5 Family-Friendly Iceland Activities You Don’t Want To Miss

Iceland is one of the most unique and fascinating countries in the world. With its otherworldly landscapes, spectacular glaciers, and magnificent waterfalls, Iceland is a destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or just looking for a fun way to spend your time, there are plenty of activities that everyone in your family can enjoy. From exploring glacial lagoons to taking a relaxing soak in hot springs, here are five family-friendly Iceland activities you don’t want to miss.

The Blue Lagoon

One of the must-see attractions in Iceland for families is the Blue Lagoon. Located in a lava field in Grindavík, the Blue Lagoon is an incredible hot spring that offers an unforgettable experience for all ages. The Blue Lagoon offers a wide range of amenities, including heated outdoor pools, saunas, steam rooms, and relaxing hot tubs. There are also special shallow areas for children to safely play and enjoy the warm water, and lifeguards are always on duty for extra peace of mind. 

Whale Watching

One of the most popular activities for families visiting Iceland is whale watching. Iceland is home to some of the world’s largest populations of whales and dolphins. Several boat tours take you out to the best locations to spot whales. Whale-watching tours typically include sightings of fin whales, minke whales, humpback whales, and even rarer species like blue whales. In addition, pods of dolphins and porpoises can often be seen playing in the water. Whale watching is one of the things to do in Akureyri, dubbed the capital of the North.

The Golden Circle

One of the most popular activities for families visiting Iceland is the three-stop Golden Circle tour. The first stop on your Golden Circle journey will be the Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park has stunning natural landscapes, with gorgeous waterfalls, beautiful lava fields and geological formations. Your second stop will be Geysir Hot Spring, home to Strokkur, a famous geyser that erupts every few minutes. Finally, you’ll visit the awe-inspiring Gullfoss Waterfall, which plunges over 33 metres (110 feet) into a deep canyon.

Horseback Riding

For families looking for an adventurous and unique activity in Iceland, look no further than horseback riding. Riding along the picturesque mountain trails and coastal paths, you’ll be able to witness some of the country’s most amazing sights up close. The great thing about horseback riding in Iceland is that there are different trails suited to any level of rider. From leisurely rides through meadows and forests to more challenging treks across lava fields, there’s something for everyone. 

Dettifoss Waterfall

The Dettifoss Waterfall is one of Iceland’s most famous attractions and a must-see for any family visiting the country. Located in the Vatnajökull National Park, this breathtaking waterfall is one of the most powerful in Europe with a flow rate of more than 500 cubic metres per second. Standing on the edge of the falls, visitors can get an up-close view of this majestic natural wonder. One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Dettifoss is to take a guided tour, which will allow you to explore the area and learn more about the local ecology and geology. The tour also includes a stop at the nearby Hafragilsfoss waterfall and a visit to the nearby Dimmuborgir Lava Field.

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