Seriously Iceland is too beautiful to be true! For anyone who is a nature and wildlife enthusiast, it is like a giant playground out there in the middle of nowhere.
There are even reindeer foraging around – these animals have been introduced in this nation right back in the 1700s.
Nowadays, you will see them roaming mostly in the Eastern side of the country. It is so awesome to watch these giant animals roving around in the wild!
If you are dying to see these amazing creatures and experience Iceland’s incredible natural beauty, here are the three national parks you should definitely check out.
Vatnajokull National Park
This is one of the largest Iceland national parks that are worth visiting. The ground is a complete mess – it is full of valleys, glaciers, and even volcanoes – It definitely looks amazing. This park is named after the largest glacier Vatnajokull, which occupies a vast land.
In the eastern highlands, you will spot reindeer grazing in summer and descend to the valley in winter. Because of the vast grasslands and rolling hills, it is a perfect place to view these animals.
The whole scenery with the Vatnajokull glacier is breath-taking. Imagine watching a huge snow-capped glacier sparkling in the Arctic sun, gigantic craters of active and extinct volcanoes, and vast columns of Ice Rivers crossing the territory – it’s gorgeous!
You should not leave Iceland without visiting Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. You will find only icebergs floating calmly and perhaps even capture a picture of a seal popping above surface in your camera. This park has exactly what every tourist wants – a hint of danger and lots of leisure time.
Snaefellsjokull National Park
This park is located in the Snaefellsnes peninsula and is called the Snaefellsjokull glacier. While reindeer roam freely in the eastern part of Iceland, this park has such diverse scenery that sometimes the reindeer wander in this park and if you are lucky catch a glimpse!
Black sand beaches, vivid mountains, and moss-covered lava fields create a really cool environment. The park has a peaceful atmosphere and amazing geology – it feels like stepping into another world.
The trails are well-marked, so don’t miss the chance to go hiking. One popular route takes you around the volcano base, offering panoramic views of the Peninsula and spot native birds and other wildlife. The park has a mystical charm and rugged beauty, guaranteeing a memorable experience.
Porsmork Nature Reserve
Technically, Porsmork is a nature reserve but leaving the very spectacular ‘Porsmork’ off this list is impossible.
The lush valley is nestled between three glaciers – Eyjafjallajokull, Myrdalsjokull, and Tindfjallajokull, which attracts hikers and wildlife lovers.
Reindeer occasionally wander into the verdant meadows and woodlands of Porsmork, surprising lucky tourists to catch a glimpse.
The landscape of the valley is distinct including birch forests, dramatic ravines and glacial rivers, creating a perfect backdrop for reindeer sightings.
Go hiking on the popular Laugavegur trail that connects the valley to the geothermal wonders of Landmannalaugar.
On the route you can encounter wild reindeers and other creatures, while marvelling the valleys green pastures surrounded by icy peaks.
The national parks and reserves in Iceland offer more than stunning landscapes. You can encounter with wild reindeer and other animals—-it’s a gateway to discover the wild side of Iceland in all its glory!
