Getting There

I read somewhere that WOW airlines single handedly changed the tourism industry in Iceland by offering extremely cheap flights. While the flights are inexpensive, WOW airlines will charge you for everything, including water, luggage, and assigned seating. Come prepared with plenty of snacks, a meal or two, and water for the flight.

It is true that flights to Iceland are cheap, but what we learned after visiting is that everything else is expensive. Shopping and food are very expensive (pricier than San Fransisco, New York, or Paris). For instance, $4 US dollars for a tiny Diet Coke at a casual restaurant. Budget appropriately and expect to pay a high price of admission for this adventure.

Getting Around

One of the most important decisions you will make regarding your trip is your choice of transport.

Here are your options:

Rent a car — *Our preferred option Small group tours Large group tours

^There are very few taxis around.

Renting a car offers more flexibility, freedom, and cost savings compared to tours. Iceland is a road-trip kind of country — if you want to see incredible nature and not be stuck with flocks of sheeple, rent a car.

If you choose this option, rent through a reputable rental company and pay for a 4 wheel drive. The main roads are safe but the weather can be unpredictable and fierce so drive carefully.

*Note — certain activities like glacier walks and ice caving require a tour guide but you can meet them onsite. Also, most places have WiFi but there are long stretches of road with no stops, so download offline Google Maps of all the locations you plan to visit or buy an international phone plan with internet.

If you choose to take tours, the options are endless. While tours are usually more expensive, they are well suited for people who prefer a guide or feel uncomfortable driving. The tour operators usually pick up from the city and transport in small vans or large buses to the attractions for single or multiple day tours. If you choose this option, I strongly recommend doing a multiple day tour to see Jokulsarlon and Vik.

Accommodations

In Reykjavik, we stayed at the Alda Hotel which was centrally located, cozy, and trendy. It has a hot tub tucked away in the back which is perfect when it’s cold and snowy.

Airbnb is a great way to truly experience Icelandic living. It is more cost effective than most hotels. Consider urban and rural options depending on the experience you seek. We stayed at this Airbnb on the lake 40 minutes from the city.

Pro tip — If you are staying at an Airbnb, stop at a grocery store (the chain is called Bonus) and stock up — things are far away or closed outside the city)

Hali County Hotel on the East side is a good stop place to stay in Jokulsarlon. It is far from fancy but offers the basic amenities and comfort for a night’s stay.