Glamping in Iceland

Glamping, a blend of “glamorous” and “camping,” redefines outdoor adventure by combining the closeness of nature with the comfort and luxury of a hotel stay. Unlike traditional camping, where you pitch a tent and sleep on the ground, glamping offers a more refined and convenient way to enjoy Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes. Many glamping experiences in Iceland include modern comforts like king-sized beds, private bathrooms, and even fireplaces to ensure a cozy and luxurious stay.

Iceland’s wild and untamed beauty makes it the ideal destination for glamping. From snow-capped volcanoes to cascading waterfalls, glamping dissolves the boundaries between travelers and nature, offering an immersive experience like no other. Imagine waking up to the sound of a distant waterfall or sipping your morning coffee surrounded by moss-covered lava fields—this is glamping in Iceland at its finest.

Whether bathed in the golden light of the midnight sun or illuminated by the soft glow of the northern lights, Iceland’s skies are a constant source of wonder. The extended daylight of summer offers endless opportunities for exploration, while winter’s darkness turns the night into a canvas for the aurora’s dazzling colors. Glamping provides the perfect vantage point to marvel at these natural phenomena.

Top Glamping Accommodations in Iceland

Glamping in Iceland comes in many forms, each offering unique benefits and experiences:

• Pods: Cozy and compact, pods provide a snug escape in remote locations, perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking tranquility.
• Domes: With large windows and open designs, domes allow for panoramic views of Iceland’s landscapes, for incredible stargazing and northern lights experiences.
• Huts and Cabins: Rustic yet comfortable, these accommodations blend Icelandic tradition with modern amenities.
• Glass Igloos: The ultimate way to view the northern lights, these igloos feature transparent roofs so you can sleep under the night sky.

Each option combines comfort with unparalleled access to Iceland’s otherworldly scenery, making them perfect for adventurers and relaxation seekers alike.

Best Glamping Stays in Iceland

Aurora Igloo — Hella

Stay in a glass-roofed igloo in South Iceland, where you can watch the stars and northern lights from the comfort of your bed. These cozy accommodations offer a luxurious yet intimate connection to the sky and surrounding nature, making them perfect for a romantic getaway.

Reykjavik Domes

Located just outside the city, these stylish domes combine modern luxury with a rustic charm. Ideal for travelers looking for a wilderness retreat with proximity to the city, these domes offer king-sized beds, wood burning stoves, hot tubs, and majestic views of Mount Esja.

Volcano Huts — Thorsmork

Tucked away in a lush valley surrounded by rugged peaks, these deluxe heated tents offer an authentic Icelandic wilderness experience. Perfect for hikers and nature lovers, Volcano Huts provide cozy accommodations right at the gateway to some of Iceland’s most famous trails. After a day of adventurous Highland hiking, there's no place better to unwind than in the on-site hot tub and sauna.

Camping Pods — Fossatun

These charming pods, set in a picturesque valley near waterfalls, offer a mix of simplicity and comfort. Enjoy nearby hiking trails and stunning views, or relax in the hot tubs after a day of exploring Iceland’s wonders.

Glamping Bus — Esjan

Nestled at the base of Mount Esja, these refurbished buses offer breathtaking mountain views. Equipped with heating and a kitchenette, each bus makes a welcoming home-away-from-home where you can nourish your body after a day of hiking or adventuring.

Activities to Complement Your Iceland Glamping Holiday

Glamping pairs beautifully with the wide range of outdoor activities Iceland has to offer. Here are some ideas to make your trip unforgettable:

• Geothermal Bathing: Relax in hot springs and geothermal pools, including the Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, or local secret spots.
• Glacier Adventures: Try ice caving, glacier hiking, or snowmobiling for an up-close encounter with Iceland’s icy wonders.
• Golden Circle Exploration: Visit Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss waterfall, all easily accessible from many glamping sites.
• Wildlife Spotting: From summer puffin tours to whale watching year-round, Iceland is teeming with incredible wildlife.
• Hiking: From remote Highlands hiking to brand new volcano trails in Iceland's youngest lava fields, Iceland offers landscapes unlike anywhere else on earth.
• Rafting, Kayaking, and Snorkeling: Experience Iceland’s waters, from rafting down glacial rivers to snorkeling in the crystal-clear Silfra Fissure.
• Horseback Riding: Explore Iceland’s stunning terrain on the back of a sturdy Icelandic horse, known for its unique tolt gait and adaptability to rugged landscapes.
• Northern Lights Watching: Winter nights provide the perfect backdrop to witness this magical display from your glamping site.

Luxury in the Wild: The Ultimate Iceland Glamping Adventure

Day 1: Arrival and Reykjavik Domes

• Morning: Arrive in the capital and pick up your rental car. Begin your Icelandic adventure by exploring the vibrant city on a Reykjavik walking tour.
• Afternoon: Check in at Reykjavik Domes, a luxurious glamping site just outside the city. Settle into your private dome with a wood-burning stove, cozy seating, and panoramic mountain views.
• Evening: Enjoy a crackling fire as you stargaze from bed. If you’re lucky, the northern lights might make their debut, dancing across the sky and into your dreams.

Day 2: Golden Circle Exploration

• Morning: Savor a steaming cup of coffee while taking in the crisp morning air and views of the Icelandic countryside.
• Daytime Activities: Drive the famous Golden Circle, visiting the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, the geysers of Geysir, and Thingvellir National Park. Swim between continental plates on a one-of-a-kind snorkeling tour at Silfra.
• Evening: Return to your dome and enjoy a picnic by the fire, or venture into the nearby city for a traditional Icelandic meal.

Day 3: Fossatun Camping Pods and West Iceland Adventures

• Morning: Drive to Fossatun Camping Pods, nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by waterfalls and serene landscapes. Enjoy the quaint charm of your pod and its peaceful setting.
• Daytime Activities: Explore Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls, marveling at their turquoise streams backgrounded by stark lava fields.
• Evening: Unwind at the Krauma Nature Baths or take a quiet walk by the river. End the day with a simple meal cooked in the communal kitchen as you watch the sun set behind the mountains.

Day 4: South Coast Journey and Aurora Igloo in Hella

• Morning: Head south along the scenic coast, stopping at Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls. Canter over the beach on a black sand horse-riding tour, where the pounding of hooves mingles with the waves crashing against basalt columns.
• Afternoon: Arrive at Aurora Igloos in Hella and check in to your glass-roofed igloo. Take in the sweeping views of the countryside while enjoying the igloo’s modern comforts.
• Evening: As darkness falls, curl up with a mug of hot chocolate and watch the northern lights paint the sky in vibrant hues.

Day 5: Glacier Adventures and Return

• Morning: After breakfast in your igloo, venture to Solheimajokull Glacier for a guided glacier hike. Experience the icy wonderland up close as your guide shares fascinating insights.
• Afternoon: Start your drive back toward Reykjavik, stopping at local farms or artisan shops along the way for souvenirs.
• Evening: Depending on your departure time, enjoy a final Icelandic meal in Reykjavik before heading to the airport.

Glamping: Journey Through Iceland’s Magic

Glamping in Iceland is not just about where you sleep—it’s about experiencing the perfect harmony of nature’s raw magnificence with luxurious comforts. Whether you’re relaxing in a cozy Fossatun camping pod, marveling at the aurora from a glass igloo in Hella, or waking up to sweeping mountain views from Iceland domes, each stay promises unforgettable moments. The interplay of Iceland’s dramatic landscapes and your warm, inviting retreat creates a sense of harmony that’s hard to find anywhere else.