Iceland: 5 Fascinating Facts You Should Know Before Travelling There

Iceland is a dream destination, and for good reason! Travelling to this stunningly pure country, tucked away at the world's edge, will transport you to a breathtaking landscape where volcanoes, geysers, glaciers, and lush valleys shape the scenery.

In Iceland, the water is so pure you can drink it straight from the source, and homes are heated using volcanic energy. Even wildflowers defy the extreme climate, just like the resilient locals who take great pride in their Icelandic culture. And the cherry on top? There are no mosquitoes and no predators, making your adventure even more enjoyable and stress-free.

Here are five captivating aspects about Iceland that will make your trip even more memorable:

1. The Icelandic Secret to Enjoying a Sunny Summer

Icelanders always get a kick out of seeing tourists in raincoats and waterproof pants braving the torrential rain to explore their country. In reality, locals spend their summer vacations in the sunshine without going abroad. How do they do it? They closely monitor the weather on the Icelandic Met Office website (the only site you should check for the most reliable forecasts) and adjust their itinerary to travel only where the weather is nice.

It might be tricky if you have a set itinerary with specific must-see destinations. Based on local recommendations, I tested this trick and changed my plans at the last minute to head to a sunny area at the height of the tourist season in July. Surprisingly, I managed to find affordable accommodations without a prior booking! Keep this in mind when planning, and you might even get to enjoy some of Iceland’s beaches.

2. An Easy-to-Calculate Currency

Travelling to a country with a different currency has never been easier! No complicated conversions—one Canadian dollar equals 100 Icelandic krónur. Just move the decimal point two places to the left to get the price in Canadian dollars.

For example, a coffee at a restaurant costs 620 KR, which is the equivalent of $6.20. A box of granola bars at the grocery store is 1,949 KR, or $19.49. As you may have noticed, life in this remote corner of the world is quite expensive.

Surprisingly, one of the most affordable things is Skyr yogurt, which you can buy for just 222 kr, or $2.22—much cheaper than in Canada.

3. The Geothermal Pools

In case you haven’t noticed yet, Iceland is known for its luxurious tourist spas, but every town also boasts geothermal community pools, offering a similar experience at a fraction of the price. These local pools are nothing like the ones back home! In addition to warm-water pools, you’ll find cold plunge baths, infrared saunas, thermal waters, and other wellness facilities—perfect for unwinding.

Travel tip: Be prepared for a little culture shock! Before entering a public pool or spa, you must wash with soap without your swimsuit in the communal showers. Don’t worry—men’s and women’s changing rooms are separate. Once you’re clean, you put your swimsuit back on before heading to the pools.

It’s also good to know that there are natural geothermal pools in the wild, some with warm or hot waterfalls. Most are free, but make sure to check the temperature beforehand to avoid burns! Use this opportunity to relax right in the heart of Iceland’s stunning landscapes.

4. Iceland: A Land of Artists and Inclusivity

Maybe it’s the extreme weather, the midnight sun, or the long, dark winters, Iceland is renowned for its vibrant art and culture. Did you know that one in ten Icelanders has published a book? It’s the country with the highest number of writers and books read per capita in the world!

Keep your eyes open as you travel—you’ll see colourful murals, unexpected sculptures, and artistic installations at every turn. You’ll also notice plenty of rainbows, a symbol of support for gender equality, and even “kissing spots” signs above public benches, inviting passersby to share a kiss and celebrate love.

5. The Unique Icelandic Horses

You’ll quickly come across these adorable, friendly creatures that populate the island. Adapted to the harsh climate, Icelandic horses are a unique breed brought by the Vikings. 

They may be small, but they are sturdy and have two additional gaits beyond the standard walk, trot, and gallop: the tölt and the ambling pace. These special gaits are known for their incredible smoothness, making for an exceptionally comfortable ride. 

Horseback riding in Iceland is an unforgettable experience you’ll definitely want to add to your itinerary!

Iceland Will Keep Surprising You!

Prepare to fall in love with this unique Nordic culture, where the number of sheep equals the number of people. If you rent a car, be advised that your drive might include stopping now and then to let free-roaming sheep pass. Whether it’s your first time in Iceland or not, you’ll already feel the irresistible urge to return.

Though the country may seem small, there are many regions to explore and different seasons that will change your experience entirely. Since the cost of living is high, good planning is essential to make the most of your adventure without blowing your budget.

Get your travel insurance with a quick quote from soNomad well before your departure for Iceland. A simple step that will save you a lot of hassle and let you travel with peace of mind!