The River Blog

From the Himalayas to the Arctic Circle: How a Nepali Kayaker Found Home in Iceland’s Canyons

Sat, 14 Mar 2026 06:20:57 GMT

From the Himalayas to the Arctic Circle: How I Found Home in Iceland’s Canyons

Before Iceland ever entered my life, my world was defined by the wild, emerald rivers of the Himalayas. Back then, working as a young guide in Nepal, I pushed myself harder than I probably needed to, but the river was the only path I knew. My focus was simple: become the best river guide and kayaker possible.

Today, as I look back on 25 seasons of rafting in Iceland , I realize that the river didn’t just give me a career; it gave me a home.

The Foundation: Discipline and Respect

Growing up in Nepal, I watched my parents work tirelessly, and I refused to be a burden. There were no shortcuts. I paddled through Himalayan rain, mountain cold, and blistering heat.

Those early years built the foundation for what Viking Rafting is today. Even now, I stay connected to those roots through the Himalayan Outdoor Project , where we continue to lead world-class expeditions and empower the next generation of outdoor adventure professionals in Nepal.

2001: Arriving in the Land of Fire and Ice

In 2001, I arrived in Iceland to guide for Magnús Sigmundsson (owner of Activity Tours, which later merged into Viking Rafting). My Nepali friends, already guiding here, had recommended me. In the world of whitewater, your reputation is your only resume.

Iceland felt like another planet, miles of land without a single tree and summer days where the sun never set. But the moment I saw the East Glacial River (Austari-Jökulsá) , I knew I was where I belonged. My experience in Nepal’s heavy water meant I was ready for "The Beast." I was strong, confident, and ready for what would become a quarter-century of nonstop adventure.

Lessons from the Canyon

Over two decades, I have seen many guides come and go. These rivers are physically and mentally demanding; they require a specific kind of discipline.

I’ve learned that the river is never the same twice: I remember a day when a fierce North wind hit so hard we could barely move the raft. The canyon felt raw and unforgiving. Yet, at the end of the trip, the group of local Icelanders handed me a $1,000 tip. Tipping was a very unusual thing in Iceland back then. They hadn't just gone rafting; they had felt the river's raw power, and it moved them. After 25 seasons, I cannot remember a single day when I felt bored. The river is a teacher that never runs out of lessons, and its beauty in North Iceland is simply out of the ordinary.

The Birth of Viking Rafting

By 2009, I was preparing to leave Iceland for warmer waters. But a phone call from friends changed everything. We decided to take a risk and start our own company.

Our mission was never to be a "tourist factory." Our goal was to create the best lifestyle for river guides and to give our guests an experience that would ignite their souls. We wanted to be the best rafting company in the world, not for the money, but for the love of the river.

Today, the young kayaker from Nepal who once questioned why people travel has spent half his life guiding on the other side of the world. Iceland is my second home, and the river is still the place where I feel most alive.

Somewhere downriver, there is always another lesson waiting. I invite you to come and find yours.

Anup Gurung

Co-Founder, Viking Rafting

The Black Sand Beach

info@vikingrafting.com (Viking Rafting) — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 16:45:29 GMT

The Origin

of Black Sand

Black sand beaches in Iceland owe their existence to volcanic activity and the country's diverse geology. The island sits atop the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a tectonic boundary where the Eurasian and North American plates diverge. This dynamic geology has resulted in frequent volcanic eruptions and the formation of black volcanic basalt rocks. Over time, the relentless force of the Atlantic Ocean has broken down these rocks into fine grains of black sand, giving birth to the mesmerizing black sand beaches.

Reynisfjara Beach: A Majestic Wonder:

One of Iceland's most famous black sand beaches is Reynisfjara, located near the charming village of Vik in southern Iceland. Reynisfjara offers an awe-inspiring panorama of towering basalt columns, roaring waves, and dramatic sea stacks rising from the depths of the ocean. As you stroll along the beach, the symphony of crashing waves against the dark sand creates a surreal atmosphere that feels like stepping into another world. Like the Whitewater of the East Glacial River, this place has to be respected, big waves can unexpectedly swap hikers off their feet.

Unique Features and Natural Phenomena:

The black sand beaches of Iceland are not only visually stunning but also home to remarkable natural phenomena. One such phenomenon is the basalt column formations, which resemble a collection of towering hexagonal pillars. These columns, formed by the slow cooling of lava, create an otherworldly landscape that has captured the imagination of countless visitors. Additionally, the powerful waves crashing against the shores of black sand beaches provide the perfect backdrop for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Dyrhólaey: A Bird Lover's Paradise

Situated near Reynisfjara Beach, Dyrhólaey is a majestic promontory renowned for its stunning cliffs, arches, and impressive black sand beach. This nature reserve is not only famous for its natural beauty but also serves as a nesting ground for various bird species, including puffins. Visitors can witness these charming seabirds in their natural habitat, soaring above the cliffs or diving into the sea. Dyrhólaey offers a unique opportunity to connect with Iceland's rich avian biodiversity while enjoying the captivating allure of black sand beaches.

Safety Precautions

While black sand beaches in Iceland are undeniably beautiful, it is crucial to be aware of the potential hazards associated with them. The waves and currents in the North Atlantic Ocean can be unpredictable and powerful, making it dangerous to swim or venture too close to the water. It is essential to heed safety warnings, stay on designated paths, and maintain a safe distance from the sea. By prioritizing safety, visitors can fully appreciate the natural wonders without putting themselves at risk.

Iceland's black sand beaches are a testament to the extraordinary beauty that nature can create. With their volcanic origins and striking contrast against the ocean, these beaches offer a surreal experience that captivates the senses. Whether you're exploring the iconic Reynisfjara Beach or discovering the avian wonders of Dyrhólaey, the black sand beaches of Iceland promise an adventure that will leave an indelible mark on your soul. So, pack your bags, embrace the monochromatic magic, and immerse yourself in the splendor of Iceland's black sand beaches.

As you are driving towards Viking Rafting, you should definitely make a stop in this incredible place.

Unleashing Nature's Fury: The last volcanic eruption in Iceland

info@vikingrafting.com (Viking Rafting) — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 12:21:30 GMT

The Fagradalsfjall volcano

Iceland, known as the "Land of Fire and Ice," is a place where the raw power of nature is on full display. Volcanic eruptions are an intrinsic part of the island's geological makeup, shaping its landscape and captivating the world's attention. In recent times, Iceland experienced a remarkable volcanic eruption that left a lasting impression on both locals and global spectators. Join us as we delve into the details of this awe-inspiring event and explore the profound impact it had on the island and beyond.

Prelude to Chaos

Set against Iceland's mesmerizing backdrop, a series of seismic activities hinted at the imminent eruption. The earth's restless movements created a sense of anticipation among volcanologists and locals, as they knew that something extraordinary was about to occur. Iceland's volcanoes have a reputation for being unpredictable, and this eruption would prove to be no exception.

The Awakening of Fagradalsfjall

In March 2021, the Fagradalsfjall volcano, located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, finally awakened from its centuries-long slumber. With a breathtaking display of lava fountains and plumes of smoke, the volcano announced its grand entrance. The eruption started in Geldingadalir, a remote valley that quickly became the focal point of worldwide attention. Live streams and social media updates allowed people around the globe to witness the raw power of nature in real-time.

Dance of Fire and Lava

The eruption at Fagradalsfjall was characterized by its effusive nature, where lava gently flowed down the mountainside instead of explosive eruptions. This type of eruption allowed scientists and curious onlookers to get closer to the action than ever before. Brave visitors embarked on hikes to witness the mesmerizing beauty of the flowing lava, experiencing the intense heat and rumbling ground beneath their feet.

Environmental Impact and Mitigation Efforts

While volcanic eruptions are undoubtedly captivating, they also bring significant challenges and environmental concerns. The eruption in Iceland released large quantities of gases and aerosols into the atmosphere, affecting air quality and posing potential health risks. However, Iceland's government and scientific community worked diligently to monitor the situation and provide guidance to minimize the impact on human health and the environment.

A Silver Lining

Amidst the chaos and destruction, the eruption also brought unexpected positive outcomes. The effusive eruption allowed scientists to study the behavior of lava flows up close, offering valuable insights into volcanic processes. It served as a unique opportunity to expand our understanding of volcanism and further develop monitoring techniques. Furthermore, the eruption attracted tourists and generated economic benefits, supporting local communities and businesses.

The Legacy of the Eruption

As the eruption eventually subsided, leaving behind a landscape forever altered, its legacy lives on. The memories and experiences of those who witnessed the event firsthand, the scientific knowledge gained, and the photographs and videos captured will continue to inspire awe and fascination for years to come. The eruption of Fagradalsfjall serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between humanity and the natural world.

The last volcanic eruption in Iceland, at the Fagradalsfjall volcano, was a mesmerizing display of nature's power. From the prelude to the eruption itself and its aftermath, the event captured the world's attention and left an indelible mark on Iceland's landscape and collective memory. It showcased the beauty and ferocity of the natural world while providing scientists with invaluable research opportunities. As we reflect on this awe-inspiring event, we are reminded of our place in the grand tapestry of nature and the need to cherish and protect the precious planet we call home.

The 10 longest rivers in Iceland

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 15:48:52 GMT

TOP 10 Longest Rivers in Iceland

Are you wondering how long are Icelandic rivers and which are those? Here we have put together the list for you.

River where we raft has also made it on this list!

1. Thjórsá (230 km)

Fed by Hofsjökull glacier in Northern Iceland, Iceland’s longest river flows on a southwesterly course for 230km. It eventually meets the ocean between the

towns of Selfoss and Hella.

2. Jökulsá á Fjöllum (206km)

“Glacial river in the mountains” is fed by Iceland’s largest Glacier, Vatnajökull. On its course north into the Greenland Sea, this river supplies several famous waterfalls including Selfoss, Hafragilsfoss, and Europe’s most powerful waterfall, Dettifoss.

3. Hvítá (185km)

The “White River” originates from the the Hvítárvatn Lake on the edge of the Langjökull Glacier. The lake forces much of the heavier silt to settle, allowing only the lightest, white colored sediment to be carried downstream. The impressive Gulfoss, can be found on the upper reaches. Hvítá ends it’s course at the town of Selfoss.

4. Skjálfandafljót (180km)

Another of the many rivers fed by the massive Vatnajökull Glacier, this river is most famous for giving us Godafoss. Godafoss is Iceland’s most famous waterfall and is a paradise for photographers, sightseers, and kayakers!

5. Jökulsá á Dal (150km)

Flowing from Vatnajökull Glacier, this is the longest river in the Eastern portion of the country.

6. Jokulsá í Fljótsdal (140 km)

Running Northeast off Vatnajökull Glacier, this river famously feeds one Iceland’s largest lake, Lagarfljót. The lake is massive and rumored to be the home of Iceland’s version of the Loch Ness monster, Lagarfljótsormurinn!

7. Héraðsvötn (130km)

This fabulous river is home to the best whitewater rafting in Iceland! Hofsjökull Glacier supplies water for both our commercial rivers, the East and West Glacier Rivers.

The confluence of these rivers is where Heradsvotn forms by name. It continues north and meets the ocean at the town of Sauðárkrókur.

8. Blandá (125 km)

Hofsjökull Glacier is the source of this river, the town of Blönduós is the mouth.

9. Fnjóská (117km)

Located to the east of Akureryi, this is one of Iceland’s most popular fly fishing rivers.

10. Hvitá in Borgarfjordur, (117km)

Longest flowing river in Western Iceland.

Why is the East Glacial River this good?

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 17:48:07 GMT

The be(a)st
of the East!

In the past 30 years, Austari Jökulsá (literally translated to East Glacial River) has gained the reputation of one of the best commercially rafted day trip in Europe, and among the best in the world.

But what makes this canyon so special?
We asked ourselves many times, and after reading this article from Engadin Outdoor Center , we decided to take few minutes and try answering this question.

We are proud to have an international team of raft guides every year, coming to work in Iceland from all around the world.

From New Zealand, South Africa, Uganda, Nepal, Europe, Australia, Japan, USA, Canada, South America, everyone somehow got attracted by this remote glacial river next to the arctic circle.

Iceland has been in many people bucket list for the the last decade, and Viking Rafting has gained a great reputation among river professionals.

The quality of whitewater is undeniable and the intensity of the river, but yet manageable, makes it a challenge even for the most experienced rafters and kayakers.

Free flowing (hopefully for many more years) from Hofsjökull glacier, the river carves through the highlands for about 50km, until it channels into a 15km long spectacular boxed gorge, where rapids are continuously stealing a smile from customers and guides.

The ratio between calm water and big waves is perfect, making the trip a fun and contained playground.

When our guides arrive at our rafting base, they will find a friendly family atmosphere. Exciting rivers and experienced people to learn from, whilst working in a company with high safety standards.

Iceland’s second largest town, Akureyri, is just 100km away.

In 2022, a new local airline “Nice Air” started scheduling international flights from the Capital of North Iceland to Copenhagen, London and Tenerife, including this part of the country in the most popular destinations.

For people flying to Reykjavik, scheduled daily buses and domestic flights are a good option too, and with our shuttle service you can just sit back, relax and get ready for the Action!

Summer is upon us

Sat, 02 Jul 2022 13:47:24 GMT

The early bird

catches the worm!

For all of us the seasons have changed with summer upon us! For all of us the world has changed! If you can even remember back to the world last year would you even recognise the world today?

No travel restrictions! No Lockdowns! No limit to the fun ahead! Here at Viking Rafting we could welcome all our guides back for the opening of season. The early birds worked hard bringing all the equipment out of winter storage. Renovation of the lounge area brought a new design layout to the White Water bar and seating areas. The vibe which this has created is now even more open, welcoming and artistic. Completion of the lounge brought great excitement for us! Knowing that we are able to invite our amazing Rafters to come and relax in style and experience the amazing canyons of Skagafjord!

School is out!

May is the time for Teenage Icelanders to celebrate finishing school, moving onto the next chapter and to go Rafting! At the end of a busy week of activities they arrive at Viking Rafting to

experience the mighty Vestari Jökulsá (West Glacial River). School buses of up to fourty five young people arriving at the base is spectacular sight! Energetic and excited to get on the river! Cheers through the introductory talk sets a positive vibe for the trip. Handing out all the gear sees the boathouse going from full to empty! Seven rafts loaded high and a full bus headed to the river. Splashing, laughter, swimming and cliff jumping through the beautiful canyon walls returns the young people with big smiles and tired eyes! For over twenty years school groups have experienced the wild waters of the North. Each one passing their stories down to upcoming adventurers. The heritage can be seen when Icelanders return years later to

experience the Austari Jökulsá (East Glacial River) White Water action trip. To see returning Rafters is a great sight! Hearing about how previous experiences bringing them back is always

a heartwarming feeling. Stories of the drysuit, funloving guides, exhillertion and cliff jumping!

The people are the reason for the Rafting culture being alive in Iceland! For many this is a important passage through their time at school.

Looking forward !

June marks the end of school group and the beginning of the main tourist season. Trips running every day on both rivers through the canyons. With the snow melting the rivers have been flowing emerald-colored. Blue bird days bring the contrasting rock features out from the canyon walls. South winds heating the glacier, giving more action on the Austari Jökulsá (East Glacial River) White Water action trip. Iceland’s campsites opening, rental vehicles driving around and arriving clients for a trip of a lifetime!

The upcoming ‘ Midnight Sun Festival 24th-25th June’ is a highlight of the summer season.

Visiting international tourists and international White Water kayakers bring an electric feel to the base. The weekend involves ‘ Midnight Rafting ’, ‘Extreme Kayak Racing’ and a world famous party! Come and enjoy it with us and have a experience of a lifetime!

As the midnight sun shines through the day

The canyons flow free!

Through the rapids together it will be!

No time to worry or ponder!

The life we live grows ever fonder!

Experience this magical place with us!

Because with us there is no fuss!

Take Your Fun Seriously!

Written by Benjamin Rowlands @benjy_1010 (guide)

Being a Tourist in Iceland

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 10:07:39 GMT

Most vacations begin with a near obsession of making the right decisions. Renting the right car, selecting the right excursions, booking the right hotel. Iceland is the land of fi re, ice, and the midnight sun. Uniquely inspiring landscapes and long days give all of us the chance to relax; there are many good choices to make.

Select a Theme:

My first advice would be to select the theme of your vacation. The most popular theme is to rent a car and drive highway 1, “the ring road”, around the entire island. The road is 1,400km long and usually takes 4-14 days depending on how much time you have. If you are planning to rent a car just for driving, book accommodation well in advance.

If the thought of planning your vacation on a set schedule is a turn off , consider renting a small camper van. These are very popular, much smaller than theAmerican equivalent, and allow you to stay on your own schedule.

Many people opt to hitchhike their way around the country. This is a safe, and socially accepted way to move around. Our friend Mareile never waits more than five minutes before getting a ride. Even if you’re no Mareile, you can expect to catch a ride every couple hours or so depending on how busy the road is. If you want to schedule some hitchhiking, a ride share Facebook group and website exist where people are posting frequently. This is an especially good option when moving out of Reykjavik.

Ride a Bike around the island. Outside of the the two major cities, highway 1 is a two lane road with a fair bit of traffic. Cyclists share the same camping privileges as hitchhikers. Plan on spending at least some time on a gravel road to see the thrilling geology off highway 1.

Renting a 4x4 and driving on Iceland’s F roads opens up an entirely different zone of Iceland that most people don’t have an opportunity to see. Icelanders are culturally obsessed with 4x4 vehicles and F roads. If you love the idea of exploring the interior’s remarkable moonlike geology and ice fields, this could be a good option. This choice should involve a good amount of research on what roads you want to drive, when you want to drive them, and what your driving experience is. It is also possible to do a day rental or take part in an excursion that involves 4x4 and F roads.

The Icelandic public bus system connects the larger towns and many of the major sights visible from highway 1. There is even a highlands bus that penetrates into the interior. The buses are expensive, but may be a good choice if you are doing a mix of hitchhiking or have a certain destination which you will spend a fair bit of time.

Driving Tips:

Icelandic roads are paved with the cash of heavy footed tourists. The highway 1 speed limit is the fastest in the country, 90kmh. This is going to be painfully slow pace for many of you. The roads are heavily patrolled by cars and cameras and I promise that if you speed, you will get a ticket. The major reason for the slower speed limit is the livestock grazing on the sides of the road. Every horse and sheep that you see in Iceland has an owner. An owner that is happy to have their animals wandering close to the sides of the road. If you hit an animal, regardless of where this animal is standing, the law requires that you pay the farmer the full value of this animal. Whether or not you agree with this policy/strategy, it exists, so don’t speed. Lastly, be smart about where you pull off on the side of the road. “Iceland”, yeah the whole thing, is one of the most scenic drives in the world. You are going to want to stop and take photos every five minutes. That’s great, but be smart and respectful about where you are parking. If you can’t get off the road, don’t stop, or stop somewhere else. A lot of traffic accidents occur from large trucks trying to maneuver around vehicles that have obliviously parked in the middle of the road.

When to Visit:

The summer season, which we will call April through September, is the most popular time of year to visit. The peak season within summer is July and August because the temperature tends to be a little warmer.

If you are looking for less people, cheaper flights, and northern lights, April and May can be an awesome time to be in Iceland. Once late May/June rolls around the days are too long to see Northern lights. April and May are still boarding on Icelandic winter and can have severe weather. Expect the F roads to be closed as well as any other roads receiving substantial snow. I would travel at this time of year with an open mind, having numerous plans that can be adjusted based on what the weather is doing.

June, July, and August are the most popular summer months to visit Iceland. It is not a coincidence that statistically these are the warmest months of the year. Other major advantages include access to most every road and many hiking trails should be cleared of snow. Summer solstice, the longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere, falls on June 20-21 st . If you are traveling within 60 days of the solstice, expect nearly 24 hours of daylight. This is a huge advantage when traveling because darkness is never a limiting factor to exploring. The one disadvantage of this time of year is the amount of people also visiting. You will be sharing a lot of the top destinations with other groups and accommodation reservations will need to made in advance. As busy as it gets in Iceland, it would never compare to say Niagara Falls, Yosemite Valley, or Times Square.

In September and October, we start transitioning back towards winter. Your math is correct folks, just three months of true summer in Iceland. The return of the Northern lights and the crisp air are two of my favorite aspects of a September evening. Expect every rain storm to bring a dusting of snow on the mountain peaks which creates another beautiful contrast to the landscape. Also expect the crowds of people to dwindle, and the flights to and from to get quite a bit cheaper. I love the fall, but it’s not for everyone.

Food:

Restaurant prices might shock you when you first arrive. Everything in Iceland is going to be more expensive and food is no exception. Food will be most expensive along the south coast and in the Golden Circle as these places have more visitors.

Planning to cook your own meals is a great way to save money. BONÚS is a very common grocery store where you can get most everything you need. Expect to find a more expensive and slightly less selective version of produce, bread, and dry goods compared to North America and mainland Europe. The local lamb is fantastic and should be eaten as much as you can afford to do so. Unique food like lamb tongue, horse meat, whale, and even puffin can be found in a lot of places. If you are eating ground meat, expect horse to be in it. Horses exist in Iceland for two reasons, riding and eating. This might be shocking at first, but it is an important part of the culture. The horses that are raised for meat live a pretty amazing life of free grazing and are treated substantially better than much of the beef around the world. On the flip side, 90% of the Whale eaten in Iceland is done so by tourists. Whaling also has its tradition inIceland, but at this point is mainly serving tourists looking for a taboo food not available in many countries.

Beer is also going to be expensive. IMPORTANT NOTE! Beer, and I mean real beer, can only be purchased at bars and official liquor stores (VINBUDIN). Manya disappointed traveler, including this one, have purchased the 2% beer sold in grocery stores only to find their apparent alcohol tolerance is off the charts.

Climate:

Whenever recommending a time of year to visit, I always make a point to mention how unpredictable the climate in Iceland is. The island of Iceland sits between 61 and 66 degrees north, just shy of the arctic circle. Sitting in the middle of the Northern Atlantic, the ocean plays the most dominant roll in determining what the weather will be, which almost always includes wind. It is not uncommon to see snow fall on the mountains every month of the year, nor is it uncommon for temperatures to reach 21 degrees Celsius (70 Fahrenheit). You could spend an entire vacation lounging in shorts and T-shirts, or you could spend two weeks bundled up with consistent rain. I strongly recommend preparing for the latter. The ocean, mountains, glaciers, and river valleys are all capable of producing their own highly variable micro climates. A two-hour drive can feel like driving through four seasons of weather. These microclimates make forecasting weather a challenge. Don’t waste your time looking at the weather two weeks in advance. Even a two or three-day forecast should be taken as a general overlook and not absolute truth. The climate trends in Iceland; the South Coast gets far more rain in the summer and snow in the winter (hence the concentration of glaciers and ice fields). The Northern coast is the driest part of the ring road, but still gets rain. The East Fjords and WestFjords are also subject to quite a bit of rain, but less than the South Coast. The center of the island, commonly referred to as the highlands, is most protected from the ocean and is therefore the driest. The silver lining to all this unpredictable weather is Iceland produces the most magnificent cloud formations and sunsets you are likely to see. Without the weather we wouldn’t have the glaciers and the rivers that produce Europe’s most incredible waterfalls. If you are visiting in June, July, August; plan on temperatures between 10-16 Celsius and rain everyday. If you are visiting in Spring or Fall, expect it to be a bit a colder. Preparing for anything else would be foolish. If you have the right gear and the right expectations, Iceland will be a fantastic journey, regardless of weather.

The Language:

Most Icelanders are going to speak English as a second language. The further up into the isolated valleys you travel, the less English you will encounter. Memorize some greetings, gratitude’s, and basic phrases in Icelandic and you will be fi ne. People in every country appreciate a little extra effort and the chance to laugh at the horrible pronunciations visitors can come up with!

Get Yourself into Some Hot Water:

Natural hot springs and local warm swimming pools are a major part of the culture in Iceland. Imagine a cold winter in a small village at 65 degrees North.What could bring a community closer than wonderfully warm body of water? I have seen a number of visitors who seem a bit timid on partaking, but I think this is a mistake. Soaking in a hot spring is a great way to relax sore legs from hiking or sore butts from driving. Natural hot springs are special because they blend into the landscape. If you don’t have access to any near by, just about every village in Iceland will have a warm swimming pool, hot tub, and sauna. A couple tips for hot spring etiquette; give yourself a genuine cleaning before entering, don’t leave any trash, including toilet paper, and open and shut gates accordingly when walking on private property.

Respect the Landscape:

It is incredibly disappointing to be hiking in the backcountry, enjoying a natural hot spring, or even stopping on the side of the road to take a photo, and seeing toilet paper on the ground. Toilet paper takes over a year to dissolve, longer if the climate is dry. Be respectful and pack out any trash you bring with you, including toilet paper!

You might be surprised at the freedom of movement allowed at many of the major sightseeing destinations. Fences and paved walkways don’t always exist.For instance, at Dettifoss, it is currently possible to walk all the way to edge of the falls without any protection. Be careful, be smart, don’t walk around looking through a camera. The ecosystem in Iceland is unique and in some places fragile. Stay on marked or obvious trails and don’t wander closer for any reason. A footprint on the edge of a geyser could last for hundreds of years and will encourage others to follow. Let’s all be respectful and not force Iceland to over regulate like so many other parts of the world.