5 summer adventure activities in Iceland
It’s true that the Icelandic summer does not necessarily equal beach season, but here on our little island of ice and fire, summer is the time to enjoy the midnight sun, nature exploring, and other fun activities.
Because the winter and summer season are so different, there are activities that can only be done in winter – such as the Northern Lights – and others that belong to the summer. Below are five activities that should be on everybody’s bucket list for this summer.
1. Visit Greenland – Day trip to Kulusuk (June – September)
A day tour to Kulusuk village with Air Iceland Connect is a great way to add an unbelievable experience to your stay in Iceland. Among breathtaking views over the snowcapped mountains surrounded by floating ocean icebergs, your guide will show you around the village and tell you all about local life and traditions. Just think about it – a visit to the world’s largest island and one of the most remote, untouched places on earth just in a day’s visit! See our tour here.
2. Go paragliding over the mountains close to Reykjavik – Paragliding Tandem flight
Are you afraid of the heights but willing to challenge yourself? Then a Paragliding Tandem Flight might be your next adventure because the best way to overcome one’s fear is of course to face it! Conveniently located only a 30 min drive from the city, you’ll be well taken care of by expert paragliding instructors. They’ll provide all the necessary equipment and instructions and as it is a tandem flight, the guide will accompany you all the way. Iceland is the perfect place for a bird’s eye view with its volcanic landscapes, craters, fissures, hot springs, and glaciers. Iceland‘s unique geology really comes to life as you fly free as a bird over the otherworldly moonscape. Are you tempted? Check it out!
3. Take a journey towards the center of the Earth – Inside the Volcano tour
Do you like exploring nature’s most extraordinary sites and extreme locations? Here’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to go inside a real volcano, Thrihnjukagigur, that erupted some 4000 years ago. Located close to the city in the Blafjoll mountain range, the guided hike from the base camp to the volcano is an integral part of the tour so you will get to experience a real mountain hike as well. Once you arrive at the volcano, you descend by open cable lift down to the bottom of the crater, 120 meters/400 feet, where you can enjoy the spectacular surroundings, stunning colors and the feeling of being inside the earth’s core.
Pro tip: Dress warmly because, surprisingly, the insides of a volcano can be quite cold! This activity is only available in the summer season and may in fact only be available for a short period of time for conservation reasons. Don’t miss out! Book your volcanic adventure here.
4. Take a boat tour to see puffins in their natural habitat – Puffin watching
If you are looking for an easy-going and short activity, this is the one. An one hour boat tour departing from Reykjavik’s old harbor you will get to see Iceland’s beloved puffins that nest on the islands off the shore during their breeding season from May to end of August. This tour is a perfect little addition to your day in Reykjavik and a great family-friendly activity. These adorable little seabirds migrate from Iceland out to sea for the winter so don’t miss your opportunity. Book it here!
Pro tip: Bringing binoculars is always a great idea for serious birdwatching.
5. Buggy ride by the roots of Esja mountain
This is a treat for all who love sporty, bumpy driving thrills! On this tour, you’ll get a totally different view of Icelandic nature, more intimate and well… all in your face. No extra charge for dust, mud, and water splashes! Located less than 10 minutes outside of Reykjavik at the roots of Esja mountain, the perfect half-day tour. Check it out here.
Pro tips: Dress warmly. Even though overalls are provided, it can get very chilly, especially your hands. And be sure to schedule a spa or pool visit afterward to warm up and rinse off.
Have fun!
