Do you have questions about your trip with Iceland ProTravel, about travel planning or about Iceland in general? Our collection of frequently asked questions can already help you.
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Arrival
Entry
Things to know about Iceland
All around travel planning
Communication
Driving
On the Road in Iceland
Northern lights
Board
Cancellation and Rebooking
Arrival
Can I do an online check-in?
Yes, we recommend you to do an online check-in to start yout holiday relaxed.
Is it possible to check-in my luggage the evening before?
No, unfortunately this is not possible with Icelandair.
Which means of transport do I use to get to Iceland?
You can fly to Iceland (direct flights from many different British airports) or take the Smyril Line ferry from Hirtshals in Denmark to Seydisfjördur (the crossing goes via the Faroe Islands and takes about 2.5 days).
Can I arrive with my own vehicle?
There is no ferry from the UK but can use the Smyril Line ferry from Hirtshals in Denmark.
How long is the flight from england to Iceland?
The flight lenght depends on the airport. From London you need aprox. 3 hours.
Do I get food on the plane?
That dependes on your booking. You can find an overview of the meals on board here.
Entry
Do I need a passport for Iceland?
Yes, British Citizens need a passport to travel to Iceland.
The Passport must be:
- issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue’)
- valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)
Do I need a Visa to enter Iceland?
You can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. Also, check the linked page to see which nationalities require a visa to enter Iceland.
What are Iceland's current entry requirements with Corona?
Currently, there are no more restrictions for entering Iceland/Greenland and for returning to Great Britain. Current information at www.covid.is/english. It is the traveller's responsibility to comply with the entry regulations/vaccination requirements of the countries at the time of travel (e.g. if required: Corona vaccination).
Can I take pets with me to Iceland?
Iceland has a mandatory two-week quarantine period, so bringing a pet is rather problematic. We therefore advise against taking a pet with you.
Things to know about Iceland
What is Iceland known for (Glaciers, volcanoes, geysirs, northern light)
Iceland is known for its beautiful, contrasting nature. Not only volcanoes, glaciers and geysers await visitors, but also natural hot springs, northern lights, puffins and much more.
What is prohibitet in Iceland?
Like every country, Iceland has regulations and prohibitions that must be observed. These prohibitions include the following:
- Driving off-road (leaving official roads and tracks).
- Driving a car without four-wheel drive on the so-called F-roads or into the highlands, especially in the highlands.
- Walking on Icelandic moss or damaging it in any way. It takes years to recover from this!
- Wild camping (camping outside campsites), which carries heavy fines.
- Disturbing birds, sheep (who like to roam) and other animals
- Disregarding barriers at natural sites
What geothermal baths are there?
Iceland offers its visitors a variety of geothermal swimming pools. Among the best known are probably the Blue Lagoon or the Myvatn Nature Bath. But apart from the well-known springs, there are also many small baths and largely natural hot springs. These include the Hvammsvik Hot Springs in the west of the country, the GeoSea Geothermal Bath and Forest Lagoon, both in northern Iceland, the Secret Lagoon near the Gullfoss waterfall and the Laugarvatn Fontana near Reykjavik. More about geothermal baths in Iceland
What glaciers are there in Iceland?
It is impossible to determine the exact number of glaciers in Iceland, but there are at least 13 large glaciers in Iceland, covering 11% of the total land area. These glaciers include, in order of size, Vatnajokull, Langjokull, Hofsjokull, Myrdalsjokull, Deangajokull, Eyjafjallajokull, Tungnafellsjokull, Thorisjokull, Eiriksjokull, Thrandarijokull, Tindfjallajokull, Torfajokull and Snaefellsjokull. More about glaciers in Iceland
When and where can I watch puffins?
Puffins can be seen in Iceland during the summer months from mid/late April until late August. The best time of day to see puffins is early morning and late afternoon. In the south, the birds can be seen on the cliffs near Cape Dyrhólaey and the Westman Islands. In the east, they can be seen at Borgarfjardarhofn harbour near Bakkagerdi and in the north around the town of Husavik. In the West fjords, you also have various opportunities to see the cute animals: for example, at the island's largest bird cliff, Latrabjarg, or Breidafjordur.
Where can I go whale watching?
In Iceland, you have the opportunity to go whale watching in some places. The best known are in Reykjavik (capital) and in the north near Husavik. However, there are also whale-watching tours in Olafsvik (Snaefellsnes peninsula), Hauganes (north), and Akureyri (north). The sighting rate is about 91 percent.
Daylight in summer and winter?
During summer the nights are bright in all of Iceland. In the month of June the sun never fully sets. November to February are the darkest months in Iceland with about 7 hours of daylight in November and February and only 3-4 hours in December and January.
Are there wild animals or any dangerous species in Iceland?
There are no poisonous or dangerous animals in Iceland.
When are the supermarkets and shops open?
Mo.-Fr. 09:00-18:00, Sat. 10:00-16:00. Most shops are closed on sundays and in summer even on saturedays.
Are there public toilets in Iceland?
There are usually toilets at the main sights, although not always with running water. You will also often find toilets at petrol stations on the ring road and at campsites and some rest areas.
All around travel planning
In how many days can I circumnavigate Iceland?
You can easily circumnavigate Iceland on the Ring Road in 8 days. The driving distance is about 1,800 kilometres, so you will drive an average of about 220-300km per day. On some days, however, you might cover more or fewer kilometres, as it also depends on where your next accommodation is located or, for example, how you arrange your daily schedule.
Can Iceland be visited all year round?
Iceland can be visited all year round, depending on your travel options. The summer months are good for exploring the highlands or driving once around Iceland. In the winter months, the highlands are closed and there is little daylight, but you have the opportunity, weather permitting, to see the Northern Lights if you are lucky.
Is there a time difference with the United Kingdom?
In the summer there is 1 hr time difference, as UK changes the clock. Maybe best to say that Iceland is on GMT year round.
What is the weather like in Iceland?
Despite the influence of the warm Gulf Stream on the climate, you should basically be prepared for any weather. In summer, temperatures average 12-15° C, but can also rise to 20° C. You should always expect small rain showers, but they are usually short-lived. Temperatures in winter average +/- 5° C. Although it can sometimes be very windy, it is not as cold as is often assumed. However, warm clothes are still the order of the day. We recommend to bring “layers” and always to bring a hat, gloves and a scarf with you throughout the year.
How much money should I take to Iceland?
As the exchange rate in Icelandic banks is much more profitable, it is recommended to change money directly in Iceland. We recommend changing money directly at the airport, as many banks no longer offer this service. Foreign currency can be imported and exported in unlimited amounts. On presentation of a Visa or Mastercard credit card, banks will also disburse cash in the local currency. Basically, however, it should be said that almost everything in Iceland is paid for without cash and it is therefore not necessary to exchange money.
Do I need a credit card?
Yes. It is unusual to pay with cash in Iceland. Usually everything is paid for with a credit card, even public toilets usually have a card reader.
Do I need a travel plug or adapter in Iceland?
Yes, Type C and F plugs are used in Iceland. The plug shapes (D, F and M) common in the UK do not exist here.
What language is spoken in Iceland?
Icelandic but many Icelanders can also speak English and Danish.
Is Iceland a safe country?
The crime rate in Iceland is very low, petty crime such as pickpocketing does occur. Please take care of your valuables and do not leave anything in the car.
What is the national currency in Iceland?
The means of payment in Iceland is the Icelandic krona (króna), ISK. Master Card and Visa credit cards are also widely used (4-digit PIN required!). In larger towns and airports you can easily withdraw cash from ATMs using your Maestro card. You can find the current exchange rate at www.landsbankinn.com.
Is there an accommodation tax in Iceland?
Yes, due to changed laws in Iceland, an accommodation tax will be applied from January 2024. There is a tax of 666 ISK (£ 3.80) per night and room. The price is independent of the number of persons. The tax is indicated in the offer when booking.
How much do you tip in Iceland?
You do not have to pay a tip in Iceland, nor is it customary here. However, if you would like to tip, there is a tip jar in most restaurants.
When are the highlands open?
There are no fixed opening hours for the highlands. Typically, the roads are opened to traffic in June or July and close again in August or September.
Communication
Does Iceland has EU Roaming?
Yes, the roaming regulation applies within the EU and in Liechtenstein, Norway and Iceland.
How is the mobile phone reception in Iceland?
The most common mobile phones can be used in Iceland. Except for the highlands or in particularly remote areas, the reception network is relatively good.
Driving
What are the road conditions like?
Approximately 4300 km of the road network is asphalted, including the ring road (route no. 1). Nevertheless, driving on Icelandic roads is adventurous and very strenuous on some roads. Thus, only cautious and experienced people should drive into the highlands. Stony deserts, lava areas drifting sand deserts and huge glacial rivers can cause additional difficulties. Road conditions and closed roads can be seen at www.road.is . Storm warnings appear at www.vedur.is and www.safetravel.is . The warnings are to be taken seriously, especially because of sand and ash storms.
Can you drive youself?
Yes, for Iceland you only need a national driving license. We recommend that you obtain information about driving in Iceland from the website www.safetravel.is before travelling. During the trip you should pay attention to current weather information (en.vedur.is ), road conditions (www.road.is or tel. +3451777) and travel warnings (www.safetravel.is ).
How old do I have to be to rent a car?
The minimum age to rent a car is 20 years (or 19 years with additional fee, cat. Z-D) with min. 1 year driving experience.
Do I dees an international Driving permit to drive in Iceland?
No, you can drive in Iceland with your British driving licence
Can I pich up the rental car at any time of the day?
Yes, that is possible. Our partner Europcar works seven days a week at any time of day, but there are fewer employees on site at night. Especially in the low season, it can happen that for a short time there is no employee at the Europcar counter, as the employees rotate between the pick-up and drop-off stations. Should this occur, you can reach the staff by using a telephone located on site. During peak season, they are located at both the pick-up and drop-off stations.
Which side of the road do you drive in Iceland?
In Iceland you drive on the right side of the road.
What car do I need for the highlands?
You need an off-road vehicle with 4x4 (all-wheel drive) to drive in the highlands.
Parking in Iceland
Most parking spaces in Iceland are free of charge. However, in larger cities like Reykjavik and Akureyri, you may have to pay at the parking meter or in the car park.
On the road in Iceland
How do I get to the hotel by bus transfer?
If your trip includes a bus transfer, this will (unless otherwise mentioned) be done with our partner from Reykjavik Excursions/ Flybus. Upon presentation of the document "Your travel documents", you will receive your transfer ticket by flybus at the Reykjavik Excursions / Flybus counter. After receiving your ticket, you will board the Flybus, which will be waiting directly in front of the arrivals hall. On the bus, a Flybus staff member will ask you for your accommodation, so you will receive colour cards, which will help you to find the right bus at the central bus station BSI in Reykjavik, which will take you to your accommodation or to your BUS STOP. You may have to walk the last few meters to your accommodation. (You will find more information in your travel documents).
How can I travel around Iceland locally?
You can travel to Iceland as a self-driver with your own car or with a rental car/motorhome . Of course, we also cater for non-drivers, who can book a city trip with excursions or take a bus tour . For that little bit extra, we also offer exclusive tours with a private guide, should you wish to experience your holiday individually and yet guided. Please feel free to contact us .
How do I get from the hotel to the airport an the day of departure?
If your trip includes airport transfers, please refer to the "Your travel documents" document for the times of the booked transfer with the Flybus. Be sure to be in front of your accommodation (or at the nearby bus stop) with your luggage and the "Your travel documents" document or your Flybus ticket on time. After being picked up by smaller buses, you will change at the central bus station BSI in Reykjavik to a large bus that will take you to Keflavik Airport. If you already have your Flybus ticket, you can use it to go directly to the big bus. Otherwise, take the document "Your travel documents" to the counter in the bus station, where you will receive your Flybus ticket. No luggage service is guaranteed when changing buses.
Northern lights
When is the best time to see the Northern lights in Iceland?
The best time to see the Northern Lights is between September and March, when dark nights return after the summer. The best time to see the colourful, dancing lights in the sky is under a starry sky, far away from disturbing light sources! Current forecasts: en.vedur.is . More about the Northern lights
Board
How expensice is living in Iceland, as well as fuel costs?
The cost of living in Iceland is about 50 % higher than in the United Kingdom. Food prices vary depending on the supermarket. In a cheap discounter (e.g. Bónus or Nettó), the costs are comparable to Aldi or similar markets. The supermarkets that are open 24 hours a day are about 50 % more expensive than the discounters. A litre of petrol costs around £ 2.
Status: December 2022
Can you drink water from the tab in Iceland?
Icelandic tap water is drinkable and is even among the cleanest tap water in the world.
What about allergies (food/animals) and special diets?
Please inform us of any food intolerances/allergies and/or special diets when booking.
What do I have to pay attention to when taking riding clothes with me?
Already used riding clothes and riding boot outfits must be washed at 40 °C or dry-cleaned before entering Iceland. Other items that cannot be washed must be disinfected according to the instructions of the Disease Control Authority. Furthermore, it is strictly forbidden to bring the following used riding equipment: Saddles, bridles, nosebands, pads, blankets, riding whips and used riding gloves.
How easy is it for vegetarians/vegans to eat in Iceland?
There is a wide range of restaurants and cafes in Reykjavik that offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives. In the rest of the country, most restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan food, but it is often pasta with tomato sauce or salad.
Where can I buy alcohol?
In Iceland, you can only buy alcohol in special shops run by the government or in restaurants and pubs that have a special licence. Supermarkets only sell light beer. The minimum age to buy alcohol is 20 years.
Cancellation and Rebooking
I have to cancel my trip, What should I bear in mind?
In principle, a cancellation must always be received by us in writing by e-mail or by post, a phone call is not sufficient. Please refer to the T&C for the applicable cancellation fees.
What if a Person cancels and we want to take a replacement person?
This is generally possible for ground services, a small changing fee applies. Changing a flight ticket is more complicated and often a new ticket needs to be purchased.
What do I have to do to rebook my trip?
If you have to rebook your trip, it is generally advisable to inform Iceland ProTravel as early as possible in order to keep additional costs for you as low as possible. If accommodation or certain flight classes are no longer available on the new travel date, surcharges may be incurred which are to be borne by the customer. In addition, airlines in particular charge a rebooking fee, which must be paid by the customer in any case.
What happens if my excursion is cancelled?
If your excursion is cancelled, for example due to weather conditions, our agency will normally receive a cancellation from our partner. In this case we or our Icelandic office will try to contact you and assist you with a rebooking or refund. In the case of cancelled excursions, please contact your contract partner directly for a refund.
What happens in the event of route changes due to weather conditions?
If accommodation cannot be reached due to weather conditions, please contact our service number, which can be found on the travel documents. They will take care of an adjustment of the route.