There’s no better destination for solo travel than Iceland, and in this blog post we want to show you why. Not only is it officially the safest country in the world, but it’s exceptionally beautiful—and full of friendly people too.

Read on to discover all you need to know and explore our tours for solo travel in Iceland while you’re here.

Why Iceland is a top destination for solo travel

Whether you’re travelling solo or with loved ones, there’s no doubt that Iceland is one of the world’s top destinations.

For one thing, it’s one of the most beautiful countries on the planet. With stunning mountain peaks and awesome glaciers, black sand beaches and dramatic fjords, it’s simply a paradise for nature lovers.

But it’s not only the nature that’s special. Thanks to its laid-back towns, compelling history, and of course the northern lights, it’s a magical place to visit no matter your interests.

For solo travellers in particular, Iceland offers so much. The country boasts some of the friendliest and welcoming people on earth (yep, that’s official). Reykjavik’s nightlife scene is beginning to get the international recognition it deserves. And there are many opportunities to meet people in the hostels dotted around the country.

What’s more, travelling in Iceland is easy too, on group tours or independently. If you want to hire a car and head off for a solo adventure into the wild, that’s easy. Or, if you’d prefer to join like-minded travellers on a guided trip, you can do that too.

The gorgeous nature and ease of travel aside, there are three important reasons why Iceland’s a top spot for solo travel.

Iceland, the world’s safest destination

Iceland is officially the safest place in the world—and has been recognised as such for the last 15 years. It’s not that before that things were any worse. Rather, the Global Peace Index (the organisation that measures the safety of these places) only started in 2008, and Iceland has topped the list in every single year since then.

When you come to Iceland, you’ll see for yourself. Crime is low and all forms of violence are among the lowest in the world. When visitors arrive in Iceland they often comment about how safe it feels—and they’re right.

For solo travel, Iceland is a place where you can feel comfortable no matter who you are or what it is you’re doing. Everyone is welcome!

Solo travel in Iceland as a woman

Travelling solo is sadly often more of a concern for women. But due to its safety, Iceland is perhaps the best place in the world for women travellers to visit alone. You’ll find it easy to get around, full of helpful people you can trust, and free of the nuisances that can be found elsewhere.

We don’t believe that anyone should feel unsafe or uncomfortable when travelling. And we’re proud we live in a country where everyone is treated with the respect they deserve.

Friendly locals in Iceland

That brings us round to perhaps the most important point: Icelanders are just very friendly people!

Whether you’re taking part in a guided tour or just chilling in a bar in Reykjavik, you’ll likely meet people you’ll remember forever. Ask nicely and they’ll share with you their favourite spots in the country, to give you a unique insight into the places you’re visiting.

Part of the reason why Icelanders are so friendly is because we’re generally a happy bunch. In fact, we’re consistently ranked among the top three happiest countries in the world.

Of course, in a place as beautiful as this, it’s easy enough to see why. The joys of the Icelandic landscape are not just for tourists. On most weekends throughout the year you’ll find locals exploring the country’s awesome sights alongside you. Wouldn’t you if you lived here too?

The Best Time to Visit Iceland

With its serene snow-covered landscapes in winter and its long days in the summer, Iceland is a great place to visit at any time of year. The best time to come is down to you and will depend on what it is you want to get up to.

Find out more about when to visit—solo or with loved ones—in our guide to the best time to visit Iceland.

Best solo travel tours in Iceland

So what’s the best way to get around in Iceland for solo travellers? You have plenty of options, depending on your preferred style of travel.

Travel on your own

Take things at your own pace on a self-drive adventure. If you want to follow your personal preferences and travel Iceland solo, this could be the best option. And, rather than handling the hassle of hiring a car yourself, let us at Reykjavik Excursions take care of the admin.

For example, travelling through the Golden Circle in a rental car is one of the best ways to explore this historic itinerary. You can spend as long as you choose in each of the three most famous sights — Gullfoss Waterfall, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Þingvellir National Park. And you can add some hidden gems to your route, from Kerið, a volcanic crater lake, to Vígðalaug, the so-called 'Blessed Pool'.

Alternatively, head out further by combining the Golden Circle with many of the highlights of the South Coast. Over five-six days, you can visit the breathtaking Skaftafell National Park and make your way all the way east to Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.

Self-drive is a great option for solo travel in Iceland. And what’s more, you can add an extra named driver for no extra cost.

Be part of a bigger group

If you’d prefer your solo travel to be a bit more social, why not join a group trip to the best that Iceland has to offer? Throughout the year, we run guided tours to the country’s highlights, either day trips or longer excursions.

For example, journey with like-minded travellers to the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, one of Iceland’s most famed sights. Here, the melting water of glaciers has created a vast lake, on which icebergs float serenely. At a short distance is the Diamond Beach, an enchanting place where ice—like rough-hewn diamonds—melts upon the sand.

Or you can join a group on a South Shore Adventure, taking in the highlights of Iceland’s south coast. From the waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss to the black sand beach around Vík, it’s a region full of delights.

Of course, many travellers come to Iceland for a northern lights tour, and no one does it better than Reykjavik Excursions. Throughout the winter, we’ll take you to the destination where you’re most likely to see this spectacular display. And if you don’t manage to see them, we’ll give you a free ticket to the next trip so you can see them then.

In Iceland, solo travel doesn’t mean being alone. On a group tour, you’ll make friends for life, while seeing the best that Iceland offers.

Take a trip with a small group

Some travellers prefer a more intimate travel style while staying social. Small group tours are the way to do exactly that.

At Reykjavik Excursions, we run small group northern lights tours, so you can see the aurora borealis with a more modest group of fellow travellers. You’ll have the chance to get more tailored insight from your guide, while enjoying the ethereal experience in company.

Alternatively, experience the area affected by the Eyjafjallajökull volcanic eruption on a Jeep tour of the south coast. You’ll be picked up from your hotel and explore the sights with a group of potential new best friends.

Visit Reykjanes and the Blue Lagoon in a small group too. These are some of the most attractive sights in the Reykjavik area, and you’re sure to enjoy your spa experience!

Transfer from Keflavík airport to Reykjavik

Before you kick off your Iceland solo travel, you need to first leave the airport. The best way to do that is with the Flybus, the direct transfer from Keflavík airport to downtown Reykjavik.

Why? Because it’s cheap, fast, and convenient. While travellers are often tempted to take a private taxi, there’s simply no need. The Flybus follows the schedule of flight arrivals, meaning that there’s always a bus waiting for you when you arrive. What’s more, the trip to and from the airport takes the same time in a bus or taxi—but the Flybus is considerably more affordable.

If you want to relax straight off the plane, why not stop off at the Blue Lagoon, just 10 minutes away from Keflavík airport? The Flybus can take you there too.

Find out more: Five reasons for taking the Flybus.

Travel solo in Iceland with Reykjavik Excursions

At Reykjavik Excursions, we can help you make the most of your Iceland solo travel adventure. However you want to travel and whatever you want to get out of your trip, we’ll be there every step of the way.

Want the freedom to enjoy Iceland at your own pace? Our self-drive tours are a great option. Fancy something a little more social? Join one of our group tours instead.

Whichever you choose, we’ll make it easy. Explore the best tours and activities for Iceland solo travel to get started.

Frequently asked questions about solo travel in Iceland

Got more questions about solo travel in Iceland? Let’s see if we can answer them.

Is Iceland safe for solo female travellers?

Iceland is perhaps the safest country in the world for solo female travellers. For one thing, it’s been ranked as the safest country in the world every year for the past 15 years. You can explore the breathtaking landscapes and fascinating culture in confidence about your safety.

Is Iceland good to travel solo?

Solo travel is something everyone should do in life—and Iceland might be the country where it’s easiest and most rewarding.

English is widely spoken, meaning that striking up a conversation with locals is possible. And it’s incredibly easy to get around thanks to an excellent transport and tourist network. It shouldn’t be forgotten that Iceland’s really safe too.

Of course, all of this is secondary to the fact that Iceland is just an amazing country to explore. From its coastal regions to the wild highlands, you won’t find a country quite like it anywhere else.

Do Icelanders speak English?

Yes, English is almost universally understood in Iceland, and Icelanders generally speak English very well. That’s because it’s a compulsory subject throughout the schooling system.

It’s not just English that Icelanders can speak as a foreign language. Many are fluent in Danish, Norwegian, and other Scandinavian languages too.

Of course, if you speak another language, you won’t have a problem as a visitor here either. The Icelandic tourist industry is very well developed, with visitors coming from all over the world. No matter what language you speak, you’re very welcome.