The “land of fire and ice” is a nature lover’s paradise. You’ll find otherworldly lava fields, massive glaciers, breathtaking mountains, stunning waterfalls and more. Most people visit Iceland during the summer, but fall offers a spectrum of autumnal colors, higher odds of spotting the northern lights and less crowds.
What to see
Whale watching If you’re visiting in September or October, you may be able to see some of the 23 whale species found around Iceland. Whale watching tourism generates an estimated $26 million for the local economy each year. IceWhale, the Icelandic Whale Watching Association, lists operators who agree to follow guidelines for responsible whale watching.
What to eat
Brauð & Co With locations throughout Reykjavík, this bakery is a great option for sweet treats like the popular vegan cinnamon roll.
Pylsuvagninn á Akureyri This hot dog stand in northern Iceland has seven plant-based hot dog options, according to The Reykjavík Grapevine.
Krónan Travelers heading out to remote areas may want to consider stocking up on groceries. This grocery store chain has locations throughout Reykjavík and in towns like Selfoss and Vík.
What to do
Thingvellir National Park Most visitors don’t leave without a visit to this park, less than an hour from Reykjavík. If you’re looking for a challenge, check out nearby Glymur Waterfall Trail where you pass a colorful field, walk through a cave, cross a river and climb your way to a viewpoint of the waterfall.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula Here you can explore waterfalls, gorges and rocky beaches. Visit one of the country’s most iconic spots, called Kirkjufellsfossar, to see parallel waterfalls with a distinctively pointy mountain in the background.
Southern coast Along the south coast is the charming town of Vík, known for its black sand beaches, and the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. About 20 minutes from the lagoon is the Múlagljúfur Canyon hike, which should have spectacular fall colors.
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Sea of change
Iceland is one of only three countries (the other two being Norway and Japan) where commercial whaling still occurs. Whaling is controversial both internationally and within the country. A 2018 Gallup poll found 84% of Icelanders had never eaten whale meat and only 2% eat it semi-regularly. A 2023 poll by the Icelandic research company Maskina Institute found 51% of respondents opposed whaling. We are working to encourage tourists to engage in activities that help with the shift from consumption of whale meat to eco-tourism.
Keith Ladzinski/Kogia
Iceland and whaling
Iceland has killed more than 1,500 whales since 2002. It's time to stop this. Join us as we partner with local Icelandic group Hvalavinir to urge foreign tourists not to eat whale meat but to appreciate whales alive and free.
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