TRAVELING around Iceland is a dream of mine. I long to brave the cold and walk its barren landscapes, I crave to spend some time observing puffins and Icelandic horses in their heavy winter coats, and the turf-roofed houses are giving me cozy dreams. Because my North Atlantic expedition is not scheduled before 2018, the amazing photographs selected below will have to do for now.
17 Images That Will Make You Want To Explore Iceland Right Now
If you’re on the fence about traveling to Iceland, here are 6 reasons why exploring this amazing country is the best decision you’ll ever make.
The waterfalls
Kirkjufellsfoss
Photo: Martin Jernberg
Seljalandsfoss
Photo: Robert Lukeman
Svartifoss
Photo: Sebastian Beun
Aldeyjarfoss
Photo: Vincent Guth
The wildlife
Puffins
Photo: David Klaasen
Icelandic horses
“The Icelandic breed is world famous. They’re generally small — pony-sized in fact — and have special gaits. Fun fact: laws prevent animals from being imported to Iceland or returning to the country after they’ve been exported.” — Paul Sullivan
Photo: Alice Donovan Rouse
Artic foxes
Photo: Jonatan Pie.
Photo: Jonatan Pie
The ice
Vatnajökull National Park
Photo: Davide Cantelli
Jökulsárlón
Photo: Roxanne Desgagnés
The unusual architecture
“Icelanders have been digging homes into the ground long before earth-homes became the new eco-friendly building trend. Dirt makes a great insulator and helps keep residents warm and mostly dry. Plus, it’s easier to come by in a region where acquiring other construction materials is a challenge.” — Sarah Park
The mountains
“Due to its low population, much of Iceland is quintessentially rural, though with a crazy volcanic twist that makes the landscapes highly distinctive and memorable. Ever seen sheep or horses grazing peacefully in a lunar-style lava field?” — Paul Sullivan
Snaefellsnes
Landmannalaugar
Photo: Amy Hanley
The northern lights
Thórsmörk
Photo: Jonatan Pie
Solheimasandur plane wreck
Photo: Thomas Tucker