Iceland solo travel is a dream destination for solo travellers. The world’s safest country, it offers gorgeous nature and warm Northern culture that will take your breath away.
Hike a volcano, bathe in steamy hot springs or marvel at the aurora borealis. From the iceberg lagoon of Jokulsarlon to the black sand beach at Vik, it’s a land of natural wonder.
1. Easy to get to
Iceland is the dream destination of anyone looking to break away from smog-filled cities and breathe non-toxic air. It’s a country where you can immerse yourself in nature, find solace in soothing hot springs and reconnect with the elements. It’s also a place where you can uncover Viking tales, explore the world’s most active volcanic sites and even see the magical northern lights.
The people of Iceland are some of the friendliest on earth and are more than happy to welcome solo travellers. The low crime rate in this safe and hospitable country means that you can travel on your own and still feel completely at ease. Plus, you’ll be able to find like-minded travellers in the hostels dotted around the island.
With a range of group tours that are designed specifically for solo travelers, it’s easy to experience the best of this amazing country. Whether you want to discover the awe-inspiring landscapes of Vatnajokull National Park or stand between the two tectonic plates at Thingvellir, there’s sure to be an adventure that’s perfect for you.
Iceland’s smaller size and centralized location makes it easy to get around by car, which is the most popular way to explore the island. Hiring a rental car is an affordable option, and the country’s well-developed infrastructure makes it easy to navigate. The Ring Road is an ideal route for newbies to navigate and offers a great opportunity to take in the dramatic landscapes.
Another option is to join a group tour with a local company such as Flash Pack. A cool 98% of their travelers arrive solo and they offer a number of awe-inspiring small group adventures that combine the independence of solo travel with the security and social element of a group.
2. Easy to get around
A country that has a low crime rate and a tight-knit culture of people looking out for each other, Iceland is a wonderful solo travel destination. Its natural landscapes are awe-inspiring and speak for themselves, from the jaw-dropping waterfalls to the lava sands of Reynisfjara beach.
The capital city of Reykjavik is easy to explore on foot, with a number of hostels and hotels to choose from. Many locals speak English, making it easy to strike up a conversation and meet people. And even outside of the cities, getting around is surprisingly simple and convenient. Iceland’s roads are well-maintained, with the circular Highway 1 (Ring Road) running around the country. It’s also possible to take tours that focus on the countryside, with companies like Flash Pack offering trips for those who want to drive but aren’t confident enough to rent a car.
Those who prefer to stay within the cities will find a range of walking trails and public transport options to get around. It’s also possible to join a group tour, which can be an excellent way to meet fellow travelers and save money through group discounts on activities and meals.
There are plenty of things to do in Iceland for all types of travellers, from hikers to foodies. Some of the most popular activities include trekking on a glacier, searching for the Northern Lights in a snowmobile or enjoying a soothing soak at a geothermal hot spring.
3. Affordable
There are so many reasons to love Iceland but one of the biggest is how affordable it is to visit on a solo travel trip. The country’s otherworldly landscapes and array of cultural attractions are just as exciting as they are accessible, with accommodation options ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels and everything in between. Plus, there are plenty of free activities to enjoy, from watching the Northern Lights to hiking across glaciers and exploring the lava fields.
Hiring a car is the best way to explore Iceland as public transport infrastructure is limited, with only a few long-distance buses operating during the summer months. But renting a car doesn’t have to break the bank; in fact, it can be one of the cheapest ways to get around.
Iceland is a safe and welcoming place for solo travellers, with Reykjavik ranking as one of the world’s safest cities and a low crime rate throughout the country. However, travellers should still check their country’s travel guidelines or the Foreign and Commonwealth Office before embarking on a journey to ensure they are safe and well prepared for what they might encounter.
Reykjavik is a fantastic base for a solo trip to Iceland, with its compact layout and walkable streets, making it easy to get around on foot. It’s also a great spot for sightseeing, from the iconic Hallgrimskirkja church to the new Harpa concert hall and the scenic harborfront. In addition to soaking up the atmosphere, there are plenty of opportunities to shop and dine in the city’s buzzing restaurants. And of course, no trip to Iceland is complete without a dip in one of the country’s famous hot springs, such as the iconic Blue Lagoon or new kid on the block, Sky Lagoon.
4. Easy to meet people
Iceland is a place that’s ideal for solo travel. From fiery volcanic landscapes and bubbling hot springs to majestic wild horses and waterfalls that glisten with rainbows, this island nation has a lot going for it. Plus, it’s one of the world’s friendliest countries. It’s easy to mingle with locals and other travelers when you’re traveling alone, and it’s also easy to join a group for certain activities or tours. It can even help you save money through group discounts.
And if you want to get more social while on your trip, there are plenty of options in the capital city of Reykjavik. You can take part in a pub crawl or trivia night with fellow travelers, sign up for a food tour (Iceland has some tasty cuisine on offer), or go on an evening excursion to see the Northern Lights. And don’t forget to visit the famous Blue Lagoon — the otherworldly experience is worth the trip alone, but spending some time with like-minded people definitely makes it more fun!
Of course, the best reason to travel Iceland alone is that it’s safe. This beautiful country has been ranked as the safest in the world for the last 15 years, so you can explore its gorgeous landscapes and fascinating culture without worrying about your personal safety. Plus, English is the official language, so it’s easy to strike up conversations with locals. You’ll feel far removed from the smog-filled streets of your home country and breathe the fresh Icelandic air that makes you so grateful for this untouched wilderness escape. It’s the kind of adventure that’s hard to find anywhere else. It’s why Iceland should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
5. Safe
Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world and a fantastic choice for solo travellers. Reykjavik is a very safe city with low crime rates, and the island itself is a great place for independent travellers to explore. The locals are welcoming and friendly, and there is little danger from other visitors. Harassment is rare, and it is perfectly safe to wander the streets alone at night or to take a hike or swim alone. However, it is always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings, and take normal precautions like keeping your belongings close and not leaving drinks unattended.
As a bonus, Iceland’s high quality of life means that people speak English well here. This is a huge plus when you are travelling alone, as it makes communicating with locals much easier. It is also helpful when you want to book an excursion or find a restaurant or bar to spend the evening. The ability to communicate easily with the locals can make your trip much more enjoyable, and Icelanders are known for their friendly and welcoming nature.
If you’re a first-time solo traveller, group tours can be an ideal way to see Iceland and get acquainted with the country. You’ll have the freedom of solo travel with the peace of mind that comes from having a group of people to look out for you, and you can make new friends who can share your experiences with you. Alternatively, Flash Pack offers a number of group adventures to Iceland that are perfect for those wanting the independence of solo travel but with the added security and comfort of a tour group.
