If you’re looking for the ultimate trip, adventure tours in Iceland should be at the top of your bucket list. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse outdoor activities, and vibrant culture, Iceland offers travellers a unique and unforgettable experience. From glacier tours and exploring lava caves to seeing the Northern Lights, an adventure tour to Iceland is sure to satisfy even the most adventurous traveller.
Here are 5 reasons why adventure tours in Iceland should be on that list from someone that loves an adventure, but also likes to pick ideas that work for family too.
1. The Northern Lights: the ultimate in adventure tours in Iceland
One of the most magical and awe-inspiring sights in the world, the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, is an experience that is hard to put into words. If you’re looking for an adventure tour to Iceland, then you’ll definitely want to make sure you’re visiting during the winter months to get a glimpse of this amazing light show. The Northern Lights usually appear during the night, but can also be seen in the day if conditions are right. As you gaze up at the sky, you’ll see a range of colours from bright greens to purples, as the lights dance and swirl across the sky. You can even take a tour specifically to view the lights, and you may even get to experience the lights from a hot tub or boat – an unforgettable experience.
2. The volcanoes
One of the main reasons why an adventure tour to Iceland should be on your bucket list is the amazing volcanoes. This volcanic island is home to more than 130 volcanoes, of which 18 are active. A volcanic eruption in Iceland can be a spectacular sight to behold and one you will never forget! From the moment you arrive, you can explore the many volcanoes that make up the country. You can take guided tours to some of the more remote and interesting volcanoes.
Your kids will likely have done the volcano experiment at school (!) in their science, and they can see a real one now! This one we are linking to is a rainbow volcano, for other rainbow activities on our site, do explore.
They can even hike around the volcano craters, including the popular volcano Askja. For an even closer look, you can book a helicopter tour for a bird’s-eye view of these spectacular geological wonders. The incredible activity that occurs inside a volcano can be experienced in person with guided tours to Thrihnukagigur volcano, where visitors can explore the magma chamber and admire the colours of its bubbling lava. Something that the kids would never forget, we’d imagine.
Finally, you could also take a boat ride from Reykjavik to the Westman Islands, where you can witness the eruption of Eldfell volcano in 1973.
3. The hot springs
An adventure tour to Iceland wouldn’t be complete without visiting the natural hot springs: something that teenagers might be particularly fond of trying out.
As one of the top attractions in Iceland, the hot springs provide a great opportunity for relaxation and exploration. The most popular hot spring is the Blue Lagoon, located on the Reykjanes Peninsula. This mineral-rich lagoon features temperatures of up to 100°F and provides stunning views of the surrounding area. The Blue Lagoon also has a variety of spa treatments available to help you unwind after a long day of exploring. Other hot springs are scattered throughout Iceland, allowing you to explore different areas and enjoy the therapeutic effects of the hot springs. Some locations even have outdoor pools that allow you to soak in the natural warm water while taking in some breathtaking views.
Not that kids must be older than two to visit the Blue Lagoon, so do bear this in mind when you go. Those that are 8 and younger, need to wear bouyancy aids as well.
4. The waterfalls
Iceland is home to some of the most beautiful and majestic waterfalls in the world. From the cascading Seljalandsfoss waterfall to the thunderous power of Dettifoss, you will find yourself captivated by the natural beauty of these incredible waterfalls. Seljalandsfoss waterfall is located near the Ring Road, making it easily accessible and a popular tourist destination. It is simple to get to for those with kids as a result, as there isn’t too much walking involved.
The sheer force of this 60-metre high cascade is breathtaking, and its location allows visitors to walk around behind the fall to get an incredible view of the landscape. The mighty Dettifoss is Europe’s largest waterfall by volume and it is definitely a sight to behold. A visit to Dettifoss will be unforgettable, as the thundering force of its 200-metre wide cascade is truly amazing. Be sure to take a moment to appreciate the scale and grandeur of this spectacle.
5. The wildlife
Iceland is home to a diverse array of wildlife, from majestic whales and dolphins to soaring birds and playful seals. You can explore the stunning wilderness of Iceland while still maintaining an eco-friendly outlook. This is because there are many tour companies offering sustainable and animal-friendly tours. Most children are fascinated by the variety of the wildlife in Iceland. So it is worth encouraging this on a visit, as it is a win-win.
On these tours, you’ll be able to observe a variety of animals in their natural habitat. The most iconic wildlife in Iceland are the whales, which migrate to the country’s warm waters each summer. You can take a boat tour out into the Atlantic Ocean too. Here you can experience some of the best whale watching in the world. Why not inspire the kids with our whale painting tutorial before you go?
It isn’t all about the whales….
Other popular animals that you’ll find around the coast are puffins, Arctic terns, harbour seals, and sea birds. Inland, you can find reindeer grazing on the tundra and in the mountains. You may also encounter foxes, Arctic hares, and mink if you look carefully enough. Of course, don’t forget about all the fish that swim in the glacial rivers – salmon, trout, and char.
We really hope you like this article. We think it gives you lots of reasons why Iceland is an amazing place to go with the kids. Maybe even as a little break with the other half or friends. If you like our articles, then why not sign up to our newsletter?
We have another article on Iceland. This one is focused on why it is worth going to Iceland to connect with nature as a family. Do take a look at this too.
Below are more ideas of things to do with kids when you travel:
Our things to do with kids in.... series
We have a whole series of articles talking about the best things to do in various locations across the globe. Here are some more examples for you.
Samoa: Things to do with families
This isn't the first destination that you think of for families, but this is one of our most popular articles. Check it out.
Denmark: Things to do with kids
Denmark is a wonderful country - and its great for kids as. well. Check out some of our ideas here.
Lisbon: Best things to do with kids
Lisbon in Portugal is one of our favourite cities, and believe it or not, there are loads of things for the kids to enjoy there as well.
Bridgetown, Barbados: Best things to do with kids
We've spent so much wonderful time in Barbados, why not check out what WE think is important for the kids to check out in this wonderful location.
There are other ideas for Iceland offsite too:
Articles on Iceland from other awesome sites
More articles on Iceland, and families for you to take a look at too. Check them out, and plan the ultimate trip there.
Where to Stay in a Gorgeous Iceland Glass House
Have you heart of the Iceland glass houses - well - if you haven't find out about them, and then where to stay in one there too!
What is the best time of year to visit Iceland?
We weren't sure when was the best time of year for travel to Iceland, so we figured you might need help too. Find it here.
An Essential Guide To A Family Trip To Iceland
Finally, a complete guide to travel in Iceland with the family. Check it out and plan the ultimate adventure with everyone.
We love having you here, so we really hope you come back again soon. Why not check out some of the other travel articles on our site to?
Take care,
Helen
This is a collaborative post.
Helen
Helen is a mum to two, social media consultant, and website editor; and this site is (we think) the only Social Enterprise parenting magazine!Since giving up being a business analyst when juggling travel, work and kids proved too complicated, she founded KiddyCharts so she could be with her kids, and use those grey cells at the same time.KiddyCharts has reach of over 1.1million across social and the site. The blog works with big family brands (including travel) to help promote their services, as well as offering free resources to parents of kids under 10.It gives 51%+ profits to Reverence for Life, who fund a number of important initiatives in Africa, including bringing running water and basic equipment to a school in Tanzania.Helen has worked as a digital marketing consultant (IDM qualified) with various organisations, including Channel Mum, Truprint, Talk to Mums, and Micro Scooters. She loves to be creative in the brand campaigns she works on.Get in touch TODAY!