It’s hardly breaking news that solo travel is one of the biggest trends we’ve seen lately, and its popularity is predicted to continue in 2026. Research and stats abound proclaiming the popularity of traveling on one’s own particularly for women travellers.
Likewise, Iceland’s position as a sought-after destination — particularly in light of another big trend: coolcations — has been similarly trumpeted.
Something that might not have occurred, however, is Iceland’s standing as an ideal place to send clients who are considering their first solo trip. TravelPulse Canada visited Iceland to attend the Mid-Atlantic Trade Conference with Icelandair, which provided a mix of being with a group and planning our own activities. Although I have travelled solo before I can see how Iceland would be a great place to go if a person was venturing out on their own for the first time. When I go back, I’d have no problem being on my own.
You wouldn’t know how easy it is to travel around Iceland from looking at the rugged landscapes. (Photo Credit: Jen Mallia/TravelPulse Canada)
Here are some of the top reasons people find Iceland a perfect place to begin their solo travels.
1) It’s very safe: Some people feel anxious about travelling by themselves for fear of becoming a victim of crime. It’s not unfounded. Even non-violent crimes, like pick-pocketing, can lead to massive problems while travelling. It’s true, crime happens everywhere, and depending on where you live, your clients may be more likely to experience a crime at home than while abroad. Still, knowing the place they are visiting is generally very safe can be reassuring, especially to a person who is used to travelling with companions. According to the Global Peace Index, which ranks safety and security, Iceland is the safest, most peaceful country, and has been for the last 15 years.
Skólavörðustígur, Reykjavik’s Rainbow Street is a symbol of inclusivity. (Photo Credit: Jen Mallia/TravelPulse Canada)
2) Easy to get around: I very strongly feel that if someone is travelling in a non-English speaking country, you should at least try to speak a few words of the language — even if the language is one that looks as intimidating as Icelandic. Luckily, you won’t have to struggle too much, as English is widely spoken and many tourist signs have English on them.
The people I encountered in Iceland were incredibly helpful and friendly, from opening after closing time so we could purchase a one-of-a-kind souvenir at the Punk Museum, to the woman at the tourist office calling a friend to help us arrange a ride into the country to see the Northern Lights. Not every country makes it as easy to travel.
3) Only as solo as you want to be: Travelling alone can be, well, lonely. Even the intensely introverted like to share an experience with a friendly face once in a while. Icelandair offers vacation packages or day tours and excursions to help solo tourists maximize their time in the country without having to go it alone. (The excursions are also open to those visiting with others, they aren’t exclusively for lone travellers.)
The underground heat from the geysers keeps the snow away at this stop on the Golden Circle. (Photo Credit: Jen Mallia/TravelPulse Canada)
You really shouldn’t leave the country without witnessing classic Icelandic nature in all its rugged beauty along the Golden Circle. Roads are mainly in good condition and rental cars are available to book for those who prefer a self-driving vacation. The option to join a group and have someone else do the driving can be very convenient, though, especially during a winter visit when the snow starts blowing and the roads can be icy.
4) Year round welcome: Peak season in Iceland is in the summer. The days are long and the weather is lovely, which is attractive to lots of visitors. The downside is that many popular sites will be filled with tourists. Canadians should not be put off by the winter though, it isn’t any worse than it is here (well, unless you live in Victoria). For Northern Lights viewing or caving in the ice, a winter trip is the best bet. Soaking in the Sky Lagoon while snowflakes fall is a magical experience that you will dream about even after you come home, trust me.
Perlan Natural History Centre in Reykjavik (Photo Credit: Jen Mallia/TravelPulse Canada)
5)You won’t be bored: When I am travelling alone, I like to fill my days with lots of things to do to stop the loneliness from creeping in. Iceland has enough variety that you will likely be able to find something to match your interests. The bonus of solo travel is you don’t need to balance your interests with anyone else’s.
So if you want to focus on art and architecture (like the striking Hallgrímskirkja, the landmark church in Reykjavik or Perlan, the gorgeous natural science museum) or go for a hike over the rugged terrain, or take a tour of the many hot springs, or go a little edgy at the Punk Museum, the delightfully quirky Icelandic Phallological Museum (yes, it’s what you think it is) or take in a Lava Show, you can go right ahead. In fact, I encourage it!
Icelandair flies from Vancouver, Toronto and Halifax directly to its hub in Reykjavik. You can also fly Air Canada from Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver, and WestJet from Calgary. Starting in June 2026, WestJet will offer seasonal flights to Reykjavik from Edmonton and Winnipeg.
Topics From This Article to Explore