Iceland welcomes a mass of tourists every year, with the number rapidly increasing each year at an exponential rate. If you're planning your adventure to the country, there are some factors you should definitely bear in mind to ensure the best and safest experience possible. Here’s our guide to what NOT to do in Iceland.
Buy bottled water
Bottled water not only has an enormous environmental impact, but is also unnecessary in countries such as Iceland. With over 11% of Iceland's surface composed of glaciers, the water emerges in thousands of pure water springs which are scattered across the island. With freshwater sources pretty much everywhere, Iceland presents some of the cleanest and clearest waters in the world, which are perfectly safe to drink. Water in Iceland, like the water at Silfra, has no added chemicals and is full of natural minerals.
Forget your swimsuit
Believe it or not, many tourists often disregard the thought of swimming in Iceland due to the discouraging thought of harsh temperatures. Nearly every town in Iceland has at least one swimming pool, as well as steam rooms and saunas. Some well known pools such as The Blue Lagoon, Myvatn Nature Baths and the Secret Lagoon offer some brilliant facilities and are often popular. Bear in mind that the majority of pools in Iceland are heated, so do not fear the cold temperature outside!
Litter
Regardless of your location in the world, littering is a big no no. Reykjavik itself is renowned as being an exceptionally clean city, and the beauty of Iceland’s nature is due to the minimal impact people have on it. If you are caught littering in the country, be prepared for some harsh fines. Here are some quick tips to help you reduce your litter in Iceland:
- Ensure you carry around a reusable water bottle. You can fill this up with the fresh Icelandic spring water which can be found across the country.
- Recycle when possible.
- Always save your litter for a bin. Leaving litter out can be harmful to wildlife and nature which is valued so greatly.
Venture off track
As tempting as it can be, venturing off the tracks can be dangerous for both you and nature surrounding you. Iceland's delicate moss, lava fields and glaciers are known to be fragile, and are treated with care by the locals. Therefore, driving off road is forbidden and doing so can lead to fines of up to 500,000ISK and even jail time. If you're looking to explore the highlands of Iceland, rent a four wheel drive car and stay on the F-Road tracks. This way you can get the opportunity to travel across remote lands whilst being surrounded by some beautiful nature and uninterrupted views.
Climb on Icebergs at Jokulsarlon
Climbing on the Icebergs at Jokulsarlon lagoon is strictly forbidden to protect you from danger. Falling off these icebergs will send you into the freezing cold waters of the lagoon, and the shock will put you in immediate panic. In addition, the lake is the deepest in the country and has strong currents which can drag you into deep waters. Although standing on an immense iceberg can seem a perfect photo opportunity for your Instagram feed, it is also one of the dumbest things you can do. If you want to get close to an iceberg, investigate tours that are available to do so.