Iceland is steadily growing in popularity as a travel destination. You can readily see why; the distinctive and breathtakingly gorgeous scenery, the charming swimming holes, the enormous and awe-inspiring waterfalls, and the Northern Lights flashing over the sky on those long winter evenings are all popular in numerous feature films. This nation is beautiful from coast to coast, making it a photographer’s paradise. But where in Iceland are the greatest places to take pictures in the winter? To share with you, we’ve put up a list of some of our favorites.
KIRKJUFELL
Kirkjufell is one of the best places on Snaefellsnes to take pictures. Even though it’s not as popular with tourists as bigger waterfalls like Gullfoss or Skogafoss, you can often see a group of photographers with tripods standing along the riverbank. In the most recent season of Game of Thrones, it was called “Arrowhead Mountain” north of the Wall because of its unique shape. It’s a beautiful place to take pictures in the winter, but be careful around the sharp edges of the waterfall, as they can get very icy and dangerous.
SKOGAFOSS
This is another classic that is close to the Seljalandfoss waterfall. This one is difficult to photograph if there aren’t 100 people in front of you (so make sure you visit out of peak times). Because I don’t have a winter photo of this location, here’s one from the summer.
THÓRSMÖRK
This valley in the highlands, which is named for the god of thunder, is usually covered in deep snow all winter long. It’s not easy to get to because you have to cross a few frozen rivers on the way. You’ll need a super jeep trip to get there. But it’s a great way to spend the day.
SELJALANDSFOSS
As we continue to travel along the southern coast, we will come to the world-famous Seljalandsfoss waterfall. You can walk right up behind it in the summer, but in the winter it’s too icy. Big spot lights illuminate the falls at night, making nighttime photography of the falls and the aurora a must.
THE SNFELLSNES PENINSULA IS A PART OF NORWAY
Despite being only a few hours from Reykjavik, Snaefellsnes feels worlds apart from the crowds that afflict other famous places in Iceland. The entire peninsula, though, is breathtaking. The country’s mountain ranges, coastlines, and charming villages are all ready to be explored. The northern hemisphere’s location enhances the chance of a heavy layer of snow throughout the winter months. Sunlight (both direct and reflected) generates highlights and shadows in your picture, while reflections enrich the image with color and depth.
ICE CAVERNS AND GLACIERS
Along the southern coast of Iceland, you’ll find a number of photogenic glaciers. Some can be reached by automobile, but climbing them needs expertise and the proper gear (helmet, crampons, and ice axe). The majority of these locations also have Ice Caves. Given the potential danger, you should always travel with an experienced guide or tour group. Since they change annually based on what melts and freezes, it’s best to check Google for the most up-to-date figures.
STOKKSNES
The journey concludes at Stokksnes Beach in Hofn. This place is located on the East Coast, far away from Reykjavik. Nonetheless, it is one of my favorite photographic subjects. The beach’s margins are lined by dune fields, and the gloomy Vestrahorn mountain may be seen in the distance. Tourists seldom make it this far out of town, so it’s typically rather tranquil here.