Many people have visited this fascinating country and it’s undoubtedly on the bucket lists of many others! If you’re curious to learn more about this location, we’ve got you covered. Indulge your wanderlust with a delightful array of facts about this polar country that will leave you craving for more adventure. Explore the breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique experiences that await you in this captivating destination. Let’s dive into the wonders of this extraordinary place!
Iceland Facts That Sets It Apart From Other Countries
Lava Bread
Icelandic rye bread is frequently baked beneath the surface in scorching volcanic sand. It is sometimes referred to as “lava bread” or “volcanic bread.” Many tribes and centuries have used the earth as an oven. Given how frequently geothermal activity occurs in Iceland, it seems obvious that people would use the ground for cooking.
Lava Bread
Most Of Iceland Is Uninhabited
Iceland will be perfect for you if you want to escape the throng and reconnect with nature a little. Only 20% of Iceland is really inhabited due to its distinctive topography. Many of the far-off, unpopulated locations are accessible, however, we advise consulting professionals first. Without access to mobile service, you wouldn’t want to get lost in the midst of a foreign nation.
Most Of Iceland Is Uninhabited
Super Jeeps
The ‘super jeeps’ that residents use to traverse Iceland’s challenging terrain—many of which are off-road, remote, and difficult to access—often have a higher suspension and large tires that allow them to travel through snow, ice, and across deep rushing rivers.
Super Jeeps
Mild Summer Temperatures
Iceland may conjure up images of icy winds and significant snowfall, but this is not the case in the summer. It never gets too cold either because Iceland’s July high temperature is only 57 degrees Fahrenheit, and its summertime nightly low temperature is only 43 degrees Fahrenheit.
Mild Summer Temperatures
Traditional Icelandic Food
By the standards of most people, many of Iceland’s traditional meals are considered weird and bizarre. mostly as a result of the popular meals that date back to the Viking era. In Iceland, fermented shark, or Hákarl as Icelanders call it, is regarded as a delicacy. Since shark flesh is deadly while it is fresh, it is placed in a small pit and covered with large boulders to allow the meat to ferment for a period of time.
Traditional Icelandic Food
Coca-Cola In Iceland
Despite being one of the healthiest nations in Europe, Iceland is recognized as the world’s biggest Coca-Cola user. Per capita, Icelanders drink 417 bottles annually. At roughly eight every week, that is more than any other nation. To put that into context, the weekly average for Americans is three colas.
Coca-Cola In Iceland
Telephone Directory
Telephone directories in Iceland display their citizens by their first names alphabetically, with no mention of last names, as the country’s residents don’t have inherited last names and the entire society is based on first names. because they lack them. The ‘white pages phonebook,’ as it is known in Iceland, is a relatively small book.
Telephone Directory
The Police Service In Iceland
The police in Iceland do not possess any weapons or firearms. The Police, who are in charge of enforcing the law all around the nation, have discovered that they are able to perform their tasks without the use of firearms or tasers. Iceland is regarded as one of the safest nations in the world due to the extremely low crime rate and the absence of violent crime in most areas.
The Police Service In Iceland
Someone Tried Selling The Northern Lights
Einar Benediktsson, an Icelandic poet and attorney born in 1864, attempted to market the northern lights while serving as editor of Iceland’s first daily newspaper. Benediktsson spent years traversing Europe in an effort to find a buyer and possibly generate some money for Iceland since he thought that foreign investment could better utilize Iceland’s natural resources.
Someone Tried Selling The Northern Lights
Snowland?
Naddodur was the first Viking known to have arrived in Iceland in the ninth century. He has actually pulled away from his intended course and westward from the Faroe Islands when he came to a sizable country devoid of any traces of civilization. He was reportedly taken aback by the snow in September and named the island “Snowland” as a result.
Snowland?
A Little Town Called Húsavík
The “whale-watching capital of Europe” has long been the town of Húsavík on the north-eastern coast. Another option is to go to the Whale Museum in Hsavk, a non-profit organization that provides the educational aspect of the whale-watching excursions. Also starring Rachel McAdams and Will Ferrell, the Netflix film “Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga” had a scene from this small town.
A Little Town Called Húsavík
The Midnight Sun
Every year in the summer, there is a phenomenon known as the “midnight sun” that causes many golfers from across the world to pack up their clubs and go for the course for a few days when the sun is visible at midnight. The Arctic Open at the Akureyri Golf Club in Iceland was being played at the stroke of midnight by this group of golfers.
The Midnight Sun
The Smallest Nation In The World Cup
The smallest country to ever qualify for the World Cup is Iceland, which is a more recent fact that you may already be aware of. Many of the participants—from a filmmaker to a dentist—have normal day jobs. Iceland’s team is actually quite good, despite the fact that it is a small nation.
The Smallest Nation In The World Cup
Iceland Was Once Covered In Trees
This intriguing fact: Before the Vikings pillaged Iceland, 40% of the entire island was covered in trees, making it one of the few things about Iceland that isn’t precisely ideal. However, the newcomers required all those trees in order to construct homes, and boats, and to clear ground for farming. As a result of ongoing reforestation initiatives, that percentage is now barely 2%.
Iceland Was Once Covered In Trees
No Pet Reptiles
Pet reptile ownership is prohibited in Iceland, despite the fact that dogs and cats are acceptable household pets. Early in the 1990s, pet snakes, turtles, and lizards were outlawed after it was discovered that someone had salmonella after handling a pet turtle.
No Pet Reptiles
So Many Swimming Pools
Iceland boasts the highest swimming pool-to-human ratio in the world, so you don’t have to worry about other swimmers bothering you despite the weather. Icelanders also adore swimming. In fact, it’s more common for swimmers to find themselves in one of the many pools, lagunas, or hot springs completely alone.
So Many Swimming Pools
The Only War
The only conflict fought in Iceland was the so-called “Cod War,” which is mentioned in a different slide. In the 1960s and 1970s, there was a disagreement over fishing grounds between the UK and Iceland. It’s important to note that, aside from these conflicts, Iceland has never taken part in a war or been the target of an invasion of any type.
The Only War
Interesting Origin Of The Word
The English word “geyser” actually derives from the name of the large geyser, which is Geysir in Haukadalur. This is exciting news for individuals who are curious about the origins of words. The first geyser to be mentioned in a printed document, this erupting water source is situated in the south of Iceland.
Interesting Origin Of The Word
Pure, Clean Water
You can forget about purchasing bottled water that has already been filtered because the water in Iceland is so pristine. Instead, its streams, lakes, and rivers offer the cleanest, freshest water you can ever drink. To fill your own bottle with beautifully pure drinking water, all you need to do is dip it into the water source.
Pure, Clean Water
Iceland Has 13 Santas
Icelanders anticipate 13 Yule Lads, not Santa Claus, to visit them on Christmas, while the majority of the Western world waits impatiently for their gifts. Starting 13 days before Christmas as children in Iceland eagerly await their modest present, each rugged-looking Santa makes one visit.
Iceland Has 13 Santas
100 Words For Wind
Despite having a notoriously challenging language, the people are also extremely proficient in English, making it simple for visitors to move around. Icelandic has 100 terms for wind, which is an unusual fact that makes sense. Due to its close resemblance to Old Norse, many Icelanders are able to read writings written in it.
100 Words For Wind
Iceland’s National Sport
Icelanders enjoy a wide variety of sports, including volleyball and football, but handball is their favorite. Handball, the national sport of Iceland, is a game in which two teams compete to score by kicking the ball into the opposing goal. Iceland’s national team won a silver medal at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing.
Iceland’s National Sport
Icelanders And Their Books
It is evident that Iceland places a great emphasis on literature given that it is a country of avid readers of books and magazines. Iceland may take pride in having a large number of published authors and a long-standing reading culture that dates back to the 13th century. Iceland produces more writers per capita than any other country in the world, with one in ten people writing a book in their lifetime.
Icelanders And Their Books
The Last Frontier
Are you aware that Iceland was the final place on earth to see human settlement? All of this occurred more than 1,100 years ago when Iceland was accidentally discovered by Norse people from the Norwegian Viking era. According to some records, Iceland was colonized by Irish monks before the Vikings got there, but they quickly gave up on the difficult and remote terrain and fled.
The Last Frontier
Most Of The Population Lives In Reykjavík
60% of Iceland’s people live in Reykjavík, despite the city’s tiny size. Thus, a single city is home to more than half of Iceland’s population. The National and Saga museums, which chronicle Iceland’s Viking history, are also located in Reykjavík, which is renowned for its vibrant buildings and vibrant nightlife.
Most Of The Population Lives In Reykjavík
Iceland’s Sustainable Energy
Is it any wonder that Iceland is regarded as a leading force in sustainable energy when nearly all of the country’s electricity output comes from renewable sources like hydropower and geothermal energy? And since they take such a brilliant strategy, electricity costs are cheap. So cheap that it’s practically free.
Iceland’s Sustainable Energy
Iceland’s Birds
Iceland is home to the tallest bird cliffs in all of Europe. The Látrabjarg region of the Westfjords is where these enormous rock faces are located. Numerous bird species, such as the Arctic Skua, Razorbills, Atlantic Puffins, and Guillemots, can be seen at this western point.
Iceland’s Birds
Iceland’s Featured Locations
As one might anticipate, the breathtaking scenery of Iceland is a favorite setting for large TV and film projects. With so many legendary settings, you’d undoubtedly be able to recognize the setting of some of your favorite films and television shows, from “Star Wars” and “Star Trek” to “Game of Thrones.” The films “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty,” “Prometheus,” and “Batman Begins” are also worthy of attention.
Iceland’s Featured Locations
The Icelandic Language
Icelandic is the name given to what is really a North Germanic language that is mostly unaltered from Old Norse. It has been used in Iceland for more than a millennium. It goes without saying that they had to create new terminology for new technologies, such as the computer, which is known as a “tolva” and literally means “Numbers Witch.”
The Icelandic Language
Iceland Doesn’t Have An Army
Iceland is reliant on NATO’s defense capabilities rather than its own armed forces. However, Iceland does have a coast guard that has seen combat with the UK during “The Cod Wars.” This battle over fishing rights ended with Iceland coming out on top, and no one has dared to oppose this fearsome Viking nation since.
Iceland Doesn’t Have An Army
Europe’s Largest Glacier
The Vatnajökull (“Water Glacier”) is the biggest glacier in Europe and a powerful natural force. This picture was taken inside just one of its caves, so it’s not the entire thing. It occupies 8% of the nation’s total land area and is covered in ice that obscures ravines, mountain peaks, and even dormant volcanoes.
Europe’s Largest Glacier
Icelandic Horse
Regarding horses, Iceland has a fairly stringent policy. Icelandic horses are among the purest breeds in the world, so if they ever leave, they are not allowed to come back. Although it may sound cruel, Icelanders don’t intend to change the isolation of their horses any time soon.
Icelandic Horse
Viking Lineage
Icelanders have a highly detailed database of each generation thanks to a family-tree software. This was made feasible by compiling surveys across the nation and documenting every aspect of their ancestry. Nowadays, Icelanders may quickly research their ancestry online and go back hundreds of years. The majority of them learned that their ancestors were members of a small clan of Celtic and Viking settlers.
Viking Lineage
You Wouldn’t Guess How Long…
We might assume that traveling throughout the little nation must be simple and take up very little of your time. In essence, Iceland is easily contained within Ohio’s or Colorado’s state lines. However, the majority of its surface is tundra, making it an enormous, treeless Arctic landscape. If you were to drive the entire length of Iceland at the speed limit, it would only take you 17 hours.
You Wouldn’t Guess How Long…
Oldest Church In Iceland
The oldest church in Iceland, Grafarkirkja Church, was built in the 17th century. Its turf wall grows from the ground up over the top and down the opposite side. There were only five other turf churches like this one left in Iceland, it seems. This type of grass architecture has its roots in Iron Age construction methods when the Romans used “turf bricks” to construct forts and citadels.
Oldest Church In Iceland
Icelandic Currency
While most nations would choose to honor their most illustrious citizens on their coins, Iceland chose to honor their marine animals instead. There are lovely impressions of fish and shellfish on their coins, as seen in the picture.
Icelandic Currency
Summertime Sun
In the summer, Iceland can have up to 21 hours of daylight, which means you’ll never be in the dark. You might even find yourself at an outdoor pub in broad daylight only to check your watch and see that it’s already 11:30 p.m. In other words, if you don’t remember to check your watch, it’s really simple to lose track of time and you end up staying up all night.
Summertime Sun
Iceland’s Favorite Food
We definitely did not anticipate hot dogs to be one of Iceland’s favorite dishes. Bill Clinton and Kim Kardashian, two well-known individuals, have stopped by the stand and tried the renowned hot dogs. Because Icelanders use lamb meat instead of pig or beef, these hot dogs are unique. Their homemade ketchup contains apples as one ingredient. You can have a hot dog with apples naturally, as well as sweet mustard, raw or crispy onion, and ketchup.
Iceland’s Favorite Food
The Colors Of Iceland’s Flag
The Icelandic flag, which is blue with a red cross inside a white cross, was adopted in 1918 to signify the country’s independence from then-ruling Denmark. The three components that make up the landscape of the tiny island are represented by the colors in the Icelandic flag. White denotes the ice and snow, while blue, as viewed from the coast, shows the island’s mountains. Red denotes the fire from the volcanoes.
The Colors Of Iceland’s Flag
The Longest-Running Parliament
Iceland’s Althingi is the world’s oldest functioning parliament and the country’s national assembly. All free men participated in the first assembly, which was held in 930. Even when Icelanders bowed to the rule of the Norwegian king in the 13th century and thereafter to the Danish monarchy until the end of the 14th century, the Althingi persisted in some form. It was only dissolved by royal decree in 1800. In Reykjavík, this parliamentary structure was rebuilt and put together once more in 1845.
The Longest Running Parliament
Iceland was the last place on earth to be settled by humans
Iceland, regarded as one of the planet’s youngest landmasses, holds a remarkable history. Among the final human settlements, it was unintentionally discovered by Vikings from Norway over a century ago. This land of fire and ice has captivated the world with its breathtaking landscapes, including majestic waterfalls, geothermal hot springs, and stunning black sand beaches. From the awe-inspiring Northern Lights to its vibrant capital city, Reykjavik, Iceland offers an unparalleled blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences.
Iceland Was The Last Place On Earth To Be Settled By Humans
Many Icelanders believe in elves and trolls
The Viking era marked the beginning of the belief in mythical beings like elves, trolls, and more. Don’t forget to set aside some time to have a conversation with someone from Iceland, as they have countless fascinating stories to share. Their tales will transport you to a world full of wonder and adventure, capturing the essence of Icelandic folklore and adding magic to your experience. Prepare to be captivated by their rich and enchanting storytelling tradition!
Many Icelanders Believe In Elves And Trolls
Iceland has the longest workweeks in Europe
Do you know that one of the most fascinating facts about Iceland is that Icelanders work an average of 45 hours per week? That’s more than anybody in any other European nation! It’s truly remarkable how hardworking the Icelandic people are. Despite the long hours, they continue to thrive and contribute to their country’s success. This work ethic is a testament to their resilience and dedication. Icelanders set a great example for the rest of us!
Iceland Has The Longest Workweeks In Europe
Beer was banned in Iceland until 1989
Beer was prohibited in Iceland from 1915 until 1989, when a referendum was conducted to lift the ban. As a result, the nation now celebrates “Bjórdagurinn,” or “Beer Day,” on March 1st every year to commemorate the end of a 74-year beer ban. This significant event holds historical importance and symbolizes the freedom of choice for Icelanders to enjoy a favorite beverage. Cheers to Beer Day!
Beer Was Banned In Iceland Until 1989
About 11% of Iceland is covered by glaciers
Did you know that a whopping 11% of Iceland’s land is covered with glaciers? It’s no wonder that glaciers are considered one of the top attractions of this remarkable country. With over 269 named glaciers, Iceland offers a breathtaking icy wonderland to explore. Notably, Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in Europe, is three times the size of Rhode Island or Luxembourg, making it a true natural marvel. Discover Iceland’s icy beauty and be captivated by its majestic glaciers!
About 11% Of Iceland Is Covered By Glaciers
Iceland is one of the most eco-friendly countries in the world
‘s no surprise that Iceland was recently recognized as one of the greenest nations worldwide. With almost all of its electricity coming from renewable sources, the country is leading the way in sustainability. In addition, Reykjavik, the capital, has set an ambitious goal of achieving carbon-neutrality by 2040. For these efforts, the city was honored with the prestigious Nordic Nature and Environment Prize in 2014, solidifying Iceland’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
Iceland Is One Of The Most Eco Friendly Countries In The World
The national colours of Iceland are red, white and blue
three Icelandic national colors, represented on the flag, symbolize the fundamental elements of the land. The color red signifies the fiery volcanoes that shape Iceland, while white represents the snow and ice that cover its rugged terrain. Finally, the color blue symbolizes the vast ocean surrounding the island. Together, these colors encapsulate the unique essence of Iceland, blending nature’s raw power, pristine beauty, and the endless possibilities of discovery.
The National Colours Of Iceland Are Red, White And Blue
Volcanic Eruptions In Iceland
Iceland is a tiny nation, around the size of Ohio, so its continuous volcanic activity is a true and visible force of nature. Recall the quirky glacier known as Öraefajökull. Indeed, it is home to Hvannadalshnjúkur, Iceland’s highest mountain. However, the most deadly of its two volcanoes, Öræfajökull, is lurking directly underneath. In fact, there are so many volcanoes in the nation that an eruption occurs in Iceland around every three to four years. Observe your gait!
Volcanic Eruptions In Iceland
Wild Camping In Iceland
In Iceland, it is primarily forbidden to camp off-road. Furthermore, this rule does a great deal to save the land for future generations, especially in light of the fragile biomes that the nation is home to. Just make sure that before you go on your journey, you are aware of the locations of Iceland’s authorized camping spots. Find out more about where you can camp in Iceland by using this interactive map. This also holds true for off-road driving.
Wild Camping In Iceland
The Natives Drive Monster Trucks For A Reason
You should always proceed cautiously and at your own risk when in Iceland. However, this does not mean you cannot reduce the danger by using traction and tires designed to keep you firmly on the road. Another warning is that you could encounter locals driving jeeps and monster trucks when you rent a 2WD or 4WD. You may roll your eyes if you see one of these in Reykjavík; the landscape just doesn’t warrant it. However, because these men are intelligent, you may see one of these driving by you on the inner roadways. They are aware of how beautiful Iceland’s roads are, but they should not be taken lightly.
The Natives Drive Monster Trucks For A Reason
No Last Names in Iceland
Icelanders generally don’t have family names or surnames, however, there are a few exceptions. The majority of people in Iceland have patronymic last names, which are derived from their father’s first name plus the suffix for a son or daughter. When a woman gets married, her name doesn’t change either. All of this is unimportant, though, because everyone—from physicians to politicians to teachers—is addressed by their first name!
No Last Names In Iceland
Technicolor Beaches
Vsit the beaches of Reynisfjara in Vík, the southernmost settlement in Iceland, you’ll be greeted by a stunning sight. The shoreline is adorned with remarkable black sand, contrasting beautifully with the geometric basalt rocks that lie next to it. This unique beach is truly a sight to behold, showcasing the extraordinary wonders of nature in all its glory. Don’t miss out on this captivating experience during your visit to Iceland!
Technicolor Beaches
Polar Stratospheric Clouds
Iceland’s Polar Stratospheric Clouds are a truly captivating sight. During the winter, when temperatures drop sufficiently, these rare clouds predominantly form at high latitudes, painting the sky with an exquisite iridescent pastel hue. Witnessing the beauty of these clouds is an extraordinary experience, as they are incredibly uncommon. Don’t miss the chance to behold this breathtaking sight that only occurs once in a lifetime.
Polar Stratospheric Clouds
No McDonald’s?
Iceland, a country with a stable population of 360,000 people, stands out as a truly unique place on Earth. Surprisingly, not a single McDonald’s can be found in its picturesque landscapes filled with fjords, hot springs, and volcanoes. The last McDonald’s closed its doors in 2009, and despite Icelanders’ fondness for eating out, no new franchise has emerged. This absence of the fast-food giant adds to Iceland’s charm and makes it a truly distinctive destination.
No McDonald’s?
Iceland Has Europe’s Largest Banana Plantation
Iceland tops the list as the highest banana producer, thanks to Spain’s farms in the Canary Islands. Surprisingly, these farms are not in Europe. Leveraging geothermal energy, the Icelandic Agricultural University can yield a whopping 4,500 pounds of bananas each year. This fascinating fact highlights how innovation and alternative resources contribute to agricultural success in unexpected places.
Iceland Has Europe’s Largest Banana Plantation