The Land of Fire and Ice Beckons You This Summer
Known for its rugged coastlines, black sand beaches, soaring cliffs, dramatic waterfalls, and summer months of endless sunshine, Iceland’s reputation as “The Land of Fire and Ice” is well earned. Located in the northern Atlantic Ocean, in the southern ring of the Arctic Circle, Iceland is a land of unparalleled natural beauty.
Summer is arguably the best season for visiting Iceland for the first time. Uninitiated visitors are bound to encounter the unexpected. We have a few suggestions about the places you may want to explore on your first visit — contact our flight brokers to make the experience unforgettable.
Reykjavik
Iceland’s capital city of Reykjavik is also its largest, although first-time visitors to Iceland may be surprised to learn that it is not their initial destination. International travelers will first arrive in Keflavik, about 45 minutes from downtown Reykjavik. Shuttle buses from Keflavik to Reykjavik leave on the hour.
If you’ve never been to Iceland, we encourage you to stay in Reykjavik. Many of the city’s offerings are within walking distance. You’ll also be close to transportation hubs, which is helpful if you plan to join any guided tours.
Iceland’s Natural Beauty
Located in Vatnajökull National Park, the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a stunning glacial lake filled with icebergs. You’ll marvel at the sight of crystal-blue chunks of ice breaking off from the larger glaciers and washing up onto the black volcanic sands. This lagoon has an otherworldly quality that must be seen to be believed.
One of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls is Skógafoss. It has impressive size and beautiful surroundings. The waterfall often freezes in winter, while in the summer, the spray of the crashing waters forms a dense interplay of rainbows hovering above the cliffs.
Skaftafell, nestled within Vatnajökull National Park, captivates with its awe-inspiring glaciers, jagged peaks, and verdant valleys. Embark on scenic hikes, witness the majestic Skaftafellsjökull glacier, and explore surreal ice formations. This natural wonderland offers an unforgettable encounter with Iceland’s stunning landscapes and a gateway to unparalleled adventure.
Iceland’s black sand beaches are a striking contrast of dark volcanic sand against the crashing waves of the North Atlantic. Reynisfjara and Vik beaches are famous for their dramatic rock formations, towering cliffs, and basalt columns. Explore these coastal landscapes, where the power of the sea meets the rugged beauty of Iceland’s volcanic heritage.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
You’ll want to pack a few specific items when visiting Iceland in the summer months. First, bring a sleep mask, as the sun never really sets in the middle of summer. Daytime temperatures average 60–70° F, and the nights are only slightly cooler, thanks to the never-ending sunlight. However, the weather can change quickly and precipitously in Iceland. Be sure to pack a warm coat and dress in layers when you go out so you can take items off or put them back on as needed.
Don’t forget your favorite refillable water bottle, as the purest glacial water you’ll ever taste flows out of every tap in Iceland. Finally, you’ll want to bring (or wear) comfortable shoes for walking and hiking, as you’ll probably spend much of your time in Iceland exploring the country’s natural wonders.
Flight to Iceland
Flying a private charter with Global Air Charters is an experience as memorable as a visit to The Land of Fire and Ice. Contact our brokers today and jet off to Iceland this summer.
