Best Photography Locations in Iceland: My Top Picks with Tips.
Iceland and New Zealand are the two places I credit for sparking my love of landscape photography. Coming from Australia, Iceland isn’t exactly easy to get to — both in terms of travel time and the hit to your wallet from flights and the exchange rate. But trust me, it’s worth it. I’ve been to Iceland five times in five years (yes, even during COVID). That’s how much I love this country.
The recommendations below come from my personal experience and are written from a photographer’s perspective. Sure, I could name 20+ locations you should visit — but instead, I’ve picked the places that truly stood out to me and felt special to shoot.
This post isn’t about logistics (there are already plenty of great websites for that). It’s more about inspiration and a starting point when planning where to shoot. Good luck on your trip to Iceland — and good luck with the light!
A Few Things First…
Weather: It changes constantly, and it’s rarely warm. Be prepared with layers — and then bring more layers.
Light: Managing expectations is key. It’s taken me multiple visits to get great shots with the right light.
Access: Most places are surprisingly easy to reach. When I first researched locations, they looked like the middle of nowhere. But with a bit of planning, you’ll realise you don’t need expensive guided tours.
Costs: Iceland is expensive, but it doesn’t have to be ridiculous. I often stay in Airbnbs where I can cook, and eat on the road (hello ham and cheese sandwiches and instant noodles). I call this “battle conditions” travel.
Language & Currency: English is widely spoken, and cards are accepted everywhere. I’ve only needed cash once.
Seasons in Iceland
Winter: Best for northern lights, ice, softer light, and snow — though access is mostly limited to the Ring Road. But the golden and blue hours last for ages.
Spring: The only season I haven’t visited. I’ve heard it’s great for wildflowers, but access to the highlands is still limited. It’s probably my least preferred season, which is why I haven’t gone.
Autumn: Beautiful autumn colours, chance of aurora, and access to the highlands.
Summer: Midnight sun and long shooting days. Ironically, I’ve had the worst weather in summer — lots of rain and cold.
My personal favourites? Winter for Ring Road and aurora, Autumn for the highlands. These seasons also tend to be (slightly) less crowded, although Iceland is busy year-round now.
Gear I Use in Iceland
2x Camera Bodies: I always bring a backup body. Iceland is a long way from home, and it’s not easy (or cheap) to replace gear — especially outside of Reykjavík.
Lenses: I use a range from 14mm–400mm, though I’ve also managed with 14–200mm. A telephoto is handy, but you don’t need anything beyond 200mm unless it’s your preference.
Filters: I’ve mostly moved away from using filters — they’re clunky and time-consuming. That said, I still carry a few: ND filters for waterfalls, a polariser for reflections and haze.
Camera Bag: Make sure it fits your gear, food, and spare clothing — conditions can change fast.
Drone: I’ve used drones on and off — they’re amazing in Iceland. If you’ve got one, you’ll absolutely use it. Stay tuned for a future blog post where I share images from above (drone and Cessna!).
Locations
Reynisfjara Beach (Vík)
This black sand beach is wildly photogenic — even without great light. But when the light hits, it’s next-level. Famously windy, it’s perfect for wave action crashing into the sea stacks. Explore different angles near the cave and cliffs.
⚠️ Be extremely careful of sleeper waves — they’re unpredictable and dangerous. I’ve seen someone nearly pulled out to sea.
🗺️ Google Maps – Reynisfjara Beach
📍 Near Vík, about 2.5 hours from Reykjavík via Route 1
Vestrahorn
A photographer’s dream. Endless compositions at sunrise, sunset, or under the aurora. I shoot this spot at least twice per trip — it’s just that good.
🗺️ Google Maps – Vestrahorn
📍 Near Höfn in southeast Iceland. Entry fee required via the Viking Café toll road.
Aldeyjarfoss Waterfall
A remote, rewarding location — I’ve had this all to myself on multiple occasions. The basalt formations and power of the falls are just breathtaking. Best at sunrise.
🗺️ Google Maps – Aldeyjarfoss
📍 Off Route F26, north-central Iceland. 4WD required. 45–60 min hike from parking.
Dettifoss Waterfall
Powerful and moody. I recommend the east side (via Route 864) for better angles and fewer crowds. Closed in winter due to snow.
🗺️ Google Maps – Dettifoss (East Side)
📍 Northeast Iceland, near Mývatn. No facilities nearby — bring supplies.
Landmannalaugar (Highlands)
A surreal landscape — pastel rhyolite mountains, steam vents, and lava fields. No viewpoints, so you’re forced to create your own compositions. Telephoto lenses shine here.
🗺️ Google Maps – Landmannalaugar
📍 Highlands, accessible via F208. 4WD and summer-only access. Closest accommodation: Hrauneyjar Highland Centre.
Kirkjufell Mountain
The most iconic mountain in Iceland. While cliché for some, there’s still beauty here — especially in snow or northern lights. Explore the nearby waterfalls for different angles.
🗺️ Google Maps – Kirkjufell
📍 Near Grundarfjörður on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. ~2.5 hours from Reykjavík.
Eystrahorn
Vestrahorn’s underrated sibling. Exposed to the elements and often quieter. Incredible abstract and foreground opportunities.
🗺️ Google Maps – Eystrahorn / Hvalnes
📍 30–40 minutes east of Vestrahorn on Route 1. Look for Hvalnes lighthouse turnoff.
Sigöldugljúfur Canyon
Known as the “Canyon of Tears.” A special place with limited compositions — but still stunning. Be prepared for some off-road driving.
🗺️ Google Maps – Sigöldugljúfur
📍 Highlands area near F208. Summer access only with 4WD.
Honourable Mentions
As mentioned before Iceland is in abundance of photographic locations and I have only touched the surface of place to see and photograph, some the honourable mentions above are a few adiditional if the ones I mention still leave you wanting more inspiration. Freel free to reach out on my instagram if you have any questions, want prints or even your own private guide to Iceland!