Flying a drone in Iceland can feel like stepping into a fantasy film set: glaciers, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and endless coastline all look incredible from above. But Icelandic nature is fragile, the weather is unpredictable, and there are strict rules to protect both people and wildlife. If you’re staying with Ourhotels.is and planning to bring your drone, a bit of preparation will help you capture stunning footage safely and responsibly.
Ourhotels.is has three great bases for drone enthusiasts exploring West and North-West Iceland: Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður (near Borgarnes), Stykkishólmur Inn on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords. From each of these locations, you’re within reach of dramatic landscapes that are perfect for aerial photography—if you fly smart and follow the rules.
First, know the legal basics. In Iceland, drones are regulated by the Icelandic Transport Authority and, for many areas, by local municipalities and the Environment Agency. Before you fly, check the official map of no-fly zones and restricted areas, especially around national parks, nature reserves, and popular tourist sites. Many waterfalls, geothermal areas, and bird cliffs have specific restrictions. Staff at Ourhotels.is properties can help point you toward up-to-date resources and local guidelines so you don’t accidentally break the rules.
Respect for nature is crucial. Iceland’s moss, birdlife, and marine mammals are easily disturbed. Never fly your drone close to nesting birds, especially in coastal and cliff areas, and avoid low passes over seals or whales. In summer, many cliffs and islands near Stykkishólmur Inn are important bird habitats; keeping your distance protects both the wildlife and your equipment, as some birds will aggressively defend their nests. Around Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, you’ll find rivers, farmland, and lowland nature areas—beautiful from above, but also home to grazing animals and bird nesting sites. Always launch and land from durable surfaces and avoid trampling moss or vegetation while setting up.
Weather is another key safety factor. Icelandic conditions can change in minutes, and strong gusts are common even on seemingly calm days. Before flying from Ísafjörður Inn or any coastal area in the Westfjords, check the wind forecast and keep an eye on the sky for sudden changes. Cold temperatures can drain batteries faster than you expect, so plan shorter flights and keep spare batteries warm indoors until you need them. If visibility drops due to fog, snow, or rain, land immediately—flying beyond visual line of sight is both unsafe and illegal.
Drone etiquette around people is just as important as nature protection. Many travelers come to Iceland for peace and quiet, and the buzz of a drone can easily disturb that experience. Avoid flying directly over crowds, parking lots, or popular viewpoints, and keep a generous distance from other guests when flying near Ourhotels.is properties. For example, if you want to capture sunrise over the fjord from Stykkishólmur Inn or the valley views near Hvítá Inn, choose times and angles that don’t intrude on others’ privacy. Always ask permission before flying close to buildings or private land.
Safety also means knowing your equipment. Before your trip, update your drone’s firmware, calibrate the compass and sensors, and practice basic maneuvers so you’re confident in tight situations. In mountainous areas around Ísafjörður Inn, GPS signals can sometimes be less reliable, and sudden downdrafts can surprise inexperienced pilots. Fly conservatively, keep your drone within line of sight, and set a realistic return-to-home altitude that avoids terrain and obstacles without violating any local height restrictions.
From a practical standpoint, planning your drone sessions around your travel route can help you stay compliant and get the best footage. Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður makes a great base for exploring rivers, lava fields, and the countryside of West Iceland. Stykkishólmur Inn puts you at the gateway to the islands and coastlines of Breiðafjörður and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Ísafjörður Inn opens up dramatic fjords, steep mountains, and remote coastal scenery in the Westfjords. At each stop, ask the Ourhotels.is team for tips on scenic viewpoints, safe launch spots, and any local sensitivities or seasonal closures.
Finally, think of drone safety as part of responsible travel. By following Icelandic regulations, respecting wildlife, and being considerate of other visitors, you help keep these landscapes open to drone pilots in the future. Ourhotels.is welcomes guests who want to experience Iceland’s nature from every angle—ground and sky alike—and encourages all drone users to fly with care. With a bit of planning and respect, you can return from Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn with unforgettable aerial footage and the satisfaction of having explored Iceland’s wild beauty responsibly.
