Iceland is a land of contrasts and raw beauty, where glaciers meet volcanoes and mossy lava fields stretch as far as the eye can see. So protecting this fragile and unique environment is a national priority. The island is home to three official national parks, each offering visitors an unforgettable experience with nature. In addition to these, Iceland boasts numerous nature reserves and protected areas that are equally stunning and worth visiting. Whether you are chasing waterfalls, hiking through dramatic canyons, or walking on ancient lava fields, national parks of Iceland are a testament to the country’s deep connection with its landscape.
Here’s a guide to the three national parks of Iceland:
Þingvellir National Park (Thingvellir)
As one of Iceland’s most significant historical and geological sites, Þingvellir is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Golden Circle. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the world’s first parliament (established in 930 AD) and the dramatic rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.
Highlights:
- Walk between continents
- Snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters of Silfra fissure
- Explore Almannagjá gorge and Öxarárfoss waterfall
EastWest Tip: Our Golden Circle tour includes a visit to Þingvellir, with plenty of time to soak in the beauty and history of the area.
Vatnajökull National Park
Covering about 14% of Iceland’s total land area, Vatnajökull is the largest national park in Europe. It includes mighty glaciers, active volcanoes, glacial rivers, and some of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls and landscapes.
Highlights:
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach
- Svartifoss waterfall, framed by dark basalt columns
- Hikes around Skaftafell Nature Reserve
- Ice cave tours and glacier walks
Snæfellsjökull National Park
Located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, this park is dominated by the mystical Snæfellsjökull glacier-volcano, made famous by Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth. It’s a region filled with coastal cliffs, lava fields, black sand beaches, and charming fishing villages.
Highlights:
- Visit Djúpaloónssandur beach and the shipwreck remnants
- Explore lava tubes and caves like Vatnshellir
- Enjoy panoramic views from the Saxhóll crater
EastWest Tip: Join our Snæfellsnes Peninsula day tour and enjoy a homemade meal at an Icelandic horse farm while exploring this unforgettable region.
One of the great things about Iceland’s national parks is that they can be enjoyed year-round. In summer, the trails are open and the landscapes burst with life. In winter, these same places transform into magical, snow-covered scenes ideal for photography, ice cave tours, and Northern Lights viewing.
Plan accordingly: if you’re traveling outside of summer, focus on the national parks and lowland areas. But if you’re visiting in July or August, and you’re up for an adventure, don’t miss the chance to explore a few of Iceland’s highland reserves too—it’s nature at its wildest.
These areas are some of the most pristine and delicate environments in Iceland, which makes responsible travel especially important. Stick to marked trails, respect the wildlife, and make sure to leave nothing behind. Since facilities are often minimal or non-existent, exploring with a guided small group tour—like those led by EastWest—is not only safer, but also ensures that your visit has a low impact on the environment.
Many of these reserves lack infrastructure, so joining a small guided tour, also offered by EastWest, is an excellent way to experience these wild places safely and responsibly.
If you want to know more about natural protected areas in Iceland, please check tour post about Nature Reserves in Iceland.
