TravelWhiz by Wendy Orr
Iceland Northern Lights Aurora Borealis over snowy landscape

Iceland Vacations — The Land of Fire and Ice

Iceland

Best Time to Visit: June through August for the midnight sun and outdoor activities; September through March for the Northern Lights. April and May are excellent for fewer crowds.
Climate: Subarctic with mild summers (10–20°C) and cold winters (-5 to 5°C). Weather is unpredictable year-round.

Iceland is one of the world's most extraordinary travel destinations — a volcanic island where geysers erupt, waterfalls cascade from glaciers, the Northern Lights dance across the winter sky, and the midnight sun illuminates 24-hour summer days. The Golden Circle, the Ring Road, and the extraordinary volcanic landscapes of the Westfjords and the Highlands make Iceland one of the most unique destinations on Earth.

Why Visit Iceland?

  • Northern Lights — the most spectacular natural light show on Earth (September–March)
  • Golden Circle — Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss in one day
  • Blue Lagoon — a geothermal spa in a lava field
  • Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon — icebergs floating in a glacial lake
  • Ring Road — a 1,332km circuit of the entire island

Things to Do in Iceland

Wendy can arrange any of these experiences as part of your personalised itinerary.

Northern Lights Tour

Chase the Northern Lights on a guided tour from Reykjavík (September–March) — the most spectacular natural light show on Earth.

Golden Circle Day Trip

Visit the three iconic Golden Circle attractions — Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and the Gullfoss waterfall.

Blue Lagoon

Soak in the extraordinary Blue Lagoon geothermal spa — milky blue water in a dramatic lava field, with silica mud masks and a swim-up bar.

Glacier Hiking

Hike on a glacier with a certified guide — Sólheimajökull, Svínafellsjökull, and Skaftafell offer extraordinary glacier experiences.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Visit the extraordinary Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon — icebergs calving from the Vatnajökull glacier float in a beautiful lake.

Ring Road Road Trip

Drive the 1,332km Ring Road around the entire island — waterfalls, fjords, volcanic landscapes, and extraordinary wildlife.

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Where to Eat in Iceland

Wendy's recommended restaurants — from fine dining to authentic local cuisine.

Michelin-Starred

Dill

Iceland's only Michelin-starred restaurant — exceptional modern Nordic cuisine using Icelandic ingredients.

Fine Dining

Nostra

A celebrated Reykjavík restaurant — exceptional modern Icelandic cuisine using local and foraged ingredients.

Iconic Hot Dog Stand

Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur

Reykjavík's most famous hot dog stand — a Icelandic institution visited by Bill Clinton and Anthony Bourdain.

Where to Stay in Iceland

Wendy has personal relationships with these properties and can often secure upgrades and exclusive rates.

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon

Luxury

An extraordinary luxury hotel at the Blue Lagoon — private lagoon access, exceptional spa, and stunning volcanic scenery.

ION Adventure Hotel

Luxury

A stunning eco-hotel on the edge of the Þingvellir lava field — extraordinary Northern Lights viewing and exceptional design.

Hotel Rangá

Luxury

A beautiful lodge in the South Iceland countryside — exceptional Northern Lights viewing from outdoor hot tubs.

Planning Your Iceland Trip

📅 Best Time to Visit

June through August for the midnight sun and outdoor activities; September through March for the Northern Lights. April and May are excellent for fewer crowds.

🌤️ Climate

Subarctic with mild summers (10–20°C) and cold winters (-5 to 5°C). Weather is unpredictable year-round.

✈️ Getting There

Connecting flights from Calgary to Reykjavík Keflavík International Airport (KEF) via London, Toronto, or direct Icelandair service. Total travel time approximately 10–12 hours.

W

Wendy's Take on Iceland

35+ years of travel expertise

Oh, Iceland! It's truly a destination that captures the imagination and holds a very special place in my heart after 35+ years of helping travelers discover the world. This 'Land of Fire and Ice' is an unparalleled tapestry of dramatic landscapes, where steaming geothermal fields meet colossal glaciers, and the vibrant green of summer gives way to the ethereal glow of the Northern Lights in winter. It's a place that feels both ancient and otherworldly, a testament to nature's raw power and breathtaking beauty.

Iceland is absolutely perfect for adventurers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking an escape from the ordinary. If you dream of hiking across volcanic terrain, soaking in geothermally heated lagoons, chasing waterfalls that tumble into the sea, or witnessing the mesmerizing dance of the Aurora Borealis, then Iceland is calling your name. It's also fantastic for those who appreciate unique cultural experiences, from exploring charming Reykjavik to delving into Viking history.

While every season offers its own magic, the best time to visit really depends on what you want to experience. For the Midnight Sun and endless daylight for exploring, summer (June to August) is ideal. If seeing the Northern Lights is your priority, then the darker months from September to April are your window of opportunity, often coupled with snow-dusted landscapes that are equally stunning.

My personal favorite thing about Iceland? It's the sheer, untamed power of its natural wonders. There's a profound sense of awe that washes over you when you stand before a thundering waterfall like Seljalandsfoss, or witness the explosive might of Strokkur geyser. It's a constant reminder of how magnificent our planet truly is. For a specific booking tip, I always advise my clients to book their accommodations and popular tours well in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season or hoping to catch the Northern Lights. Iceland's popularity means that the best options fill up quickly, and securing your spots early ensures a smoother, more enjoyable journey. Don't leave it to the last minute – planning ahead is key to unlocking the full magic of this incredible island!

Insider Tips — Iceland

1.

Always check the Icelandic Met Office website for aurora forecasts and weather conditions daily; clear skies are paramount for Northern Lights viewing.

2.

Consider renting a 4x4 vehicle if you plan to explore beyond the main roads, especially in winter, but be mindful of road conditions and closures.

3.

Download the Parka app before you go; it's essential for paying for parking at many popular tourist sites across the country.

4.

Pack a reusable water bottle; Iceland has some of the purest tap water in the world, and you can refill it anywhere.

Frequently Asked Questions — Iceland

Is Iceland good for families?

Iceland is excellent for families — the geysers, waterfalls, Northern Lights, and whale watching are extraordinary for children of all ages.

Do Canadians need a visa for Iceland?

No — Canadian citizens can visit Iceland (which is part of the Schengen Area) visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period with a valid passport.

Is Iceland expensive?

Iceland is one of the world's more expensive destinations. However, the extraordinary scenery and unique experiences make it worth the investment. Wendy can help you find the best value.

Book Your Iceland Trip with Wendy

As your trusted travel consultant, Wendy handles every detail of your Iceland vacation — from flights and hotels to transfers and experiences. Get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote.

Book Your Iceland Trip with Wendy

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