21 FACTS ABOUT ICELAND THAT WILL TRULY SURPRISE YOU

Iceland is a land of endless contrasts. Many travelers head there for the northern lights, waterfalls, or active volcanoes, but they are often surprised by completely different things. Some are pleasant, some unusual, and a few can hardly be found anywhere else in the world. If you are planning a trip to Iceland, here are 21 facts that might catch you off guard.

1. There are almost no mosquitoes in Iceland

The only exception is the area around Lake Mývatn, whose name means “Mosquito Lake.” The name comes from the large number of midges found there in summer. However, these are not typical biting mosquitoes but rather small insects forming dense swarms around the water. They can be annoying, but they are an exception in Iceland.

2. The weather changes incredibly fast

In Iceland, you can experience sunshine, rain, fog, strong winds, and snow all within a single hour. Locals often say: “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes.” Waterproof clothing matters more than long-term forecasts.

3. In summer, it’s almost light 24 hours a day

During June and early July, Iceland experiences the midnight sun. Darkness barely comes, and the landscape stays softly lit even around midnight. Many visitors struggle to sleep because their body doesn’t perceive night.

4. In winter, you can see the northern lights

From September to April, Iceland is one of the best places in the world to observe the aurora borealis. When conditions are right, it can be seen not only in the countryside but also around Reykjavík or even in the city.

5. Hot water smells like sulfur

When you first shower in an Icelandic hotel, you may notice a smell similar to boiled eggs. This is caused by sulfur in geothermal water, which is used to heat homes and supply hot water.

6. There are surprisingly few trees

Many people expect Nordic forests, but most of Iceland is almost treeless. The original forests were cut down after settlement by the Vikings, and reforestation is ongoing today.

7. Iceland has no railway system

Despite being a modern European country, Iceland has no public rail network or metro. The reasons include low population density, challenging terrain, and high construction costs, as well as geological activity due to tectonic boundaries.

8. Iceland has fewer people than Brno

About 400,000 people live in Iceland — only slightly more than in Brno, Czech Republic. Yet the island is larger than the Czech Republic, and outside Reykjavík you can drive for dozens of kilometers without seeing a village.

9. Sheep are everywhere

Every summer, hundreds of thousands of sheep roam freely across Iceland. You will often see them on roads, in mountains, and near waterfalls.

10. There is no McDonald’s in Iceland

The last McDonald’s restaurant closed in 2009. One of the last burgers and fries purchased there was preserved as a curiosity. The “last McDonald’s burger in Iceland” was later displayed in Reykjavík and eventually became an attraction in the Snotra House Hostel in the south of Iceland.

11. People are addressed by first names

Surnames are not as important in Iceland as in most countries. Phone directories are organized by first names, and even politicians are commonly addressed by their given names.

12. Local legends about elves still exist

Many Icelanders take traditions about hidden people and elves more seriously than one might expect. Construction projects are sometimes adjusted to avoid places linked to these beliefs.

13. Outdoor bathing is a national pastime

Even in freezing weather, geothermal pools are full of people. Hot pots are an important social space where people casually discuss work, business, and politics — similar to cafés or pubs elsewhere.

14. Volcanoes are not just a tourist attraction

Iceland lies in a highly active geological area. Eruptions are not rare, and locals are well prepared for them.

15. The island is literally expanding

Iceland sits on the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, which drift apart by several centimeters per year. In Þingvellir, this boundary is clearly visible on land, allowing visitors to walk between the diverging plates.

16. Tap water is excellent

Most Icelanders rarely buy bottled water. Drinking water comes mainly from glaciers and underground sources and is among the purest in the world.

17. Glaciers and volcanoes can be seen in the same day

Few countries offer such dramatic contrasts: you can stand on a glacier in the morning and visit a volcanic landscape in the afternoon.

18. Wind is a bigger problem than rain

Strong winds often pose a greater challenge than cold or precipitation, affecting travel, driving, and photography.

19. The northern lights are not only green

Auroras can also appear in pink, red, purple, or blue, depending on altitude and atmospheric particles.

20. Iceland is among the safest countries in the world

Crime rates are extremely low, and travelers generally feel safe even in remote areas.

21. One visit is usually not enough

Many travelers come to Iceland thinking it will be a once-in-a-lifetime trip, but they often leave planning to return. Each season offers a completely different experience.

Conclusion

Iceland is a country that can surprise even experienced travelers. It offers unique nature, unusual traditions, and a daily life shaped by volcanoes, glaciers, and geothermal energy. Whether you come for the northern lights, the midnight sun, or pure adventure, you will likely discover much more than you expected.