Iceland has become one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world. From glaciers and hot springs to volcanoes and fjords, the country offers unmatched natural beauty. However, the rapid growth of tourism has also put pressure on Iceland’s fragile environment.
Choosing eco-friendly travel practices not only helps preserve this beauty but also creates a more authentic and responsible travel experience. If you are considering an Iceland tour package or planning your own Iceland tour itinerary, understanding how to travel sustainably will make your journey more rewarding.
Iceland’s landscapes are shaped by glaciers, geothermal activity, and unique ecosystems. These natural wonders are sensitive to over-tourism, climate change, and pollution. By adopting eco-friendly practices, travellers can reduce their footprint while still enjoying the best of what the country offers. Sustainable tourism ensures that future generations of travellers can also experience Iceland’s natural treasures.
While renting a car is common for exploring Iceland, it is not always the most sustainable option. Consider alternatives such as:
Reducing individual car use helps limit traffic on sensitive routes and lowers environmental impact.
Many hotels, guesthouses, and lodges in Iceland are committed to sustainable practices. Look for places that:
Why Eco-Friendly Travel Matters in Iceland
Iceland’s landscapes are shaped by glaciers, geothermal activity, and unique ecosystems. These natural wonders are sensitive to over-tourism, climate change, and pollution. By adopting eco-friendly practices, travellers can reduce their footprint while still enjoying the best of what the country offers. Sustainable tourism ensures that future generations of travellers can also experience Iceland’s natural treasures.
Tips for Eco-Friendly Travel in Iceland
1. Choose Sustainable Transportation
While renting a car is common for exploring Iceland, it is not always the most sustainable option. Consider alternatives such as:
- Using public buses for major routes;
- Joining group tours within your Iceland tour package to reduce carbon emissions;
- Opting for hybrid or electric cars if self-driving is necessary.
Reducing individual car use helps limit traffic on sensitive routes and lowers environmental impact.
2. Stay in Eco-Friendly Accommodations
Many hotels, guesthouses, and lodges in Iceland are committed to sustainable practices. Look for places that:
- Use renewable energy such as geothermal or hydroelectric power;
- Offer waste recycling and water-saving systems.
Support local communities by sourcing food and supplies locally. Staying in such accommodations ensures your travel spending supports Iceland’s economy responsibly.
Iceland’s landscapes are fragile. When visiting glaciers, lava fields, and moss-covered grounds, always stick to marked trails. Walking on delicate moss can damage it for decades. Wildlife watching should also be done with respect - keep a safe distance from puffins, seals, and whales. Responsible behaviour preserves habitats and minimises stress on animals.
Carrying a reusable water bottle is simple in Iceland since tap water is among the cleanest in the world. Avoid single-use plastics by bringing your own shopping bag and refillable containers. Many local cafes encourage eco-friendly practices and provide discounts for using reusable cups.
Whether booking excursions or dining out, choose companies that emphasise sustainability. Whale-watching tours that follow ethical guidelines, family-owned restaurants using local ingredients, and shops selling handmade Icelandic products are all ways to travel responsibly while supporting the community.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Þingvellir is both historically and environmentally significant. Visitors can enjoy hiking, diving in Silfra fissure, and scenic views while following eco-friendly visitor guidelines that help preserve this cultural treasure.
Located on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, this park features volcanoes, glaciers, and lava fields. It has strong conservation policies, making it an excellent destination for travellers who want to explore nature while minimising their footprint.
The remote Westfjords region offers unspoiled landscapes with fewer tourists. Bird cliffs, waterfalls, and natural hot springs make it a perfect eco-friendly destination.
3. Respect Nature and Wildlife!
Iceland’s landscapes are fragile. When visiting glaciers, lava fields, and moss-covered grounds, always stick to marked trails. Walking on delicate moss can damage it for decades. Wildlife watching should also be done with respect - keep a safe distance from puffins, seals, and whales. Responsible behaviour preserves habitats and minimises stress on animals.
4. Reduce Plastic and Waste
Carrying a reusable water bottle is simple in Iceland since tap water is among the cleanest in the world. Avoid single-use plastics by bringing your own shopping bag and refillable containers. Many local cafes encourage eco-friendly practices and provide discounts for using reusable cups.
5. Support Local and Sustainable Businesses
Whether booking excursions or dining out, choose companies that emphasise sustainability. Whale-watching tours that follow ethical guidelines, family-owned restaurants using local ingredients, and shops selling handmade Icelandic products are all ways to travel responsibly while supporting the community.
Eco-Friendly Places to Visit in Iceland
1. Þingvellir National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Þingvellir is both historically and environmentally significant. Visitors can enjoy hiking, diving in Silfra fissure, and scenic views while following eco-friendly visitor guidelines that help preserve this cultural treasure.
2. Snaefellsjökull National Park
Located on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, this park features volcanoes, glaciers, and lava fields. It has strong conservation policies, making it an excellent destination for travellers who want to explore nature while minimising their footprint.
3. Westfjords
The remote Westfjords region offers unspoiled landscapes with fewer tourists. Bird cliffs, waterfalls, and natural hot springs make it a perfect eco-friendly destination.
Its remoteness helps protect the ecosystem, and responsible travellers can keep it that way.
Part of Vatnajökull National Park, Skaftafell is a paradise for hiking. Trails range from easy walks to glacier hikes, all managed under strict conservation rules. This ensures that visitors enjoy Iceland’s beauty without damaging the environment.
Instead of crowded artificial lagoons, consider natural geothermal hot springs spread across Iceland. Places like Reykjadalur Valley and Landmannalaugar offer authentic experiences in nature. Remember to leave no trace behind.
Eco-friendly travel in Iceland is not about limiting your experiences but about making smarter choices that benefit both the traveller and the environment. By choosing sustainable transport, accommodations, and activities, you ensure that Iceland remains as breathtaking for future visitors as it is today.
4. Skaftafell Nature Reserve
Part of Vatnajökull National Park, Skaftafell is a paradise for hiking. Trails range from easy walks to glacier hikes, all managed under strict conservation rules. This ensures that visitors enjoy Iceland’s beauty without damaging the environment.
5. Geothermal Hot Springs
Instead of crowded artificial lagoons, consider natural geothermal hot springs spread across Iceland. Places like Reykjadalur Valley and Landmannalaugar offer authentic experiences in nature. Remember to leave no trace behind.
Eco-Friendly Activities to Add to Your Iceland Tour Itinerary
- Hiking and trekking: Explore Iceland’s landscapes on foot through established trails, reducing reliance on vehicles.
- Cycling tours: Several regions offer cycling routes suitable for adventure travellers.
- Wildlife watching: Join certified tours that follow ethical guidelines for whale watching and birding.
- Farm visits: Support local farmers who practice sustainable agriculture by visiting their farms and tasting fresh produce.
- Renewable energy tours: Iceland is powered almost entirely by renewable energy. Some power plants allow visitors to learn more about geothermal and hydroelectric energy.
Travel Tips for a Greener Iceland Journey
- Travel during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) to avoid peak tourist pressure.
- Carry eco-friendly toiletries to prevent water pollution.
- Avoid collecting rocks, plants, or souvenirs from nature - buy from local artisans instead.
- Plan your Iceland tour itinerary around slow travel, spending more time in fewer places instead of rushing to see everything.
Final Thoughts
Eco-friendly travel in Iceland is not about limiting your experiences but about making smarter choices that benefit both the traveller and the environment. By choosing sustainable transport, accommodations, and activities, you ensure that Iceland remains as breathtaking for future visitors as it is today.
Whether booking an Iceland tour package or planning independently, prioritising eco-friendly practices will make your journey more meaningful and responsible! (Image source is Unsplash)
