Iceland is one of my absolute favorite places in the world. The diverse landscapes all around the island cannot be beaten. Every time I visit this beautiful island I fall in love all over again. Having traveled to Iceland multiple times, I can tell you there’s nothing quite like the wild beauty of this place! If you want to. elope in Iceland, I can pretty much guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

Imagine saying your vows beneath a roaring waterfall, or standing on a surreal black sand beach where the waves crash against dark volcanic shores. You could even get married on a glacier—yes, literally on top of a giant sheet of ice! Iceland’s raw, untouched landscapes give every elopement an intimate, adventurous feel that’s truly one-of-a-kind. It’s a land that feels both otherworldly and perfectly romantic.

Whether you want a small intimate wedding ceremony in Iceland or a multi-day adventure elopement in Iceland; there’s no wrong answer! If you’re thinking “HECK YES, I want to elope in Iceland!” But wondering where to get started and how to begin planning: I’ve got ya! As your Iceland elopement photographer I’ve got you covered in this Iceland Elopement Guide (+ loads more resources during the planning process once you’re booked with me!)

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Why Choose Iceland for Your Elopement?

Honestly, I think the photos of Iceland speak for themselves. But if you’re still asking, “Why elope in Iceland?” Here’s a short list of all the reasons to get married in the land of fire and ice!

1. The landscapes are stunning: waterfalls, volcanoes, fjords, glaciers, lupine meadows, wide barren landscapes, rugged coastlines, and enchanting hot springs.
2. It’s easy to get to. While it’s a remote island, it’s become easy to catch direct flights from international airports! There are 2 main airports Keflavík (near Reykjavik) or Akureyri in the North, and plenty of cruise options from Europe.
3. It’s easy to travel in. Rent a car from the airport and it’s hard to get lost around the island! Iceland literally has one main road, called the Ring Road or Route 1, that circles the entire country! And it’s only 821 miles. Driving is on the right side of the road (yay) and traffic is minimal. Map apps are a breeze now a days, and the signs are easy to follow!
4. So many adventure experience opportunities. With the insane landscapes and a country that loves the great outdoors, there are so many options for adventure! More on this later!
5. It’s quiet and intimate. You can drive for hours and not see another person (or tree lol!) Landmarks are spread out across the country. And while they can become crowded during peak travel months, you can easily find a spot to yourself amidst the magical landscapes.
6. The seasons are unique and WILD! Whether it’s the northern lights and blustery winter days, or the warm windy summer nights with the midnight sun. There’s no wrong time to visit! More on that next!

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Best Time of Year to Elope in Iceland

There are plenty of things to consider when trying to decide when to Elope in Iceland. While the island is INCREDIBLE in every season, they all produce their own set of pros + cons! Here’s a breakdown of the seasons in Iceland to make your decision making easier!

Summer (June to August)

• Weather: Iceland’s summer is surprisingly mild, with temperatures ranging from 10-15°C (50-59°F). While you won’t see tropical heat, the weather is relatively stable, and you’ll find greenery everywhere. Be prepared for ANYTHING though. And still pack plenty of layers!
• Daylight Hours: Iceland’s famous Midnight Sun means you’ll have nearly 24 hours of daylight in June! This is perfect for adventurous elopements, as you can plan hikes, photoshoots, or intimate ceremonies at any hour.
• Highlights: Summer is ideal for exploring the entire island, with accessible roads and open highlands. You can visit remote locations like the Westfjords and the Highlands, and the blooming lupine fields add a vibrant purple touch to the landscapes. Summer is also whale-watching season!

Fall (September to November)

• Weather: Temperatures cool down, averaging 4-10°C (39-50°F). There can be a bit more rain and wind, but autumn brings a cozy, moody atmosphere that’s perfect for elopements.
• Daylight Hours: Daylight starts to decrease in the fall, but you’ll still have a good balance of light and dark for both daytime and nighttime activities, with around 13-8 hours of daylight as fall progresses.
• Highlights: Fall foliage isn’t as common in Iceland as in other places, but you’ll still find some golden tones in the countryside. September is also the start of the Northern Lights season!! Plus, there are fewer tourists, making iconic spots feel more intimate.

Winter (December to February)

• Weather: Winter in Iceland can be intense, with temperatures ranging from -1 to 4°C (30-39°F) and the potential for snow, especially in the north. Roads may be icy, and conditions can change rapidly, so flexibility and proper clothing are a must.
• Daylight Hours: Winter days are short, with as little as 4-5 hours of daylight in December. This makes planning important, but it also means you have a higher chance of experiencing the Northern Lights in the early evening or late night.
• Highlights: If you dream of an elopement in a winter wonderland, Iceland delivers! Ice caves open in winter, and the landscapes transform with snow and frost, creating a fairy-tale setting. The Northern Lights are most active, and the holiday lights in Reykjavík add to the cozy, festive atmosphere. However, it can be a riskier time to travel as extreme weather circumstances can prohibit travel around the island. Road closures due to dangerous wind and snow happen often! So you HAVE to be flexible with your itinerary.

Spring (March to May)

• Weather: Spring gradually warms up, with temperatures ranging from 3-9°C (37-48°F). You will still encounter a mix of snow and rain, but the landscape starts to thaw and bloom.
• Daylight Hours: Days are getting longer again, with up to 13-20 hours of daylight by late spring, giving you plenty of time to explore and capture stunning photos.
• Highlights: Spring is quieter, and you get a mix between the winter wonderland and the blooming of a green summer. Migratory birds return, and you’ll start to see puffins along the coasts—an extra treat for any nature lovers eloping in Iceland! Traveling can still pose some uncertainty if a snow or windstorm sneaks up on ya. But there is still a chance of the Aurora in this season so that’s a win!

No matter the season, Iceland brings something magical to your elopement. Each time of year offers its own special charm, so the best season really depends on what kind of adventure you envision for your big day.

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Planning Your Elopement Itinerary

This is something we go over in our elopement planning calls, but here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your Iceland Elopement Itinerary:

Don’t rush it. While you could drive around the entirety of Iceland in a few days, you may want to slow it down and focus on a few areas you can thoroughly explore and enjoy! Depending on how long you plan your trip for, you don’t want to RUSH through your elopement experience eany way you look at it. I recommend extending your elopement over at least 2 days – to fit in time for driving, exploration, adventure, and also flexibility when it comes to traveling around Iceland with it’s unpredictable weather!

Determine your priorities. Narrow down what experience are important to you during your elopement. Adventure? Intimacy? Adrenaline? Cozy vibes? Good food? Staying warm? We will build your elopement timeline around the things that are most important to you two!

Determine your travel budget. While Iceland can get expensive fast, there are ways to save money in the way you travel, and there are also tons of incredible ways to splurge around the island. Either way, make sure you’re on the same page about what kind if investment you’ll be making on your once in a lifetime trip!

Ask the pros. As someone who’s been to Iceland multiple times, I’ve got a ton of insight into where to go, what to do, and how to build an elopement timeline that suits your personal needs! I truly believe each couple should have a custom created experience, just as unique as your relationship!

Decide on your length of stay. I personally would recommend no less than 5 days in Iceland. You could spend years in this beautiful country and not see half of it. When it comes to your elopement, you’ll want to spend a few days preparing beforehand. Then it’s your elopement day. Afterwards, take a few days to relax and adventure!

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Iceland Elopement Locations

There are plenty of iconic spots in Iceland to choose from (i.e. Skógafoss, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, Thingvellir National Park). While we can DEFINITELY hit up all the most popular spots around the island, I’ve also got a list of hidden gems (remote waterfalls, lesser-known fjords, private but epic ceremony spots) Once we get you booked we can narrow down your location options for an incredible Iceland elopement!

STAY TUNED FOR NEW POST ON LOCATIONS

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Unique Experiences to Add to Your Elopement

Adventure experiences in Iceland are UNMATCHED! Here’s just a brief list of options you can choose to include during your time eloping in Iceland:

• Hiking to a volcano
• Swimming in Hot Springs
• Exploring ice caves
• Hiking on a glacier
• Snorkeling between the continents
• Helicopter/Plane tours
• Horseback riding
• Multi-day hikes
• Culinary experiences
• Whale watching
• Music festivals/Cultural events
• Lava Cave tours
• Kayaking

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Legal Requirements for Getting Married in Iceland

You have a couple options when it comes to how you legally elope in Iceland, in terms of the paperwork!

Option 1. You can file your marriage certificate in your home country/county and legally get married (before or after) your Iceland elopement ceremony. This takes the stress off of filing the right paper work through the Icelandic government and also means you wont need an officiant at your elopement.

Option 2. Go through the process of filing for a marriage certificate in Iceland as a foreigner. Here what you need in order to do that!

• Get the Marriage Notification Form: You’ll need to complete a marriage notification form (known as “Hjónavígsluskýrsla”) and submit it to the Icelandic District Commissioner at least three weeks before your wedding date.
• Passports: Both of you need to provide a copy of your passports.
• Birth Certificates: Birth certificates may be required for both parties. Double-check the rules, as requirements vary based on your home country.
• Certificate of Marital Status: This document proves you are both legally free to marry.
• Divorce Papers or Death Certificate (if applicable): If either of you has been married before, bring legal proof of divorce or a death certificate.
• Translations: If your documents aren’t in English or Icelandic, you may need to have them translated and notarized.
• Submit all documents to the Icelandic District Commissioner’s office in Reykjavík or the nearest branch three weeks before your ceremony. It’s best to start this process early to allow time for gathering and translating documents if needed.

Always double check Icelandic Commissioners site for any updates!

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Essential Iceland Elopement Packing List

1. Warm Layers

• Base Layers: Start with moisture-wicking thermals for both top and bottom. Merino wool or synthetic layers are best for staying warm and dry.
• Mid-Layers: Think fleece jackets or insulated pullovers to add warmth without too much bulk. A down or synthetic jacket works great for colder days.
• Outer Layers: A high-quality, windproof, and waterproof jacket is essential in Iceland, even in summer. Look for something breathable but capable of blocking out rain and wind.
• Leg Layers: For colder days, consider thermal leggings under your pants, or go for fleece-lined hiking pants to keep warm.
• Socks: Wool socks will be your best friend for keeping toes toasty and dry, especially with Iceland’s unpredictable weather.

2. Waterproof Gear

• Waterproof Jacket & Pants: Rain can come out of nowhere in Iceland, so pack waterproof (not just water-resistant), breathable outer layers for both the ceremony and outdoor adventures. A good quality jacket is WORTH the investment!
• Waterproof Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots with good traction are a must. Go for comfortable, sturdy boots that can handle mud, rocks, and rain.
• Waterproof Backpack Cover: If you’re carrying a bag for essentials, protect your gear with a waterproof cover. Umbrellas are often useless in a lot of Iceland because of the WIND that also comes with the rain. Locals will easily spot a tourist by if their trying to use one

3. Travel Essentials

• Reusable Water Bottle: Iceland’s tap water is among the purest in the world, so you can refill anywhere and stay hydrated while being eco-friendly.
• Snacks: Energy bars or trail mix for a quick boost, especially if you’re heading to remote areas. Stock up in town as there’s not many pit stops around the Island, and shops close early!
• Battery Pack: Cold weather drains batteries quickly, so bring a portable charger for phones, cameras, or other devices.
• Printed Documents: Make sure to bring physical copies of your elopement permit, passport, and any other important documents. Keep them in a sealed bag so they don’t get wet!

4. Miscellaneous Must-Haves

• Sunglasses: Icelandic landscapes are reflective, especially with snow or sun on the water, so good UV-protective sunglasses are helpful year-round.
• Gloves, Hats, and Scarves: Even in summer, bring a pair of gloves and a hat to protect against cold winds. Maybe consider hand warmers in the winter too!
• Lightweight Daypack: For carrying all your essentials on hikes or long shoots.
• Touch-up Kit: For makeup and hair adjustments on the go. Iceland’s weather can be intense, so a small touch-up kit (lip balm, compact mirror, hairpins) is handy.

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Top Questions Typically asked when eloping in Iceland

Is Iceland safe to travel to?

Yes, absolutely! Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world. Petty theft is always something you should be aware of no matter where you travel. However, in Iceland, the weather is what you need to prepare for the most!

Can foreigners get married in Iceland?

Yes, no matter where you are from, you can get married in Iceland.

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How to Book an Iceland Elopement Photographer

Are you sure that you want to ditch the big, traditional wedding, but don’t know where to start? An elopement or intimate wedding sounds like the perfect fit, and will allow you to create your perfect day from start to finish. We’ll throw the rule book out the window, and figure out what feels good. With so many activities and timeline options to choose from, you’ll end up with an intimate, just-for-you elopement that will be the experience of a lifetime. As your Iceland Elopement Photographer I’ll be there along side you to help dream and plan your ultimate Icelandic elopement experience!

Contact me to find out about my Iceland Elopement Packages and let the adventure begin!!