2025 Southern Region Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in February)

If you visit the Vatnajökull Glacier, you'll pass through this area. It's a desolate region, an endless plain covered in volcanic rock. The moss and lichen growing on it give it a unique charm, contrasting sharply with the black rocks, and combined with the snow, it creates an absolutely spectacular landscape. They look like soft blankets, making you want to touch them or lie on them (strictly prohibited!).

What a great experience for me as my first horse rider! Our tour guide was a very personable and patient man. I personally was very nervous but he helped guide and kept us calm! The route itself is scenic, with several rivers ending at waterfalls and back. We love how well cared for and loved these animals are! Choosing this place is definitely the right choice! I would recommend this experience to anyone, especially if you are on the fence about riding a horse. It’s the best way to experience the connection between people and horses while experiencing Iceland’s epic landscape and fully embracing the wild nature of Mr. Iceland. Thank you for such an epic experience! #OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES #Iceland #Horse Riding Experience #Slow Walk #Zoo Tour

🌊 Iceland, the hidden beauty of Brúarfoss Waterfall Iceland, a land filled with mystery, is not only famous for its spectacular waterfalls but also has many lesser-known waterfalls waiting for travelers to explore. On my recent trip, I was fortunate to discover a secluded and tranquil waterfall—Brúarfoss. Its clear blue water flow and peaceful atmosphere left a deep impression on me. 📸 The Charm of Brúarfoss Waterfall - Spectacular Scenery: The water of Brúarfoss is crystal clear, presenting a mesmerizing blue that is stunning. - Peaceful Environment: With few tourists around, there's no noise from tour groups, allowing for a serene viewing experience. - Beautiful Secret: I hope more friends will discover this beautiful waterfall, as it deserves to be appreciated by more people. 🗺️ How to Get There - Navigation: Use Google Maps to search for "Bruarfoss Parking" to find the parking lot. - Parking Information: Upon reaching the parking lot, don't forget to pay the parking fee.

Tempat wajib bergambar kalau dtg iceland Rasanya kat semua tempat wajib, celah bedah pun helok ya. Tapi kalau hangpa mai gan yg x reti ambik gmbar rugi la memori hangpa kat sini #payandtravelwithbrain #tripistemewabirthday Day4 in iceland Hari be cover Black Sand Beach Reynisfjara, nak tgk sunrise tapi mendung dan hujan rintik2 plak Kat sini boleh cover sekali Columnes ReynisfjaraDan Hálsanefshellir cave #payandtravelwithbrain #tripistemewabirthday Beutiful nature of iceland Hampir semua tempat di Iceland menerima pembayaran secara cashless. Tak payah pening-pening bawak wang kertas. Guna bigpay ja sini senang. Tapi ada gak yg pre authorisation mcm isi minyak rm30 dia ambik rm900 hahah. Lepas 24jam baru dia bagi balik haha. #payandtravelwithbrain #tripistemewabirthday

Love is true when it comes from the heart, not from the mouth. Not even one word appeared in the picture but we all can feel the love. Setuju tempat ne overrated, tapi dah semua org p kena p jugak la ya hehe. #payandtravelwithbrain #tripistemewabirthday Location yg ke4 Solheimasandur Plane Wreck Sajid 3.8km by foot, shuttle 2900 isk (rm95.95) every 30min Kami pilih naik bus ja jimat masa #payandtravelwithbrain #payandtravelwithbrain Tadi kami p tempat yg overrated Now p tempat yg rare sikit Kena hiking lagi hehe best Loftsalahellir Cave Masa naik best- masa turun seram weii licin boleh jatuh tergolek. Kena turun pakai pungkoq hang. #payandtravelwithbrain #tripistemewabirthday

Happy Friday u all Sini beza 8jam ke belakang dari malaysia Tempat ke2 River valley view point- 185m elevation hiking- biasa la trip abam wajib ada hiking baru la leh kekal sihat muda dan helok kan haha #payandtravelwithbrain #tripistemewabirthday Sat ja hiking 10min dah sampai View dia spectacular Swiss pun kalah wei Dtg iceland jgn la kurang dari 10hari. Cost dah la mahal dtg sat rugi wei.Saiz Iceland 2.5 kali ganda lebih besar daripada Switzerland. #payandtravelwithbrain #tripistemewabirthday Benda wajib bila travel hiking- tapi x kuruih pun Rancang dengan teliti nak ke mana North, South, East, West. Iceland ni satu pusingan pulau. Tiada shortcut di tengah-tengah. Abam cover semua. Hari ne cover golden circle tour dulu.

Looking for a spectacular excursion not too far from the capital of Iceland? We highly recommend the excursion to the lava caves Raufarhólshellir, just 30 minutes from Reykjavik. You will witness the inner workings of a volcanic eruption here. Follow the tunnel where the lava flowed thousands of years ago to deep underground. A true adventure for young and old. On arrival you will be offered a helmet with lighting and that is necessary. The further you walk into the lava tunnel, the darker it gets. Raufarhólshellir is one of the largest lava caves in Iceland. The tunnel has a length of more than one kilometer, but only the first 400 meters can be visited with an experienced guide. Sturdy shoes and warm clothing are a must, as the temperature in the cave is only just above freezing. In some places the top has collapsed and this is how the sun gains access to the lava tunnel. This also explains why there is snow in some places. The different mineral types in the rock also provide different colors in the cave. An ideal trip of three hours from Reykjavik! #iceland #lava #reykjavik #excursion #cave #gooutside #bucketlistreboot

If you have limited time in Iceland but wish to witness the wonderful waterfall, you can opt to head to Gullfoss. Gullfoss Waterfall Iceland is a great choice to visit because it is relatively close to town around 116 kilometre that took us 1 hour and 40 minutes. There is no hike to Gullfoss. Just a short walk to the viewing platform and a brief distance down to the waterfall. It is easily accessible by most people, though there are some stairs and path to the waterfall which is slippery. The waterfall stands tall at 32 metre. The crevice is about 20 metres wide and 2.5 kilometres in length. The average amount of water running down the waterfall is 141 cubic metres. We took the Golden Circle excursion trip and it was convenient as we were drove to all these exciting attractions in Iceland #waterfall #gullfoss #iceland

Amazing sunset colours on typical turf house beneath former cliffs ♡South coast Iceland♡ #awesomepic#instagramworthydestinations

Iceland is truly a mindblowing destination. With its waterfalls, dreamy sunsets, black beaches and glaciers it falls to be my favourite place for roadtrips and adventures. We decided to visit Iceland in December to fully enjoy the wintery landscape, but I would love to re-visit in summer when the days are much longer! Considering the fact that days in December have approximately 5 hours of sunlight, we decided to explore the South and East coast- home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls. We rented our 4x4 from Geysir Car Rental and commenced the road trip stopping in Reykjavik, Kirkjufel, famous for its black sand Reynisfjara beach, visited Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls and had the best spa experience in the Blue Lagoon. We stayed in Ion Adventure Hotel, which had a heated pool and the best Aurora light observatory. #iceland #icelandroadtrip #awesomepic

Iceland has different sides as well. There is one problem that Iceland has: mass tourism. This place for example had to be closed due to too many visitors last year (it was opened when we were there). The reason is that Justin Bieber filmed a music video there and many many people decided to visit this place as well. But a lot of people don’t care about nature and don’t walk on paths for example. If you visit Iceland, please make sure to care about nature and stick to the rules. . . #iceland #wheniniceland #visiticeland #traveliceland #travel #travel #landscape #photography #awesomepic

Vik is surely a popular travel destination in Iceland, and we recommend 100% to make a stop here while traveling around the country.

#getgoing2025 Golden Circle Route, Iceland The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most popular tourist routes, covering a total of about 300 kilometers from Reykjavik into the Icelandic countryside. It offers a perfect introduction to the country’s natural wonders, including geysers, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes. Key Features: • Þingvellir National Park: The first stop on the route, a UNESCO World Heritage site where visitors can see the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, and explore the historical site of the Icelandic Parliament. • Geysir Hot Springs Area: Home to the famous Strokkur Geyser, which erupts every few minutes, sending hot water up to 30 meters into the air. • Gullfoss Waterfall: One of Iceland’s most stunning waterfalls, Gullfoss cascades in two stages, creating a powerful and scenic display. • Optional Stops: Visitors can also explore additional sites such as Kerid Crater, a volcanic crater lake, and Secret Lagoon, a natural hot spring. Tips: • The Golden Circle is easily accessible from Reykjavik, and a full day is usually enough to explore the main attractions. • Dress warmly and be prepared for changing weather conditions. The Golden Circle Route is a must-do for anyone visiting Iceland, offering an incredible overview of the country’s geological wonders and natural beauty.

#europetrip Tucked away in the heart of Iceland’s Golden Circle, Bruarfoss is a hidden treasure that’s often overshadowed by more famous waterfalls like Gullfoss. But let’s be honest—sometimes the best things are the ones you have to work a little harder to find. Bruarfoss is known for its stunning turquoise waters, which flow through a narrow, rocky channel, creating a series of beautiful cascades. The color comes from the glacial meltwater, which is so pure it looks like something straight out of a dream. The vibrant blue contrasts dramatically with the surrounding greenery, making it feel like a secret paradise. Getting to Bruarfoss is half the fun. While it’s relatively easy to find using Google Maps, the hike to the waterfall is an adventure in itself. Expect a short walk through moss-covered paths, muddy stretches, and the occasional crossing over small streams. But once you get there, it’s totally worth it. The waterfall is a quiet, peaceful spot compared to Iceland’s larger, more tourist-heavy attractions. It’s the perfect place to take a break from the crowds, snap some incredible photos, and simply enjoy the tranquility. Plus, you’ll feel like a secret explorer discovering Iceland’s best-kept hidden gem. So, next time you’re exploring the Golden Circle, make sure to venture off the beaten path and give Bruarfoss the attention it truly deserves!

Gullfoss in Iceland is a breathtaking natural wonder, resembling a spectacular water curtain show! This magnificent two-tiered waterfall cascades down a cliff approximately 32 meters high, with mist rising and creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere. As you approach the waterfall, you can feel the mist on your face and even smell the fresh scent of water. When sunlight passes through the mist, the occasional rainbow is truly awe-inspiring. Gullfoss is not only a great place for photography but also a magical spot where you can feel the power of nature. This site is a key attraction in Iceland's Golden Circle. When you visit, don't forget to bring your camera to capture this stunning natural beauty!

#familytrips2024 Comtrary to what most people think, the most voluminous waterfall in Iceland is not gullfoss but Urriðafoss! This is really another waterfall which many people overlook but it is pretty and majestic in its own way. If you are lucky, you can spot some fish and even see seals frolicking in the water here. Feel free to allocate about 15-30 minutes to enjoy this waterfall!

#familytrips2024 Hjálparfoss is a converging waterfalls and I choose to call it twins because it looks like two symmetrical waterfalls. It is located in the southern part of Iceland and to us, this is a very interesting waterfall that is not common in sight. While the weather is not perfect for us, we like the waterfall and enjoy our trip driving and strolling around the vicinity.

#familytrips2024 Approaching Drangshlíð, anticipation surged within us like the waves crashing against its rugged shores. As we ventured closer to the towering cliffs, the salty breeze carried echoes of ancient tales whispered by the wind. Standing amidst the dramatic landscape, with cliffs rising majestically from the sea below, we were struck by the untamed beauty of this remote corner of Iceland. The sense of isolation and raw power of nature enveloped us, stirring a mixture of awe and reverence in our souls. In that moment, surrounded by the elemental forces of Drangshlíð, we felt a deep connection to the earth and to the generations who had roamed these shores before us. Looking ahead, our next dream destination calls from the sun-drenched coastlines of Greece. We yearn to wander through ancient ruins steeped in history, soak up the Mediterranean sun on pristine beaches, and savor the flavors of Greek cuisine under starlit skies. Greece's timeless beauty and rich cultural heritage promise a journey filled with adventure and discovery, where every corner reveals a new treasure and every encounter leaves an indelible mark on our hearts. It's a destination that embodies the spirit of exploration and embodies the allure of the unknown, inviting us to embrace the wonders of the world with open arms.

Kerlingarfjoll is a stunning mountain range located in the highlands of Iceland. Known for its colorful rhyolite peaks and geothermal activity, it offers stunning landscapes for hiking and photography. Visitors can enjoy hot springs, steaming vents, and panoramic views of the wilderness. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts loves adventure in Iceland's rugged terrain. An outdoor activities such as snowshoeing, and skiing in the winter months. The location boasts well-marked trails suitable for various skill levels, allowing visitors to explore the breathtaking scenery while enjoying outdoor pursuits. 🗻🏔⛰️ To get there, you typically need to drive or take a tour bus along the Icelandic Ring Road (Route 1) until you reach the turnoff for Kerlingarfjoll. From there, you may need a 4x4 vehicle to navigate the mountain roads, especially in winter. It's advisable to check road conditions and weather forecasts before heading out.🚙 1st, 7th, 12th, 13th, 14th some photos seen on the road going to the area. 🗻 Kerlingarfjoll is a remote area in the Icelandic Highlands, so there aren't traditional restaurants nearby. However, there are usually facilities available at the mountain lodge or campsite, where you can get basic meals and snacks. It's a good idea to bring some food with you. 👌✨️ There is an accommodation called Kerlingarfjoll Mountain Resort located near the Kerlingarfjoll mountain range. The lodge offers accommodations ranging from basic cabins to more comfortable rooms, along with amenities such as a restaurant, café, and hot tubs. It's a great option for those looking to stay overnight or longer in the area.🏠 Some cute little cabins seen in the 2 last photos. 😉 We did not walk through the geothermal path, we just had a good stop over near the area and took a photos from there. 😁🥰 Wanna go back and try the long hike with some other tourists. 😁 Such a beautiful scenery 🤩 The beauty of nature 🤩 #kerlingarfjöll #iceland #nature #beauty #highlands #amazing #geothermalwonders

Geysir and Stroko Geysers The Great Geyser is located in the geothermally active Haukadalur Valley. It is the largest geyser in Iceland and a must-see attraction on the Golden Circle route. Solheimasandur plane wreckage/solheimasandur This plane wreckage is one of the most representative elements of Iceland. It has been lying here lonely and quiet for half a century, and has become a world-class internet celebrity check-in point. In 1973, a US military plane made an emergency landing on this black sand beach due to lack of fuel. Fortunately, no one was injured or injured. It’s not easy to get here. You can only park your car in a parking lot 8 kilometers away from the wreckage and go there on foot. You can search for the name of the scenic spot and navigate directly there; Studlagil Canyon/studlagil canyon The valley of the basalt landform seems to be flowing from the sky. The giant hexagonal rock pillars are vertically inserted into the center of the earth by mysterious forces. It also seems to be growing out of the center of the earth, and the tall and straight valley of the Watching Glacier; katla ice cave/katla ice cave The deep blue and clear 10,000-year-old ice cave seems to be freezing countless secrets of the earth, and it is also like a tunnel leading to outer space. The ice at the entrance of the cave changes and shines with light of different colors as time and sunlight shift, making it super cinematic; Reynis black sand beach/reynisfjara The very famous black sand beach (not sand, but small black stones with volcanic ash) is hidden in danger but magically attracts people to get close to it (there are always news of accidents of people being swept away by the waves). It is called the devil's territory as if it is the end of the world. ; hengifoss waterfall The exposed rock formations around the waterfall are hot and scarlet, like a gaping wound on the earth, crying in pain and despair. You can hike under the waterfall; diamond black sand beach/diamond beach The iceberg melts here, as if a large piece of diamond has been scattered by a mysterious alien passerby. The crystal clear reflection reflects the dazzling light, and shimmers at night, as unique and beautiful as a dreamy wonderland; 8 Reykjavik Cathedral & Rainbow Trail The most famous church in Iceland, like a pair of invisible hands gently playing the organ, is a landmark building in the capital; aurora The aurora in Iceland is so beautiful and intoxicating!! Iceland also has Red Beach, Blue Lagoon Hot Spring, Straw Hat Mountain, Dinjandi Falls, Cape Ratlar Bird Watching Cliff, etc., which can all be connected in a self-driving route. It can be reached by direct navigation. If you are chasing aurora, the aurora season is from October to April of the following year! Have you been to Iceland?

Iceland belongs to Europe, but it is not located on the European continent geographically, but is a solitary island in the North Atlantic, closest to Greenland, the Faroe Islands, and the United Kingdom. Culturally, Iceland is generally considered one of the five Nordic countries, with many similarities in language and customs with Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. However, this small country has countless unique places. Geographically, it is located at the junction of the Eurasian and American geological plates, so volcanic activity is active. And its high latitude has given it countless glaciers, including the third largest in the world and the largest in Europe, Vatnajökull. This dual nature of fire and ice has earned it the titles of "Country of Ice and Fire" and "Arctic Fire Island". More noteworthy than these loud names is the unique natural scenery shaped by this duality, making Iceland a travel dream for countless people around the world. Coupled with the avant-garde culture here, friendly nationals, and highly progressive ideas, Iceland is not just beautiful in the travel industry, it is a travel attitude in itself. Plane wreckage In 1937, a US Air Force plane crashed on the black sand beach on the south coast of Iceland. Due to the high cost of repairs, it has been quietly parked here, becoming a popular tourist check-in spot. Not only that, "Game of Thrones", "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story", "Noah's Ark: The Journey of Creation" all have scenes on the black sand beach, becoming the favorite place for science fiction directors. Some people say that if you can't go to outer space, go to Iceland. Some people say that going to Iceland is a planned escape from the earth. I strongly agree, for me, Iceland is the place I have been to, the place on this earth that is least like the earth's surface. Over the past few years of traveling around the world, whenever I am asked which country I like the most, my answer is always - Iceland

WE FOUND A SECRET WATERFALL IN ICELAND! Gljúfrabúi waterfall is a hidden gem that captivates with its mystical allure just 150 meters shy from the famous Seljalandsfoss. Tucked away in a narrow canyon, this waterfall exudes a sense of secrecy, as if nature herself decided to keep it veiled. Did you know legend has it that Gljúfrabúi holds tales of ancient spirits, cascading waters and misty air? Its history is woven into Icelandic folklore, where locals share stories of hidden pathways leading behind the cascading curtain of water. In the 19th century, the waterfall became a muse for poets and artists, inspiring creative souls with its ethereal beauty. Today, Gljúfrabúi stands as a testament to nature’s ability to mystify and inspire, inviting visitors to uncover the secrets that echo through its moss-covered rocks and crystal-clear waters. #tripstars #thingstodo #freehotelstay #2024wish

Have you ever been to a free hot spring? I soaked in a wild hot spring in Iceland! On the way to the town of Vik, you can stop by this wild hot spring, which was established in 1928. Search for Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool on the map and you'll find it. After turning off the main road, there is a parking area. Then you can proceed with your own towel and swimsuit. After about ten minutes, you can see the hot spring pool. The white house is the changing room, where you can only change clothes, not take a shower. There are hooks to hang your coat and backpack inside. When I went there, there were only about ten people soaking, including Americans, Australians, and people from other European countries. Very few people, we were the only Asians. The water in the hot spring pool is hotter than imagined, because it doesn't look very hot. Iceland is quite cold in summer. When you take your hand out to take a picture, you have to hand the camera to another person, and then hurry up and warm up in the water. This seems to be not natural hot spring water but heated haha, but it doesn't matter, there are many volcanoes in Iceland, and the mineral content of Icelandic water is very high. The pool has one side hotter and one side cooler. There is a lot of moss at the bottom of the pool, be careful not to slip. People who are obsessed with cleanliness may not dare to go in, because the water does not look clear. Soaking in a bath during a busy journey is quite comfortable. This is the first time I have soaked in such a wild hot spring, which relieves fatigue and continues on the road!

Most of the hot springs in Iceland are outdoor geothermal water. When it snows, take a hot spring bath, with the upper body cool and the lower body immersed in the warm hot spring, admiring the dazzling sunset or the colorful aurora, holding a glass of red wine, it is indescribably comfortable and cozy. Drive from Reykjavik to Vik, there is a place called Seljavellir. Enter road 242 from the ring road, input Seljavallalaug in the GPS and go in for 20 minutes, then drive into the small road leading to the swimming pool parking lot, park at the end of the road, and then walk along the road sign for 15-20 minutes to find this wild hot spring Seliavallalaug hidden in the mountains. Walk into the dilapidated dressing room and be instantly brought into the Iceland of the 20s. The hot spring is natural geothermal water with a temperature of 20-30 degrees. It is recommended to enjoy the scenery, take pictures and pose. Little secret: Because it is located in a natural scenic area, the surroundings of the hot spring basically maintain the original natural landscape, and there are few human traces. There is only one road between the two waterfalls that can lead to this hot spring.

After a strenuous 4-kilometer walk through the vast desert, we finally arrived at the site of an abandoned United States Navy DC plane, frozen in time since its tragic crash in November 1973. The plane's skeletal frame stands as a haunting reminder of the fateful day. Curiously, the cause of the crash remains a mystery. The desert winds whisper stories of a stormy night, where the pilot unknowingly switched to the wrong fuel tank, resulting in a catastrophic end. Decades later, the truth remains elusive. Standing here, I can't help but ponder the unknown and pay homage to the lives forever tied to this wreckage. ✈️🌵🔎

Let's celebrate Easter with a bang, as we feast our eyes on this breathtaking view of #haifoss #iceland. The vibrant hues, stunning contrasts, and mesmerizing sky serve as the perfect backdrop to capture the essence of this epic waterfall. Starting with my "Landscape" preset of my TRAVEL PACK, I've edited this picture to do justice to the splendor of this natural wonder. Join me on this adventure as we relish the bounty of nature's blessings while enjoying the festivities of Easter. From exploring the nearby hiking trails to immersing ourselves in the power of the waterfall, let's make this Easter a truly unforgettable experience in the heart of Icelandic nature. 🎉

Follow me on my adventures as I chase the captivating beauty of Skógafoss, one of the most photographed waterfalls in the world. Located in Iceland, this majestic cascade captivates the senses with its sheer power and mesmerizing beauty. Feel the mist on your face, listen to the thundering sound, and let yourself be immersed in the grandeur of nature. Join me in exploring the magic of Skógafoss, as we witness its breathtaking beauty and create memories that will last a lifetime. 🌊

Svartifoss waterfall is a mesmerizing sight to behold, hidden within the Vatnajökull National Park of Iceland. It boasts of captivating beauty marked by the surrounding dark lava columns. These basalt columns look breathtaking in the backdrop of the surrounding green lush vegetation. The natural wonder evokes a sense of wonder and awe, as if you are discovering a magical place that's out of a fairytale. The cascading waters, the striking contrast of black basalt columns against the green surroundings is a magical experience that will leave you enchanted. Join me as we explore this wonder of nature and fall in love with the unique geological formations that make Svartifoss truly special. Experience the joy of this mystical place as you hike or walk through its surrounding area. Take a deep breath, close your eyes and immerse yourself in this memorable journey, where every moment feels like a dream. 🌋

Behold the alien-like beauty of this Icelandic valley that seems to have sprung straight from another planet. The rugged terrain, piercing blue sky, and otherworldly ambiance create a surreal atmosphere that is hard to match. This picture is a testament to how Iceland's landscape can inspire, surprise, and leave you in awe. Join me on this adventure of discovery as we explore the magical wonders of the Icelandic wilderness. With each step, you'll be transported to a realm unlike any other, where nature's power and beauty come together in perfect harmony. From towering waterfalls to dramatic volcanic landscapes, Iceland offers breathtaking scenery at every turn. Let's embark on this journey together and immerse ourselves in the majesty of Iceland's landscapes. 🚶‍♂️🧭