Know Before You Go

—By Emily Goodheart
Iceland’s many lakes and waterfalls are steeped in myth and legend—ancient tales of fairy folk, hidden treasure and Norse gods surround these watery realms.

—By Michelle Peters
When one daydreams about Iceland, the images that likely spring to mind are volcanic landscapes and vast glaciers—after all, this is the Land of Fire and Ice. And yet, despite the harsh Arctic temperatures, wildlife enthusiasts find a plethora of wondrous Iceland animals rarely seen by the average tourist.

—By Cathy Brown
Being more present on an Icelandic trip doesn’t just apply to better wildlife and landscape viewing. Icelandic culture is rooted in magic, mythology and mystical beings, and no visitor will be able to curiously play with exploring the possibilities of those realms from behind a screen.

—By Laura Kiniry
Iceland’s elves are intricately linked with the country’s natural landscape, and disturbing their supposed home could wreak havoc on the local surrounds. And they’re not Iceland’s only mythical creatures...

—By Megan Brief
Shaped by natural forces and steeped in supernatural splendors, this island at the outer edge of Europe beckons exploration with its siren songs. The sheer magnetism of Iceland was forged in fiery volcanoes, sculpted...

—By Nat Hab Expedition Leader Edward Savage
Waterfalls are only a small piece of the experience of Iceland, but they are endlessly fascinating. The dynamic way in which Iceland was formed and is still forming ensures that around every corner there will be something new to see. In my opinion, time spent enjoying, exploring and photographing these waterfalls is a highlight of our Iceland expeditions.

—By Laura Kiniry
In a place known for its glaciers and lava fields, short summers, and cold climate, the fact that Iceland can produce a wide variety of food crops is impressive. This is in large part thanks to greenhouse horticulture.

—By Cathy Brown
Iceland today is home to about 130 volcanoes (roughly 30 are considered active) and there is usually an eruption every decade or half-decade. Approximately a third of the basaltic lava that has erupted in recorded history (since around 1500 AD) has been produced by Icelandic eruptions.

—By Emily Goodheart
From cascading waterfalls to glistening glaciers, Iceland is full of hidden wonders waiting to be discovered by the adventurous traveler. Slumbering volcanoes and labyrinthine caves await exploration in Vatnajokull National Park...

—By Nat Hab Expedition Leader Edward Savage
Everywhere you look in Iceland, there is evidence of the dramatic interaction between fire and ice.

—By Candice Gaukel Andrews
Let’s take a closer look at the “fire side” of Iceland for a change, turn over some stones, so to speak, and try to discover how this peaceful and enchanting island relates to the Red Planet.

—By Candice Gaukel Andrews
Historically, many cultures—such as those in Denmark, Norway and Sweden—have believed in elves. In Iceland, references to the word alfar (“elf” in Icelandic) first appeared in Viking-era poems that date back to the ninth century...

—By Candice Gaukel Andrews
According to the Sagas of Icelanders, a Norwegian named Naddoddr was the first Norseman to reach Iceland, arriving in the ninth century. During the one summer that he stayed there, he was surprised by the fact...

—By Candice Gaukel Andrews
Small but strong, with a thick tail and a gorgeous, flowing mane, an Icelandic horse always inspires dreams of gracefully galloping over an ice- and snow-encrusted landscape on the back of a beautiful and spirited steed...