From August 19th to the 27th, my family and I, along with a few family friends, went on a week-long trip all around Iceland. We started in Reykjavík, the capital, where we picked up the camper vans that we would be living and traveling in for the whole time. It was something that took a little getting used to, but it ended up being my dad’s favorite part of the trip because of the experience! 

Day two was more eventful, with a visit to Thingvellir National Park, Kerid Crater, and Strokkur Geyser. Strokkur was the most active geyser in the area and it erupted every ten or so minutes.

The next day was full of waterfalls! First, we visited two waterfalls near each other called Seljalandsfoss and Gljufrabui, and then Skógafoss waterfall, where getting the best view required a lengthy trip via stairs (I forgot how to use them halfway while descending). Not surprisingly, the waterfalls were the favorites of many. We also visited Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, which honestly sealed the deal for day three being my favorite day.

The main attraction of day four was the glacier lagoon named Fjallsárlón. Our group took a tour on a boat and got to experience the beauty of the glaciers. This attraction was one of my mom’s favorites, and it’s not hard to see why! The glaciers were very majestic and sparkly like giant crystals.

If I had any advice for travelers going to Iceland, it would be to prepare for the bugs when in a geothermal area. Luckily, my dad packed mosquito head nets, which were a lifesaver, since there were always bugs swarming in everyone’s face. Combined with the fact that it always smelled of sulfur, it was one of the lower parts of the trip for me. Thankfully, from then onward, there were many other highlights such as Víðimýrarkirkja, an old church, and Hvitserkur.

Iceland was such a wonderful and memorable trip for everyone, and I’m very thankful to be able to visit this beautiful country. My family and I, and our friends, all had a great time exploring the scenery Iceland is known for.