The Land of Fire and Ice

Destination: Iceland
Duration: 7 Days (Late August)
Airfare: $700 USD
Housing: $250
Food: $5-$18 per meal
Adventure/Transportation: $300

As I landed from an eight-hour flight into a lush, tree-less, and baron landscape, I couldn't tell whether it was 1850 or 2050. Time seemed to stand still and the earth seemed to be calling for adventure. I could barely contain my excitement for the next seven days as I endured the 40-minute bus ride from Keflavik Int'l Airport into Reykjavík, Iceland.

Reykjavík

Reykjavík is the capital city of Iceland and is home to nearly 2/3 of the country. This was home base for me and where I stayed all six nights in Iceland. It's a beautiful city and there is plenty to see and experience. I stayed at the B14 Hostel just about a mile or so outside of the city center. Expect to pay at least $35-$50 a night depending on the season. Within hours of arriving, I met some other travelers that I spent the rest of the week with. Some of the hallmark things to see include Hallgrímskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, & Reykjavík City Hall/Downtown district. 

Hallgrímskirkja

Lake Tjörnin Overlooking Reykjavík

Southern Coast

The Southern Coast is home to some of the most amazing waterfalls and scenic beaches in all of Iceland. In one day you can see multiple iconic waterfalls, walk up a glacier, and experience the black sand beaches. There are many tour companies that will take you to see these icons or you can drive it yourself (highly recommended). I joined four other travelers in a split rental car and spent a whole day seeing all of these things. It was $20 for rental/gas and we had all the flexibility in the world. Check this map out to see some of the best destinations.

Skógafoss Waterfall

Sólheimajökull Glacier

River above Skógafoss Waterfall

Basalt Cliffs at the Black Sand Beaches in Vík

The Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is mainly a big tourist loop that showcases some amazing sights in Iceland's southern uplands. Major attractions include the Gulfoss Waterfall, Thingvellir National Park, and Geysir. I went on this day excursion with a tour group in a big stage coach. Each location was filled with a lot of tourists but was amazing nonetheless. I paid $75 for a full day but you can find guided tours ranging from $50 - $200. 

Gulfoss Waterfall

Thingvellir

Geysir

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is a giant man-made geothermal spa and one of Iceland's most popular attractions. This would have been a little more fun with friends or other travelers. It's kind of weird to wade around by yourself in a giant hot tub full of people. I stopped here on my way to the Keflavik Airport before my departure. Transportation and admission tickets range from $50 - $90. I'm glad I had the experience but wouldn't go again without friends. Make sure to try the mud masks!

Blue Lagoon

West Coast

A less traveled area is the western region just an hour or two northwest of Rekjavík. Three of us split a rental car and took a day's journey to explore. We didn't really have a specific destination and just followed highway until we found something interesting. It's a lot more barren and less green than the southern coast. We found a small waterfall canyon to hike, beautiful coastline, and amazing landscapes. It's a great place to go if you need a relaxing and simple day. 

Waterfall Canyon

Iceland's Western Coast

Landscape in Western Iceland

Budgeting Tips

Housing: Poke around on Airbnb for cheapest housing that will work for you. If you are a first-time user on Airbnb, click on this link for $40 off your first stay. Most hostels are clean and friendly but read reviews. 

Transportation: Rental cars can be the cheapest/most efficient way to go if traveling in a group. Check out Sad Cars for cheapest rentals. Public buses in Reykjavik are reliable but it takes a little bit of time to figure out the schedule. One-way fares are about $3 USD, which include a transfer ticket good for the next 75 minutes. Check out this website for more info. Tour companies are pretty reliable and I had smooth transportation with all of my excursions. Shop around and see what's best for you. I saw hitch-hikers on occasion and from what I hear its pretty safe if you can find someone to pick you up.

Airfare: Wow Air has some amazingly cheap flights ($300 RT) out of Los Angeles, San Fransisco, New York, and Boston. Keep an eye out for their fare deals (usually winter time). Just note that you have to pay for checked baggage and other amenities. 

Food: Food is a little more expensive in Iceland than in the U.S. They have to import nearly everything, which increases cost. The hot dogs, which can be bought at every convenience store, are really good and only a few bucks. Expect to pay $10-$20 for a decent meal and even more if dining at a restaurant. 

Currency: The National currency is the Icelandic Krona. Check here for current exchange rate. Visa Credit Card is accepted nearly everywhere and is preferred. I bought about $100 worth of Krona just in case and used it sparingly. Order the currency before hand from your bank or exchange it at an actual bank once arriving in Reykjavik to get the most value out of the transaction.