The 8 Best Outdoor Activities in Reykjavik

Exciting outdoor activities await you in Reykjavik, from glacier exploration to whale watching. Experience Icelandic nature and create unforgettable memories on every adventure.
The 8 Best Outdoor Activities in Reykjavik

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Golden Circle| ©Iceland Tour
Golden Circle| ©Iceland Tour

Reykjavík is a city that invites you to enjoy nature in all seasons. In winter, the snow and northern lights create an otherworldly landscape, while in summer, the midnight sun allows you to extend your adventures well into the night.

Whether you're looking to hike volcanic landscapes, explore glaciers or dive into crystal clear waters, here are the best outdoor activities in Reykjavík.

1. Hike the Golden Circle and marvel at Icelandic nature

If there's one must-do route in Iceland, it's the Golden Circle. This route takes you to some of the country's most impressive sights, such as Thingvellir National Park, where you can see the fault line that separates the American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

You can also admire the Strokkur geyser in full action and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, where the water rushes down with a mighty force.

Book a Golden Circle Tour

2. A tour to admire the beauty of the Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon

Jökulsárlón is one of those places that seem to be straight out of another planet. This glacial lagoon, full of floating icebergs, offers a breathtaking visual spectacle.

Nearby, Diamond Beach awaits you with its black sand and shiny ice chunks scattered along the shore, creating a unique contrast of colours.

Book a trip to Jökulsárlón

3. Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Iceland in miniature

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a compendium of everything that makes Iceland special: volcanoes, lava fields, dramatic cliffs and black sand beaches.

Here you'll find the famous Kirkjufell, the country's most photographed mountain, which looks like something out of a fairy tale. You can also explore lava caves and discover charming fishing villages.

Book a tour to Snæfellsnes

4. Waterfalls and scenery of the South Coast

Iceland's South Coast is a spectacle in itself. Here you'll see some of the country's most impressive waterfalls, such as Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, where you can even walk behind the free-falling water.

You'll also find volcanic beaches, glaciers and otherworldly landscapes. It's one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the Icelandic wilderness.

Book a trip to the South Coast

5. Experience the thrill of walking through an ice cave in Katla

Walking inside a glacier is one of those experiences you won't forget. In the Katla volcano area, you can explore ice caves with almost unreal blue hues.

These formations are constantly changing due to the movement of the ice, so each visit is unique. It is an incredible opportunity to feel the force of nature beneath your feet.

Book a Katla Ice Cave Tour

6. Feel the heat of the Meradalir volcano under your feet

Iceland is a land of active volcanoes, and one of the most fascinating places to explore them is the Meradalir area. Here you can hike through recent landscapes of solidified lava and, if you're lucky, even see volcanic activity.

It's an ideal excursion for those looking for a different kind of adventure and want to witness the geological power that has shaped the country.

Book a hike to Meradalir volcano

7. Diving between two continents in Silfra

Diving into the Silfra rift in Thingvellir National Park is one of the most breathtaking experiences you can have in Iceland.

This unique site allows you to dive or snorkel between the American and Eurasian tectonic plates, in waters so crystal clear that visibility can reach over 100 metres.

Book a snorkelling tour in Silfra

8. Discovering Iceland on the back of an Icelandic horse

Icelandic horses are a special breed, small but strong, with a unique gait called tölt that makes them incredibly comfortable to ride.

Horseback riding in and around Reykjavík is a different and relaxing way to explore Icelandic nature.

Book a horseback ride

Reviews from other travellers

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  • A
    A. P.
    5
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    An excellent day out, the trip was value for money and I would certainly recommend it.
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    B. G.
    5
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    Absolutely amazing tour
  • T
    T. B.
    5
    (0 Reviews)
    East to book, well organised, well run, great d river and tour guide. Fantastic stops on route with sufficient time to enjoy each experience.
  • P
    P.
    4
    (0 Reviews)
    Beautiful tour! The stories and facts about the area were plentiful and enjoyable.
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    B.
    5
    (0 Reviews)
    It was simply a wonderful experience. This tour is a must for anyone going to Iceland.