Why Everyone Needs To Book A Trip To Iceland ASAP
The northern lights are a religious experience.
Behold the land of fire and ice.
Chilling just below the Arctic Circle, Iceland is a Nordic nirvana from sea to crystal-clear sea. Nicknamed "The Land of Fire and Ice" for its abundance of volcanos and glaciers, Iceland features breathtaking landscapes and unique geographical phenomena that only look like they're from another planet. In fact, a trip to this island nation is remarkably within reach. Here's why Iceland just jumped to #1 on our travel bucket list.
1. Dope geysers
Strokker Geysir shoots water 100 feet into the air every 5 to 10 minutes.
2. Breathtaking glaciers
Glaciers cover 11% of Iceland's landmass.
3. Caves made of ice
You'll feel like you're inside a frozen ocean.
4. Otherworldly waterfalls
Whoooaa. Just, whoa.
5. It's actually very green
Like the old saying goes: Greenland is ice and Iceland is green.
6. Puffins!
Need we say more?
7. Humane whale watching
Iceland's whale watching industry is committed to giving whales their space.
8. Go inside a volcano
Explore Tour Thrihnukagigur, a once-active volcano that has been dormant for 4,000 years.
9. Kerid crater lake exists
Just LOOK AT IT.
10. Swim between the continental divide
Visitors can scuba or snorkel in the Silfra fissure, where the North American and Eurasian continents meet.
11. Take a dip in the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa
This mineral-rich hot spa is warmed by the heat of a nearby volcano.
12. Enjoy endless sunshine (during the summer)
Because of its high latitude, Iceland enjoys summer days with up to 21 hours of daylight.
13. Black sand beaches
Much of Iceland's coastline is covered in black sand composed of volcanic minerals and lava fragments.
14. The northern lights
Make a trip between December and April for your best shot at seeing the aurora borealis in all their glory.
15. It's much cheaper than flying to continental Europe
You can get a round-trip ticket from the east coast of the US to Iceland for $550 in the off season, or $850 during the peak of summer.
16. It's the most peaceful country on Earth
Don't fret for your safety in the country ranked #1 by the Global Peace Index.
17. Iceland has basically already planned your ideal trip
Bike or drive around the Golden Circle, a 300 km route encircling the island and connecting most of its natural wonders. What are you waiting for?!