Best of Iceland

Located in southwestern Iceland, the capital and largest city of Iceland is said to be the location of the first permanent settlement. It is believed that the city was established around AD 870. Until the 18th century, there was no urban development, but the city was founded in 1786 as an official trading town and grew steadily over the next decades. Soon Reykjavík became the national center of commerce, population, and governmental activities. The city is rated among the cleanest, greenest, and safest cities in the world.

The Golden Circle is the most popular tourist route from Reykjavík in South Iceland. Two main stops on the route are Thingvellir National Park and Gullfoss Waterfall (Golden Falls). The route covers about 300 kilometers looping from Reykjavík into central Iceland and back.

Around 930, the Althing general assembly was established in Thingvellir. A law passed in 1928 protecting the area, which shall remain the property of the Icelandic nation under the preservation of the Althing. Thingvellir National Park was officially founded in 1930, marking the 1,000th anniversary of the Althing. In 2004, the park became a World Heritage Site. Throughout the park, travelers can visit the many hiking trails.

Lake Mývatn is the place to be to see an exceptionally large number of waterbirds. Thirteen species of duck nest here as well as many rare birds, but that’s not all there is to see! Lake Myvatn is a microcosm of all the natural wonders of Iceland such as sulphur springs, Krafla Caldera, nature baths, and incredible rock formations.

Húsavík is considered to be the “whale capital of Iceland” and is located along the coast of Skjálfandi Bay. According to legend, this was the first place in Iceland to be settled by the Norse. Take in the city’s vibrant houses and quaint harbor.

Húsavík is considered one of the best places to see many different kinds of whales. Pilot whales, Bottlenose, Sperm, Minke, Humpbacks, Sei, Fin, and Blue whales can all be seen on an exciting whale watching boat excursion. There’s nothing quite like seeing these gentle giants just a short distance away.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula is situated in western Iceland and has been named "Iceland in Miniature" because many national sights can be found in the area, including the Snæfellsjökull volcano. The bodies of water surrounding the peninsula include the Atlantic Ocean, Faxafloi Bay, and Breiðafjörður. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is known for its natural beauty where mountains, lava fields, and water can be seen all around.

Experience an Impact Moment with a visit to Jóhanna’s goat farm. Here, she has helped to bring this unique breed, dating back to the time of Iceland’s settlement, back from the brink of extinction.