Congratulations! YOU DECIDED TO ELOPE IN ICELAND — one of the most beautiful and truly unique places on our Planet Earth! The country has stunning views all around and you’ll never get tired of that. There’s basically everything from volcanoes to glaciers! Be prepared for something breathtaking! These wonders of nature have created ideal conditions for your elopement in Iceland.
We have been working as elopement photographer and videographer in Iceland for many years and have fulfilled a dream of many couples about the perfect wedding photo shoot and we know almost everything about the most spectacular places in Iceland. If you’re planning elopement in Iceland, keep reading to get the most detailed information!
WHERE IS ICELAND LOCATED?
If you look at the map you’ll find Iceland in the middle of the Atlantic ocean, just between Greenland and Europe. Also what makes it even more unique — there is active geological border between North America and Europe. You can swim there between two continents in Thingvellir national park or walk on the bridge between continents! Can you imagine that? Iceland’s untamed and volcanic landscape is one of the features that make it so unique. On the island, there are stunning mountains, black beaches, geysers, and hot springs. Just keep in mind that it’s an island in the center of the Atlantic Ocean and be ready for wind! So if you’re looking for a unique and beautiful destination, you can’t go wrong with your elopement in Iceland!
HOW TO GET TO ICELAND?
- The easiest way is to fly to Iceland: The main international airport in Iceland is Keflavik Airport, which is located about just 40 minutes from Reykjavik. There are direct flights to Keflavik from many major cities around the world, including London, Paris, New York, Washington, San Francisco and Toronto and many more! You can expect to spend around 5-6 hours flying from the USA and around 4 hours if you come from Europe.
- By sea: It’s also possible to take a ferry to Iceland from Denmark or the Faroe Islands. The ferry ride takes about 36 hours from Denmark and about 24 hours from the Faroe Islands.
- You can also take your car to the ferry and travel by it!
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME OF THE YEAR TO ELOPE IN ICELAND?
It depends on what type of experience you are looking for! But we’ll try to help you and describe below what you can expect in Iceland in different times of year:
Summer time: Summer in Iceland is generally a pleasant time of the year, with warm weather and long daylight hours. However, it’s important to note that the weather in Iceland can be unpredictable and can change quickly, so it’s a good idea to be prepared for anything! (Bring layers!)
During the summer months, the average temperature in Iceland ranges from around 50°F (10°C) — 60°F (16°C). The weather can be quite variable, with some days being warm and sunny and others being cool and cloudy.
It’s a good idea to bring layers, as the weather can change quickly!
May-July: Honestly it’s our favorite time of the year! As the island is located on the Arctic circle this time of year you’ll have luck to witness midnight sun and you can even have a midnight sun ceremony in Iceland! Sun sets down around midnight and rises again only 3 hours later. In between it never gets dark!
You can find some interesting Iceland elopement ideas on our website and book a photo shoot for this time of the year. Keep in mind, it’s the busiest season in Iceland, so we recommend you don’t wait too long with booking vendors which you like!
Driving through many fields of lupine flowers as they look at this time of year adds to the wonder of the journey. Imagine having a photoshoot in lupines field!
The greatest time of the year to observe birds in Iceland is during these months. You’ll have a chance to see many birds on the island because it’s their nesting season. Even for the cute puffins!
From the end of June the main f-roads open again so if you’re planning to visit highlands of Iceland and hike there, that’s your time to rent a jeep and hit the road! Check this elopement at Kerlinagfjoll mountains!
July-August: Daylight hours are still long enough, around 14 hours, so you’ll have enough time to travel and enjoy it fully. Most f-roads are open this time of year, so if you rented the right type of the car, you’re free to go to highlands. Be sure to check road conditions before!
September-October: As nights finally get dark again, you can have luck to see Northern lights from the beginning of September!
Average temperature these months can be 40°F (4°C) — 50°F (10°C), some days can be sunny and warm and some can be colder. So for any time of the year we have the same advice for you — bring layers!
Most of the f- roads are open until mid of September (check the condition of the roads here before going to highlands) and road conditions along main roads are still good to travel.
Winter time:
Winter comes to Iceland in November and lands till the end of March.
Traveling in Iceland during the winter can be a unique and beautiful experience, with the opportunity to see the Northern Lights and witness the country’s natural beauty in a different way. This time of year many waterfalls get frozen and Iceland is covered by snow. Imagine getting married in front of a frozen waterfall! Isn’t it just magical? However, it’s important to be prepared for the colder weather and shorter days.
During the winter months, the average temperature in Iceland ranges from around 32°F (0°C) in December to around 25°F (-4°C) in February. The weather can be quite variable, with some days being mild and sunny and others being cold and snowy. It’s a good idea to bring warm layers, as well as waterproof and windproof gear.
Beginning in the middle of November, the day starts to get started; by December, there will only be 4-5 hours of daylight. However, during this time of year, Iceland will have the most beautiful light! As there are only really sunrise and sunset over these four hours, the light is golden.
The day will start to lengthen again towards the middle of January, giving you additional time to travel with a team of experienced Iceland wedding photographers.
Nights are long this time of the year and you can have more chances to see Northern light, which is the main attraction for everyone this time of year! Be sure to get away from city lights to enjoy it fully!
Overall, getting married in Iceland during the winter can be a unique and beautiful experience. It’s essential to be prepared for the colder weather and shorter days, and to bring appropriate clothing and gear.
Important: We advise everyone to be flexible during winter vacation and always check the weather and road conditions before driving! At this time of the year, the weather may shift suddenly and severely, and snowstorms can hit the country. That means it’s time to stay home with hot chocolate and Netflix.
WHAT YOU CAN PLAN FOR YOUR ICELAND ELOPEMENT?
So the answer is easy — you’re creator of your day! AND IT CAN THE DAY FROM YOUR WILDEST DREAMS!
Close your eyes for a moment and try to envision your perfect elopement. What are you dreaming about? Be honest to yourself!
This is YOUR day! Dream big about it!
Unique activities you can do during your elopement day in Iceland:
- Explore different waterfalls and feel their power
- Go hiking somewhere off-beaten! In Iceland there are many hiking options of different levels.
- Book superjeep tour to the highlands of Iceland. There are very popular monster jeeps on high wheels for river crossing — they’re the best for adventure!
- Explore the ice caves and glaciers. Yes you can even have a ceremony inside a glacier in Iceland!
- Kayaking between glaciers at Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon
- Visit a horse farm to make friends with cute Icelandic horses and even do a horse riding tour!
- Have a picnic with one from the stunning views
- Get soaked in natural hot spring
- Go for northern lights hunting (between September and March)
- Enjoy local food
Why to elope in Iceland?
The landscapes and nature of Iceland are diverse and breathtaking. From its rugged mountains and glaciers to its geysers and waterfalls, there is something so unique for every adventures lover to enjoy and plan their perfect elopement in Iceland. And it for sure will be absolutely incredible once a life time day!
WHERE TO ELOPE IN ICELAND: BEST ICELAND ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS
Reynisfjara black sand beach
Reynisfjara black sand beach is a breathtaking location for an elopement ceremony in Iceland. The beach is located on the south coast of Iceland near the village Vík í Mýrdal. The basalt columns along with the black sand give Reynisfjara a rugged, otherworldly feel that is sure to take your breath away! The beach is bordered by a vast expanse of rolling moss-covered lava fields, which provide a stunning backdrop for your ceremony. As you exchange vows at black sand beach, the sound of the crashing waves and the call of seabirds will provide a natural soundtrack to your special moment. The beach is close to some amenities and easy to access by road, as one of the most popular spots in Iceland so keep that in mind when planning your wedding ceremony at black sand beach in Iceland. The beach may be busy during peak tourist season. However, with a little planning, Reynisfjara black sand beach is an incredibly romantic and unforgettable location for an elopement ceremony!
Skogafoss waterfall
Skogafoss waterfall is a breathtaking location for a wedding photoshoot in Iceland. The waterfall is located on the south coast of Iceland, near the small village of Skógar.
The powerful and majestic Skógafoss waterfall will provide the perfect natural backdrop. The waterfall stands at a height of over 60 meters (200 feet) and is 25 meters (82 feet) wide, making it one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland. The water tumbles over the edge and crashes onto the rocks below, creating a spectacular show of mist and rainbows on sunny days.
Seljalandsfoss waterfall
Seljalandsfoss waterfall is a breathtaking natural wonder located in southern Iceland that offers a stunning backdrop for a photoshoot. The waterfall stands at a height of approximately 200 feet and cascades down a cliff face that is surrounded by lush greenery. One of the unique features of Seljalandsfoss is that visitors can walk behind the waterfall, providing a truly unique perspective for photographs.
The waterfall is easily accessible and located right off the main road, providing a convenient location for photographers to set up their equipment. The area around the waterfall also offers a variety of other scenic spots, such as nearby Gljúfrabúi waterfall and the Seljalands River, which can also be included in the photoshoot to create a diverse set of images.
To envision how the ceremony looks at Seljalandsfoss waterfall check this elopement story!
Kvernufoss waterfall
Kvernufoss waterfall is a hidden gem located in the south of Iceland that offers a picturesque spot for a photoshoot. The waterfall cascades down a rocky cliff into a tranquil pool, surrounded by a lush mossy landscape. One of the unique features of Kvernufoss is its relatively close proximity to the famous Seljalandsfoss waterfall. They can be visited together during the trip.
There’s a short and easy hike to do to get to Kvernufoss, so it’s a must for a visit!
Location a bit off the main road makes it the perfect destination for your ceremony at Kvernufoss!
Jökulsárlón glaciers lagoon
Jökulsárlón glaciers lagoon is a stunning natural wonder located in southern Iceland that offers a unique and picturesque location for a photoshoot. The lagoon is formed by the melting of the Vatnajökull glacier and is filled with huge chunks of ice that have broken off the glacier, giving the appearance of a serene and otherworldly landscape.
Having your wedding photos at Jökulsárlón means you’ll have the majestic glacier in the background, to the floating chunks of ice in the lagoon, to the black sand beach where the ice chunks can be captured in contrast to the black sand and the ocean behind.
The nearby Diamond Beach offers a great spot for photography, it is a black sand beach where the chunks of ice that break off from the glacier and wash up on the shore, creating a unique contrast of ice and volcanic sand.
Reykjanes peninsula
Reykjanes peninsula is a unique and diverse location for a photoshoot, known for its volcanic landscapes, black lava beaches, and rugged coastal cliffs. It offers a wide range of opportunities for photographers to capture the raw beauty of Iceland’s natural landscapes and create truly unique and stunning images. From the geothermal activity to the historic lighthouses, Reykjanes peninsula offers endless possibilities for the photographers all year round.
We had the good fortune to witness the Fagradalsfjall volcano eruption on the Reykjanes peninsula a year ago!
Budir black church
Budir black church is a unique and picturesque location for a wedding photoshoot. The church is located on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula in western Iceland, and it is one of the most photographed churches in the country. The church is known for its striking black exterior and its beautiful location in the middle of a lush green field.
The church is black because it is inspired of basalt, a volcanic rock that is common in Iceland. This distinctive characteristic creates a stark contrast to the surrounding greenery.
Check this wedding at Budir black church to imagine what your day can look like!
Godafoss waterfall
Godafoss also known as the “Waterfall of the Gods”, is a beautiful and dramatic location for a wedding photoshoot. The waterfall is located in northern Iceland, and it features a wide, horseshoe-shaped cascade that tumbles over a rocky cliff into a tranquil pool below. The waterfall is fed by the Skjálfandafljót River and it’s one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland.
Its powerful and majestic beauty is a perfect backdrop for capturing elopement in Iceland. The mist produced by the cascading water can give a dreamy and ethereal impression, making the waterfall a perfect backdrop for dramatic and romantic photographs.
If you are ready for your biggest adventure, contact us, and we’ll help you to make it happen.
How to avoid crowds during your wedding in Iceland?
Going to prime locations ensures that just like celebrities you’ll be the center of everyones attention all the time! It could seem fun but we think privacy is important for such an important and Big day in your lives.
Here are tips how to avoid crowds of tourists on your Iceland elopement day:
- Go somewhere hidden like the secret waterfall or secret canyon in Iceland!
Once you hike away from crowds just for 15-20 min, you’ll have the place all to yourself. - Choose not popular places!
Go somewhere off beaten! Iceland is an incredible country and there is so much to see except of famous locations! - Hire a local tour guide and go on a highlands tour!
Highlands in Iceland have many unique views which you won’t see anywhere else! - You can also hire a helicopter ride and get somewhere surreal really fast!
- If you still want to go to a popular place, do it early in the morning right before the sunrise. You’ll need to start your day early, but it’s totally worth it!
We taking care of the location scouting and vendor connections for you,
so you could save the time and energy to focus on the most important things — enjoying your special day and creating memories that will last a lifetime!
So that’s why we’ll be happy to share with you our experience on free consultation call.
It’s a part of our services as wedding and elopement photographer and videographer in Iceland, we want to ensure that every aspect of your special day is perfect! That involves exploring the area to find the most picturesque and meaningful spots for your Big day. Whether you’re looking for a secluded beach, a waterfall or a stunning mountain view, we’ll work with you to find the perfect location that captures the essence of your wedding in Iceland.
We also have a network of talented and professional vendors with whom we have personally worked in the past and have a lot of confidence in. This way we can guarantee that every aspect of your day will run smoothly and you will have the peace of mind knowing you are in the best hands.
Lauren& Brian:
Absolutely amazing experience working with Nataly and Maksim!!! They were so much fun during our special day and did everything to make us comfortable!! The quality of their work and down to earth personalities were exactly what my now husband and I were looking for! Thank you so much for giving us these incredible memories to cherish for the rest of our lives!!! Forever will suggest these two!
Do you planning to elope in Iceland?
Do you want to discuss it all more? Book a free consultation call!
And we’ll be happy to capture your adventures in Iceland!
Planning resources
Questions and answers about Iceland
Top tips for planning destination wedding in Iceland
Dolomites elopement guide: How to elope in Dolomites [2024 update]
Legal ceremony in Iceland: Everything you need to know
Best places to elope in Europe: Why you should elope in Iceland
Questions and answers about Faroe islands
Faroe islands elopement guide: How to elope in the Faroe islands [2024 update]
Where to elope in Italy
Definitely recommend this photographer!
Nataly took care of all my worries before we went to Iceland. She got back to me really fast, even though we were in different time zones.
Our small wedding in Iceland would not have happened without her help and support. Nataly and Max are super professional, cute, and easy to get along with. They made our special day even better and one we’ll always remember.
We’re so grateful they were there to capture our happiest moments. Love the photos and video so much!!! ♥♥♥