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Experience Iceland's Black Sand Beaches and Plane Wreck Adventure

Iceland is a land of contrasts, famous for its rugged landscapes, volcanic terrain, and mysterious black sand beaches. Among the countless natural wonders waiting to be explored, two iconic spots stand out: Reynisfjara Beach and the hauntingly beautiful Sólheimasandur plane wreck. Both locations offer a glimpse into Iceland’s dramatic beauty and are perfect for adventurers and photographers alike. With Zero Car Rental’s seamless booking, full insurance with no excess, and convenient keybox pickup, your Icelandic adventure can be stress-free, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in these stunning landscapes.Exploring Reynisfjara Beach, Solheimasandur Plane Wreck, and Travel TipsReynisfjara Beach: Iceland's Iconic Black Sand ParadiseLocated just a short drive from the village of Vík on the South Coast, Reynisfjara is one of Iceland’s most breathtaking beaches. Famous for its jet-black sand, towering basalt columns, and powerful waves, Reynisfjara is both awe-inspiring and dramatic.The beach is home to the striking Reynisdrangar sea stacks, legendary basalt formations that rise majestically from the ocean. According to Icelandic folklore, these towering stacks were once trolls who were turned into stone by the rising sun.While exploring Reynisfjara, don’t miss Hálsanefshellir Cave, a natural cave beautifully framed by columnar basalt formations—a perfect spot for capturing unique photographs.To learn more about this powerful and dangerous beach, check out our full guide to Reynisfjara Beach.Travel Tip: Plan your visit during sunrise or sunset for the most spectacular views and fewer crowds. Always check tide charts and maintain a safe distance from the ocean.Solheimasandur Plane Wreck: A Hauntingly Beautiful AdventureA short drive west of Reynisfjara Beach lies another iconic site: the abandoned US Navy Douglas DC-3 airplane wreck at Solheimasandur. The plane crashed in November 1973, and remarkably, everyone onboard survived. Today, the remains of the plane have become an iconic landmark and a photographer’s dream, especially against the stark black sands and moody Icelandic skies.Accessing the plane wreck involves a scenic hike of approximately 3.5 kilometers (about 7 km round trip). The path is relatively flat and easy to follow, but remember that it is fully exposed, making weather conditions an important consideration.Travel Tip: Visit during early morning or late evening for softer light, fewer visitors, and a more atmospheric experience. Dress warmly, even in summer, and be prepared for sudden weather changes.To combine this with more iconic spots, check out our South Coast rental car road trip guide.Best Spots to Capture Stunning Photos at Iceland’s Black Sand BeachesIceland’s black sand beaches are a paradise for photographers. Here are some must-capture spots:Reynisdrangar Sea StacksFrame the dramatic Reynisdrangar from Reynisfjara Beach. Try using long-exposure techniques to capture the waves softly breaking against the rugged coastline.Basalt Columns at Hálsanefshellir CaveThe geometric basalt columns make striking compositions, offering contrasting textures and patterns. Capture them up close, or use a wide-angle lens for stunning panoramic shots.Vík Village and Black Sand BeachesFor a panoramic perspective, head up to the hilltop church above Vík village. From this vantage point, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the coastline stretching into the distance.Solheimasandur Plane WreckExperiment with different angles at the plane wreck. The stark white plane against the black sands provides dramatic contrast. Try shots from inside the wreck or aerial drone photography for unique perspectives.Pro Tip: Always carry protective gear for your equipment, as sand and moisture can easily damage camera gear. A sturdy tripod and neutral-density (ND) filters are highly recommended for stunning long-exposure shots.Safety Guide: What to Know When Visiting Iceland’s Rugged BeachesWhile Iceland’s beaches are beautiful, they can also be dangerous due to unpredictable waves and strong currents. Follow these essential safety tips for a safe and enjoyable experience:Keep Your Distance from the OceanSneaker waves—unexpectedly large and powerful waves—are common on Reynisfjara. Always maintain a safe distance, and never turn your back on the sea.Check Weather and TidesBefore visiting any coastal locations, check the weather forecast and tide times. Conditions in Iceland can change rapidly, especially along the coastline.Dress AppropriatelyWear layers and waterproof clothing. Even in summer, Icelandic beaches can be chilly, wet, and windy.Follow Marked PathsStick to marked trails and avoid climbing basalt columns or cliffs, as they can be slippery or unstable.Inform Someone of Your PlansWhen venturing to remote locations like the Solheimasandur plane wreck, always let someone know your itinerary and expected return time.For even more hiking and outdoor safety tips, visit our ultimate guide to outdoor activities in Iceland.Why Choose Zero Car Rental for Your Icelandic AdventureZero Car Rental understands the unique needs of adventure seekers. Our car rentals offer the flexibility and freedom to explore Iceland’s hidden gems at your own pace, hassle-free:✅ Full Insurance – Zero Excess: Travel confidently with comprehensive coverage included in every rental.✅ Convenient Airport Keybox Pickup: Skip waiting times and head straight to your adventure upon arrival.✅ 24/7 Roadside Assistance Included: Feel secure knowing help is always available, no matter where your Iceland adventure takes you.✅ Transparent Pricing: Enjoy peace of mind with no hidden fees or unexpected costs.For even more travel inspiration, don’t miss our roundup of 5 must-visit places in Iceland by rental car.Final ThoughtsExploring Iceland’s iconic black sand beaches and the mysterious Solheimasandur plane wreck offers an unforgettable blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty. Whether you're photographing the dramatic basalt columns at Reynisfjara or capturing moody shots of the plane wreck, Zero Car Rental ensures your trip is smooth, secure, and memorable.If you’re planning to explore nearby attractions like Dyrhólaey or looking for more adventure along the South Coast, check out our tips on how to rent a car to see Dyrhólaey.Embrace Iceland’s stark beauty and dramatic contrasts by hitting the road with confidence. Book your car with Zero Car Rental today, and experience the best Iceland has to offer, stress-free.

Hiking Iceland: Trails and tips for an unforgettable adventure

Iceland’s raw beauty is unmatched—and one of the best ways to experience it up close is on foot. From volcanic valleys and glacier vistas to mossy lava fields and windswept coastlines, Iceland is a paradise for hikers of all experience levels. Whether you're tackling a multi-day trek or a short scenic trail, hiking in Iceland connects you with the island’s dramatic nature in a way few other experiences can.But to make the most of your hiking adventure, flexibility and freedom are key. With Zero Car Rental, you get just that—airport keybox pickup, full insurance with no excess, and 24/7 roadside assistance included. So you can drive to Iceland’s best trailheads stress-free, focus on the adventure, and capture unforgettable moments along the way.Here’s our guide to some of the best hikes in Iceland, plus practical tips to help you plan an unforgettable trip on foot and behind the wheel.1. Glymur Waterfall – A hidden gem close to Reykjavik📍 Distance: 6.5 km round trip📷 Why go: Iceland’s second-highest waterfall, less crowded than more famous sitesLocated just an hour from Reykjavik, Glymur is a fantastic introduction to Icelandic hiking. The trail winds through a cave, across a river (with a log crossing in summer), and up to sweeping views of the 198-meter-high waterfall. It’s a moderate hike, great for half-day adventurers and photographers seeking a less-touristed gem.Pro tip: Wear waterproof boots—the river crossing can be tricky after rain.2. Reykjadalur Valley – Hike to a hot spring river📍 Distance: 6 km round trip📷 Why go: Steam-filled valleys, geothermal pools, and a relaxing dip at the endReykjadalur (Steam Valley) is one of the most unique hikes in Iceland. The trail climbs gently through colorful hills before opening to a valley dotted with steaming vents. At the end, you can soak in a warm river—a natural hot spring perfect for resting sore legs.Pro tip: Pack a swimsuit and towel in your daypack and go early to avoid crowds.3. Fimmvörðuháls – From waterfalls to volcanic craters📍 Distance: 25 km one-way📷 Why go: Crosses between two glaciers, passes recent volcanic eruptions, endless waterfallsFor seasoned hikers, the Fimmvörðuháls trail is an iconic challenge. Stretching between Skógafoss and Þórsmörk, this epic route passes over 20 waterfalls, a lava field from the 2010 eruption, and spectacular glacier views. It’s typically done in one long day or split over two with an overnight hut stay in Þórsmörk.Pro tip: Arrange transport or car pickup in advance—Zero Car Rental makes it easy to reach both trailheads. 4. Landmannalaugar – Iceland’s hiking crown jewel📍 Distance: Varies (from 4 km loops to multi-day treks)📷 Why go: Rainbow-colored rhyolite mountains, lava fields, natural hot springsThe highlands of Landmannalaugar offer some of the most surreal scenery in the country. Choose from shorter loops like Laugahraun or longer trails leading into the Laugavegur trek. The contrast of colorful mountains, black lava, and steam rising from the ground makes for striking photos.Pro tip: Accessible only in summer with a 4WD vehicle—Zero’s fully insured rentals with roadside assistance have you covered.5. Laugavegur Trail – The ultimate Iceland trek📍 Distance: 55 km (Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk)📷 Why go: Iceland’s most famous multi-day trail through geothermal valleys, glaciers, and riversNamed one of the world’s best hikes by National Geographic, the Laugavegur trail is an unforgettable journey. Typically hiked over 3–4 days, it winds through some of Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes. Stay in mountain huts or bring a tent for the full backcountry experience.Pro tip: Plan transportation carefully—Zero Car Rental gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace and reach remote trailheads.6. Hornstrandir Nature Reserve – True wilderness in the Westfjords📍 Distance: Varies (multi-day treks only)📷 Why go: Remote cliffs, Arctic fox sightings, untouched landscapesFor experienced hikers seeking solitude, Hornstrandir is as wild as it gets. Accessible only by boat from Ísafjörður in summer, this region has no roads, no facilities, and no cell service—just raw Icelandic wilderness. Multi-day treks here offer cliffside views, sea bird colonies, and the best chance to spot Arctic foxes.Pro tip: Rent a car with Zero to drive to Ísafjörður before taking the ferry. It’s a long drive, but worth every kilometer.7. Ásbyrgi Canyon – A peaceful walk in North Iceland📍 Distance: 4–8 km depending on route📷 Why go: Horseshoe-shaped canyon, birch forests, quiet and scenicPart of Vatnajökull National Park, Ásbyrgi is a tranquil oasis with lush vegetation and interesting geology. It’s a great place for a relaxed day hike with incredible views and is often overlooked by international tourists. The serene landscape offers a perfect contrast to Iceland’s more rugged routes.Pro tip: Combine this with a visit to nearby Dettifoss for a day of varied photo ops.General hiking tips for IcelandCheck the weather: Iceland’s conditions can change quickly. Always consult vedur.is before setting out.Dress in layers: Waterproof and windproof gear is essential—even in summer.Respect the trails: Stick to marked paths to preserve delicate nature.Know your limits: Don’t underestimate distances or elevation gains. Icelandic hikes often feel longer due to terrain.Stay safe: Download the SafeTravel app, and always let someone know your plans.Why Zero Car Rental is perfect for hikersWhen you’re chasing trailheads across Iceland, you need a car that’s reliable, flexible, and stress-free. That’s where Zero Car Rental comes in:✅ Full insurance included – no excess, no worries✅ Airport pickup via keybox – skip the counter and hit the road✅ 24/7 roadside assistance – even on gravel or Highland roads✅ Transparent pricing – no hidden fees or unexpected charges✅ 4WD vehicles available – ideal for Highland trails like LandmannalaugarWhether you're hiking through steam-filled valleys or remote volcanic plateaus, we make sure your journey to and from Iceland’s trails is as seamless as the views are unforgettable.Final thoughtsHiking in Iceland isn’t just an activity—it’s a way of connecting with the island’s soul. Every trail reveals a new facet of nature, whether it’s the thundering echo of a waterfall, the soft rustle of birch trees in a canyon, or the crunch of black sand beneath your boots. With a rental car from Zero, you’ll have the freedom to explore them all at your own pace, knowing you’re fully covered and ready for whatever Iceland throws your way.So pack your hiking boots, charge your camera, and hit the trail. Iceland is waiting—with wild beauty at every turn.

Rent a Car in Iceland in June – All You Need to Know

Magical Iceland is more magical in June, when the Midnight Sun lights up the sky, summer vibes take over, and nature puts on a spectacular show. With nearly 24 hours of daylight, this is the season of non-stop road trips, wildlife encounters, and scenic drives you’ll never forget.At Zero Car Rental, June is one of our favorite months to hit the road. With fully inclusive car rentals, 24/7 roadside assistance, and a seamless pickup experience right at KEF Airport, there’s nothing stopping you from exploring Iceland your way.Let’s dive into everything you need to know about visiting Iceland in June—from weather tips to road trip ideas and what to pack. And we have 5 top reasons here for why you should come in summer.What’s the weather like in Iceland in June?June kicks off Iceland’s summer season, bringing mild temperatures, long days, and a welcome break from winter winds and snow. That said, Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable, so you’ll still want to dress smart and prepare for anything—sunshine, drizzle, or gusty wind.Expect average high temperatures between 48°F and 59°F (9°C to 15°C), with inland areas typically a bit warmer than the coast. Nights can get cooler, dropping to 41°F to 50°F (5°C to 10°C). On lucky days, temperatures may even hit 68°F (20°C).Rain showers do happen, but they’re usually brief and scattered. June is one of the drier months, especially in Reykjavik, which sees about 1.6 to 2 inches (40–50 mm) of rain spread across 10 to 15 days.Summer winds are generally more gentle than the strong winter gales, but if you’re driving in exposed or coastal areas, it’s still wise to be cautious.How long is the daylight in June?If you're visiting in June, you're in for a treat—daylight lasts up to 21 hours or more, depending on when in the month you arrive. Around the Summer Solstice (June 21st), Iceland experiences the phenomenon known as the Midnight Sun. The sun barely dips below the horizon, creating a glowing twilight that lasts all night.In early June, you can expect roughly 21 hours of daylight, with sunrise around 3:20 AM and sunset around 11:40 PM. Mid-June brings the brightest skies of the year, with near-constant daylight. Although the sun officially sets, it only dips slightly below the horizon, so the sky never goes completely dark. By late June, daylight is still strong, with the sun rising at around 3:30 AM and setting close to 11:30 PM.These long hours make it possible to extend your days of exploration, whether you're taking photos in the golden hour at 2 AM or soaking in a hot spring under a bright twilight sky.What to do in Iceland in JuneWith almost every region of Iceland accessible and weather conditions on your side, June is one of the best times to explore the country by car.June is road trip heaven. With the Highland roads open by this time of year, you can drive to remote geothermal areas, volcanic deserts, and hidden oases. If you're short on time, the classic Golden Circle offers waterfalls, geysers, and national parks within a few hours of Reykjavik. If you have a full week or more, the Ring Road opens the door to coastal fjords, glacier lagoons, and vast lava fields.Zero Car Rental makes the journey even easier. Every booking includes full insurance with zero excess, so you can drive with peace of mind. There’s no deposit required, and you can skip the rental counter with our airport keybox pickup. Plus, all rentals come with 24/7 roadside assistance, included at no extra cost.June is also the best time for wildlife watching. Whale activity peaks during summer, and you're likely to see humpbacks, minkes, or even orcas in the bays around North Iceland or from Reykjavik’s harbor. If birdwatching is more your style, puffins are nesting on sea cliffs throughout the country. Popular spots include Dyrhólaey on the South Coast or Látrabjarg in the Westfjords.Thanks to mild weather and long days, Iceland’s landscapes are wide open for adventure. You can hike volcanic craters, waterfalls, and colorful rhyolite mountains. You can snorkel or scuba dive in glacial water between tectonic plates at Silfra. You can ride horses across lava fields or find a natural hot spring all to yourself in the Highlands. With so much daylight, you can fit multiple activities into each day—or night.What to pack for Iceland in JuneEven in summer, Icelandic weather can shift quickly, so you’ll want to pack for variety. Waterproof outer layers are essential—both jacket and pants—along with a warm mid-layer such as a fleece or wool sweater. Bring base layers to help regulate your temperature, and sturdy shoes or lightweight hiking boots for uneven terrain.Don’t forget a hat, gloves, and sunglasses. While it might seem odd to bring winter accessories in June, it can still feel chilly, especially in the wind or during early mornings. A swimsuit and quick-dry towel are useful for hot spring visits, and a sleep mask will help block out the bright nights if you’re a light sleeper.For more details, stay tuned for our summer packing guide coming soon to the Zero blog. We have all the tips on how to make your Iceland experience not only a good one, but an epic one!Make June your month to explore IcelandWhether it’s your first visit or your fifth, June is a magical time to explore Iceland—with long days, lush landscapes, and nearly every corner of the country ready for adventure.At Zero Car Rental, we make getting on the road seamless. You can book online in just a few minutes. Upon arrival, your keys will be waiting for you in our secure airport keybox—no lines, no paperwork, no stress. Every rental includes full insurance with zero excess, no deposit, and 24/7 support included as standard.Start planning your Icelandic summer road trip now. With Zero, it’s as easy as land, grab, drive.Visit our booking page to reserve your all-inclusive rental, or check out our FAQs if you have any questions before your trip.

Discovering Iceland's Golden Circle with Zero Car

Iceland's Golden Circle is one of the most popular road trip routes in the world. This 300-kilometer loop from Reykjavik takes you through some of the country's most stunning landscapes, geothermal wonders, and historical sites. While the sights are spectacular, navigating Iceland’s roads can be daunting, especially for first-time visitors. That’s where Zero Car Rental comes in. Offering full insurance with no surprises, zero excess with no deposit required, 24/7 roadside assistance across Iceland, and the fastest pickup/drop-off process in the country, Zero ensures that your Golden Circle adventure is as smooth as the roads you'll travel on. You can see variations on the Golden Circle too on this post: Journey to the Golden circle in IcelandMust-see sights: Gullfoss, Thingvellir National Park, Kerid Crater, and local insightsThingvellir National ParkYour first stop on the Golden Circle is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historic and geological wonder is where Iceland’s first parliament was founded in 930 AD. The park sits on the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, creating a dramatic rift valley that you can walk through. Take your time exploring the Silfra fissure, where the crystal-clear waters offer one of the best diving and snorkelling experiences in the world.Google Maps: Thingvellir National ParkGeysir Geothermal AreaNext, head to the Geysir Geothermal Area, where you can witness the powerful Strokkur geyser erupt every 5–10 minutes. The entire area is an otherworldly landscape of steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and mineral-rich hot springs. Nearby, you’ll find restaurants and visitor centers where you can grab a meal and learn more about Iceland’s geothermal activity. Hot Springs in Iceland are a must and great if you have a car rental!Google Maps: Geysir Geothermal AreaGullfoss WaterfallA short drive from Geysir leads to Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most amazing waterfalls. Here, the Hvítá River plunges 32 meters into a rugged canyon, creating a thunderous cascade that looks spectacular in any season. In summer, the waterfall sparkles under the midnight sun, while winter transforms it into a frozen wonderland.Google Maps: Gullfoss WaterfallKerid CraterOne of the most photogenic spots on the Golden Circle, Kerid Crater is a striking volcanic caldera filled with turquoise water. Unlike other stops, Kerid has a small entrance fee, but it’s well worth it to walk around the crater’s rim or descend to the lake inside.Google Maps: Kerid CraterGolden Circle day trip itinerary and insider tipsIdeal Itinerary8:00 AM – Depart Reykjavik 9:30 AM – Thingvellir National Park Walk between the tectonic plates and explore the historic parliament site.11:00 AM – Geysir Geothermal Area Watch Strokkur erupt and enjoy a coffee break at the visitor center.12:00 PM – Lunch at Friðheimar A unique greenhouse restaurant specializing in tomato-based dishes.1:30 PM – Gullfoss Waterfall Experience the power of Iceland’s most famous cascade.3:00 PM – Kerid Crater Hike around the colorful volcanic crater.4:00 PM – Secret Lagoon or Fontana Spa Relax in a natural hot spring before heading back.6:00 PM – Return to ReykjavikInsider TipsIt is never a bad idea to rent a 4x4 if visiting in winter. Icy roads can be challenging, and a 4WD vehicle from Zero Car Rental ensures an extra layer of safety.Check the weather forecast. Iceland’s conditions change rapidly, so stay informed via road.is for updates or use safetravel.is Book attractions in advance. Popular stops like the Secret Lagoon and Friðheimar can get busy, so plan ahead - The latter is specially true in summer!You can make it your own! Near Gullfoss, you can do snowmobiling tours, go diving in Siflra or add a horse riding tour.Lesser-known spots along Iceland’s famous Golden CircleThe following are fun and alternative spots you can check out if you are in the area. Please bear in mind that if you add all of the following ones, you will need significantly more time for your overall itinerary. We have added Google Map links to make it easier for you.Bruarfoss WaterfallOften overlooked, Bruarfoss is known as the "Blue Waterfall" due to its brilliant turquoise hue. A short hike off the main route rewards you with this hidden gem.Google Maps: Bruarfoss WaterfallFaxi WaterfallLocated just south of Geysir, Faxi is a peaceful, wide waterfall with fewer tourists. A great spot for a picnic or a quick photo stop.Google Maps: Faxi WaterfallEfstidalur FarmA working dairy farm that serves some of the best homemade ice cream in Iceland. Stop by for a treat and meet the friendly cows.Google Maps: Efstidalur FarmSolheimar Eco-VillageA sustainable community promoting organic farming and local arts. A great place to shop for handmade souvenirs and support local artisans.Google Maps: Solheimar Eco-VillageHjalparfossA stunning dual waterfall located slightly off the main route. Perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful setting.Google Maps: HjalparfossTravel Iceland with Zero WorriesWith Zero Car Rental, exploring the Golden Circle is easy and stress-free. Our commitment to full insurance coverage with no surprises, zero excess with no deposit, 24/7 roadside assistance across all of Iceland, and the fastest pickup and drop-off process means you can focus on the adventure, not the logistics. Whether you’re visiting in summer under the midnight sun or chasing the Northern Lights in winter, Zero ensures that you travel with confidence. Book your rental today and experience Iceland without the hassle.