Iceland your dream destination

Iceland is a Nordic island country between the North Atlantic and the Arctic Ocean. It has a population of 383,726 and an area of 103,000 km2 (40,000 sq mi), making it the most sparsely populated country in Europe. The capital and largest city is Reykjavík. Reykjavík and the surrounding areas in the southwest of the country are home to over two-thirds of the population. Iceland is volcanically and geologically active. The interior consists of a plateau characterised by sand and lava fields, mountains and glaciers, while many glacial rivers flow to the sea through the lowlands. Iceland is a land of extreme geological contrasts. It’s home to some of Europe’s largest glaciers and most active volcanoes. The landscape features geysers, hot springs, waterfalls, lava fields, and black sand beaches. Due to its location on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, Iceland has abundant geothermal energy, which is used to generate electricity and heat homes. Geothermal power plants and hot springs are common sights throughout the country. Iceland is warmed by the Gulf Stream and has a temperate climate, despite a high latitude just outside the Arctic Circle. Because of its high latitude, Iceland experiences long summer days with the midnight sun, where the sun doesn’t fully set for weeks. In winter, there are opportunities to see the spectacular Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). Iceland is known for its exceptionally clean air and water. The country has strict environmental protection laws and sustainable practices to preserve its natural resources. Unlike many other countries, Iceland has very few forests, with only about 1.5% of its land covered in trees. This is due to deforestation over centuries of human habitation and the harsh Arctic climate. Iceland offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, glacier climbing, whale watching, and ice cave exploration. Its rugged terrain and stunning landscapes attract outdoor enthusiasts from around the world.  Despite its small population, Iceland has a vibrant arts scene, with many musicians, artists, and writers gaining international recognition. The country hosts numerous music festivals, art exhibitions, and literary events throughout the year. The Icelandic language has changed very little since the Viking Age, making it one of the oldest still-spoken languages in the world. Icelandic literature, including the Sagas, is highly regarded globally.Iceland is known for its strong commitment to gender equality. It was the first country in the world to democratically elect a female president, and it consistently ranks high on global gender equality indices.