Iceland is a Nordic island country in the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. Iceland is the country in Europe with the least population. 36% of Icelanders live in Reykjavik, the capital and largest city in the country. The largest area of Iceland above sea level is along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, and its central volcanic plateau almost constantly erupts. The interior comprises a plateau with mountains, glaciers, sand, and lava fields, and several glacial rivers flow through the lowlands to the sea.
Iceland is a popular tourist destination with an unpredictable climate. Snow, sand, and ash storms can disrupt travel.
The government has introduced COVID-19 travel restrictions to minimize the risk of bringing the virus into Iceland. These rules apply to travelers, regardless of their COVID-19 vaccination status.
Vaccinations
Vaccinations are essential to reduce the risk of contracting diseases while traveling, so it is vital to be up-to-date with your routine vaccinations, as per your province or territory, before traveling. Travelers should also consult a healthcare professional or visit a travel clinic at least six weeks before departure for personalized health advice.
Iceland has some of Europe’s most challenging travel restrictions, with all passengers required to pre-register, take two COVID-19 tests after arrival, and quarantine between them. However, travelers from the EEA and Switzerland who can prove they have been vaccinated are now exempt from testing and quarantine requirements as long as they show an approved digital or paper vaccination certificate in Icelandic, Danish, Norwegian, Swedish, or English.
Iceland’s COVID-19 restrictions may change quickly, as with all rules and regulations. For the newest entry and exit requirements details, we advise contacting your airline, travel agency, and the nearby embassy or consulate of the nation you visit.
In any case, being up-to-date with your vaccinations is a good idea, as these can make the difference between enjoying safe tourism in your destination and not. It is also good to check with your travel insurance company whether you are covered for medical expenses in an emergency.
Travellers’ rights
Travelers in Iceland enjoy several rights, including freedom of movement, free and fair elections, no state violence, independent judges, and an ombudsman. There is also no gender-based discrimination in employment, housing, education, or health care.
In terms of safety, Iceland has a long tradition of being a safe destination for women solo travelers. However, remember a few things before leaving.
While it’s possible to travel without a visa to Iceland, some Iceland travel restrictions apply to all foreigners traveling into the country. These restrictions are due to the introduction of COVID-19 and aim to minimize the risk of infection for visitors.
The most crucial thing to remember is that visitors can only enter the nation if they can show they are free from travel restrictions. It can be done by providing the correct documentation upon arrival.
As with most countries, it is recommended that you check the travel restrictions before you book your holiday. If you are still determining your right to enter the country, contact your local travel agent or the Ministry for Foreign Affairs before you travel.
You can also learn more about the legal requirements for traveling to Iceland by visiting the Icelandic government website. It will give you an idea of the requirements for entering the country and what to expect on your trip.
Exemptions
Most people who would typically travel to Iceland without any problems can now expect to be turned back at the border. It is because the restrictions are being put in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic and are intended to reduce the risk of travelers bringing the virus to Iceland.
Safety
The good news is that Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world. It has a low crime rate, and petty crime like pickpocketing is rare.
You should always keep your valuables out of sight and maintain situational awareness while traveling in Iceland. If you encounter any suspicious activity, report it immediately to local authorities and follow their instructions.
It’s also a good idea to avoid driving after drinking alcohol, as this is illegal in Iceland and can lead to fines of 70 000 ISK (500USD) and the suspension of your license.
Road conditions in Iceland are generally a challenge and can change rapidly depending on weather, time of year, and location. Winters can be harsh, with snowstorms and strong winds making driving conditions even more dangerous.
Travelers can get distracted by Iceland’s beautiful nature. Therefore, it’s essential to be aware of potential risks before you travel, especially when it comes to icebergs on the seashore, which can be slippery and cause fatal falls.
Volcanic eruptions can also be unpredictable and dangerous, so you should consider the risk before you book your trip to Iceland. Knowing what to do in an emergency and where to find medical services and evacuation routes are also crucial.
