Iceland

Overview

Some things that New Zealanders travelling or living in Iceland should be aware of are:

• Weather and natural hazards – volcanic activity and severe weather can affect local infrastructure create dangerous conditions for outdoor activities.
• Crime – petty crimes such as pickpocketing may occur.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Iceland should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air. 

See below for detailed travel advice.   

Consular assistance for New Zealanders

New Zealand has no diplomatic presence in Iceland, so the Government’s ability to provide consular assistance to New Zealanders is limited. The New Zealand Embassy in Stockholm is accredited to Iceland.

Weather and natural hazards 

Volcanic activity

Volcanic activity, including eruptions, have occurred on the Reykjanes Peninsula in Southwest Iceland. Eruptions could happen at any time, with little warning. Volcanic and geologically active areas can be dangerous and conditions unpredictable for hikers and trekkers. Hazards can be hidden, and aren’t always clearly marked. Avoid travel to areas near eruption sites due to a risk of falling rocks and volcanic gas clouds. Check and follow guidance from local authorities in areas where there has been volcanic activity. 

Severe weather 

Take care when engaging in outdoor activities in Iceland, including mountaineering, trekking, skiing, glacier climbing, and walking on black sand beaches. Weather conditions can quickly become severe, and isolation, rough terrain, volcanic activity and limited hospital and search and rescue capabilities over much of the island can lead to safety concerns if you are not adequately prepared. 

Wind, rain, and cold are challenges at all times of year and tourists often underestimate the risk of exposure. Wind and waterproof outer clothing, hats and gloves and warm layers are essential.

There is a website maintained by Icelandic authorities where you can find further information for tourists about good practices and hazards, found at Safetravel.is.

You can also read our advice about Arctic travel.

Crime 

Iceland has a low crime rate. However, there is a risk of petty crimes such as theft from vehicles and pickpocketing. This is most likely to occur at nighttime and around bars, particularly in Reykjavik. 

Watch your belongings in public areas, particularly at night, and keep your vehicle and accommodation locked.

Local laws and customs 

Drugs and alcohol

Penalties for drug offences, even the possession of small amounts of recreational drugs, can include heavy fines, imprisonment, being removed from the Schengen Area, and a potential entry ban. 

Health

You should get comprehensive travel insurance before travelling to Iceland. 

The standard of health facilities and care in Iceland is high. However, services are limited in rural or remote areas of the country.

Arctic cruises

One of the common ways to travel to Iceland is by cruise ship. If there is an incident on the ship, it can take several days for help to arrive. It’s important to do your research about cruise ship operators to make sure they’re prepared if things go wrong.

Try to find out:

• What experience and credentials the cruise ship operator has
• What medical equipment is on board the ship
• If cruise ship staff have sufficient health expertise.
• We have also prepared advice about taking a cruise. Read our advice on the cruise page.