Top 7 Activities to Enjoy During an Autumn Iceland Vacation

Embarking on a fabulous Iceland vacation in the autumn almost guarantees an adventure full of natural wonders and unique ways to experience them all.

Known as the ‘Land of Fire and Ice’, Iceland’s contrasting elements are the most known factor bringing travellers from far and wide to discover its coast and explore its inner beauty; while the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and ancient folklore history add to the intensity of the island.

With activities and tours for the whole family, romantic getaways for newlyweds and action-packed adventures for the outdoor lovers, you are never short of choice on your Iceland vacation.

Booknordics.com has pulled together some of our favourites to show you what’s on offer during autumn.

Interesting autumn climate

Capture autumn deep colours in a glorious background photograph

Although the temperature drops and rainfall is a little more frequent, the weather in autumn remains a perfect time to visit Iceland. 

Vibrant oranges, reds and yellows brighten the forests and the sun remains friendly to the mountains; creating a masterpiece of artwork for a backdrop photograph of its insane natural beauty.

Temperatures average, at their lowest, 2°c and a high of around 10°c and there are frequent daylight hours throughout the day to lighten your Iceland vacation. 

However, it would be wise to pack both waterproof and windproof clothing, along with layers and comfortable shoes in case of any last-minute stormy surprises.

Spoilt for choice autumn activities

Visit otherworldly destinations in Iceland

From berry picking, glacier climbing, ATV lava tours, mountain biking, forest hiking, fjord kayaking, horseback riding and landmark sightseeing - there is a whirlwind of activities to do in the autumntime.

Families are seen camping in the national parks, mountains are dotted with hikers and the fjords are active with excited kayakers enjoying their last adventures before the wintery temperatures creep in. On the other hand, the maritime wildlife is playful, the Arctic foxes are watching with eager eyes and the birdlife can be sighted one more time before they migrate return the following year. 

With an endless choice of activities to enjoy; autumn truly boasts some of the best there is on offer.

Booknordics.com top choice of activities

The Lava Falls Adventure Tour

Dig deep into Iceland's underground

The Lava Tunnel - Raufarholshellir, at 1,300m, is the longest and most spectacular lava tube cave in Iceland. Formed thousands of years ago during a volcanic eruption, experiencing this natural wonder is like experiencing something out of this world.

With the use of head torches and an experienced guide, you will navigate through this underworld wonder and be left speechless with what you discover. Prepare to witness the unbelievable inner workings of the volcanic eruption including the breathtaking underground lava falls.

The cave itself may have slightly difficult terrain inside, including big rocks and boulders, however, no prior caving experience is needed. Departing from Reykjavik, this is the perfect opportunity to leave the bustling city behind for a few hours and experience insane otherworldly elements on every traveller’s bucket list.

Big Whales and Puffins

Discover the underwater world in Iceland

Húsavík in the north is known for being the 'Watching Capital of Europe' and rightly so. With an over 90% success rate of witnessing the gigantic ocean kings, Húsavík is a sought-after destination on any travellers Iceland vacation.

On this fantastic tour, not only will you have the chance to meet the Blue whale, the Humpback whale and the Mink whale; you will have a close encounter with the charismatic Puffins on Lundey island before they migrate to warmer climates for the winter (estimated 20th August).

Perfect for the adventure seekers to explore the open waters on a fantastic RIB boat with less than a dozen other travellers and marvel at the underwater and birdlife world that surrounds Iceland and makes it one of the most interesting destinations in the Nordics.

ATV Tour into the Hallormsstaður Forest

If a thrill-seeking, adrenaline adventure is what you’re looking for, then look no further. Together with the untouched Icelandic nature, you can venture off on a 4x4 ATV with your friends for an unforgettable hour.

Prepare for crossing streams and digging through the dirt as you take on the ATV trails through the forest of Hallormsstaður. Incredible views await you and ancient history knowledge from the localised guides will inform you of the very ground you are travelling on.

Can you think of a better way to enjoy East Iceland’s remote areas?

Glacier Adventure

Experience the mountainous glaciers of Iceland

It’s one experience to witness the gigantic glaciers in person but another experience entirely to walk on top of one. With this Southern Iceland tour, you can enjoy a 4-hour hike on top of Falljökull glacier in the famous Skaftafell National Park.

Provided with all the safety gear and guidance you need; you’ll strap on your crampons and head to the peak of Falljökull glacier witnessing a variety of glacial formations, huge water cauldrons, deep crevasses and uniquely shaped ridges along the way.

Immerse into the natural beauty of Iceland by climbing between the summits of Hvannadalshnúkur and Hrútsfjall providing breathtaking views like no other. 

Your camera and your winter thermals are a must-bring to this phenomenal outing.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula Tour

Snæfellsnes Peninsula has various pitstops of natural wonders

The spectacular region of Western Iceland known as the Snæfellsnes Peninsula houses an array of otherworldly elements that form Iceland’s identity.

On a full-day, family-friendly tour, you can witness the magnificence of this country in all its glory. Visit Snæfellsjökull glacier, Búðahraun lava field, the coastline of Arnarstapi and Hellnar, Djúpalónssandur beach and the iconic Kirkjufell mountain and the Kirkjufell waterfall.

If you stand at the right angle, you’ll find that the mountain resembles the shape of a church steeple or witches hat; a challenge for the young ones to capture on camera. 

A magnificent tour that you’ll remember forever.

Iceland’s most famous landmarks

Golden Circle and Northern Lights Tour

Keep your eyes open for the Northern Lights as early as August, if conditions are right

Iceland’s most well-known landmarks and ultimate natural phenomena can be enjoyed hand in hand on a spectacular day and evening tour during the autumn.

Visit the country's three iconic natural treasures on a Golden Circle tour; explore the exclusive Þingvellir National Park where the American and Eurasian plates are drifting apart; witness the thundering Gullfoss Waterfall and the erupting Great Geysir before setting off on an evening chase for the magical auroras.

The Northern Lights are not unheard of for sightings to appear as early as August. Lady Aurora is quite unpredictable and although she is not guaranteed, an evening chasing the celebrated dancing lights is enjoyable for all the family and extremely excitable if she appears.

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, we recommend including this option in your Iceland vacation.

7-day Tour of Iceland

You can experience magical landscapes in 7 days

What better way to experience the most-wanted of Iceland’s landmarks and its exceptional hidden gems than taking part in a 7-day inclusive tour around the island itself under local and expert guidance? From top to toe, this is a journey of a lifetime.

Explore the famous Golden Circle - Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Hot Springs, Gullfoss Waterfall and sample a delicious lunch at the well-known Friðheimar Greenhouse restaurant. 

Witness the incredible duo of Seljalandsfoss Waterfall and majestic Skógafoss Waterfall; gaze at Sólheimajökull glacier and otherworldly Reynisfjara Black Beach.

Thundering waterfalls can be found all around Iceland

Capture breathtaking photographs of Fjarðrágljúfur Canyon and hike to the beautiful Svartifoss Waterfall in Skaftafell National Park. Observe the floating icebergs and the swimming seals at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon before exploring Diamond Beach at the foot of the glacier named after the incredible shapes of its icebergs.

Immerse yourself into one of Iceland’s most picturesque and distinct areas - Mývatn. View an active volcanic area with frequent earthquakes, dramatic rock formations, big lava pillars, lava rocks, volcanic caves, boiling mud pools, fumaroles and embedded natural hot springs. With a visit to Mývatn Lake and Krafla volcano before unwinding at Mývatn Jarðböð Spa, this is a scenic day you’ll never forget.

To finish off a whirlwind week, a visit to Snæfellsnes Peninsula grants you access to the region otherwise known as ‘Miniature Iceland’. A fantastic week offering you endless adventures in Iceland.

Booknordics.com promise to you

Deciding on the perfect adventure can be somewhat challenging with a variety of exceptional options to choose from. Here at Booknordics.com, our mission is to support you and we couldn’t be happier.

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