How to Do Ecotourism in Iceland
Dubbed "the land of fire and ice," Iceland is a country with a rich geological landscape and extended cultural heritage. Whether you're interested in hiking through volcano fields, mountains and hot springs or just visiting sites of Icelandic sagas, make sure your tour complies with ecotourism standards in this country of ecological wonders. Read on to learn more.
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Instructions
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Learn about natural and cultural sites in Iceland before planning your trip. Decide if you want to go hiking or trekking in the Fjallabak wilderness or another national park, or if you just want to stay in Reykjavik and enjoy cultural excursions.
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Hike with a tour group or get a comprehensive guide book before embarking on a hike or trek. Popular treks, like the Landmanalaugar to Skogar trek, are often hiked by tour groups as well as individuals. If you're hiking with a guided tour, make sure that the tour conforms to ecotourism standards by following park regulations and staying on the trails. If you're hiking alone, make sure you know the rules and don't leave the trail.
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Know where side trips exist on your hike or trek. There are many hot springs and other attractions off the trails in Iceland, but don't just wander around looking for them. Only visit sanctioned spots.
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Utilize a tour guide for any portion of outdoor tourism for which you don't have extensive expertise yourself. If you are going hiking on Vatnajokull Glacier or another glacier, or doing technical ice climbing, having a guide will keep you safe and make sure that you follow regulations for where to hike and climb.
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Ask tour operators about their environmental policies, especially for popular activities in Iceland like horseback riding, fishing and snowmobiling in which you will impact the natural habitat.
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Stay in smaller, locally-owned hotels and lodges rather than large resorts. Eco-lodges are available in both the rural and urban areas of Iceland. Part of ecotourism is making sure that the money generated by tourism returns directly to the community and can encourage the preservation of resources.
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