Southeast Iceland is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the many diverse natural wonders of Iceland. The area impresses with spectacular glacier lagoons, deep canyons, black sand diamond beaches, and spluttering volcanoes.
A highlight is Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where landscapes change by the minute, and blueish hues of sculpted icebergs emerge from the depths of still waters. Glide along in a zodiac, observing seals as they bask in the sun on tablets of floating ice, and you’ll begin to understand why these magical landscapes have attracted many a Hollywood film maker.
A quieter, yet equally as beautiful glacial lagoon is nearby Fjallsárlón. Listen for the crackling of ice and watch large chunks tumble into the water from an undulating wall of white – bring a camera too, as nesting skuas frequent these landscapes in summer.
Iceland is known for its black sand beaches – one of the finest being Diamond Beach at Breiðamerkursandur. The beach is named for the crystal-like icebergs that wash up on the shore, then rest on the sand like huge sparkling diamonds.
Continue an adventure at the largest glacier in Europe – Vatnajökull. Don a set of crampons and a Lopapeysa (Icelandic sweater) and enjoy a thrilling guided tour of canyons and crevasses. During winter months ice caves form beneath the glacier – a place where crystal stalactites suspend from swirling ceilings and walls shimmer in hues of aquarium blue.
Skafatafell National Park offers complete contrast with colorful terrain, woodlands, and mountains. Hike to Svartifoss, a 20 meter tall waterfall with dramatic lava columns or take your adventure to ice-coated Öræfajökull – one of the islands most powerful active volcanoes.
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon boasts ethereal, dreamlike landscapes – relatively untouched for two million years. The deep dramatic canyon is offset by pistachio green tundra and dark rocks. Spend a day hiking along walkways above the winding Fjadra river and enjoy a picnic soaking up the picture-postcard views.
Top Iceland Travel Destinations
Southwest Iceland / West Iceland / The Westfjords / North Iceland / The Highlands / East Iceland
