The only place in the world without mosquitoes—who understands this kind of happiness?
Who gets it, family! After 10 days in Iceland, with arms and legs bare, not a single bite! As someone constantly chased and bitten by mosquitoes, I experienced the freedom of “wearing shorts in summer without spraying insect repellent” for the first time. This joy, I just want to weld it onto Iceland!
🦟 Why are there no mosquitoes in Iceland? This move is just too clever!
Don’t think it’s because Icelanders are great at mosquito control; it’s actually nature’s gift—
- The average annual temperature is 6°C. Mosquito larvae can only survive in water, but Iceland’s water is either frozen or flows so fast it’s like a “mosquito treadmill,” making it impossible to lay eggs!
- Winters can reach -20°C, freezing mosquito eggs into “ice sculptures,” leaving no chance for hibernation (Mosquitoes: I’m not taking this shift!).
Honestly, in Iceland, you can’t even find a reason to scratch an itch. This “mosquito-free freedom” is something you have to experience to know how wonderful it is!
📍 Must-visit list: The right way to have fun in a mosquito-free zone
1. Blue Lagoon: Soak in the hot spring while applying a face mask, mosquitoes: I’m not worthy
Iceland’s iconic spot! The hot spring water is milky blue and naturally contains silica mud for face masks. Soaking with a mask on, wrapped in warm spring water, looking up at snow-capped mountains, and down to see your toes (because no mosquitoes are bothering you!).
⚠️ Tip: Book tickets online in advance! Buying on-site is not only expensive but may involve endless waiting. Remember to bring a swimsuit and avoid white (it will stain “Smurf blue”).
2. Golden Circle: Check off Iceland’s “big three” in one day
- Þingvellir National Park: The rift between the Eurasian and American tectonic plates. Standing on the “scar of the Earth,” you feel like you can do a split across two continents (Mosquitoes: I can’t cross that crack).
- Geysir: A “natural fountain” that erupts every 10 minutes. Don’t stand downwind! Otherwise, you’ll get drenched like a “soaked chicken” (worse than mosquito bites, but totally worth it).
- Gullfoss Waterfall: Rainbows hanging over the falls look like the sky spilled its paint palette. Wear a waterproof jacket or your hair will get “washed” by the mist during photos.
3. Black Sand Beach: Walk on the “moon surface” chasing waves
The sand is shiny black volcanic rock, and the waves crashing look like a sci-fi movie scene. If you’re lucky, you might see seals lazily sunbathing (they’re not afraid of mosquitoes either, since there are none here). Don’t walk barefoot! The sand is a bit rough, so wear sandals to jump around freely.
4. Northern Lights: Chase the green glow on mosquito-free nights
Aurora season is from September to April. Lying under the northern lights feels like being covered by a blanket of the Milky Way. Dress warmly! It’s below freezing, cold enough to stomp your feet, but no buzzing mosquitoes, and even your breathing is quiet (except for your nose sniffles from the cold).
🚗 Transportation: Driving in Iceland is more thrilling than getting a license
- Self-driving is recommended! Iceland’s roads are like “roller coaster tracks,” climbing mountains and crossing fjords. The scenery is so beautiful you’ll want to stop and dance in the square (but don’t stop randomly, or you might get “photobombed” by sheep).
- Rent a 4WD! Especially if you’re heading north, some roads are bumpy, and a 2WD will feel like a “shaky ride.” A 4WD lets you enjoy the “Iceland disco” experience.
- Avoid night driving! Iceland’s roads have no streetlights and are as dark as falling into an ink bottle, unless you want to “snuggle” with the northern lights (but safety first!).
🍔 Food: What to eat in Iceland? Don’t ask, just go for the “heavy hitters”
- Icelandic lamb soup: One sip warms your heart. The lamb is tender like cotton. A bowl in winter is better than wearing three down jackets (Mosquitoes: If I were here, I’d drink a whole pot!).
- Fish and chips: Icelandic fish is freshly caught, fried crispy outside and tender inside. Eat it with ketchup and you could have three plates in a row (don’t ask about calories, when traveling you have to indulge!).
- Whale meat: Dare to try? It tastes like beef but a bit dry. When eating, silently say “I’m not Aquaman,” or you’ll feel guilty and can’t sleep (try with caution!).
🧥 Clothing: In Iceland, it’s not embarrassing to dress like a bear
Don’t believe the myth that “Iceland summers aren’t cold”! Even in July, the wind can blow you like a kite. Dressing formula: windbreaker + sweater + thermal pants + waterproof shoes. Dress as warmly as possible. Ladies, don’t wear skirts! Otherwise, the wind will teach you “why bare legs need protection” (Mosquitoes: Even if you wear a short skirt, I still can’t come!).
📌 Final ramble:
In 10 days in Iceland, not a single mosquito bite, but the beauty “bit” me deeply. The sky is blue, the lakes are green, the black sand beach is cool, and the northern lights are romantic... Most importantly, no mosquitoes “rapping” in your ear. This happiness, I really want to recommend it to everyone tormented by mosquitoes!
Don’t hesitate, next trip, go to Iceland and be a “mosquito-free hero”! ✨