should you take kids to Iceland? The Ultimate Guide!

If you’re planning a family vacation and considering Iceland as a destination, you might be wondering, “Should you take kids to Iceland? Is it child friendly?” Known for its breathtaking landscapes, natural wonders, and unique cultural experiences, Iceland offers a myriad of opportunities for both adults and children to explore and enjoy. In this blog post, we will delve into why Iceland is indeed a child-friendly country, highlighting the captivating attractions and activities that make it an ideal choice for an unforgettable family adventure.

Safety First: Is Iceland Safe For Families?

One of the first things to consider when answering the question, “should you take kids to Iceland?” is safety. Fortunately, Iceland boasts an excellent safety record, making it an ideal destination for families. The low crime rate, well-maintained infrastructure, and friendly locals are why Iceland has been considered the safest country in the world to live and vacation.

Is Iceland Easy to get to with kids?

Let’s face it, traveling with children can be daunting for even the most intrepid travelers. Luckily, Iceland is very conveniently located between Europe and North America. In fact, its the dividing point between the two continents!

Because of the large tourism push and all of social media ‘discovering’ Iceland, flights are relatively inexpensive and you’ll have options to pick from. If you are flying from the West Coast of the US, flights range from 7-9 hours. Flying from the East Coast? Flights from NYC clock in just under six hours. For economy seats you can expect to pay $1000 USD round trip from the United States, even less if you are in a major airline hub.

What to do in iceland with kids?

I get it, even if you can get your kids to a safe country easily you have to entertain them for the duration of your vacation! So should you take kids to Iceland or will they be bored? Iceland offers a plethora of family-friendly activities that cater to different interests and ages. I promise no matter what your child’s age or interests you can find something for them to do in Iceland.

Enjoy an Other Worldly Landscape and Natural Beauty

Iceland is renowned for its awe-inspiring natural wonders, providing an excellent opportunity for kids to unleash their curiosity. From cascading waterfalls like Gullfoss and Skógafoss to the painted mountains of Landmannalaugar, children will be captivated by the raw beauty of the Icelandic landscapes. Exploring Iceland will not only spark their imagination but also offer ample opportunities to discuss geology and wildlife.

magical Wildlife Encounters

One of the most exciting aspects of visiting Iceland with kids is the chance to witness extraordinary wildlife. Puffins, seals, whales, and Icelandic horses are just a few examples of the fascinating creatures that call this island nation home. Taking a boat tour to spot whales or observing puffins in their natural habitat will leave your children with memories to treasure for a lifetime. If your children are more interested in four legged creatures, a private horse back-riding tour at Glacier Horses should be considered a bucket-list activity in Iceland.

Exploring Ice Caves

Make sure to embark on an unforgettable adventure inside the mesmerizing ice caves of of Vatnajökull or Langjökull glaciers. With proper safety precautions and expert guides, children can marvel at the glittering ice formations and learn about glacial wonders. Worried this is only for old kids? Don’t worry, we took our one-year-old to an Icelandic ice cave and it was both easy to arrange and magical! You can read more about our experience here or go ahead and book your adventure here!

Learn About Viking History and Icelandic culture

Unveil the rich Viking heritage through interactive exhibits and museums. The Settlement Exhibition in Reykjavík, for instance, offers a hands-on experience where children can learn about Iceland’s historical roots. Even if you can’t budget time in your vacation for the Settlement Exhibition, you can still embrace Icelandic culture. Our family tried traditional foods, like fermented shark, and learned how to say a few phrases in Icelandic.

Upgrade your pool experience: geothermal pools in Iceland

An activity sure to please both adults and children! While you are in Iceland, you don’t want to miss out on one of the favorite Icelandic past-times, soaking in a geothermal pool. The most famous may be the Blue Lagoon but you have tons of options when visiting Iceland with kids!

bLUE LAGOON

Undoubtedly Iceland’s most famous geothermal spa, the Blue Lagoon is a must-visit destination. Located in a lava field on the Reykjanes Peninsula, less than an hour outside of Reykjavík, this geothermal wonder offers milky-blue mineral-rich waters with temperatures averaging between 37-39°C (98-102°F). The Blue Lagoon’s unique setting, surrounded by volcanic landscapes, provides a surreal and relaxing experience for visitors of all ages.

Child ages two and over are welcome at the Blue Lagoon but will be asked to wear flotation devices. Don’t worry, they’ll provide those for you making it an extremely easy stop!

Laugarvatn fontana

Our personal favorite, this geothermal pool along the Golden Circle should not be missed. Even though its on a heavily trafficked tourist route, this spa seems to be mostly overlooked by tourists, meaning you’ll have it mostly to yourself. The facility features a series of interconnected geothermal pools, saunas, and steam rooms. Visitors can enjoy the warm waters of the pools while taking in the picturesque views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

The geothermal pools are at a variety of temperatures and depths. One of the cooler pools is also shallow and has buckets of kids toys out to use, making this truly the most family-friendly pool we went to in Iceland!

Mývatn Nature Baths

Located in the Lake Mývatn area of northern Iceland, the Mývatn Nature Baths offer a serene geothermal spa experience. Set against the backdrop of volcanic craters and geothermal fields, these pools feature mineral-rich waters heated by underground hot springs. The temperature of the pools ranges from 36-40°C (97-104°F), allowing visitors to relax while enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. If you are completing the Ring Road, the Mývatn Nature Baths should be considered a must-do!

Should You take kids to iceland?

The answer is a resounding yes! Iceland combines the stunning beauty of natural wonders, the warmth and safety of its environment, and a plethora of engaging activities tailored for children. From captivating wildlife encounters to educational experiences, Iceland offers a unique blend of adventure and exploration that will undoubtedly leave your family with lifelong memories. So pack your bags, bring your sense of wonder, and embark on an unforgettable Icelandic adventure with your children!

Remember, “should I take kids to Iceland?” is a question that has a clear and confident answer: Absolutely!

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