Camping and Campsites in Iceland

Icy glaciers, thundering geysers und endless uninhabited plains in the middle of moss-covered volcanic landscapes - the small island south of the Arctic Circle surprises and impresses with every place once again.

If you set out from the multifaceted capital Reykjavík to explore the secrets of the largest volcanic island on earth by tent, you will embark on an adventurous journey across wild nature. Because Mother Nature is Iceland's main attraction. No two campsites are alike: whether chilly next to a glacier or near animals on a sheep pasture, every campsite offers new and exciting surroundings. You want to get to know Iceland no matter what, but don't know where to start yet? No worries! We present you the most beautiful destinations for your trip to Iceland!

The Most Beautiful Destinations for Camping in Iceland

The Blue Lagoon in Iceland

You want to really relax for once and enjoy the healing powers of Icelandic Water? It's possible in the Blue Lagoon! The outdoor thermal pool near Grindavík on the Reykjanes peninsula amazes with its milky blue colour because of its high silica content. The thermal bath is visited by many tourists due to its proximity to the capital Reykjavík.

The Golden Circle in Iceland

Also not far from Reykjavík lies the Golden Circle. The popular travelling route in the South West of the island of Iceland connects three impressive natural attractions: the Þingvellir National Park, the geothermal area with active geysers and the Gullfoss waterfall. Due to the favourable geographical location, you can do the tour in one day and visit all three breathtaking places.

The Diamond Beach in Iceland

The Diamond Beach has more than earned its name. Ice chunks and pieces of glacier wash up from the glacial lake Jökulsárlon and glisten on the black sandy beach. The beach is far from an insider tip, so you should expect many other visitors. It's especially beautiful to observe the sunrise or sunset in the middle of glistening ice.

The Goðafoss Waterfall in Iceland

Iceland is famous for its many waterfalls, in total there are a bit more than 50 on the island. The best known one is the Goðafoss Waterfall, which is also called the Waterfall of the Gods. An old legend tells the story of Þorgeir Ljósvetningargoð, a Viking leader in the old Alþingi parliament, who threw his statues of Nordic gods into the waterfall in a fit of rage when Iceland became Christian.

Camping Round Trip through Iceland

In Iceland, it is particularly worthwhile to not just stay in one place, but discover a little more of the island. With a caravan or motorhome you're flexible and can rest at different campsites. You want to go all the way around Iceland and have a bit more time on your trip? Then a tour along the Ring Road is the right thing for you! But you can also experience a lot, even if you don't have as much time. The Golden Circle Tour, on which you explore the West of Iceland, is the most suitable when you are short on time.

What Campers Should Know about Camping in Iceland

Never Stray from the Path

Iceland’s wild nature is perfect for a drive, but be careful! Racing across the wide, open plains is strictly forbidden. Mother Nature can heal the tyre tracks, but it takes a lot of time and effort. Most of the roads are only minimally developed anyway, so you can still legally get that off-road feeling.

Sobriety is the Number One Rule

The roads in Iceland can be rough and bumpy at times. Even the most experienced driver needs to concentrate on the road completely, and that’s only possible when sober. That’s why Iceland has strictly enforced drink/drive laws in place.

Immediate Fines

With fines of 5,000 ISK (about €30) for going 6-10 km/h over the limit and up to 150,000 ISK (around €1000) and having your driving licence taken away from you for three months, speeding in Iceland can really cost you. If the police catch you, you’ll even have to pay the fine immediately. So drive a little more slowly and enjoy the gorgeous natural surroundings rather than letting a speeding ticket tear through your holiday budget.

Whale Meat Stays in Iceland

Whaling is forbidden and frowned upon in many countries, but in Iceland, it’s a centuries-old tradition. Whale meat is offered all over the country, so this is the place to try it. If you like the taste, though, get your fill while you’re there. Don’t pack your bags full of this delicacy, as many places won’t let you import it.