World Of Wanderlust

Iceland is truly a spectacular destination. With its stunning waterfalls, boiling geysers, snow-covered glaciers, and towering mountains, the landscape is beyond breathtaking. Naturally, this draws travelers from around the globe. However, a trip to Iceland can be very expensive, and it’s often hard to find a spot without crowds of tourists. If you’re looking for amazing alternatives with incredible natural features, we have some recommendations that are definitely worth checking out!

**Best Iceland Alternatives – Summary**
– Shetland Islands, Scotland
– Finland
– Lofoten Islands, Norway
– Alaska, USA
– Oregon, USA
– Newfoundland, Canada
– Patagonia, Argentina, and Chile
– New Zealand

**Shetland Islands, Scotland**

Located off the northern coast of the UK, the Shetland Islands are a paradise for nature lovers. This archipelago consists of more than 100 small islands scattered in the North Sea. With its grassy hills, rugged cliffs, and pale-sand beaches, the dramatic landscapes are a must-see. The islands are home to a variety of wildlife. You can spot adorable puffins in the summer and humpback whales in the autumn. The Shetland Islands offer cold, arctic-like temperatures, similar to Iceland, and the lush meadows and rocky beaches will remind you of Iceland’s incredible scenery. It’s a fantastic place for outdoor adventures.

**Finland**

Finland is like a winter wonderland and a summer fairytale. This Nordic country captivates with its stunning landscapes, including shimmering lakes bordered by birch trees, dense pine forests, and rocky islands. Finland boasts 40 national parks filled with lush forests and impressive rock formations. It’s also one of the best places to see the Northern Lights. On cold winter nights, the sky comes alive with blue-green lights. You can witness this natural phenomenon in places like Lapland or Utsjoki. Finland’s capital, Helsinki, offers a trendy yet classic vibe similar to Reykjavik. Both cities are surrounded by beautiful landscapes and offer impressive Nordic architecture, historic sites, and a peaceful atmosphere.

**Why Finland is a Great Alternative to Iceland:**
– Northern Lights
– Spectacular natural landscapes
– Exceptional wilderness
– More affordable prices compared to Iceland

**Lofoten Islands, Norway**

In the remote Lofoten Islands, you’ll be left breathless by the beauty. Picture-perfect landscapes dominated by uniquely shaped mountains create a ring-like formation around the island. The Himmeltindan Mountain is particularly striking. The village of Henningsvær, with its distinct red buildings, is also a highlight. Winter in the Lofoten Islands means you can see the Northern Lights. Whether you immerse yourself in the raw wilderness or stay cozy in Henningsvær, you’ll witness magical lights, making it a top Iceland alternative.

**Alaska, USA**

Alaska is where Mother Nature truly shines. With its winding hills, lush forests, snow-capped mountains, and crystal-clear lakes, the landscape is irresistible. Alaska’s untouched wilderness is home to grizzly bears, reindeers, and humpback whales. It offers a wealth of outdoor activities like kayaking and whale watching, along with the incredible chance to see the Northern Lights during the aurora season, from August 21st to April 21st every year.

**Oregon, USA**

Oregon rivals Iceland in natural beauty, from towering mountains to mist-shrouded forests and crystal-clear lakes. Oregon provides an incredible travel experience at a more reasonable price. Whether you’re hiking through lush forests or windsurfing, the outdoor activities in Oregon are fantastic. Mount Hood National Park is a great place to challenge yourself with a hike or to hunt for waterfalls. Wildlife watching is also rewarding, with chances to see deer and elk. Plus, the state’s cities, like Portland and Eugene, offer historic monuments and quaint neighborhoods worth exploring.

**Newfoundland, Canada**

Newfoundland, a Canadian province, offers landscapes strikingly similar to Iceland’s, including gigantic fjords, snow-capped mountains, and a brilliant blue sea. The province features meadowed lands surrounded by water, rugged mountains, majestic fjords, and colorful fishing villages. The fjords, especially the massive Western Brook Fjord, resemble scenes straight out of a Jurassic Park movie. Don’t miss the chance to see humpback or minke whales, which can be spotted year-round in Newfoundland.

These Iceland alternatives are absolutely amazing. Which one excites you the most? If you’re planning a trip to any of these incredible places, we have an excellent opportunity for you. JoinMyTrip offers hundreds of fantastic trips around the world, all crafted by passionate travelers. Enjoy a hassle-free experience as your hosts, or what we call TripLeaders, handle all the arrangements. You’ll meet like-minded travel buddies and enjoy a unique, authentic travel experience. Whether you want to explore countries similar to Iceland or go on thrilling winter vacations to top cities, we’ve got you covered. Start traveling with JoinMyTrip and get ready for a lifetime of memories!