Iceland is an island in the North Atlantic defined by its dramatic landscapes made up of impressive mountains, tumbling waterfalls, powerful geysers and massive glaciers. The Red Savannah Europe travel experts have detailed knowledge about this Nordic nation and have created this travel advice guide packed full of tips and useful information about visiting Iceland.
WEATHER IN ICELAND
The combination of influences from the North Pole, tempered by gulf streams and ocean currents, mean that weather conditions are changeable in Iceland throughout the year. You should be prepared for strong winds, cold temperatures and rain or snow at any time. These wild conditions only add to Iceland’s inimitable natural beauty, however, and clear days with dazzling blue skies can still appear along the way to surprise you.
The highest temperatures you are likely to encounter in the height of summer (July and August) might be in the region of 15C (58F) but even then conditions can change quickly so you should be prepared for all eventualities.
MAP OF ICELAND
MEDICATIONS & VACCINATIONS FOR ICELAND
We always recommend that you see your doctor or a travel clinic before travelling to make sure that you have taken all the necessary health precautions. You might also like to look at the NHS’s Fit for Travel website which is a good source of travel health information as well as contacting the Medical Advisory Service for Travellers Abroad (MASTA). Make sure you take any medications you require with you in their original containers, clearly labelled. A signed, dated letter from your doctor describing all medical conditions and medications is also worth taking.
PASSPORTS & VISAS FOR ICELAND
Your passport should be valid for at least 3 month beyond your return date. If your trip to Iceland is under 90 days, no visa is required for passport holders from the U.S., Canada, Great Britain, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and many other countries. For any further information about visas, please visit The Icelandic Directorate of Immigration website.
TIPPING IN ICELAND
Tipping is not mandatory in Iceland, but highly appreciated by guides, drivers and waiters at restaurants. As a general rule, tipping is a token of your appreciation. People make a good living in Iceland and are not reliant on gratuities. Taxi drivers are never tipped.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
It is essential that you take out travel insurance if you do not already have a policy in place. In particular, make sure that you have cover for loss of personal effects and a high level of cover for medical expenses and repatriation if necessary. Please note that taking out travel insurance is a condition of travel with Red Savannah.
ICELANDIC MONEY
The Icelandic Krone is the currency of Iceland. Cash machines are widely available. Most accept Visa, MasterCard and Cirrus. Credit cards are generally widely accepted as they are in the UK. It is a good idea to advise your bank that you are travelling to Iceland, as it is not unknown for banks to freeze customer’s cards after one or two foreign transactions in order to prevent fraud.
GET CONNECTED
ELECTRICAL SUPPLYElectrical sockets in Iceland are one of the two European standard electrical socket types – 220 volts, 50 Hz.
MOBILE PHONES & BATTERY CHARGERS
Please ensure your mobile and other electronic devices are fully charged before you arrive at the airport as you may be asked by security to turn them on. Uncharged electronic devices will not be allowed on the plane. As local rules differ from country to country it is safer to pack your battery charger(s) in your hold luggage rather than your hand luggage.
COMMUNICATIONS / INTERNET CONNECTIVITY
Mobile phone coverage in Iceland is good in the larger towns and cities. Internet connections are available in most areas of Iceland, and broadband facilities are available in the main populated areas. Wireless internet facilities also exist, but in some areas can be unreliable and intermittent.
