UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Iceland

Iceland, a land of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, has three UNESCO World Heritage Sites that attract visitors from around the globe. From landscapes shaped by volcanic activity to historical landmarks steeped in Norse mythology, these sites offer a glimpse into both the country's past and present. Join us on a journey to explore Iceland's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, where history, nature, and culture intertwine.

Vatnajökull National Park

Our first stop is at Vatnajökull National Park, which is the largest glacier in Europe. Covering eight percent of Iceland’s landmass, visitors flock to the area every year to experience glacier hiking, boat tours, and ice caving. Vatnajökull is home to the mighty Vatnajökull glacier, as well as a diverse range of landscapes including glacial rivers, towering mountains, and volcanic peaks. The area contributes greatly to Iceland's nickname, the “Land of Fire and Ice," due to its incredible juxtaposition of fiery volcanic activity and icy glacial landscapes. 

 

Rich in biodiversity, the park also has a wide variety of flora and fauna, including Arctic foxes, reindeer, and countless bird species. Whether you’re heading on an adventure or marveling at its ever-changing landscapes, Vatnajökull National Park offers an unforgettable experience when visiting Iceland. 

Surtsey

Surtsey, situated within Iceland's Westman Islands, emerged as a volcanic island following an underwater eruption in 1963. Designated as a nature reserve in 1965, it gained UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2008. The island has been legally protected since its formation, leaving it free from human interference. This has allowed scientists to gain information on the colonization of plant and animal life on new land. It is strictly prohibited to go ashore or swim by the island, disturb any of the natural features, introduce organisms, or leave waste on the island. Construction is also controlled.

Since Surtsey was formed by a volcanic eruption, it is no surprise that the island is littered with geothermal activity. On the west side of the island, a temperature of 99.6 degrees Celsius was recorded just 20cm below the soil’s surface!

Þingvellir National Park

The final UNESCO World Heritage Site in Iceland is Þingvellir National Park, one of the most popular stops along the Golden Circle. Sitting in a rift valley formed by the shifting of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, this is the only place in the world where you can see the rift above sea level. The plates pull apart at approximately 2.5 centimeters a year and have done so for thousands of years. Earthquakes happen fairly regularly but are usually far too minimal to be felt or heard. 

Þingvellir also holds significance as the site of Iceland’s first parliament, the Alþingi, where early Icelandic settlers would create laws and resolve disputes. It was at Þingvellir, commonly known as ‘the fields of parliament', where pivotal moments in Iceland's history unfolded. For instance, in 1000 AD, the nation relinquished Asatru, the Old Norse pagan faith, in favor of Christianity, prompted by the looming threat of Norwegian invasion. Nearly a thousand years later, in 1944 AD, Icelanders proclaimed their independence from Denmark. Due to its historical significance, Þingvellir was designated as a National Park in 1930, marking a thousand years since the establishment of the Alþingi. Subsequently, in 2004 it was included in the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List.

Today, visitors head to Þingvellir to experience the geological and cultural significance of the area. Many tourists enjoy Silfra, a fissure renowned for its crystal-clear water and underwater visibility, caused by filtration through porous underground lava rock. Experienced swimmers can partake in snorkeling and scuba diving activities, which is often described as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. 

If you’re planning a trip to scope out the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Iceland, we’d recommend hiring your very own rental car to allow ample time to visit your favorite attractions. At Iceland Car Rental, our fleet spans from 4x4s to minibuses, allowing you to find the perfect vehicle for your visit. Take a look at our rental car options today.

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