Sports and leisure activities Iceland

Budget & Tips

Icelandic nature is free, so why not make the most of it? Some natural sites, however, have become subject to a charge due to the boom in tourism in recent years, such as access to the Kerið crater, which has been subject to a charge for the past few years. Or the many parking lots that have become chargeable on the Golden Circle sites. However, the budget for these expenses remains very reasonable.

Itis possible to hire companies to organize excursions or take part in certain activities. For half-day activities, the budget is around one hundred euros. This is the case, for example, for snorkeling at the Silfra Fault or glacier hiking at Skaftafell with GetYourGuide. Some specific activities are closer to €200, such as a snowmobile or Jeep excursion in Landmannalaugar. To limit the impact on your budget, we recommend limiting yourself to one or two specific excursions that you won't be able to do on your own.

There are manynatural hot springs, a real luxury with free access. However, please be careful and respectful. Leave the place clean and take your garbage with you.

What's very local

Walking and bathing in the hot springs is of course very popular with the locals. In winter, as soon as the frost returns, it's not unusual to see people walking or skating on the lakes.

In summer , don't be surprised to see young people enjoying the midnight sun well into the evening. After all, young Icelanders only have a few months in the year to enjoy long, sunny days.

Your documents please

Fishing is widely practiced by locals. Beware, however, that many fishing grounds are owned by locals! It can be difficult to obtain information on fishing regulations, so don't hesitate to get in touch with your local fishermen's association beforehand. Generally speaking, you can only fish for salmon in Iceland from May 20 to September 30, and permits are relatively expensive (like many things in Iceland). If you wish to bring your own fishing tackle, it must be disinfected according to a very strict protocol (to be validated either by a veterinarian in France, or at the airport). Some websites to consult: Reykjavik Angling Club to buy your license, FishPal-Iceland to find out where to fish what, Go Fishing to book a fishing trip..

It isforbidden to bring your own riding gear to Iceland. Icelandic horses are not immune to certain diseases. Used riding clothes and boots must be disinfected according to a strict protocol.

To be booked

During high season, particularly in July and August, it's best to book your excursions several weeks in advance. Similarly, for certain activities with uncertain results (aurora borealis, whale watching...), it's best to book at the beginning of your stay. Many companies offer to come back for free if you don't see anything at all, so it would be a shame not to be able to take advantage because you booked your activity on the penultimate day.