Unveiling the Magical Photography Spots of Iceland
Stunning Icelandic Scenic Photography Spots You Won't Believe Are Real (25 Sites)
Embark on a mesmerizing journey through the Land of Fire and Ice as I share my favorite photography locations in Iceland. This island nation, bursting with vivid landscapes and otherworldly beauty, is an unparalleled playground for photographers.
From the frozen tundra of glaciers to the fiery depths of active volcanoes, Iceland constantly leaves me in awe. With the Northern Lights casting their mystical glow above, it's no wonder I found myself constantly yearning to return to this incredible land.
Imagine exploring icy glacial caves, soaring over erupting volcanoes, and spending a night under the spellbinding aurora borealis. Iceland provides an overwhelming, almost spiritual experience that reminds me of the very reasons I started traveling in the first place. For a nation its size, Iceland is overflowing with breathtaking vistas and diversity like no other.
Some of the landscapes stretch out for miles, punctuated by a handful of old farmhouses and fishing villages. You'll find all sorts of strange phenomena here! It's truly a paradise for travel photographers. Below you'll discover some of my top choices for Iceland photography locations, and I hope these breathtaking images inspire you to visit this amazing country on your own.
Iceland's Photography Heaven
Hallgrimskirkja Church
Most of Iceland's population resides around the capital city of Reykjavik. The city boasts a vibrant arts and music scene, but it's this striking Viking-esque church called Hallgrimskirkja that truly stands out.
Hallgrimskirkja Church is a distinctive photography location, towering over Reykjavik as Iceland's tallest church. The church was constructed with the rugged Icelandic landscapes in mind, making it a must-visit destination for unique architectural photographs. Don't forget to take the elevator to the top for some incredible views over the city!
Kerlingarfjoll Geothermal Area
Iceland's Enchanted Blue Lagoon
This artificial geothermal pool on the southwest coast of Iceland is the country's most popular tourist attraction. I spent an afternoon soaking in the lagoon's milky blue water with Kiersten from The Blonde Abroad, surrounded by swirling steam and theútfinder, or "white gold," Iceland's silica-rich mud.
The warm water and volcanic mud are said to be beneficial for your skin, while the location offers a beautiful backdrop for photography. To avoid the crowds, venture there at dawn or dusk.
The Ring Road
Iceland's Ring Road is a scenic driving route that circles the entire country, covering over 800 miles. It could technically be completed in under 24 hours, but reality dictates that a week is necessary with stops along the way. The Ring Road provides endless opportunities for breathtaking photography. I gave myself seven full days to traverse the route, and many of the images shown here were captured during that trip.
Thorsmork "Thor's Valley"
Eldhraun Lava Field
In certain parts of Iceland, ancient lava fields of black rock are blanketed by a thick green carpet of volcanic moss. This unique species takes hundreds of years to grow, and experts can estimate the age of a lava flow based on how thick the moss is. Icelandic folklore suggests that trolls and elves reside beneath the moss.
Walking through this surreal landscape feels like stepping into a Dr. Seuss book. Although photographing the fields of moss is enjoyable, it's crucial to avoid damaging the moss by footprints, as it does not grow back once destroyed.
Glacier Ice Caves
Iceland's stunning blue ice caves are a must-see for photographers. Meltwater flows beneath the Vatnajokull glacier, carving these awe-inspiring natural sculptures, with sunlight filtering through the ice above, causing it to appear blue.
The caves change and rearrange every season, making them a difficult and hazardous location to visit, requiring an experienced guide. Access is only possible during the winter.
Holuhraun Volcano
On August 29, 2014, a volcanic eruption broke through the surface of Holuhraun lava field in the northern highlands of Iceland. The eruption has been continuously spewing lava ever since, with no signs of stopping. Despite safety concerns related to flash floods and toxic gas, it's still possible to fly over the eruption site in a small plane for an incredible aerial photography experience.
Strokkur Geyser
Did you know that the general term "geyser" is derived from a particular geothermal fountain in Iceland called Strokkur? Strokkur erupts every 5-10 minutes near the Hvita River, one of many stops on our day-long road trip around the Golden Circle.
We rented a cheap car and drove the Golden Circle under blue skies, rain, and snowstorm throughout the day! Iceland's weather can change dramatically, and there are numerous exciting photographic opportunities along this popular route, which starts in Reykjavik.
Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck
Skaogfoss Waterfall
Visit Skaogfoss Waterfall during the summer, when the weather warms to 20-25°C (68-77°F), and Iceland truly comes alive. Photograph the waterfall under the bright midday sun, and don't forget to watch for the occasional rainbow that appears against the backdrop of ice-capped mountains.
According to Icelandic folklore, there's a Viking treasure hidden behind the curtain of water, while Thor himself reportedly made an appearance here during the filming of "Thor: The Dark World".
Tiny Icelandic Elf Homes?
If you travel to Iceland, you must take the topic of huldufolk (hidden folk) seriously, just like the locals do. In 1998, more than half of Iceland's residents believed in the existence of wee folk, and their homes sometimes influence decisions during the construction process. In Iceland, elves are a part of everyday life. Act accordingly!
Fuzzy Icelandic Horses!
The small but sturdy horses in Iceland may resemble ponies, but don't be fooled by calling them that in front of a local! Icelandic horses have a storied history dating back to the 9th century. Breeding and natural selection have made them incredibly hardy, able to withstand long, freezing winters in the wild. Hay and stable rest are foreign concepts to these hearty wild horses, and they can be found roaming many farms throughout Iceland.
Backcountry Mountain Huts
Find these brightly-colored huts dotted across the countryside, offering a splash of primary colors amidst pristine landscapes. They are equipped with blankets, dried food, and medical supplies, and some were built by Icelandic volunteer search and rescue organizations early in the last century. Although their usefulness has diminished, their ability to potentially save lives remains. If you decide to enter, be sure to close all the doors and windows again – it could be months before another traveler stops by.
Vatnajokull Glacier
One sixth of Iceland is covered in vast, breathtaking glaciers, primarily in the south and central highland regions. The glaciers pose fascinating photographic opportunities, especially when contrasted with the brilliant white snow and icy blue ice.
For example, Svinafellsjokull is an outlet glacier flowing from the Vatnajokull ice-cap. This tongue of shattered ice offers a breathtaking, vibrant, and unique backdrop for your photographs.
Remote Eastern Iceland
Icelanders often refer to remote places in their country as "svalcallar," meaning "cold places." The eastern coastline is a desolate, mountainous region with signs of human habitation appearing only in the occasional fishing village.
It's also a hiker's paradise, and an excellent choice for travelers seeking a quieter, less crowded Icelandic experience.
Jokulsarlon Iceberg Lagoon
At the foot of the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier lies a large glacier lake called Jokulsarlon lagoon, formed by melting ice from above. The lake is filled with blue-tinged icebergs that broke off from the base of the glacier.
Some of the icebergs collect on the lake's black sand shores, while others float out to sea through a nearby channel. Located on Iceland's south coast, Jokulsarlon is a fantastic spot for photography.
Cool Icelandic Art Murals
Art is deeply ingrained into Icelandic culture, and it's not uncommon for locals to describe themselves as artists in multiple disciplines. This artistic flair can be noticed in depictions of the Icelandic sagas, semi-mythical stories dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries. You'll find abundant examples of street art in Reykjavik and other cities across the country.
Silfra Tectonic Fissure
The North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly separating at Silfra, creating a fissure filled with crystal-clear, 35°F (2°C) glacial water. Water from the nearby Langjokull Glacier melts and filters underground through the volcanic rock for 50 years before emerging, creating the ideal location for snorkeling or scuba diving.
Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights)
Photographing the Northern Lights is the highlight of my Iceland photography adventures. The best time to witness the lights is in the fall and winter when the nights are long, and the temperature drops.
On one particularly incredible evening, I captured the aurora dancing above the famous abandoned US Navy plane at Solheimasandur Beach. On another, I watched in awe as the lights splashed across the valley from my tent in Thorsmork.
Where to Stay in Iceland
Although there are numerous towns in Iceland, most travelers base themselves in Reykjavik for at least a few days. Here are my recommendations for accommodation, ranging from luxury to budget options.
WHERE TO STAY IN REYKJAVIK
Luxury:- Kvosin Downtown Hotel
Midrange:- Rey Apartments
Budget:- Classic Hostel
WHERE TO STAY ON THE GOLDEN CIRCLE
Luxury:- Fosshotel Nupar
Midrange:- Hilton Reykjavik Nordica
Budget:- Base Hostel Reykjavik
WHERE TO STAY ON SOUTH COAST
Luxury:- Hotel Vignir
Midrange:- Hotel Skoga
Budget:- Vík Hostel
venture to the Hallgrimskirkja Church in Reykjavik, an architectural marvel that offers unique photography opportunities amidst the city's vibrant arts and music scene.
Capture the ethereal beauty of the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa where warm water, volcanic mud, and the untouched Icelandic landscape combine for a magical photography experience.
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