Iceland’s Ring Road, also known as Route 1 or Hringvegur, offers an unparalleled journey through a land of stark contrasts and breathtaking beauty. This 1,332-kilometer circuit encircles the island, showcasing a mesmerizing array of volcanic landscapes, glacial wonders, and cultural treasures. Embarking on this road trip allows you to immerse yourself in the raw power of nature, from steaming geothermal fields to thundering waterfalls and expansive ice caps.
As you navigate this iconic route, you’ll encounter a diverse tapestry of experiences that epitomize Iceland’s unique character. The Ring Road presents an opportunity to witness the country’s geological marvels up close, from the otherworldly terrain of Námafjall Hverir to the glittering icebergs of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Along the way, charming towns and remote settlements offer glimpses into Iceland’s rich cultural heritage and modern-day life.
Geological marvels along iceland’s route 1
The Ring Road serves as a gateway to Iceland’s most spectacular geological formations, showcasing the country’s position on the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. This unique geological setting has given rise to a landscape that seems almost alien in its diversity and drama.
One of the most striking features you’ll encounter is the vast lava fields that blanket large swathes of the countryside. These expanses of cooled volcanic rock, often covered in a velvety layer of moss, create an otherworldly atmosphere that’s truly unforgettable. The Eldhraun lava field in South Iceland, formed during the catastrophic Laki eruption of 1783-1784, is a prime example of this phenomenon.
As you continue your journey, you’ll come across numerous volcanic craters and cones that dot the landscape. The perfectly formed Hverfjall crater near Lake Mývatn and the colorful Kerid crater in the Golden Circle region are just two examples of the volcanic features you can explore up close.
Iceland is a geological wonderland, where the Earth’s inner workings are laid bare for all to see. Every turn of the Ring Road reveals new marvels that speak to the island’s fiery origins and ongoing geological activity.
The interplay between fire and ice is perhaps most dramatically illustrated in Iceland’s glacier-capped volcanoes. Eyjafjallajökull, famous for its 2010 eruption that disrupted air travel across Europe, is visible from the Ring Road in South Iceland. This juxtaposition of ice and fire serves as a powerful reminder of the dynamic forces that continue to shape this remarkable island.
Navigating the 1,332 km hringvegur circuit
Embarking on a journey around Iceland’s Ring Road requires careful planning and preparation. The 1,332-kilometer circuit can be completed in as little as a week, but allowing 10-14 days will give you ample time to explore the diverse landscapes and attractions along the way. It’s important to note that while the Ring Road itself is paved and generally well-maintained, many of the most interesting sites are accessed via gravel roads or F-roads that require special vehicles and driving skills.
Essential vehicle preparations for F-Roads
If you plan to venture off the Ring Road onto F-roads, it’s crucial to rent a suitable 4×4 vehicle. These mountain roads are often rough, unpaved, and may involve river crossings. Ensure your vehicle is equipped with high clearance and proper tires. It’s also wise to familiarize yourself with your rental car’s features and any specific instructions for driving in challenging conditions.
Before setting out on F-roads, check the latest road conditions on the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration website. Conditions can change rapidly, and some roads may be closed due to weather or other factors. Always carry extra fuel, food, and warm clothing, as services can be few and far between in the highlands.
Seasonal driving challenges: fjallabak and öxi pass
While the Ring Road itself is open year-round, many secondary roads, including popular routes like Fjallabak and Öxi Pass, are only accessible during the summer months. Fjallabak, which leads to the colorful Landmannalaugar area, typically opens in late June or early July, depending on snow conditions. Öxi Pass, a dramatic shortcut in East Iceland, is usually open from May to October but can be challenging even in good weather.
Winter driving in Iceland presents its own set of challenges. Daylight hours are limited, and roads can be icy or snow-covered. If you’re planning a winter Ring Road trip, consider renting a car with studded tires and be prepared for potential delays due to weather conditions. Always check the forecast and road status before setting out each day.
GPS navigation and offline mapping techniques
While GPS navigation is generally reliable along the Ring Road, it’s wise to have offline maps available as backup. Download offline maps for Iceland using apps like Google Maps or Maps.me before your trip. These can be invaluable in areas with limited cell coverage.
For more detailed navigation, especially when venturing onto F-roads or hiking trails, consider using dedicated GPS devices or apps designed for outdoor navigation. Apps like Gaia GPS offer detailed topographic maps and the ability to track your route, which can be particularly useful in remote areas.
Emergency services and SAR protocols in remote areas
Despite careful planning, emergencies can occur. Familiarize yourself with Iceland’s emergency services and Search and Rescue (SAR) protocols before your trip. The emergency number in Iceland is 112, and operators speak English. In remote areas, you may need to use a satellite phone or emergency beacon to call for help.
Consider downloading the 112 Iceland app, which allows you to check in with your location and send an emergency alert if needed. It’s also wise to register your travel plans with SafeTravel.is, a service provided by the Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue.
Iconic landmarks and natural wonders
The Ring Road serves as a gateway to many of Iceland’s most famous natural wonders. From thundering waterfalls to otherworldly geothermal areas, each stop along the route offers a new and awe-inspiring spectacle. Planning your itinerary to include these iconic landmarks will ensure you experience the full breadth of Iceland’s diverse landscapes.
Exploring jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and diamond beach
One of the most photographed locations in Iceland, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a must-visit destination on your Ring Road journey. This vast lagoon is filled with icebergs that have calved from the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. The sight of these luminous blue icebergs floating serenely in the lagoon is truly mesmerizing.
Across the road from Jökulsárlón lies Diamond Beach, where icebergs wash up on the black sand shore after being carried out to sea. The contrast between the glittering ice and the dark volcanic sand creates a striking visual effect, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
To fully appreciate the beauty of Jökulsárlón, consider taking an amphibious boat tour or a Zodiac excursion among the icebergs. These tours offer a closer look at the ice formations and sometimes provide glimpses of seals lounging on the floating ice.
Hiking trails in skaftafell national park
Skaftafell, now part of the larger Vatnajökull National Park, offers some of the best hiking opportunities along the Ring Road. The park’s diverse landscape includes glaciers, waterfalls, and birch forests, providing a range of trails suitable for different fitness levels.
One of the most popular hikes in Skaftafell is the trail to Svartifoss, or “Black Falls.” This distinctive waterfall is framed by dark basalt columns, creating a scene that has inspired Icelandic architecture, including the design of Hallgrímskirkja church in Reykjavík. The hike to Svartifoss is relatively easy and takes about 90 minutes round trip.
For more experienced hikers, the challenging trek to Kristínartindar offers panoramic views over the park’s glaciers and surrounding landscapes. This 8-10 hour hike requires good fitness and proper equipment but rewards with some of the most spectacular vistas in Iceland.
Geothermal phenomena at námafjall hverir
The geothermal area of Námafjall Hverir, located near Lake Mývatn in North Iceland, offers a vivid glimpse into the earth’s fiery interior. This otherworldly landscape is dotted with bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and colorful mineral deposits that create an almost Martian appearance.
As you explore Námafjall Hverir, you’ll be struck by the intense sulfuric smell and the constant hissing of steam escaping from the earth. Wooden boardwalks allow you to safely navigate the area and get close-up views of the geothermal features. The stark beauty of this barren, steaming landscape provides a powerful reminder of Iceland’s volcanic nature.
Walking through Námafjall Hverir feels like stepping onto another planet. The otherworldly sights, sounds, and smells create an immersive experience that truly captures the essence of Iceland’s geothermal power.
Waterfalls of the south: seljalandsfoss and skógafoss
The south coast of Iceland is renowned for its spectacular waterfalls, with Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss being two of the most famous. Both are easily accessible from the Ring Road and offer unique experiences for visitors.
Seljalandsfoss is notable for the pathway that leads behind the curtain of water, allowing you to experience the falls from a truly unique perspective. The best time to visit is during the long summer evenings when the midnight sun can create stunning rainbows in the mist.
Just a short drive further east, Skógafoss impresses with its sheer power and size. Standing 60 meters tall and 25 meters wide, this massive waterfall creates a constant mist that often produces vivid rainbows on sunny days. A staircase beside the falls leads to a viewing platform at the top, offering panoramic views of the south coast.
Cultural immersion in icelandic towns
While Iceland’s natural wonders are undoubtedly the main draw for many Ring Road travelers, the country’s towns and villages offer fascinating insights into Icelandic culture and daily life. Each settlement along the route has its own unique character and attractions, providing welcome breaks from driving and opportunities to engage with local communities.
Akureyri, often called the “Capital of the North,” is the largest town outside the Reykjavík area. This charming settlement boasts a surprising array of cultural attractions, including art museums, botanical gardens, and a thriving food scene. The town’s location at the head of Eyjafjörður fjord provides stunning views and easy access to whale watching tours.
In East Iceland, the town of Seyðisfjörður is renowned for its picturesque setting and vibrant arts community. The rainbow-painted street leading to the blue church has become an iconic image of Iceland. This creative hub hosts numerous art galleries, workshops, and the annual LungA Art Festival.
Smaller villages like Vík í Mýrdal in the south and Húsavík in the north offer their own unique charms. Vík is famous for its black sand beaches and proximity to natural wonders like Reynisfjara, while Húsavík has earned a reputation as the whale watching capital of Europe.
Taking the time to explore these towns and interact with locals can greatly enrich your Ring Road experience. Try local cuisine, visit museums to learn about regional history, and perhaps attend a cultural event or festival if your timing allows.
Wildlife encounters and birdwatching hotspots
Iceland’s diverse ecosystems support a variety of wildlife, particularly birds and marine mammals. The Ring Road provides access to some of the country’s best wildlife viewing opportunities, allowing you to observe species in their natural habitats.
Puffin colonies at dyrhólaey and ingólfshöfði
Iceland is home to a significant portion of the world’s Atlantic puffin population, and several locations along the Ring Road offer excellent puffin watching opportunities. Dyrhólaey, a small peninsula near Vík, is one of the most accessible puffin viewing sites. From mid-May to late August, thousands of puffins nest on the cliffs here, often allowing for close-up views.
For a more adventurous puffin experience, consider a tour to Ingólfshöfði, a remote headland in southeast Iceland. This isolated nature reserve is home to a large puffin colony, as well as other seabirds like guillemots and kittiwakes. Accessing Ingólfshöfði involves a tractor ride across black sand flats and a short hike, but the reward is an intimate wildlife encounter in a truly spectacular setting.
Whale watching excursions from húsavík
Húsavík, located on the north coast, has earned its reputation as the whale watching capital of Iceland. The nutrient-rich waters of Skjálfandi Bay attract a variety of whale species, including humpbacks, blue whales, and minke whales. Orcas and white-beaked dolphins are also frequently spotted.
Several companies offer whale watching tours from Húsavík’s harbor, ranging from traditional oak boats to high-speed RIBs. Many tours also include a visit to Puffin Island, where you can observe these charming seabirds in their natural habitat. For an even more immersive experience, consider a kayaking tour that allows you to get closer to the whales while minimizing environmental impact.
Arctic fox sightings in hornstrandir nature reserve
While not directly on the Ring Road, the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve in the remote Westfjords is worth a detour for wildlife enthusiasts. This uninhabited wilderness is home to Iceland’s largest population of Arctic foxes. These adaptable predators are the country’s only native land mammal and are relatively unafraid of humans in this protected area.
Visiting Hornstrandir requires careful planning and usually involves a boat trip from Ísafjörður. Guided hiking tours offer the best chance of spotting Arctic foxes, as well as opportunities to see other wildlife and experience the raw beauty of this untouched landscape.
Photography techniques for capturing iceland’s landscapes
Iceland’s diverse and dramatic landscapes offer endless opportunities for photography enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an amateur with a smartphone, capturing the beauty of the Ring Road requires some specific techniques and considerations.
One of the most important aspects of landscape photography in Iceland is understanding the light. During the summer months, the extended “golden hours” around sunrise and sunset provide soft, warm light that can dramatically enhance your images. In winter, the low angle of the sun creates long shadows and ethereal light conditions throughout the day.
When photographing Iceland’s many waterfalls, consider using a neutral density filter to allow for longer exposures. This technique can create a smooth, silky effect in the water while keeping the surrounding landscape sharp. For waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the cascade, protect your camera from spray with a rain cover or plastic bag.
Capturing the vastness of Iceland’s landscapes often requires wide-angle lenses. However, don’t forget to look for details and patterns in the landscape as well. The textures of lava fields, the geometric shapes of basalt columns, and the delicate forms of arctic flora can all make for compelling close-up shots.
For northern lights photography, a sturdy tripod is essential, as you’ll be working with long exposures in low light conditions. Use a wide-angle lens with a fast aperture (f/2.8 or wider if possible) and set your camera to manual mode. Start with settings around ISO 1600, f/2.8, and a 15-second exposure, adjusting as necessary based on the intensity of the aurora.
Remember to always respect the environment when photographing in Iceland. Stay on marked paths, don’t disturb wildlife, and be mindful of fragile vegetation. By practicing responsible photography, you’ll
help preserve these delicate ecosystems for future generations.
Wildlife encounters and birdwatching hotspots
While Iceland’s dramatic landscapes often take center stage, the country’s diverse wildlife offers equally captivating experiences for nature enthusiasts. The Ring Road provides access to some of Iceland’s premier wildlife viewing locations, where patient observers can witness a variety of species in their natural habitats.
Puffin colonies at dyrhólaey and ingólfshöfði
Iceland is home to a significant portion of the world’s Atlantic puffin population, with several accessible viewing sites along the Ring Road. Dyrhólaey, a small peninsula near Vík, offers excellent opportunities to observe these charismatic seabirds. From mid-May to late August, thousands of puffins nest on the cliffs here, often allowing for remarkably close views.
For a more adventurous puffin-watching experience, consider a tour to Ingólfshöfði, a remote headland in southeast Iceland. This isolated nature reserve hosts a large puffin colony, along with other seabirds like guillemots and kittiwakes. Accessing Ingólfshöfði involves an exciting tractor ride across black sand flats followed by a short hike, rewarding visitors with an intimate wildlife encounter in a truly spectacular setting.
Whale watching excursions from húsavík
Húsavík, nestled on Iceland’s north coast, has rightfully earned its reputation as the whale watching capital of Europe. The nutrient-rich waters of Skjálfandi Bay attract a variety of cetacean species, including humpback whales, blue whales, and minke whales. Lucky observers may also spot orcas and white-beaked dolphins during their excursions.
Several companies offer whale watching tours from Húsavík’s picturesque harbor, ranging from traditional oak boats to high-speed RIBs. Many tours include a visit to Puffin Island, combining two iconic Icelandic wildlife experiences. For an even more immersive adventure, consider a kayaking tour that allows you to get closer to the whales while minimizing environmental impact.
Arctic fox sightings in hornstrandir nature reserve
While not directly on the Ring Road, the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve in the remote Westfjords is a worthwhile detour for wildlife enthusiasts. This uninhabited wilderness is home to Iceland’s largest population of Arctic foxes, the country’s only native land mammal. In this protected area, these adaptable predators are relatively unafraid of humans, offering unique observation opportunities.
Visiting Hornstrandir requires careful planning and typically involves a boat trip from Ísafjörður. Guided hiking tours provide the best chance of spotting Arctic foxes, while also offering opportunities to see other wildlife and experience the raw beauty of this untouched landscape. The journey to Hornstrandir is an adventure in itself, showcasing the rugged charm of Iceland’s lesser-visited regions.
Photography techniques for capturing iceland’s landscapes
Iceland’s diverse and dramatic landscapes present endless opportunities for photography enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an amateur with a smartphone, capturing the beauty of the Ring Road requires specific techniques and considerations to do justice to the country’s awe-inspiring scenery.
Understanding and working with Iceland’s unique light conditions is crucial for landscape photography. During summer months, the extended “golden hours” around sunrise and sunset bathe the landscape in soft, warm light that can dramatically enhance your images. In winter, the low angle of the sun creates long shadows and ethereal light conditions throughout the day, offering a different but equally captivating atmosphere.
When photographing Iceland’s numerous waterfalls, consider using a neutral density filter to allow for longer exposures. This technique can create a smooth, silky effect in the water while keeping the surrounding landscape sharp. For waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the cascade, protect your camera from spray with a rain cover or plastic bag.
The key to capturing Iceland’s essence is patience. Wait for the perfect light, be prepared for rapid weather changes, and don’t be afraid to return to a location multiple times to get the shot you envision.
Capturing the vastness of Iceland’s landscapes often requires wide-angle lenses. However, don’t overlook the potential for compelling close-up shots. The textures of lava fields, the geometric shapes of basalt columns, and the delicate forms of arctic flora can all make for striking detail images that complement your wider landscape shots.
For those hoping to capture the elusive northern lights, preparation is key. A sturdy tripod is essential, as you’ll be working with long exposures in low light conditions. Use a wide-angle lens with a fast aperture (f/2.8 or wider if possible) and set your camera to manual mode. Start with settings around ISO 1600, f/2.8, and a 15-second exposure, adjusting as necessary based on the intensity of the aurora.
Remember that responsible photography practices are crucial in Iceland’s delicate ecosystems. Always stay on marked paths, avoid disturbing wildlife, and be mindful of fragile vegetation. By practicing ethical photography, you’ll help preserve these incredible landscapes for future generations of photographers and travelers.