While Iceland’s three national parks often steal the spotlight, the country is also home to a wide network of nature reserves that protect some of the island’s most fragile and unique ecosystems. These areas may be lesser-known, but they offer equally breathtaking scenery, rich biodiversity, and a deeper sense of peace and isolation—perfect for travelers looking to step off the beaten path. Unlike national parks, nature reserves in Iceland are often smaller and less developed for tourism.
Most of Iceland’s nature reserves are only accessible during the summer months, typically from late June to early September. So, if you’re visiting the country within that period and you are up for an adventure, don’t miss the chance to explore these reserves—it’s nature at its wildest.
Notable Nature Reserves Worth Exploring
Landmannalaugar Nature Reserve
Famous for its colorful rhyolite mountains, geothermal hot springs, and endless hiking trails that crisscross a landscape shaped by volcanic activity and time.
Highlights:
- Laugavegur Trail, one of the world’s most beautiful multi-day treks.
- Surreal scenery: orange, pink, green, and grey hills all around.
- Take a dip in a natural geothermal pool surrounded by lava fields.
Þórsmörk Nature Reserve
Nestled between glaciers and volcanic valleys, Þórsmörk (Thór’s Forest) is a green oasis surrounded by raw, black desert and rugged peaks. It offers unforgettable hiking routes like the Fimmvörðuháls trail between Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers.
Highlights:
- It’s accessible only by 4×4 vehicles or guided tours—river crossings are required.
- Hike through forests, glacial rivers, deep canyons, and vibrant moss-covered hills.
- Consider spending a night in one of the mountain huts or camping to fully enjoy the area.
Hornstrandir Nature Reserve
The most remote and wild nature reserve in Iceland, Hornstrandir is only accessible by boat and completely uninhabited. It’s a paradise for experienced hikers and wildlife lovers—home to Arctic foxes, puffins, and dramatic cliffs overlooking the Greenland Sea.
Highlights:
- Experience Iceland’s wildest, most untouched nature—no roads, no towns, no phone signal.
- No shops or infrastructure—bring all your supplies and be ready to camp or join a guided trek.
- Hike through stunning fjords, lush valleys, and isolated coastlines with views that feel truly off the map.
Keringarfjöll Nature Reserve
Kerlingarfjöll is a geothermal mountain range in the central highlands, part of the protected Central Highlands Reserve. It’s a place where boiling rivers run through snowfields, steam rises from the earth, and bright orange mountains glow in the sun.
Highlights:
- Explore hot springs and fumaroles in the Hveradalir geothermal valley.
- Hike along narrow ridges with breathtaking views in every direction.
- A small mountain resort offers basic accommodation and meals.
Flatey and Breiðafjörður Islands (West Iceland)
This archipelago, protected for its delicate ecosystem and vibrant birdlife, is one of the best-kept secrets in Iceland. During summer, boat trips reveal tranquil islands full of Arctic terns, eider ducks, and colorful coastal flora.
- Step into timeless Icelandic island life—Flatey feels like a step back in time with its colorful old houses, car-free streets, and peaceful atmosphere.
- Bring binoculars and a good book; the charm here is in the stillness and simplicity.
- Ferries to Flatey depart from Stykkishólmur or Brjánslækur, and some allow you to stop over for the day or stay overnight.
It is also important to mention that, given the untouched nature of these landscapes, it is essential to explore them with care. Trails are there to protect both you and the environment, so stick to them. Wildlife should be observed from a distance, and whatever you bring in, make sure you take back out. Many reserves have limited facilities, so joining a guided small-group tour—like those offered by EastWest—is a safe and respectful way to explore.
If you want to know more about natural protected areas in Iceland, please check our post National Parks of Iceland.
