Adventure tours in Iceland: 5 things to do there for your family bucket list

If you’re looking for the ultimate trip, adventure tours in Iceland should be at the top of your bucket list. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse outdoor activities, and vibrant culture, Iceland offers travellers a unique and unforgettable experience. From glacier tours and exploring lava caves to seeing the Northern Lights, an adventure tour to Iceland is sure to satisfy even the most adventurous traveller.

Here are 5 reasons why adventure tours in Iceland should be on that list from someone that loves an adventure, but also likes to pick ideas that work for family too.

1. The Northern Lights: the ultimate in adventure tours in Iceland

One of the most magical and awe-inspiring sights in the world, the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, is an experience that is hard to put into words. If you’re looking for an adventure tour to Iceland, then you’ll definitely want to make sure you’re visiting during the winter months to get a glimpse of this amazing light show. The Northern Lights usually appear during the night, but can also be seen in the day if conditions are right. As you gaze up at the sky, you’ll see a range of colours from bright greens to purples, as the lights dance and swirl across the sky. You can even take a tour specifically to view the lights, and you may even get to experience the lights from a hot tub or boat – an unforgettable experience.

2. The volcanoes

One of the main reasons why an adventure tour to Iceland should be on your bucket list is the amazing volcanoes. This volcanic island is home to more than 130 volcanoes, of which 18 are active. A volcanic eruption in Iceland can be a spectacular sight to behold and one you will never forget! From the moment you arrive, you can explore the many volcanoes that make up the country. You can take guided tours to some of the more remote and interesting volcanoes.

Your kids will likely have done the volcano experiment at school (!) in their science, and they can see a real one now! This one we are linking to is a rainbow volcano, for other rainbow activities on our site, do explore.

They can even hike around the volcano craters, including the popular volcano Askja. For an even closer look, you can book a helicopter tour for a bird’s-eye view of these spectacular geological wonders. The incredible activity that occurs inside a volcano can be experienced in person with guided tours to Thrihnukagigur volcano, where visitors can explore the magma chamber and admire the colours of its bubbling lava. Something that the kids would never forget, we’d imagine.

Finally, you could also take a boat ride from Reykjavik to the Westman Islands, where you can witness the eruption of Eldfell volcano in 1973.

3. The hot springs

An adventure tour to Iceland wouldn’t be complete without visiting the natural hot springs: something that teenagers might be particularly fond of trying out.

As one of the top attractions in Iceland, the hot springs provide a great opportunity for relaxation and exploration. The most popular hot spring is the Blue Lagoon, located on the Reykjanes Peninsula. This mineral-rich lagoon features temperatures of up to 100°F and provides stunning views of the surrounding area. The Blue Lagoon also has a variety of spa treatments available to help you unwind after a long day of exploring. Other hot springs are scattered throughout Iceland, allowing you to explore different areas and enjoy the therapeutic effects of the hot springs. Some locations even have outdoor pools that allow you to soak in the natural warm water while taking in some breathtaking views.

Not that kids must be older than two to visit the Blue Lagoon, so do bear this in mind when you go. Those that are 8 and younger, need to wear bouyancy aids as well.

4. The waterfalls

Iceland is home to some of the most beautiful and majestic waterfalls in the world. From the cascading Seljalandsfoss waterfall to the thunderous power of Dettifoss, you will find yourself captivated by the natural beauty of these incredible waterfalls. Seljalandsfoss waterfall is located near the Ring Road, making it easily accessible and a popular tourist destination. It is simple to get to for those with kids as a result, as there isn’t too much walking involved.

The sheer force of this 60-metre high cascade is breathtaking, and its location allows visitors to walk around behind the fall to get an incredible view of the landscape. The mighty Dettifoss is Europe’s largest waterfall by volume and it is definitely a sight to behold. A visit to Dettifoss will be unforgettable, as the thundering force of its 200-metre wide cascade is truly amazing. Be sure to take a moment to appreciate the scale and grandeur of this spectacle.

5. The wildlife

Iceland is home to a diverse array of wildlife, from majestic whales and dolphins to soaring birds and playful seals. You can explore the stunning wilderness of Iceland while still maintaining an eco-friendly outlook. This is because there are many tour companies offering sustainable and animal-friendly tours. Most children are fascinated by the variety of the wildlife in Iceland. So it is worth encouraging this on a visit, as it is a win-win.

On these tours, you’ll be able to observe a variety of animals in their natural habitat. The most iconic wildlife in Iceland are the whales, which migrate to the country’s warm waters each summer. You can take a boat tour out into the Atlantic Ocean too. Here you can experience some of the best whale watching in the world. Why not inspire the kids with our whale painting tutorial before you go?

It isn’t all about the whales….

Other popular animals that you’ll find around the coast are puffins, Arctic terns, harbour seals, and sea birds. Inland, you can find reindeer grazing on the tundra and in the mountains. You may also encounter foxes, Arctic hares, and mink if you look carefully enough. Of course, don’t forget about all the fish that swim in the glacial rivers – salmon, trout, and char.

We really hope you like this article. We think it gives you lots of reasons why Iceland is an amazing place to go with the kids. Maybe even as a little break with the other half or friends. If you like our articles, then why not sign up to our newsletter?

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We have another article on Iceland. This one is focused on why it is worth going to Iceland to connect with nature as a family. Do take a look at this too.

Below are more ideas of things to do with kids when you travel:

There are other ideas for Iceland offsite too:

We love having you here, so we really hope you come back again soon. Why not check out some of the other travel articles on our site to?

Take care,

Helen

This is a collaborative post.

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