurora or enjoying 24-hour daylight hikes.
🏞️ Why Nature in Iceland is So Special
Iceland’s nature is not just beautiful — it’s pure, dramatic, and often untouched. There’s a raw power here that you don’t find in many places. From glacier-fed rivers to steaming lava fields, it’s a land that truly makes you feel alive.
✈️ Planning Your Trip
Whether you’re a photographer, hiker, nature lover, or simply looking to disconnect and recharge, Iceland’s nature offers something unforgettable. If you’re planning to visit Iceland, thoughtful preparation can turn a great trip into a truly life-changing experience — and that’s where we come in.
At Scandi Travel, we specialize in creating tailor-made Iceland travel experiences, connecting you with the country’s most iconic and hidden natural wonders. From glacier hikes and ice cave explorations to relaxing in geothermal lagoons and chasing the Northern Lights — we’ll help you experience Iceland at its most magical.
🧳 We also offer a carefully curated selection of Iceland travel packages to suit different interests and seasons.
👉 Explore our travel packages here
