22 Photos That Prove Iceland Should Be at the Top of Your Travel Bucket List

Iceland really is the home for Nordic Nirvana. A contrasting natural environment filled with flowing volcanoes and enormous glaciers, it's no surprise why this rather under-populated island has been topping bucket-lists for quite some time. The contrasting natural environment is only matched by an equally dissimilar cultural history. A violent Viking past has evolved into a welcoming society, filled with beautiful art and progressive thinking. Visit Iceland to truly see what all your traveling friends have been raving about.

Travel around Iceland by car and be amazed by one of the world's most scenic road-trips. Right alongside the highway, you'll find stunning snow-capped mountains, glowing geothermal pools and friendly Icelandic horses. The most popular road-trip is called the "Ring-Road," which passes through a few of Iceland's major towns.

Snow-capped mountains grow right out of the sea offering incredible vistas. Kirkjufell is the most photographed mountain on the island and for good reason: a picture-perfect backdrop. You can find this perfectly cone-shaped mountain along the north coast.

Icebergs wash ashore glowing in contrast to the black sand beaches. Visit "Diamond Beach" on the east side of the island to see these shining ice-blocks. If you're lucky, you'll also see orcas and seals in the water.

Volcanic rivers cut through the countryside and look more like abstract paintings than a natural phenomenon. The rivers flow through ash and glacier ice to achieve the stunning colors. They are best seen from above but can be experienced from foot as well.

Friendly Icelandic horses can be found almost everyone amidst the rugged terrain. They are eager to approach visitors so don't be nervous if they get a little close. You can find many along the highway or go riding with a scheduled tour.

Regardless of the season, you can find colorful buildings, good food and warm people in the capital city of Reykjavik. The Viking heritage is easy to see, but don't be alarmed as the people are very friendly. Tourism to the island is growing and convenient flights are easy to find.

The scenic waterfalls in Iceland are countless. They can be seen all over the country, ranging in size and splendor. Most are popular among photographers, so you'll have to visit in the early hours or venture off the beaten path to find one to yourself.

Iceland is one of the world's best destination's to experience the amazing Northern Lights! The best time to see the magical Aurora Borealis is on a still winter night between September and April. Simply, travel outside the capital city to find some darkness and then look up.

You can walk between two continents. In Thingvellir National Park you can find the dividing fault line of the American tectonic plate and the Eurasian tectonic plate. Iceland is the only place on earth where this rift is above sea-level, and nowhere can you see the edges of both plates as clearly as in Thingvellir.

Iceland is known as the land of fire and ice because of contrasting volcanoes and glaciers. A trip to the island isn't complete without seeing both. Tour an ice-cave or hike along a glacier with a guide for a memorable experience.

Amidst all the powerful fire and ice on the island, you can still find amazingly peaceful vistas. Relax by a stunning riverside and simply enjoy the natural beauty.

Gullfoss, also known as the Golden Waterfall, is truly a sight to behold. Only 2 hours of Reykjavik, Gullfoss is the most visited waterfall in Iceland. You can take the "Golden Circle" tour to see it, or simply rent a car and make the short drive yourself.

Apart from the natural beauty, you can find beautiful historical buildings in Iceland. This red-roofed church in Vik is extremely scenic, has panoramic views and you can even get married in it.

The people of Iceland thrive in a constant-balance with the forces of nature. They cherish the environment, as well as protect it, and it has had a great part in shaping Icelandic heritage.

There is plenty to do in the wintertime and it'll be less crowded. Whether or not they are frozen in ice, the powerful waterfalls still flow during the winter. The partially frozen waters provide a contrast not seen in the summertime.

Disconnecting is calming. Being one of the most marooned countries, Iceland offers travelers an opportunity to disconnect, which isn't found most places. Go camping, take a road trip and get out of the city for a little bit during a trip to Iceland.

Even for those who hate the cold, Iceland is a winter wonderland. The volcanic rivers, so colorful in the summertime, are equally as awe-inspiring in the winter frost. They show how Iceland's contrasting seasons offer differing and equally beautiful vistas.

Iceland is home to skyrocketing geysers, relaxing geothermal pools and boiling sulfur pools. Venture along the "Golden Circle" to see exploding geysers, or drive a short distance from Reykjavik to relax at the popular "Blue Lagoon."

Iceland isn't just a nature-lovers destination. It has a thriving art and music scene, especially in the colorful city of Reykjavik. The city has impressive modern architecture, tons of music bars and periodic festivals for the arts.

It's no mystery as to why popular Hollywood projects often film on the harsh island terrain. Iconic scenes from HBO's "Game of Thrones" and movies like "Interstellar" were filmed in Iceland.

Visit the harsh volcanic interior of Iceland to see some of nature's most extreme environments. Unlike the mossy southwest, the barren center is home to black volcanic rock that contrasts with white snow. Make sure you dress accordingly as the weather can be quite cold.

Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world to visit. The small progressive country is very welcoming and people are always viewed with equality and kindness. Visit Iceland for a truly unforgettable vacation!