Iceland Solo: My First-Time Female Travel Adventure in the Land of Fire and Ice

Nervous, Excited, and Headed to Iceland Solo

I remember the moment I booked the flight: a surge of nerves, a tingle of thrill. Iceland had always been on my dream list—volcanoes, glaciers, hot springs, Northern Lights—but planning a solo female trip to Iceland in October? It felt bold. I’d never traveled alone before, much less to a country with unpredictable weather and almost alien landscapes. But something about Iceland called to me—a wild, magnetic promise of adventure wrapped in serenity and safety.

What followed changed me in ways I never expected. If you’re a solo female traveler considering Iceland but feeling nervous about driving, planning, or being alone, this post is for you.

Why Iceland Is the Perfect First-Time Solo Female Destination

Let’s address the biggest question: Is Iceland safe for solo female travelers?
Absolutely. I’ve traveled a fair bit now, and I can say Iceland is one of the safest countries I’ve visited. Crime is virtually nonexistent, locals are respectful and helpful, and there’s a strong infrastructure for tourists.

Even in remote areas, I never felt unsafe. My biggest concerns weren’t people—they were nature-related: sudden wind gusts, icy roads, and limited daylight. But with planning and flexibility, those are manageable.

When to Go: Why I Chose October

I chose October for a few reasons:

• Fewer crowds: Post-summer lull, but still accessible.

• Northern Lights potential: Long nights increase your chance of seeing them.

• Lower costs: Accommodation and car rental prices dip slightly in the shoulder season.

The trade-off? Shorter days and unpredictable weather. But if you plan wisely (and layer up), October can be a magical time for solo female travelers in Iceland.

To Drive or Not to Drive? My Dilemma

Let me be honest: I was terrified to drive alone. Everyone online raved about doing the Ring Road—Iceland’s iconic loop around the country—but the idea of driving in a foreign country, with unpredictable weather and minimal services outside Reykjavik, scared me.

So I made a decision:

🔹 No solo driving.
🔹 Base in Reykjavik.
🔹 Explore via day tours and public transport.

Was it limiting? A little. Was it worth it? 100%. I still saw waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, and geothermal spas—and I didn’t once feel lost or overwhelmed on the road.

Where I Stayed as a Solo Female Traveler

Reykjavik: Hotel Odinsve

Centrally located, super walkable, and very safe even after dark. I loved strolling down the narrow cobbled streets toward Hallgrimskirkja, where most tour pickups happen.

 Vík: Puffin Hotel

For my two-night trip to the South Coast, I stayed in Vík. It’s a cozy town near Reynisfjara’s black sand beach and ideal for exploring Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss.

Höfn: Hotel Höfn

When I did a 3-day tour to the glacier lagoon, this was a highlight. Clean, quiet, and perfectly placed to catch sunrise by the icy shores.

Solo Travel Itinerary Ideas Without Driving

If you’re like me and not up for solo driving, here’s a realistic, well-paced itinerary:

 Days 1–3: Reykjavik & Golden Circle

• Settle into Reykjavik

• Day 2: Golden Circle Tour (Þingvellir, Gullfoss, Geysir)

• Soak in Secret Lagoon or Laugarvatn Fontana

Days 4–6: South Coast & Glacier Hike

• Join a small group 2–3 day tour.

• Explore Skógafoss, Reynisfjara, and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

• Optional glacier hike on Vatnajökull

Days 7–9: Snaefellsnes Peninsula

• Take a day tour to the west coast: Kirkjufell, black churches, dramatic cliffs.

• Less touristy, ideal for photography and solo reflection

 Days 10–12: Hot Springs, Spa & Culture

• Reykjavik city tour

• Spend a full afternoon at Sky Lagoon.

• Visit Laugardalslaug, the public geothermal pool locals love

• Optional Northern Lights hunt if weather permits

Days 13–14: Akureyri (Optional)

• Fly or bus to Akureyri.

• Whale watching, charming small-town life

• Stay at a guesthouse and relax

Top Experiences You Can Do Without Driving

• Hike Fagradalsfjall Volcano (dormant but incredible views)

• Soak in the Sky Lagoon – modern, peaceful, oceanfront.

• Explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula on a day trip.

• Wander Hallgrimskirkja Church and catch the sunset from the tower.

• Laugardalslaug geothermal pool – an authentic Icelandic experience

Tours I Recommend (Especially for Solo Female Travelers)

I used and recommend the following companies:

• Arctic Adventures: Multi-day South Coast & glacier tours

• Reykjavik Excursions: Great for Golden Circle and airport transfers

• Troll Expeditions: Small group glacier hikes

• NiceTravel: Budget-friendly yet professional guides

Tip: Always look for small-group tours. They’re faster, more personal, and you make genuine connections.

Camper Van Solo Travel: Is It for You?

If you’re feeling adventurous, solo camper van travel is doable. I met other women who did it and loved the flexibility. Companies like GoCampers even offer solo-friendly vehicles with heating and simple facilities.

Here’s what I learned:

• Campsites allow non-overnight access to showers/restrooms for a small fee (100–500 ISK).

• Driving the Ring Road isn’t hard, but you must be weather-aware.

• Wind is no joke—low-profile cars are often safer than tall camper vans.

If you can split costs or find a buddy (check out r/TravelPartners or the Travel Ladies app), camper van travel becomes much more affordable and fun.

Safety Tips for Solo Female Travel in Iceland

✅ Download the SafeTravel.Is app for weather alerts
✅ Always check the road.is before heading out
✅ Dress in layers and bring waterproof everything
✅ Avoid remote hot springs late at night or alone
✅ Respect nature – never stray off marked paths
✅ Carry snacks – distances between stops can be long

Common Questions from First-Time Solo Travelers

Can I do Iceland without driving?

Yes! It limits your flexibility, but your options are vast. I saw glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls all without renting a car.

Is Reykjavik a good base?

Absolutely for your first half. You’ll want to get out eventually, but it’s ideal for day trips and settling in.

What if I want to meet people?

Hostels, small-group tours, and public pools are the best spots to connect with locals and other travelers. Also, try the Travel Ladies app or check Facebook travel groups.

Budget Tips for Two Weeks in Iceland

Even solo, Iceland doesn’t have to break the bank:

 Pro Tip: Use grocery stores like Bonus and cook at hostel kitchens when possible.

Why I’ll Return—and Why You Should Go

Looking back, this trip did more than show me stunning landscapes and geothermal marvels. It showed me myself. My strength. My ability to navigate unknowns. Iceland nurtured me with its warmth—of the hot springs, of strangers, of still moments under dancing green skies.

If you’re a first-time solo female traveler, Iceland might be the kindest, safest, most rewarding place to begin. And whether you drive, join a group, or just wander Reykjavik with a camera and warm coffee, the memories you make here will stay with you.

I’ll be back. Maybe next time, I’ll drive.

Share Your Journey!

If you’ve solo traveled in Iceland or are planning to, I’d love to hear from you. Drop your thoughts below or tag me on Instagram @tunetravels. And if you have questions, I’m always happy to share more tips or my Google Maps pins!