Iceland has become one of the most popular tourist destinations over the years due to its breathtaking landscapes and unique culture. Backpacking in Iceland offers an unforgettable experience, where every turn of the scenic route takes you to a new natural wonder. However, with so many beautiful sights to take in, it can be challenging to plan an itinerary that covers all the hotspots of Iceland within a tight budget and time frame. To simplify your planning process, we have created the ultimate Iceland backpacking itinerary to make your trip unforgettable.
Day 1: Reykjavik – The Capital City
Start your backpacking adventure by exploring Reykjavik for a day. The city has an exciting nightlife, art galleries, museums, and restaurants to cater to all tastes. You can begin by visiting the Hallgrímskirkja Church, the Perlan Museum, and the Harpa Concert Hall, showcasing Iceland’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. Head to the Old Harbor or downtown Reykjavik in the evenings to experience authentic Icelandic cuisine and drinks.
Day 2: The Golden Circle tour
The Golden Circle tour is a must-do in Iceland, covering some of the most iconic landmarks in the country. Begin with visiting Thingvellir National Park, where you can see the minor tectonic shifts between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plate boundaries. Afterward, head to the Geysir geothermal area, which features Strokkur, a geyser erupting every few minutes, and Gullfoss waterfall, one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland.
Day 3: South Coast of Iceland
Start your day by driving towards Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, two of the most renowned waterfalls in the country. The best part about Seljalandsfoss is that you can walk behind the waterfall for a unique experience. Skógafoss, on the other hand, is massive, and you can hike to the top for a panoramic view of the surroundings. After that, head to the black-sand beach of Reynisfjara before driving to the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon to witness icebergs floating around.
Day 4: Explore the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is also known as ‘Iceland in a Nutshell,’ famous for stunning picturesque towns and natural beauty. Start your day by driving to Arnarstapi, a small fishing village, and hike to the Hellnar rock formations through the picturesque coastal trail. The area also features a majestic black Church, Budir, and lighthouses enriching your experience. Head back to Reykjavík in the evening for a relaxed night before wrapping up the backpacking adventure.
Conclusion
The Iceland backpacking itinerary wraps up some of the most renowned tourist destinations in Iceland, covering the capital city of Reykjavik, the Golden Circle Tour, the south coast of Iceland, and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. However, it’s also important to keep in mind that Iceland has much to offer, such as hot springs, glaciers, and Northern Lights, providing a unique experience to everyone. Therefore, customize your itinerary based on your interests and try to immerse yourself in Iceland’s culture. Ultimately, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories that last a lifetime.
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