Wild camping in Iceland – what is allowed?
Iceland attracts many travelers every year. But is wild camping allowed in Iceland? We'll tell you in detail!
Iceland is a true paradise for adventurers and nature lovers. From impressive geysers like the famous Strokkur to majestic waterfalls like Gullfoss or the picturesque Seljalandsfoss, the country will quickly cast a spell over you. And let’s not forget the Northern Lights, which are best seen during the winter months.
Iceland’s black sand beaches, such as Reynisfjara with its impressive basalt columns, are also an absolute highlight. In between are modern cities such as Reykjavík with its lively atmosphere. Here you can look forward to excellent art galleries, museums and hip cafés. The many restaurants are a great place to feast and try some of the most delicious specialties such as fish and seafood.
Tip: The very brave dare to try the traditional dish Hákarl, fermented shark.
With its diverse landscapes, from glaciers to volcanoes and beautiful cities, the country is particularly suitable for camping. But what about wild camping in Iceland? Is it allowed or do you have to come to terms with the official campsites?
Is wild camping allowed in Iceland?
Unfortunately, unlike in some Scandinavian countries, everyman’s right does not apply in Iceland. This means that wild camping in Iceland is prohibited by law. Once tolerated, camping in the middle of nature is no longer tolerated, especially in the south of the country and in inhabited areas.
In addition, wild camping in Iceland is strictly controlled, especially in the three national parks Vatnajökull National Park, Þingvellir National Park and Snæfellsjökull National Park. Only in Vatnajökull National Park and Snæfellsjökull National Park would it be possible with a permit. You must contact the ranger in advance.
However, there is a small loophole. Wild camping in Iceland is “permitted” if you are on a hiking tour on foot.
Are there any special features of wild camping in Iceland?
Despite the ban on wild camping in Iceland, pitching a tent is permitted if you
- camp away from public roads,
- do not camp near populated areas,
- make sure that there is no infrastructure and
- you are not in a national park.
Of course, you are not allowed to stay longer than one night with this type of wild camping in Iceland. It should also be ensured that there is no campsite nearby that you can use as an alternative. It is generally possible to ask for an exception to the rules.
Can you go wild camping in Iceland with a camper?
If you are traveling in your camper or motorhome, wild camping is generally prohibited. Without any exception. Especially in the south, you are not allowed to park or stay overnight. Wild camping in Iceland is only possible on private land or outside campsites with a permit.
Are there alternatives to wild camping in Iceland?
The nice thing about Iceland is that it is quite sparsely populated. For you and wild camping in Iceland, this means that even the public campsites are not overcrowded and are located in the middle of nature. Another advantage is that many of them are located right next to well-known sights and hiking regions, so you can set off on unforgettable tours straight from your overnight accommodation.
Most campsites are well equipped and have everything from showers and toilets to storms. Others are more functional. In this case, you can rely on your Supervolt POLAR LiFePO4. Our powerful battery works without compromise at temperatures as low as -30 °C and is ideal for winter camping. Below 0 °C, the heating even activates automatically. So you can remain self-sufficient anywhere on your Iceland tour.
Tip: If you regularly spend your camping vacation in Iceland, the camping card is worthwhile. With this card, you can spend 28 nights in a tent or camper van at one of the affiliated campsites at a reasonable price. This includes two adults and four children up to the age of 16. All you have to pay on site is the overnight tax per night and extras such as laundry or internet.
The topic of wild camping fascinates not only us, but also many of you! That’s why we’ll tell you in our blog exactly what the rules are for wild camping in Germany, Holland, France, Denmark, Sweden, Italy, Greece, Portugal, Iceland, Croatia and Slovenia, Norway, Spain and in the Switzerland apply! You will also find Blog exciting installation reports and many more articles!
