Iceland Solo Travel: Planning the Perfect Solo Trip to Iceland

Not gonna lie but back in the day when I tried to plan my own Iceland solo travel trip, I got SUPER overwhelmed and kind of had a mild nervous breakdown.

Nothing major since hospitalization was not required (lol).

But between creating a solo Iceland travel itinerary, trying to figure out the best time to visit Iceland, learning how to navigate Iceland on my own, and the insanely high price of some of the best hostels in Iceland (try visiting Iceland in March since it tends to be cheaper), saying that I had a slight freak out is a bit of an understatement. Yeah, I definitely wish I knew what I was doing and exactly how to plan a road trip in a place like Iceland.

Sadly though:

That 12-day Iceland road trip wasn’t meant to be. But eventually, I’ll finally get to create my own Iceland travel itinerary and take a solo Iceland road trip of my own. I’ll also do tons of research and know exactly where to see Puffins in Iceland and where to see beautiful Icelandic horses.

But since I still haven’t been to Iceland myself (sigh) and explored the Snaefellsnes-Peninsula:

I needed some advice about traveling to Iceland alone. That’s why I asked some of my favorite Iceland solo travel experts to help me create the ultimate Iceland solo travel guide.

Throughout this post on solo traveling Iceland:

You’ll learn how to plan the perfect trip to Iceland, discover some of the best Iceland tours for solo travelers, and even see a list of top Iceland attractions that you absolutely must add to your Iceland bucket list.

So without further ado:

Check out this expert guide to solo travel through Iceland and prepare to be astounded by the insane natural beauty of this amazing country.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

***Looking for some of the best hostels for solo travelers in Reykjavik? Then check out KEX Hostel, Galaxy Pod Hostel, Oddsson, and Bus Hostel. You can also read some of these amazing books set in Iceland to get excited about your trip!***

Contents show

1. Gullfoss Waterfall

By: Suzanne Jones of The Travel Bunny

If you plan to do Iceland solo travel then Gullfoss Waterfall is a place that you must see along Iceland's Golden Circle. — If you plan to do Iceland solo travel then Gullfoss Waterfall is a place that you must see along Iceland’s Golden Circle.

Traveling solo in Iceland is very easy. Just rent a car and drive out into the beautiful Icelandic landscape (this is also one of the many fun things to do in Iceland with kids).

But before you go:

You’ll need GPS and a map since the Icelandic hinterland can be rugged and desolate. Also, always check the weather and to ensure that the route is safe and clear before you set off on your solo Iceland trip.

If driving yourself is a bit too adventurous for you:

You can always join one of the many group tours that depart from Reykjavik; tours like diving at Silfra or even snowmobiling across a glacier.

Personally though:

One of my favorite Iceland solo travel spots is Gullfoss Waterfall which is one of the top Iceland attractions that you’ll see when touring Iceland’s Golden Circle.

Once you arrive at Gullfoss or the golden waterfall:

After just a few minutes walk from the car park, you’ll hear this waterfall thundering into the River Hvita thunders and canyon below. You’ll also see Gulfoss cascading down a two-tiered staircase of hardened magma before it disappears into a vast cloud of spray and mist.

But the best part?

This waterfall can be visited for free since it’s found in a public space that has amenities like clean public toilets and a cafe that sells delicious hot and cold food.

2. Djupavik

By: Inma Gregorio of A World to Travel

Djupavik is one of the amazing aspects of Iceland's natural landscape. — Djupavik is one of the amazing aspects of Iceland’s natural landscape.

Hidden at the end of a fjord in the North of the Westfjords is the enchanting town of Djupavik.

You’ll only find it after hours of driving, where the only signs of life are from the man-made and dirt roads that you’re driving on.

But eventually, on the horizon:

You’ll spot a small village formed by a handful of buildings that were once used by a local herring factory as residences for their workers.

Today:

This tiny town includes a hotel, restaurant, and even an art exhibit that was created from this former factory.

While in Djupavik:

I stayed in a small independent house, for 15 days, surrounded by waterfalls and an abandoned boat from long ago. I was there as part of the European Volunteer Service program (EVS) and helped locals clean up the old factory and turn it into the aforementioned art gallery.

Remote, raw and unique:

Djupavik is the perfect place for nature lovers who want a bit of solitude while they explore the natural wonder of the village’s many nearby hills and waterfalls.

A perfect stop that any Iceland solo traveler can add to their Iceland road trip itinerary.

3. Kerið

By: Ruth Rleckehoff of Tanama Tales

The natural beauty of Iceland's Kerið Crater. — The natural beauty of Iceland’s Kerið Crater.

If you decide to explore the regions surrounding Reykjavik during your solo trip through Iceland:

Then I definitely recommend visiting Kerið, a volcanic crater lake in Grímsnes. It’s a fantastic place to enjoy easy hikes and marvelous views.

For a small fee (about 3 dollars or 2 euros):

You can walk around the crater rim and marvel at the red and grey soil that is peppered with mustard and green grass. Just keep an eye on your footing since some of the surfaces here are quite loose.

You can also descend into the heart of the crater by following a short path that will take you to the water level; a perspective that is completely different from the vantage point that you see in the photo above.

And while there are no on-site amenities:

The crater is quite close to the city of Selfoss, where you can find anything you need, and can easily be added to any Golden Circle itinerary or Southern Iceland road trip.

***See this crater and more during an exciting Golden Circle day tour from Reykjavik.***

4. Fjaðrárgljúfur

By: Michael Rozenblit of The World Was Here First

Many solo travelers visit Iceland to experience the stunning waterfalls and glaciers that are scattered throughout this enchanting island nation.

Personally though:

One of my favorite places to visit in Iceland, which I urge other travelers to explore as well, is Fjaðrárgljúfur. Fjaðrárgljúfur is a massive and spectacular canyon that is approximately one hundred meters deep and two kilometers long.

The river Fjaðrá also flows through the canyon and is believed to be at least nine thousand years old.

Located on the Southern Coast of Iceland:

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is a logical stop if you’re planning to travel east, from Vik, along the Ring Road towards the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.

Once you see the Fjaðrárgljúfur exit along the Ring Road:

It’s just a short drive up a small gravel road until you reach the car park. From the car park, there are a series of trails that you can follow to reach the canyon.

Along these trails:

You can either walk up to the top of the canyon and get a fantastic panoramic view of the surrounding area or walk down to the river and appreciate this fabulous landscape from an entirely different perspective.

Just be forewarned:

The trails here can be quite slippery and windy so it’s imperative that you wear good shoes and a coat suitable for Iceland!

5. Downtown Reykjavik Harborfront

By: Mayuri Kashyap of To Some Place New

Take some time to yourself and explore the beautiful Downtown Reykjavik Harborfront.

Downtown Reykjavik (the perfect addition to any 4 day South Iceland itinerary) is definitely one of the safest places in Europe for solo travel.

But to fully appreciate this fun and vibrant Icelandic city, you should devote at least one day of your 3 day Iceland itinerary to Reykjavik.

While in downtown Reykjavik:

You can explore the scenic harborfront, see the tallest church in all of Iceland, Hallgrímskirkja, and discover the Harpa concert hall, a stunning, modern architectural landmark in Iceland.

When you’re exhausted from all this sightseeing in Reykjavik:

You can visit one of the area’s many restaurants, which serve a variety of local delicacies like Icelandic lamb soup.

This truly is the perfect place for any solo traveler since this part of the city is safe, clean, and well marked, so you definitely won’t get lost.

Plus:

There are a ton of day tours from Reykjavik that you can join if you want to explore more of Iceland with some like-minded people or if you’re traveling to Reykjavik with kids.

***Looking for some fantastic solo dining options in Reykjavik? Then try the vegan restaurant Gló or devour falafel at either Mandi Grill or Habibi Grill. If you like around at some local cafes then visit Bismút Cafe, Reykjavik Roasters, or Stofan Kaffihús for some epic cheesecake. ***

6. The Westfjords

By: Andrew Dobson of Dobbernation Loves

Enjoy a fantastic horseback riding tour through the Westfjords of Iceland.

The Westfjords region has been dubbed “the most famous unknown place in Iceland”.

Throw in an award for being a “European Destination of Excellence” and a listing as one of the Top 10 regions in the world to visit in 2011, and you’ll understand why you must visit the Westfjords throughout your solo travels in Iceland.

Although the locals are fiercely friendly:

It’s really the region’s jaw-dropping natural landscapes that appeal to solo travelers the most. These untouched, and almost uninhabited, cliffs and valleys are home to an assortment of wildlife like arctic birds and fox.

The waterfalls here are also spectacularly high, the streams incredibly pure, and the fjords amazingly long and deep. So get off the beaten path, travel to the Westfjords in Iceland, and experience all that mother nature has to offer.

For anyone looking to get up close and personal with the Icelandic Horse:

Be sure to stop by the small town of Þingeyri and visit the local, family-run, Simbahollin Cafe (be sure to order a hot cup of coffee and plate of Belgian waffles), which offers visitors unforgettable horseback riding tours that can be enjoyed with a small group of like-minded solo travelers.

7. Skógafoss Waterfall

By: Macca Sherifi of An Adventurous World

The amazing beauty of Skógafoss Waterfall in Iceland.

One of my favorite spots in Iceland is the gorgeous, Skógafoss Waterfall in the south. Just a short, two-hour drive from Reykjavik, en route to the black-sand beaches of Vik, Skógafoss Waterfall is just another reason to visit Iceland.

Standing at 62m-high, this waterfall dramatically topples over the nearby rocky cliffs, creating a ferocity of power that you only truly feel when you’re standing at the bottom of this majestic waterfall.

While you’re here:

You can also climb some nearby stairs and either enjoy the views at the top of the waterfall or do some hiking along the many nearby hiking trails.

Skógafoss truly is one of the most beautiful sights in Iceland and is well worth a visit from any Iceland solo traveler.

8. Husavik

By: Danni Lawson of Live in 10 Countries

The town Husavik is a must-see destination for anyone traveling through Northern Iceland.

In the North of Iceland:

Husavik is known as an amazing whale watching destination, with numerous tours daily (like this three-hour Husavik whale watching tour)

However:

Husavik has so much more to offer the solo traveler. Between fantastic scenery, refreshing geothermal springs, incredible wildlife, and amazing golf courses, any solo traveler here will be too busy to feel alone!

Plus:

This town is easy to reach from the ring road, so it’s a perfect stop if you’ re hitchhiking or driving your way around the country.

But more than that:

I found this place to be welcoming of tourists and solo travelers. There are also an amazing variety of harborside cafes where you can sit, enjoy great food, and admire the exquisite view if you’re dining on your own.

Of course:

While you’re here, you can’t miss a ride out to sea, snapping photos of gorgeous whales in their natural habitat. On board, you can also chat with other, friendly travelers who are often full of amazing travel advice.

If you’re spending the night:

Camping is always welcome and easy to do. There are also a variety of guesthouses that make a great stop for weary solo travelers who are exhausted from their journey through Northern Iceland.

***Like to solo travel? Then check out this Berlin solo travel guide.***

9. Reykjadalur Hot Springs

By: Radka Stankova of Real Camp Life

The beautiful solitude of the Reykjadalur Hot Springs.

Imagine yourself in a beautiful valley surrounded by picturesque mountains. You are sitting in a hot spring, drinking a cold beer and watching the milky way or northern lights dancing above your head.

Is this too good to be true?

No! Just head to Reykjadalur hot springs in South Iceland. Just a 40-minute drive from Reykjavik, near the town Hveragerdi, it is one of the most spectacular places I have ever been.

Plus:

The hike to Reykjadalur Hot Springs is to do without a guide and bathing here is free of charge! From the parking place outside of Hveragerdi, it takes about 45 – 60 min each way.

But if you don’t want to visit alone:

You can join numerous tours going up the valley and enjoy the area’s stunning views from the back of a cute Icelandic horse.

In recent years:

This hot spring has gone from a little-known sheep trail (and a hidden gem of Scandinavia) to a star attraction. So if you want to avoid the crowds and have the hot springs for yourself, then wake up super early (or go later in the day) and start the hike before everyone else (a great alternative to the Blue Lagoon, which can be overrated).

10. Kirkjufellsfoss

By: Leanne Scott of The Globetrotter Go

You can visit Kirkjufellsfoss as a stop on the Iceland Ring Road or as a day trip from Reykjavik.

My absolute favorite place in Iceland is Kirkjufellsfoss on the Snaefellsfoss peninsula (you can also explore this area on a full-day Snaefellsfoss Peninsula tour from Reykjavik).

I fell in love with this magical place even before I set foot in Iceland since I was entranced by the photos I saw while researching my trip.

See:

Kirkjufellsfoss is perhaps one of the most photographed places in Iceland and for good reason. Here, two small waterfalls frame a majestic, conical mountain that is perfectly situated to capture the beauty of the sunsets and sunrises here.

A true photographer’s dream.

And the great thing about this place, for solo travelers, is that the hike from the car park to the waterfall takes just a few minutes. Plus, there’s a small village, Grundarfjördur, just around the corner where you can stay.

Therefore, visiting at sunset is both easy and safe!

Now typically, this place is visited as a stop along the Iceland ring road Itinerary. However, Kirkjufellsfoss also makes a great day trip from Reykjavik, although you do need a full two days to explore this region properly.

To this day:

I’m still amazed by the number of people that skip this part of Iceland in their race to get back to Reykjavik.

Trust me:

Take a small detour to this magnificent part of the country and I promise that you won’t regret it.

11. Vatnajokull

By: Becky Angell of Becky the Traveller

One of the most stunning places to visit during your solo Iceland trip is Vatnajokull, a glacier that is the largest in Europe and that occupies nearly 10% of Iceland.

Additionally:

There is an enormous glacier lagoon where you can see huge chunks of the glacier fall into the lagoon and either drift out to sea or end up on a beach that is famously known as Diamond Beach.

It’s the kind of place where you can spend ages gazing up at this incredible sight, happily photographing it for hours at a time!

Now:

For solo adventurers who want to see this glacier from a different perspective, I suggest taking one of the many glacier hike tours offered here; a perfect choice if you’re traveling alone since it’s much easier to join a tour at the last minute.

Just remember that:

Glacier hiking in Iceland can only be done between May to September, so plan your trip accordingly. Whatever you do though, be sure to squeeze in a trip to this glacier and you won’t be disappointed!

12. The Icelandic Phallological Museum

By: Retha Charette of The Roaming Nanny

Some of what you'll find at The Icelandic Phallological Museum in Reykjavik. — Some of what you’ll find at The Icelandic Phallological Museum in Reykjavik.

I find that sometimes when traveling solo I need a good laugh.

You might miss home or have a difficult time making friends. You just never know what will happen, which is why I needed a good laugh on my last day in Iceland.

And that’s exactly what I got at The Icelandic Phallological Museum.

The name makes it sound very serious, but it’s a museum full of dicks. Literally, there are penises everywhere. Ranging from actual specimens of Icelandic animals from both land and sea to penis pop culture items.

In total:

There are 282 actual penises in the museum including that of a Homo sapien.

During my visit:

I was one of about 8 people in the museum, all trying to keep their giggling to a minimum. I personally enjoyed the pop culture section of the museum that featured toys (seriously, there is a wind-up Monk penis toy), art, magazines and even a comic book about Elmo the Superhero Penis!

13. Hverfjall

By: Constance Panda of The Adventures of Panda Bear

The unique beauty of Hverfjall in Iceland. The perfect addition to any Iceland solo travel itinerary.

Hverfjall is definitely of the coolest places in Iceland for solo travelers.

Located in Northern Iceland:

This former, tuff ring volcano, has an interesting, desolate gray landscape that is unique to behold.

With volcanic rocks scattered all across the surrounding trails, a visit here makes you feel as though you actually took a trip to the moon.

And with two short, twenty minute hikes to the top of the crater:

You can easily walk around and enjoy exquisite views from the crater rim, a wide open area that is perfect for solo hikers.

However:

Due to the terrain, the path is quite gravelly and pebbly, making it very easy to slip.

But on the plus side:

It’s a simple hike up and down, so you won;t have to worry about getting lost. Definitely one of the easiest and safest hikes in Iceland.

Iceland Solo Travel: Planning the Perfect Solo Trip to Iceland

1. Gullfoss Waterfall

2. Djupavik

3. Kerið

4. Fjaðrárgljúfur

5. Downtown Reykjavik Harborfront

6. The Westfjords

7. Skógafoss Waterfall

8. Husavik

9. Reykjadalur Hot Springs

10. Kirkjufellsfoss

11. Vatnajokull

12. The Icelandic Phallological Museum

13. Hverfjall

There you have it my solo travel minded friends! This is the conclusion of this hopefully helpful Iceland solo travel guide.

So dear reader, use these solo Iceland travel tips to kick ass and take names as you solo travel through Iceland.

And if you’re feeling mad inspired and want to become one of the many solo travelers in Iceland, then pin this now and read it again later!