Iceland’s wilderness is one of the country’s greatest treasures—raw lava fields, glacier‑fed rivers, black‑sand beaches, and endless mountains and fjords. It’s also a place where the weather changes in minutes, phone signal can vanish, and the landscape itself can be unforgiving. With a bit of preparation, though, you can enjoy all of it safely and comfortably.
Here’s how to stay safe in Iceland’s wilderness, with some practical tips and how Ourhotels.is can help you plan each stage of your journey.
Iceland’s Weather: Beautiful, But Unpredictable
Even in summer, Iceland’s weather can shift from sunshine to fog, wind, and rain in a short time. In winter, storms and icy roads are common.
Before any hike or road trip:
– Check the weather forecast at vedur.is
– Check road conditions and closures at road.is
– Avoid driving in storms or heavy snow, especially in the dark
– Always have a backup plan if conditions worsen
Staying at Ourhotels.is properties gives you a safe base to adjust your plans day by day. Staff can help you interpret local forecasts and suggest safer alternatives if the weather turns.
Dress for the Elements
The key to staying safe outdoors in Iceland is staying warm and dry. Use the classic layering system:
– Base layer: Wool or synthetic (no cotton) to keep moisture away from your skin
– Mid layer: Fleece or wool for insulation
– Outer layer: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
– Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good grip
– Extras: Hat, gloves, buff/neck gaiter, and spare socks
If you’re staying at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, you’re perfectly placed to explore waterfalls, hot springs, and lava fields. Start your day by checking your gear in the comfort of the inn, then head out knowing you’re prepared for whatever the weather brings.
Respect Iceland’s Nature
Iceland’s landscapes are fragile and sometimes dangerous. To stay safe and protect nature:
– Stay on marked paths and trails
– Never step on moss or delicate geothermal areas
– Keep a safe distance from cliff edges and sea stacks
– Do not cross ropes or safety barriers, even for a photo
– Be extremely careful near waves and on black‑sand beaches—“sneaker waves” can be deadly
From Stykkishólmur Inn, you can explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature” for its variety of landscapes. Many viewpoints and coastal areas here are exposed to strong winds and waves, so keeping to marked paths and respecting warning signs is essential.
Driving Safely in Iceland
Self‑drive trips are one of the best ways to see Iceland, but conditions can be very different from what you’re used to:
– Drive slowly on gravel roads to avoid skidding and stone damage
– Watch for sheep on or near the road, especially in summer
– Never stop in the middle of the road for photos—use designated pull‑outs
– In winter, consider a 4×4 and always check for ice and wind warnings
– Avoid driving if you feel tired; distances can be longer than they look on the map
Ourhotels.is locations like Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn are all ideal “stepping stones” on a longer road trip. Breaking your journey into shorter driving days reduces fatigue and gives you more time to enjoy the scenery safely.
Hiking and Exploring the Highlands
If you plan to hike or venture into more remote areas:
– Tell someone your travel plan and expected return time
– Use safetravel.is to leave a travel plan and check alerts
– Carry a fully charged phone and, if going remote, consider a power bank or emergency beacon
– Bring enough food, water, and warm layers—even for short hikes
– Don’t rely on phone signal; download offline maps in advance
In the Westfjords, Ísafjörður Inn is a great base for exploring dramatic fjords, coastal hikes, and remote viewpoints. Conditions here can be wilder and more isolated than in southwest Iceland, so planning and caution are especially important.
Water, Glaciers, and Hot Springs
Iceland’s water features are stunning but can be hazardous:
– Rivers: Glacial rivers are cold and powerful—never attempt to cross on foot unless you’re experienced and conditions are safe
– Glaciers: Only go onto a glacier with a certified guide and proper equipment
– Hot springs: Some pools are too hot or unstable to bathe in; only use marked, safe bathing areas
– Ice: Never walk on frozen lakes or rivers unless they are clearly marked as safe
If you’re unsure about a particular activity, ask at your hotel. Staff at Ourhotels.is properties can recommend trusted local guides for glacier tours, hot spring visits, and other adventures that are best done with professionals.
Daylight, Darkness, and Seasons
Safety in Iceland also depends on the time of year:
– Summer: Long daylight hours are great for exploring, but don’t underestimate fatigue—plan realistic days
– Winter: Short days mean you must plan activities around limited daylight and be extra careful driving in the dark
– Shoulder seasons (spring/autumn): Conditions can change quickly; be flexible with your itinerary
Staying at places like Stykkishólmur Inn or Hvítá Inn allows you to adapt your plans easily—if a storm is coming, you can swap a long hike for a shorter local walk, a hot spring visit, or a scenic drive during the safest hours.
How Ourhotels.is Helps You Stay Safe
Choosing the right accommodation is part of traveling safely in Iceland. Ourhotels.is offers comfortable, well‑located bases across western Iceland, including:
– Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður (near Borgarnes):
Ideal for exploring waterfalls, hot springs, lava fields, and the inland countryside. Staff can advise on local road conditions and safe routes in the area.
– Stykkishólmur Inn:
Perfect for discovering the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and Breiðafjörður Bay. You can return from a windy coastal hike to a warm, cozy room and local tips for the next day.
– Ísafjörður Inn:
A welcoming base in the Westfjords, where distances are longer and conditions more remote. Here, local knowledge is invaluable for choosing safe drives, hikes, and viewpoints.
At each inn, you can:
– Check weather and road conditions with reliable local insight
– Get recommendations for safe, reputable tour operators
– Adjust your plans based on real‑time conditions
– Rest properly between days of exploring, which is crucial for safe driving and hiking
Enjoy Iceland’s Wilderness—Safely
Iceland’s wild landscapes are unforgettable, and with the right preparation, they can be enjoyed safely in every season. Dress for the weather, respect nature, plan your routes carefully, and listen to local advice.
By using Ourhotels.is to base yourself at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn, you combine adventure with comfort and safety—so you can focus on what you came for: experiencing the best of Iceland’s wilderness with peace of mind.
