When it comes to “hot” and “trending” destinations, in recent years Iceland has been right up there near the top of all the lists.
What used to be one of the most expensive countries to visit in Europe suddenly became much more affordable after a financial collapse in 2008. And, while financial crisis is never something to be joyful about, tourists have certainly benefitted from the affects of Iceland's struggles. While the country still isn't “cheap” by any standards, it's now much more affordable for the average person to visit.
I planned my first visit to Iceland in early 2012, when Iceland was slowly getting back on its feet but before it became an “it” destination. I remember people asking me why the hell I wanted to go to Iceland (and in winter, no less). But as soon as I came home and showed them photos, they got it.
Iceland is wild and raw; it truly is the Land of Fire and Ice, where Mother Nature reigns supreme.
And it's also one of the most magical places on earth.
Don't believe me? I think these photos should prove it:
So, are you convinced? Do you understand why everyone who's visited Iceland has gone so crazy over it?
Iceland is definitely magical, and it has certainly cast its spell on me. Even after two trips there, I know I'm not done.
I'll be back.
For further reading:
- 12 Crazy But Cool Things You Can See in Iceland
- A 10-Day Itinerary for Iceland in Winter (Without Renting a Car)
- The Wild Beauty of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
- Snorkeling Silfra: Swimming Between Tectonic Plates in Iceland
- 48 Hours in Reykjavik
- Relaxing at Iceland's Blue Lagoon
- Iceland's Golden Circle
- What to Pack for a Trip to Iceland in Winter
And if you're planning an adventurous trip around Iceland, be sure to invest in a good travel insurance policy! That way everything from lost luggage to a bad accident is covered – because you just never know! I recommend World Nomads for basic (and really affordable) travel insurance.
Who's ready to book a trip to Iceland?
Amanda Williams is the award-winning blogger behind A Dangerous Business Travel Blog. She has traveled to more than 60 countries on 6 continents from her home base in Ohio, specializing in experiential and thoughtful travel through the US, Europe, and rest of the world. Amanda only shares tips based on her personal experiences and places she's actually traveled!
Wow! They seem as though they could be paintings. The Blue Lagoon is my favorite.
The Blue Lagoon certain is surreal to see!
Amazing how you turned great images into a story Amanda. The last image especially…with the town in the foreground and snow capped mountain in the back…makes you miss places you’ve never been to.
Thanks so much! It’s so easy to fall in love with Iceland.
Iceland is definitely one of the most magical countries on the planet! The northern lights is one of the highlights for me there, absolutely stunning view and a must experience for every adventure seeker.
I sadly have never seen the Northern Lights in Iceland! But it’s a pretty magical country anyway. 🙂
Stunning views and photography! Wow! I have the same camera as you, but I am in awe how you get such rich colours and perfect sharpness and blurred water. Did you use a tripod and on manual?? Your travel images are so inspiring 🙂
Aww thanks! Some of the shots (especially of the waterfalls) were indeed taken on a tripod using a slightly longer shutter speed. But most were just taken with the camera in my hand!
Wow, how many wonderful pictures. My dream is to know this beautiful place.
Oh wow I got chills! These pictures are amazing, I’d love to visit Iceland!
Thanks, Tanya! It’s a pretty magical place!
[…] Most people include Iceland in their bucket lists. Those who have had the chance to visit the country confirm that it’s indeed one of the most magical places in the world and A Dangerous Business, for one, describe it as otherworldly. […]
The photos are incredible.
Thank you!
These pictures are too beautiful], I have no words …
Iceland must have like a million or more waterfalls, it’s insane. So much mountain runoff and you can drink it. Unreal country.
“Unreal” is the perfect word for it. It’s one of those places that I don’t think I could ever get tired of visiting!
[…] READ NEXT: 25 Photos That Prove That Iceland is Magical […]
Your picture are so beautiful… I really hope to be able to get back there and do the same !
You would think it would be tough to get good photos of Iceland when the weather (especially in the winter) is often quite moody. But Iceland is really just amazing – it’s easy to take great photos there!
Hi there! Any tips of going to Iceland in January? I want to go to Iceland for my honeymoon then!
Thanks so much,
Kaitlin
Hey kaitlin! I’ve only traveled to Iceland in the winter, so everything listed on my Iceland page should apply! You can see everything I’ve written here: https://www.dangerous-business.com/destinations/iceland/
Iceland seems to be the “in place to travel” at the moment. I can see why from your photos. Absolutely beautiful.
Yes, it’s definitely become hugely popular in the last couple of years! Well-deserved, though. 🙂
These pictures are incredibly amazing! Can you tell me which kind of camera and lense you use and do you have any tips for taking photos in Iceland?
Thank you, Aubrie! I currently use an Olympus OM-D EM-5 Mark II (http://amzn.to/24uE5SN) with a 12-40mm Pro lens (http://amzn.to/1TelCGF). Most of the photos in this post were taken with that camera and lens!