Discover Parks & Wildlife contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of the Amazon links (or other affiliate links), we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See our disclosure policy for more information.
12 Unbelievable Iceland Locations That Belong in Your Photo Album
If you think Iceland is just a giant ice cube somewhere in the Atlantic, prepare to have your mind blown—and your camera never put down. This magical island is a dream, boasting scenery that feels like it’s been plucked straight from a fairytale.
With dramatic waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glacial lagoons, Iceland is a playground for photographers, amateurs and pros alike. So grab your camera because these photography spots are guaranteed to amp up your photo game.
1. Kirkjufell Mountain
Ah, Kirkjufell. You know that mountain you saw numerous times while binging “Game of Thrones?” Yep, this is it. Known as “Church Mountain,” Kirkjufell is basically Iceland’s supermodel mountain—it just can’t take a bad picture.
Standing tall at over 1,500 feet, its distinctive shape makes it an absolute show-off in any snapshot. And if you really want to crank up the epic factor, get a shot with the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall. It’s basically like the mountain saying, “Oh, you’re taking my picture? Let me give you my best angle.”
2. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Picture this: giant chunks of ice doing the backstroke in a serene, blue lagoon. That’s Jökulsárlón for you—a glacier lagoon that looks like nature decided to flex its artistic muscles. It even comes with seals showing off on their icy lounge chairs and the epic backdrop of Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull.
Believe you me, your camera won’t know what hit it. Snap a photo here, and you’ll have everyone thinking you’ve discovered a new level of cool. Literally.
3. Diamond Beach
Right next to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach is nature’s answer to a fancy jewelry store. With glistening ice chunks scattered across black sand like a diamond-studded soirée. The contrast between the sparkling ice and the dark volcanic sand? Absolutely mesmerizing.
It’s the universe’s way of saying, “Look, humans, I can be fabulous too!” You might even find yourself feeling a bit underdressed. Your followers will be drooling like kids in a candy store when you share this one.
4. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Hold onto your hats because Seljalandsfoss isn’t just any old waterfall. This beauty gives you the rare chance to actually walk behind the cascade, making you feel like you’re inside a magical, natural water dome.
Just imagine looking out through a curtain of water in awe of your surroundings. Pro tip: don’t forget a waterproof cover for your gear unless you want your camera to take an unscheduled swim. It’s definitely a splash-tastic adventure you won’t want to miss!
5. Geysir Geothermal Area
Let’s talk geysers. In Iceland, they’re kind of a big deal, and the Geysir Geothermal Area is basically their MVP. Meet Strokkur, the star of the show, erupting every 5-10 minutes and launching boiling water up to 65 feet high.
Timing that perfect shot can feel like trying to catch a popcorn kernel mid-air, but the results will make you look like a pro. It’s a splashy spectacle that’s totally worth the effort – and yes, waiting for that precise moment can make you feel like a geyser paparazzi.
6. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is the poster child for rugged beauty. It has steep cliffs so dramatic they would make a soap opera jealous and greenery so lush it could turn even the most hardcore city slicker into a nature lover. This stunner stretches about 1.2 miles long and plunges more than 325 feet deep—plenty of room for you to find your perfect angle.
If you squint, you might even convince yourself you’re walking through a scene straight out of a fantasy novel. Just make sure to watch your step and try not to fall into a moody daydream.
7. Landmannalaugar
If you’re someone who swoons over vibrant colors, then Landmannalaugar is basically going to be your version of Disneyland. Situated in the highlands, this beauty is famous for its multicolored rhyolite mountains that look like they’ve been sprinkled with magic dust.
Oh, and let’s not forget the geothermal hot springs—you can literally soak in nature’s hot tub amidst this riot of color. It’s like gallivanting through an artist’s palette, and even your most blasé friends will be drooling over your photos.
8. Dyrhólaey Arch
Let’s chat about the Dyrhólaey Arch, a colossal natural arch lounging on Iceland’s southern coast. Not only does it serve up jaw-dropping views of those Insta-famous black sand beaches and the Atlantic doing its thing, but the arch itself is like a catwalk model.
And as if that wasn’t enough, it’s practically a puffin paradise! Those little guys are just hanging out, acting like they’re on holiday. It’s a photographic jackpot that will have your camera begging for a break.
9. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Speaking of black sand beaches, Reynisfjara is the rock star of them all. Famous for its eerie basalt columns that look like nature’s very own Lego set, and waves so powerful they’ll make you rethink that beach picnic. This place will blow your flip-flops off (literally, if you aren’t careful!).
Keep an eye on the tide while you’re at it—those waves aren’t messing around (seriously, they advise against swimming as you can be swept out to sea). And getting soaked by an Icelandic wave is not the kind of surprise you want in your travel diary. Take your pics fast and run for cover!
10. Látrabjarg Cliffs
Hold onto your binoculars because Látrabjarg Cliffs aren’t just the westernmost point of Iceland—they’re the westernmost point of Europe. Talk about being at the edge of the world!
Home to millions (yes, millions) of birds, including puffins, razorbills, and guillemots, this place is a five-star avian resort. And the cliffs are photogenic enough to make any landscape jealous, but let’s be honest, the real stars are the puffins strutting around like they own the joint.
11. Blue Lagoon Hot Springs
Sure, it’s touristy, but come on, the Blue Lagoon is iconic for a reason. The milky-blue waters contrasting against dramatic black lava fields—HELLO, it’s a photographer’s dream. And it’s not just the visual appeal. You also get to soak in a steamy geothermal spa that feels like a luxurious hot tub.
Seriously, who wouldn’t want to float around in this surreal paradise while pretending they’re in a high-end commercial? It’s a win-win—ultimate relaxation and enviable photos all in one go.
12. Skógafoss Waterfall
And finally, we can’t forget about Skógafoss, one of Iceland’s legendary waterfalls. This bad boy drops a whopping 200 feet and stretches 80 feet wide—basically, it’s the Arnold Schwarzenegger of waterfalls.
The sheer force will blow your mind, and if you’re feeling extra lucky (or just happen to catch the right light), you might even spot a double rainbow. Yup, that’s right—two rainbows for the price of one (we know what you’re thinking, and we thought it too). It’s the best kind of BOGO deal.
