Why Travel Solo in Iceland

Have you always wanted to try solo travel but you haven’t been able to get up the courage? Perhaps you’re concerned about safety, language barriers, or feeling lonely and bored. Every solo traveler thinks about those things, especially if it’s a first solo trip…that’s natural.

There are many places that I could recommend where you’d be safe, where language is no problem, and there is no shortage of things to see and do. But if you want to do something adventurous perfect for solo travellers, consider the land of fire and ice, Iceland.

Taking on solo travel in Iceland

Iceland is a top destination on almost every traveler’s bucket list for good reason – it’s a supernatural landscape of beautiful waterfalls, glaciers, active volcanoes, bubbling hot springs, and black sand beaches. It’s also one of the best places in the world for a Northern lights holiday (aurora borealis), a phenomenon of nature that everyone should see at least once.

Imagine hiking a glacier, floating in geothermal waters, or descending into the heart of a volcano. With so many incredible things to do, it’s pretty clear you’re not going to be bored while trying solo travel in Iceland.

Many people tell me they’d love to travel alone but think it’s more fun to share experiences with another human. While that can be true sometimes, I believe the confidence gained from traveling alone and the freedom to change plans at a moments notice make those special experiences even sweeter.  Perhaps the key thing I’ve learned is that it is better to do something that you want to do on your own, than to wait for someone to go with you and risk never doing it. I’m a big fan of solo travel for many reasons, and not having to schedule around other people is one of the top ones.

Why Solo Travel In Iceland Is So Easy:

Which brings me to another reason Iceland is perfect for solo travelers – it’s called Stopover Buddy Service. Sponsored by Iceland Air, they will assign you a local to show you around at no charge! When you book your ticket, just sign up for the service and let them know what your interests are.

Another way to meet other travelers is to take a tour – you can choose from hundreds of day trips and tours in Iceland. If you stay in Reykjavik most tour companies offer direct pickup from your accommodation to visit the top sights. Tours are a great option for meeting other people who want to do the same things. At the very least you are not by yourself all day.

But wait, do they speak English in Iceland?

The native language is Icelandic, however, most locals speak fluent English. Signs at tourist attractions are in both Icelandic and English.

What about safety concerns for solo travel in Iceland?

Iceland ranks number one on the Global Peace Index. Crime is low and there are no animal predators.  It is considered the safest country in the world. Climate and geological conditions are the most dangerous aspects of visiting the island. Be sure to read this website for weather conditions and up-to-date safety report. 

Now that you’re considering a solo adventure in Iceland, here are some ideas for building your Iceland itinerary.

Now that you’re considering solo travel in Iceland, here’s a primer on the top attractions in Iceland.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is not the largest capital city in the world, but it is rich in culture and history. Plan at least a day to two to wander its charming streets, visit a local market, and relax over a coffee or beer in one of the many pubs. Then, fortified with some local sustenance, discover the monuments and charm of Reykjavik.

The most recognizable landmark is the Hallgrimskirkja Church, the tallest building in Reykjavik. The church’s tower is the best place to get a 360 degree view of the city, and the church itself is one of the most photographed sites in the country. The church is open daily, but as it is a working church, it is subject to unscheduled closures due to weddings and funerals.

The Ultimate Spa Experience at the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is a geothermic pool located in the midst of lava fields about thirty miles from Reykjavik. Though there are many other geothermal sites around Iceland, the Blue Lagoon is by far the most popular, probably due to its close proximity to the capital city. If ti’s privacy you seek, perhaps this is not the place for you. If crowds are no problem, suit up and dive in – the water’s fine.

The Northern Lights

One of the main attractions of Iceland is the Northern Lights. What you should know is they are a natural phenomenon and there are no guarantees. But don’t let that stop you – this is a transcendental experience, worth the effort. Your best chance is to book an experienced tour guide. Bonus: if you are not successful, they will offer you the chance to try again at no additional charge the following day. Book early in your trip, just in case.

The best time for viewing the Northern Lights is from September through April. You’ll also need a clear, cold, and dark night sky. Don’t forget to dress warmly, and bring your camera and a tripod. Seeing the northern lights in Scotland is another great place since you’re already so close! 

Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Golden Circle of Natural Wonders

As they are all within a day trip from Reykjavik, you can easily visit three of Iceland’s most stellar sights  Thingvellin Park, where you can see the tectonic rift between continental Europe and North America, Gullfoss waterfall, and Strokkur waterspout at Geysir. This is one of the most popular tours for visitors, not only for the scheduled stops, but for the opportunity to view Iceland’s incredible landscape as you drive through the countryside.

So go ahead and book your solo trip and start planning to see some of Iceland’s astounding natural attractions. For more ideas about what to see and do in Iceland read National Geographics’s Iceland For Any Traveler. To pack light, read my guide to packing for 1-2 weeks – carry-on only!
If you fancy a road trip through Iceland read Tips For An Epic Iceland Road Trip.