From the glistening ice caves of Vatnajökull to the thundering Dettifoss Waterfall and the bubbling mud pools of the Askja Caldera, Iceland is a veritable patchwork of dramatic landscapes. This far northern country has Nordic roots, but historians believe Celts from the British Isles were among the first to arrive, back in the 7th century. Today, Icelanders are immensely proud of their island nation, its lively culture and unique tongue. 

Despite being smaller than the US state of Colorado and home to less than half a million people, Iceland has a strong case for the title of world’s most scenic country. Thanks to its location in the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the country is a geothermal hotspot, brimming with volcanoes and geysers. Begin your adventure in the colourful capital Reykjavík and follow the Ring Road around the country, crossing through lush fields with grazing wild horses, to barren, Mars-like terrain in a matter of minutes.