top things to do in iceland in may

Photo fromMeet on Location 30 Minute Snorkeling Tour in the Crystal Waters of Silfra. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. They can come up quickly and the currents are really strong. It's an especially graceful waterfall that's best viewed from the top, where you'll also enjoy incredible views of the valley and Hvalfjrur fjord. Iceland South Coast: The 19 Best Things to do in Southern Iceland! See Dettifoss Waterfall in North Iceland 6. Find operators in Stykkishlmur and gur in safjarardjp, among other places. If you prefer a more luxurious spa experience, you can visit one of the countrys many swimming pools. Theres a reason why going out at night is one of the popular things to do in Reykjavik! While the whales are the star of the show, during a whale-watching tour you can also spot various birds that reside in Iceland, such asskuas,terns, guillemots, and even the colorful puffin. The Northern Lights Northern lights seen above the Snfellsnes Peninsula Of all the things to do in Iceland, seeing the Northern Lights is truly bucket-list worthy. Natural ice caves form in Vatnajkull, Europe's largest glacier, due to geothermal heat or spring thaw. The craft beer scene is fairly new in Iceland; the first microbrewery, Bruggsmijan, was founded in the tiny village of rskgssandur in North Iceland in 2006. International guests tend to visit the Westfjords less often than the South, Southwest, and North because the famous Ring Road goes right past it. Esja are the summits Thverfellshorn, 0.48 miles (780 meters), and Kerholakambur, 0.53 miles (851 meters). Theres also a possibility of seeing rarer animals, such as killer whales and fin whales. Tours also go from Hauganes and Reykjavk. During the summer months, ice caps begin to melt and collectively form glacier rivers. Many activities are possible to do all year round, with the weather being the only factor. Did you enjoy our choices for the top 12 things to do in Iceland? Closer to Reykjavk, atStokkseyrarselfarm near Selfoss, you could attend Saga Fest. With plenty of hotels and access to plenty of tours starting from Reykjavik, you can rest up and plan your activities with ease. This fleeting, crystalized world of wonder can only be explored with experienced guides. Through the horse's movements, you connect with nature in a new way, and you feel incredibly free as you gallop along narrow dirt paths or across shallow lakes. After Breiamerkurjkull Glacier retreated between 1920 and 1965, it left a breathtaking lagoon behind it. May is an excellent period for travelers hoping to get in as many sights and activities as possible without the crowds. I believe we can see the main. Menu. Not only can you visit the world's biggest Puffin colonies whilst nesting, but the odds of you spotting a whale is much greater than in other months of the year. It's a fascinating place to visit if you have the stomach for it, so we just had to include it in our best things to do in Iceland in June list! Right on the capital's doorstep,Sky Lagoon in Kpavogur brings a fully Icelandic spa experience within reach for visitors to Reykjavk. Relax in the Blue Lagoon Spa 7. 18 Best Things To Do in Iceland | Where to Go & What to S Or, visit one of the many public swimming pools in Reykjavik. The glittering icebergs contrast with the jet-black sand, resulting in one of Icelands most visually stunning natural landscapes. As May is the start of the hiking season, we recommend driving up to the Westfjords for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. See you next May! Lying within the course of the Hvt River, Gullfoss has become one of the most important stops in Iceland's Golden Circle. It's close to both Keflavik International Airport and Reykjavik, the country's capital city. One of Icelands most famous tourist attractions is known as the Golden Circle. That is because it has both glaciers and volcanoes dotted around the island. If luck is on your side, green, purple and red ribbons flow across the dark sky on a clear winter night. So, youve heard of the Golden Circle, but not the Diamond Circle? It can vary from bright sunshine to hail storms throughout the course of one day. The eruption created a large lava field that you can visit, and it's quickly become one of the top things to do in Iceland! At Thingvellir you will also findSilfra Fissure, one of the top 10 snorkeling spots in the world. Unplug from Modern Life in East Iceland. The Golden Circle is one of Icelands most popular attractions, with plenty of trips heading out of Reykjavik to take you to see these amazing sights. We have crafted tours based on popular routes and with plenty of added benefits for you to have a memorable trip. This glacier-filled lake should be near the top of your list of what to see in Iceland. Read our Privacy Policy. Watching these curious creatures sunbathe in their natural habitat is delightful. Wind through the wilds of Norway's western coast on this epic road trip. The "Viking ship" sculpture Slfar by Jn Gunnar rnason is a given. Instantly recognizable for its diminutive stature, short legs, and muscular build, this isolated breed is famed for its reliability, resistance to harsh natural elements, and for having not four, but five gaits. Browse summer multi-day tours from Reykjavk. You will need a mixture of warm and waterproof clothing, along with some lighter spring apparel. Due to slightly raised temperatures, this precipitation usually comes in the form of rain. Youll also find two of the most famous black sand beaches in Iceland. Situated on the banks of Lake Laugarvatn, Laugarvatn Fontana pipes in natural steam for its steam bath. Situated in the southern part of Iceland, this ice floe is only a few decades old but now one of the top tourists attractions in the country. Riding on a good tlting horse in the wild Icelandic nature is an experience like no other. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. The view from the top of Eyjafjrur fjord and Hrsey island is breathtaking. After a briefing on the basics of being in the saddle, you'll mount your trusty steed and take off into the beauty of the Icelandic wilderness. The Mvatn Nature Baths in northern Iceland overlook Lake Mvatn and the surrounding bird-filled wetlands and volcanic landscapes. A power bank and charger 6. How many glaciers are there in Iceland, where are they and what exactly is Find the top things to do in Iceland. See top 10 things to see and do in Iceland. The Catholic church, Katholska Kirkjan, can also be found nearby. There are many cool things to do in Iceland - literally and figuratively! Another great place to find them is the rugged Westfjords the westernmost part of Iceland (and Europe!) Related: Top museums in Reykjavk. Iceland may be chilly, but when you throw on a wetsuit, a whole new world is opened. As the weather can fluctuate so much, its recommended that you pack for every type of climate when you visit Iceland in May. This guarantees the sustainability of the fish population but also protects the land from being trampled or crowded with anglers. If a tour isnt something youre interested in, choose a location away from light pollution. Feel The Spray Of The Gullfoss Waterfall. 25 Fun Things To Do In Reykjavk (Iceland's Capital City) Although relatively small, Iceland can be tricky to navigate. GUIDES; ACTIVITIES & GETAWAYS; . Its horse parade is a must-see in Reykjavik in May. Places to See in Iceland: The Westfjords 5. 1- Joining a whale watching trip in Iceland Away from the Icelandic coast, you can see over twenty species of cetaceans: from harbour porpoises to the biggest whales in the world, the blue whales. Luxurious, picturesque, and relaxing, this geothermal spa is something you don't want to miss. Have a Night Out in Reykjavik 9. Check out the Skutustadagigar pseudo-craters, the geothermally active Namaskard Pass, and even Dimmuborgir, or Dark Fortress, an area of strange yet hauntingly beautiful volcanic rock formations. Its product, Kaldi, proved a hit, and in the years that followed, a growing variety of craft beers appeared on the local market. Average High Temperature in April: 41 F (5 C). You could even book a boat tour around the island. Downtown Reykjavik is awash with bars, coffee houses, restaurants, and social events. Photo fromExcellent 9 Hour Horse Riding & Hot Springs Tour of Reykjadalur Valley with Transfer from Reykjavik. Though some regions of the country are still inaccessiblesuch as the Central Highlandsmany experiences are still available as the summer months roll in. Iceland in May: Things to See & Do | Iceland Tours In May, the chill of winter is easing off and daylight lasts longer. Finally, the procession ends at Ingolfstorg Square, where some speeches are held, and cakes and coffees are supplied by representatives of Iceland's trade unions. How has Guide to Iceland changed since its conception? Average temperatures in early May are around 2 C (36 F) with 18 daylight hours. Some of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland, Seljalandsfoss and Skgafoss, are located here. RAFLOST: Icelandic Festival of Electronic Arts. In the Nordics, we have the saying: There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing. Haukadalur is home to the hot springs, Geysir and Strokkur, the latter of which erupts to over 65 feet (20 meters) in the air every five minutes or so and is surrounded by numerous steaming fumaroles and bubbling mud pools. There is a one-week summer self-drive tour that covers the Ring Road of Iceland & Golden Circle if you are short on time and want to see the highlights. Open days are held at participating stables across the country for friends and families to meet the Icelandic horse breed up close. Its also a fun activity to do in Iceland for visitors of all ages! Hike across glaciers in Vatnajokull National Park, gaze at the Northern Lights, learn the ancient sagas of West Iceland all guided by local experts with fresh perspectives. Your email address will not be published. The roads into the highlands open depending on the weather and are usually only accessible at this time of year. And you get the opportunity to meet the famous Icelandic horses! There is the Vaka Folk Festival in Akureyri, which welcomes the top folk performers from Iceland and Northern Europe. What are some of the top things to do in Reykjavik, Iceland? For centuries Icelanders have relied on the small, sturdy and colorful breed for farm work and carrying them between places in a roadless country. This region, in the north-west of Iceland, is a fantastic destination for coastal scenery. Explore all the fun activities, natural wonders and best places to visit in Iceland in this list of the 12 top thingsto see and do in Iceland. The Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik in May, Geothermal spas near Reykjavik open in May. Paddleboarding is becoming a popular activity in Akureyri. Though smaller than other breeds, they are well-known for their friendly nature, reliability, strength, and intelligence. Take a dip in swimming pools and hot springs Thanks to its volcanoes and geothermal activity, Iceland has a large number of naturally heated pools. If you want to take advantage of Icelands open roads and get out of the city, its recommended that you choose a four-wheel-drive vehicle like an SUV or mini truck. Some mountains are still beautiful and snowy and you could experience some if youre high up in the mountains. Go on a guided volcano hike 6. Top 15 Things to Do in Iceland - OhLaDe Relax in the infinity pools of the brand-newForest Lagoonthat opened in 2022 just outside Akureyri. What is Guide to Iceland? Go kayaking among the icebergs in a glacier lagoon. Then all you have to do is enjoy yourself. As opposed to hunting for hot springs in the winter which involves sub-zero temperatures the May weather in Iceland is considerably milder. Dont miss the crater and lava left from the 1973 volcanic eruption that buried a part of the island. Top 12 Things To Do in Iceland | Bookmundi The most common whales are the Minke and humpback whales. From lafsfjrur jetski tours allow people to experience the vertical cliffs of lafsfjararmli from below. Top Best Things to Do in Iceland in June For a Perfect Summer So choosing between the two months depends on the focus of your trip and your personal preference. Iceland boasts the largest Atlantic puffin population in Europe, flocking to the coastline to nest in the summer months. Thankfully, not all of this activity is quite so dramatic. It's best to follow forecasts, base yourself far from light pollution and be patient or book a tour to up the odds. Touring by horseback has been a popular way of seeing Iceland for centuries, during which time the original breed arrived from Scandinavia and eventually evolved into the animal we know and love today. Drive yourself around the Golden Circle in an off-road buggy. The photo above is Seljavallalaug pool and it is actually the oldest "man made" pool in Iceland, hidden between tall mountains on each side. A little-known fact is that between Selfoss and Vk in South Iceland are 200 artificial caves carved into sandstone before or around the time the first settlers arrived. 19 Amazing Things to Do When You Visit Iceland 2River Rafting 2.1Hvita Glacier River 2.2East Glacial River Gorge 2.3West Glacial River 2.4Indulge in Seasonal Whale Watching in Iceland 2.5Enjoy Snowmobiling in the Midnight Sun 2.6Hunt for the Northern Lights 2.7Explore the Golden Circle 2.8Blue Lagoon 2.9Lake Mvatn Perhaps the most important thing to know about visiting Iceland in May is that almost all the summer tours are available, with one exception: you cant see the northern lights in May. Whether you want to camp, stay in hotels, take a road trip, or guided tours, Iceland has it all. Seljalandsfoss is especially popular because you can walk behind the fall, giving you a different perspective. We recommend you visit the Skaftafell area in the south. Attraction: kayaking in the Glacier Lagoon (aka Jkulsrln) Nearby lodging: Laekjarhus Farm Holidays. things you need to know before going to Iceland. Asbyrgi Canyon is a deep glacial canyon that runs over two miles. Why can the Hi Guide to Iceland | The Story of the Leading Travel Agency of Iceland, The complete guide to the midnight sun in Iceland, Top 13 Best and Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Iceland, The Ultimate Guide to Snaefellsnes Peninsula, The Ultimate Guide to the Highlands of Iceland | Where They Are and How to Visit, 7. Twelve of these caves can be found at the farm gissa by Hella, and guided tours are available of some of the caves. This 105-foot (32-meter) high is called the "Golden Falls" for a reason, as it cascades over two rocky tiers and into a dramatic valley below. But note that hiking the glaciers without a guide is extremely dangerous and irresponsible. Its no wonder it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. Until 14th May the ferry from Reykjavk's new harbor at Skarfabakki operates only at weekends, from 15th May it goes every day. In Seyisfjrur, Tvsngur is a fascinating musical sculpture by German artist Lukas Khne. that come to Iceland for feeding. Participants will also have to sign both a liability and a medical form before entering the water. The Icelandic horse is such a unique breed that breeding them with other horses is prohibited in Iceland, and when a horse leaves the country, it can never return. Be sure to book your tickets in advance so you can skip the line at the entrance. There are so many ways to enjoy the snowy season in Iceland. But that doesnt mean its not a fantastic place to see. Gentle temperatures are paired with the fact that . Some of the best natural hot springs in Iceland are: Hrunalaug Reykjadalur Steam Valley Gamla Laugin Hveravellir 12. Forget the top 10 things to do in Iceland. One of the best things about Iceland is that there's no such thing as "off-season". Best places to visit in Iceland in May Westman Islands The Westfjords is as beautiful as it is culturally fascinating. Top 10 Things To Do in Iceland - Round the World Magazine Our mailing list has special offers, with discounts, so it is definitely worth subscribing! 2) Glacier Kayaking. We recommend you visit the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve. Iceland in July and August | Top 5 Things to see and do! The capital city of Iceland, Reykjavik is one place you'll likely spend an evening or two. Definitely one of the best Iceland activities. Iceland in Summer: Top 10 things to do! - My Local Guide 9. This is one of Iceland's true hidden gems. Walk on a Glacier The 1899 green-roofed Chapel, Frikirkjan i Reykjavik by the city pond, Tjornin. 10 Reasons To Visit Iceland In May | Expatolife The average temperature in Iceland in June hovers around 48F. With only a very small chance of encountering some snow on roads in the northern part of the island, you can traverse the whole country easily. We had this adventure on Solheimajkull glacier. #2 The Jkulsrln Glacier Lagoon Visit Jkulsrln. And weve got all the reasons you might need to book your Icelandic getaway in late spring or early summer. Geysir isnt as active anymore, but its neighbor Strokkur erupts columns of hot water in the air every 6-10 minutes. First, its where one of the first democratically elected parliaments in the world, the Althingi, was founded. If thats something youre interested in, visit between June and August. Iceland is a minefield of explosive volcanic energy, and because of this unique beautiful shapes and patterns are 2022 6. In Iceland there are approximately 130 volcanoes, and eruptions occur every three years on average. Go for a soak in the Blue Lagoon. The result is that it never actually gets fully dark, which is why you cant see the northern lights in May. Ask locals for recommendations, or join a hot springs tour to find the best spots and ensure you dont get lost. Thingvellir National Park is important to Icelanders for many reasons. They will often offer other discounts and incentives to keep you happily drinking. If you want to splash out on luxury accommodation for your visit, try the boutique Sand Hotel for a stylish, sophisticated stay in Reykjavik. Today, the horses remain Icelanders' most loyal companions as more people practice horsemanship in Iceland than in other European countries. This peninsula stretches 86 kilometers (55 miles) into the Atlantic Ocean from Icelands western coast. While the midnight sun is not at its full peak, May is a shoulder season that is friendly to visitors budgets. Read our full guide to driving in Iceland for all the information youll need about driving in Iceland, like parking, age restrictions, and local road rules, as well as the best tips on how to stay safe while exploring the country by car. Continue reading to find out what you could get up to and all the amazing places you could visit. As a result, you can often see a single or even a double rainbow! With so many hot spring pools scattered across the landscape, they can sometimes be difficult to find. 9. The backcountry skiing season lasts through May, with a range of tours on offer, including skiing from the mountaintop to the shore. We cant be sure whether this has anything to do with beer only being legalized in 1989 or perhaps the eternal darkness that blankets the country each year. For the adrenaline junkies wanting to get out and explore Icelands glaciers with an extra level of excitement, booking a glacier snowmobile trip is a great way to blast across these natural wonders. Brarfoss: An off-the-beaten path attraction and possibly the bluest waterfall in all of Iceland. However, any discussion about the greatest places to visit in Iceland simply must include Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Seal watching tours depart from Hvammstangi. The 8m-high grassy mound in the Grandi harbor area was created by lf Nordal in 2013, inviting visitors to walk to the top for a view of the city. Did it help you choose what to do in Iceland? Make the most of it! There are also several festivals and public holidays in May. Visit the Newest Volcano Site. Iceland in May: Things to See & Do | Guide to Iceland Combine a walking tour of Reykjavk with a "treasure hunt" where you find as many outdoor artworks as possible. The main island, Heimaey, is ideal for a day tour to learn about this volcanic islands history. For a long time, the Blue Lagoon dominated the high-end bathing market in Iceland. Iceland is also home to a handful of more tourist-oriented hot water lagoons such as the famous Blue Lagoon or the Mvatn Nature Baths (the Blue Lagoon of the North). The milky blue geothermal seawater in the middle of a lava field is still perfect for jetlag recovery (it helps that it's 20 minutes from the airport). With the arrival of the summer season, there are longer daylight hours to explore and even more outdoor activities to take on. This natural light display can only be seen in winter and only in the Earths northernmost areas. It depends on the years weather, but at least it makes for a beautiful backdrop. Discover the best beautiful waterfalls in Iceland. Longer days with an average of 20 hours of daylight, Less crowded than at height of summer (June-August), Ideal for whale watching as it is the start of the feeding season, More availability as accommodation and activities can book out early in summer, Puffins start arriving to nest along Icelands coast, Snow-topped mountains for stunning backdrops, Dipping in natural hot springs in the countryside, Adventuring yourself on top or inside a glacier, Spending time on the red or black sand beaches of Iceland, Go on a food tour around the city to get a taste of Iceland, Head to the harbor to board a whale-watching cruise, Explore the nature trails on the nearby Viey Island, Hike up Mount Esja to get a sweeping view of the surroundings and capital city, Dip your feet in the Atlantic Ocean or soak in hot tubs on Nauthlsvk Geothermal Beach, Take in the view of the city from the top of Hallgrmskirkja, Admiring the impressive Geruberg basalt cliffs, Walking to the stark Bakirkja black church amidst lava fields, Spotting the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain (you may recognize it from Game of Thrones! 19. Make sure you read upabout fishing in Iceland before organizing your trip. Most horse riding tours in Iceland last for approximately one to four hours (though there are options to extend this) and will offer the chance for a quick trot for those who feel confident in the saddle. 2022 Lonely Planet. Make sure to join the Taste the Saga tour, during which you'll get to try some of Iceland's finest beer while a charismatic host teaches you about Icelandic drinking culture. In late May the average temperature is around 11 C (53 F) with 20 daylight hours. Thankfully, Icelands best frozen attractions, its glaciers, are accessible to explorers throughout the year via glacier hikes. Observable from most points around the city, Hallgrimskirkja is a renowned church overlooking the entire downtown. Listen to a blacksmith hammer a blade, smell scorched birch as it's transformed into charcoal, watch women dye wool by boiling herbs, have a witch tell your fortune with ancient runes, test your skills with a bow and arrow and help egg a thief. However, some caves have very narrow sections you might have to duck, crawl, and climb through. Must See Iceland: Witness the Northern Lights, Flexible 4 Hour Whale Watching & Puffin Watching Tours Combo with Transfer from Reykjavik, The Icelandic Horse | A Comprehensive Guide, Snowmobile Adventure | Golden Circle and Langjokull Snowmobiling, Icelands Golden Circle | Ultimate Guide and Top 9 Detours, guide on when and where to find the northern lights. on the cliffside calledLatrabjarg. Icelands geothermal spas are a wonderful way to relax and soak in the beauty of the countrys natural landscapes. Thingvellir National Park is an amazing place to witness the Aurora Borealis. Top 13 Things to Do and Places to See in Iceland I know it's the shoulder season so we're trying to work out what it will be possible for us to see, and what we'll be too early for. Look at stunning photos a See a selection of wonderful photographs that capture the magic of the Northern Lights throughout Iceland. You can take a 3-hour whale watching tour from the Reykjavk harbor to enjoy these great animals. Blog. Kerid Crater 2,497 Bodies of Water By IdrisA788 An intresting lake in the crater of an extinct volcano with a striking aquamarine colour due to the dissolved minerals 2022 7. Its a celebration of every aspect of this unique and domestic breed on May 1. 3) The Golden Circle - a top thing to do in Iceland in May The Golden Circle Iceland is a road trip route around the southern part of the island, making it an ideal day trip or weekend slow trip from Reykjavik. It was famously used in the opening scene of the sci-fi blockbusterPrometheus. The next top thing to do in North Iceland feels like another alien landscape! Visiting Iceland in May means you'll have the opportunity to participate in many activities, ranging from the cultural and relaxing to the exciting and adrenaline-fuelled. Top 11 Things to do in Iceland in October - Campervan Reykjavik Whales. We've compiled our favorite 15 things to do in Iceland in summer to give you some inspiration: 1. Those are quieter months with longer nights, giving you more opportunities to see the famous Aurora Borealis. May Day in Iceland has become an unofficial day of protest in Iceland. But there is a big difference depending on when in the month you visit in May. The ultimate icy experience is entering one of the countrys gorgeous blue ice caves. And speaking of our favorites, Bruarfoss Waterfall was one of our favorite waterfalls in southern Iceland! Especially popular because you can walk behind the fall, giving you more opportunities to see, Katholska Kirkjan can! 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