5 Most Photogenic Places in Iceland That Look Like Another Planet
A photographer’s guide to Iceland’s most surreal landscapes.
Iceland is one of those rare places where reality actually looks better than in movies. I’ve been there seven times (you can see more of my pictures here) and it remains my number one destination for landscape photography.
Waterfalls and hot springs often get the most attention — but beyond the obvious, there are places that feel almost extraterrestrial.
Here are five locations in Iceland that look like another planet — and photograph exactly that way.
Þórsmörk Mountain Ridge
Þórsmörk in South Iceland is a surreal mix of deep green valleys, volcanic terrain, and glacial rivers. It feels raw and alive, constantly shifting with the weather. Despite being in the south, it still feels remote. Access requires a 4x4 and river crossings, which keeps it relatively untouched.
Þórsmörk is no question one of the most cinematic landscapes in Iceland.
Where to stay nearby:
There are no large hotels in Þórsmörk itself, which is part of its magic. Básar Hut & Campsite is one of the main options in the valley — simple, remote, and fully immersed in nature. This is all about experience — waking up surrounded by one of Iceland’s most unreal landscapes.
Landmannalaugar Valley
Landmannalaugar looks almost unreal, as if the mountains were painted. The rhyolite hills shift in color depending on the light, creating endless variations of orange, pink, green, and yellow. Located in the Highlands, it’s only accessible in summer and requires a proper 4x4, which makes the experience even more special.
One of the most visually unique places in Iceland.
Where to stay nearby:
There are no hotels in Landmannalaugar itself — camping is the main option. That’s part of the experience: being completely surrounded by landscape, with nothing else around.
Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Area
Kerlingarfjöll feels like another planet — steaming vents, rust-colored hills, and raw textures everywhere. It is still less visited than other Icelandic locations, which makes it even more special. You can walk through landscapes that feel completely untouched.
One of Iceland’s most extraordinary geothermal areas.
Where to stay nearby:
Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll is a remote, design-led lodge located directly in the Highlands — minimal, immersive, and perfectly integrated into the landscape.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Floating icebergs drift slowly through a calm lagoon, constantly changing and never the same twice. Jökulsárlón has become one of Iceland’s most iconic locations, and while it can get busy, the scale and atmosphere still make it worth it every time. Just across the road, Diamond Beach adds another surreal layer, with ice scattered across black sand.
Where to stay nearby:
Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon is a modern, high-end hotel with glacier views, while Hotel Jökulsárlón offers clean, contemporary design with tremendous views just minutes from the lagoon. Both are ideal if you want to shoot early morning or late evening light.
Stuðlagil Basalt Canyon
Stuðlagil is one of Iceland’s most striking basalt formations — geometric, clean, almost architectural. Interestingly, this place only became widely known in recent years after the river changed color due to a nearby hydroelectric project. Before that, it remained hidden beneath glacial water. Now, with its turquoise tones and perfect columns, it has become one of the most photogenic locations in the east.
A place where nature feels almost designed.
Where to stay nearby:
The closest base is Egilsstaðir, a quiet town in the east of Iceland. Gistihúsið – Lake Hotel Egilsstadir is one of the most refined options in the area — calm, minimal, and beautifully located by the lake. The east remains less developed in terms of tourism, which makes the experience feel more personal and untouched.
Final thoughts
Some of these places are becoming more popular and can feel crowded during peak summer, especially Jökulsárlón. Others, particularly in the Highlands, are harder to reach and still allow you to experience Iceland almost entirely on your own.
No matter where you go, Iceland is one of those destinations that feels worth every investment. It’s not just a trip — it’s a place that stays with you, visually and emotionally.
If you’re planning a trip to Iceland or looking to explore it through photography, I’m available for collaborations, commissions, and photography-focused trips. Contact me here.
