I will admit that I wasn’t really that into the idea of Iceland at first. It’s cold. I don’t like cold! But both my sister and my aunty came back raving about it, and I saw some fantastic photography on travel blogs, so I decided to give it a go. Here’s to Iceland solo female travel!
The perfect sponsored opportunity came up for me at ODDSSON ho(s)tel, who agreed to put me up for 2 weeks in return for blogging and social media promotion. I jumped at the chance, and it’s official – I am an ICELAND convert! Why? Iceland is perfect for solo female travellers.
7 Reasons for Iceland Solo Female Travel
#1 The People
The first thing to note about Iceland is that everyone speaks amazing English and all the Icelandic people go out of their way to help you. There is such a laid back vibe that really rubs off on you. When I arrived, Kirsten at ODDSSON ho(s)tel said ‘Just have fun, girls!’ Needless to say that I was sold immediately!
Icelandics have a very liberal attitude and Iceland is one of the most equal societies in the world. They are proud of their past female viking ancestors and current politicians.
#2 Ease of Navigation
The city of Reykjavik is so small that it is navigable even without a map. There are buses, boats and coaches for excursions, all signposted and explained in English. There are at least 3 Tourist information centres that I have walked past in the city centre, and if I feel lost, I just pop in or ask a helpful local.
If you are taking an Iceland road trip you will be pleased to know that it’s a straightforward drive around the coast. Just take route 1 in a loop around Reykjavik, which will take around one to two weeks to enjoy the journey (much longer in the winter!). Check out this Ultimate 7 Day Ring Road Itinerary in Iceland from Stephanie (Unknown Enthusiast).
WIFI is everywhere in cafes and restaurants, and you can use your UK or international Credit Card everywhere to pay or draw money out.
There are two main tour companies that are easy to book and great for solo travel – Gray Line Iceland and Reykjavik Excursions.
#3 Food
Icelandic food is amazing – we’re talking quite Western food with fantastic lamb and fish. You can get a variety too, if you need to. There are Vietnamese, Thai and Curry Houses if you need a chance from traditional Icelandic food. I loved the fresh salmon.
Just be aware that some restaurants may serve Whale meat and Puffin (now an endangered species), so look for the Whale Friendly Restaurant signs to support wildlife.
#4 Health
Because of it’s colder climate, there are not too many health risks, because it’s too cold for mosquitos, parasites and some bacteria to survive. Because of the quality of food, you are unlikely to get sickness and Diarrhea.
I suffer from asthma, and was concerned that this would be affected by the cold. In actual fact, my asthma has been better in Iceland, because the air is so fresh and clean.
Icelandic water is probably the purest in the world. Bring a water bottle and fill up from the taps and springs. Also, take advantage of the geothermal hot tubs and pools.
Just be aware that the weather can be harsh and change very quickly, register you whereabouts with 112 when hiking, and always go with an experienced hiker or a guide. The worst risk to your health in Iceland is probably that you would get lost walking and get hypothermia!
#5 Safety
Iceland has amongst the lowest crime rates in the world. The Icelandics are very safety conscious – the coach drivers ensure that you are wearing your seatbelt and go over safety precautions with you. It is extremely safe to walk alone as a woman and you don’t get the hassle that you can often get in many parts of Africa and Asia.
Women are highly regarded in Iceland and seen as a valuable part of society. Men might be a little forward, and one night stands seem to be popular in Iceland, but the men don’t touch you without consent as a general rule.
#6 Wildlife
If you love Wildlife, you will have an amazing time in Iceland. Base yourself in Reykjavik and take trips to see Wales, Dolphins, Puffins and many other species. Did you know that there are more than 23 species of Whale in the Icelandic waters, and Whale Watching Iceland Tours are extremely popular with solo travellers.
If you are a woman who would love to travel solo for the first time, I really recommend that you choose Iceland solo female travel. You might also like to read about Visiting Iceland in the Winter and Iceland 9 Day Ring Road Itinerary.
#7 Scenery
The Icelandic scenery that I have experienced in my option has been some of the best in the world. From Thingvellir National Park to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Iceland will not disappoint. What’s truly amazing is how the scenery changes along the coast in the spring from lush green scenery with waterfalls to lava fields and then frosty glacial landscapes Just WOW!
*This article is sponsored by ODDSSON ho(s)tel (who gave me complimentary accommodation in Iceland), Reykjavik Excursions who gave me complimentary trips to the Golden Circle, Northern Lights and Blue Lagoon, and Gray Line Travel who gave me a complimentary Game of Thrones Trip and discounted trip to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.
What to Pack for Iceland
Iceland can get cold in winter, and so you definitely want to be thinking about investing in a thermal base layer and thermal socks. A good wind and waterproof mountain jacket and walking boots are essential purchases for Iceland in the winter.
Also remember to pack your hat, scarf and gloves. Regarding specialist equipment such as crampons and diving gear for Silfra, most tour operators supply these included in the price of your tour or for an extra supplement.
