Useful Sites and Apps Before Your Visit to Iceland
Updates:
Iceland’s stunning landscapes and unpredictable weather make preparation key for any traveler. To make the most of your trip, here’s a list of essential websites and apps that will help you stay informed, plan effectively, and ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to the Land of Fire and Ice.
Iceland’s weather can change rapidly, with sudden storms or clear skies appearing out of nowhere. Vedur.is provides reliable weather forecasts, including temperature, wind, and precipitation maps. If you're chasing the Northern Lights, this site has an Aurora Forecast that indicates expected activity levels and the best times to spot them.
Seeing the Northern Lights is a bucket-list experience for many visitors to Iceland. This site provides up-to-date predictions on the likelihood of Northern Lights activity, along with cloud cover maps so you can find the best spots for viewing. Checking this forecast can save you from waiting in cloudy or stormy weather.
Winter and autumn weather can make driving in Iceland tricky. Road.is offers real-time updates on road conditions, closures, and hazards. The site also includes webcams across the country, allowing you to see conditions firsthand. This is an essential resource for those planning to drive the Ring Road or explore Iceland’s rugged interior.
4. Safetravel - Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue
Safetravel is a crucial site for up-to-date safety information on travel conditions in Iceland. It offers travel warnings about storms, volcanic activity, avalanches, and more. You can even submit your travel plans to Safetravel and receive notifications about any potential risks. They also have a handy app that ensures safety guidance is always at your fingertips.
5. Photopills - Photography Planning App
App: Photopills (available on App Store and Google Play)
For photographers, Iceland is a dream destination. Photopills is a powerful tool that helps you plan your shots by showing the position of the sun, moon, and stars at any time and location. It’s particularly useful for planning sunrise and sunset photos, capturing the Northern Lights, or finding the ideal time for night photography.
6. Instagram - @campsire for Inspiration and Photo Gallery
If you're looking for inspiration or just want to admire the stunning beauty of Iceland, follow @campsire on Instagram. This account showcases incredible photos from travelers and photographers who have explored Iceland’s landscapes, from majestic waterfalls to volcanic vistas. It’s a great way to discover hidden gems and get ideas for your own itinerary.
