Eloping in Iceland is about more than just saying “I do” in a beautiful place—it’s about creating an entire day (or week!) filled with memories you’ll never forget. You can say your vows on a glacier, walk barefoot on black sand, drink from a Viking horn, and chase waterfalls—all in the same day. You’ll find incredible variety within short driving distances and the chance to experience total privacy in landscapes that feel untouched.

There are following chapters on “10 reasons why you should elope in Iceland.”

Same sex marriage in Iceland
Access remote locations only reachable by super jeeps or helicopters
You can say your vows on a glacier, walk on a black sand beach and chase after a waterfall -all on the same day
You can have entire epic landscapes all to yourselves
Your elopement can double as the most incredible honeymoon adventure
You can include meaningful cultural elements, like drinking from a horn.
Iceland is safe, clean, and easy to travel around for couples planning something intimate
There are no snakes or dangerous animals
You can easily plan a zero-waste or low-footprint elopement
Your day can involve activities like glacier hiking, kayaking, or even horseback riding

Same-sex marriage in Iceland

Same-sex marriage has been legal in Iceland since 2010, and the country was actually one of the first in the world to pass the law with unanimous support in parliament. The message here is loud and clear: love is celebrated in all its forms.

Whether you live in a country where same-sex marriage is recognized or not, you can still legally get married in Iceland. This makes it a powerful and symbolic place to say your vows. Even if your home country doesn’t allow same-sex marriage, Iceland does—and your marriage will be valid here. It’s not just about legality either. It’s about how you’re treated while you're here.

Icelanders are known for being down-to-earth, accepting, and respectful of personal freedom. As a same-sex couple, you won’t feel like you're being stared at or judged. Instead, you'll find warmth and support from locals who value equality. There’s no need to hide who you are—whether you're walking through a grocery store hand in hand, or sharing a kiss by a waterfall after your ceremony.

The marriage requirements are clear and manageable, and many local vendors (photographers, officiants, guides, and planners) have worked with LGBTQ+ couples before and are excited to help create a safe, beautiful experience. You’ll be treated with the same level of care and professionalism as any other couple.

2.) Access remote locations only reachable by super jeeps or helicopters.

One of the best things about choosing Iceland for your elopement is the chance to explore places that most people will never see in their lifetime. When you hop into a super jeep or board a helicopter, you’re not just getting a ride—you’re heading straight into some of the most untouched and dramatic landscapes on Earth.

These aren’t the spots you'll find marked on tourist maps. We're talking about ice caves tucked deep within glaciers, hidden valleys surrounded by towering cliffs, and mountaintop views that stretch across black sand deserts and volcanic fields. These remote locations are only accessible by special vehicles or aircraft, and they’re what make an Iceland elopement feel like a true adventure.

This is the kind of story you’ll be telling for the rest of your life.

Choosing one of these hard-to-reach locations also means your elopement photos won’t look like anyone else’s. Sure, Iceland has its famous spots, but when you go farther, deeper, and higher, you get views that are rare and one-of-a-kind. Your photos will reflect the wildness of the landscape and the uniqueness of your relationship. It won’t look staged or copied—it’ll look like your day, in your place.

For couples who want more than a simple ceremony—for those who crave adventure, connection, and something that truly reflects who they are—this kind of experience hits the mark. It’s not just about saying “I do.” It’s about doing something bold, unforgettable, and entirely yours.

Helicopter elopements offer even more freedom. You can land in places that would take hours (or days) to reach on foot. Imagine exchanging vows with just the two of you on top of a glacier, with nothing but snow, ice, and silence all around. Or flying into a remote highland area where you feel like you’re the only people in the world. It's peaceful, it's private, and it’s breathtaking.

Super jeep adventures, on the other hand, let you feel the terrain. You’ll bounce across lava fields, ford rivers, and feel every bit of the rugged landscape around you. It's the kind of experience that grounds you in the moment and makes the day feel even more real.

In the end, your wedding day should be about more than just pretty pictures. It should be a full-on experience—one that reflects your sense of adventure and the love you share. So, if you're dreaming of a day that’s wild, raw, and far from ordinary, Iceland’s remote locations are waiting for you.

3.) You can say your vows on a glacier, walk on a black sand beach and chase after a waterfall -all on the same day.

One of the most incredible things about eloping in Iceland is how much beauty you can experience in just a single day. In many places around the world, you'd have to travel hours—or even fly between regions—to see different types of landscapes. But in Iceland, you can go from a glacier to a black sand beach to a waterfall, all within 30 to 40 minutes of driving.

That’s what makes this country so special. Iceland offers extreme variety in a compact area. You’re not choosing between landscapes—you can have it all. And when you're planning an elopement day, that kind of variety adds so much depth to your experience.

Imagine this: You start your morning by hiking across a glacier, with crampons crunching on ancient ice, the sun rising behind snow-covered peaks. You say your vows in the crisp, still air—just the two of you, surrounded by a frozen world. Then, you drive a short distance and arrive at a black sand beach, where the waves crash against basalt sea stacks and the wind plays with your hair. Maybe you stop here for a quiet picnic or just to take it all in. And by afternoon, you’re walking along a canyon trail toward a roaring waterfall, laughing as the mist catches the light. That’s a full day—and you’ve barely scratched the surface of what Iceland has to offer.

Including a variety of landscapes in your day also means your photos will tell a richer story. It’s not just one backdrop—it’s a full journey. You’ll be able to look back and see every shift in scenery and every moment of emotion. The variety keeps the day exciting, spontaneous, and deeply personal.

Eloping in Iceland is more than just picking a scenic spot. It’s about experiencing the country’s raw beauty and letting it shape your story. So, if you’re dreaming of a wedding day that feels like a journey—a real adventure where every moment is different and meaningful—Iceland is the place. You don’t have to choose between glaciers, beaches, or waterfalls. Here, you can have it all.

4.) You can have entire epic landscapes all to yourselves

It’s no secret that Iceland has grown in popularity over the past few years. More and more travelers are coming to experience its volcanoes, waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches—and for good reason. The landscapes are unlike anywhere else in the world. But even with all the attention Iceland is getting, there’s still a secret most visitors don’t know: You can still have entire epic locations completely to yourselves.

Not everyone wants to say their vows surrounded by tour buses or standing in line to get a photo. Many couples are dreaming of something quieter—something that feels personal, private, and deeply connected to nature. And in Iceland, that’s absolutely possible if you’re willing to travel a bit more and go beyond the main roads.

Most tourists in Iceland stick to the most iconic and easily accessible locations: Skógafoss, Reynisfjara Beach, and the Golden Circle are all stunning—but they also tend to be crowded, especially during the busy seasons. While these places have their charm, they might not be the right fit if your goal is a peaceful and intimate elopement experience.

That’s where the real adventure begins.

When you’re ready to drive a bit farther or invest in a super jeep, you open up a whole new world of possibilities. There are remote valleys, highland deserts, hidden waterfalls, glacier outlets, and dramatic cliffside views that most people never get to see. These are the places where you can stand in total silence, take in the wild beauty around you, and feel like you’re the only two people on the planet.

Getting to these remote spots often means going off paved roads and into more rugged terrain, which is where hiring a jeep and an experienced local guide really pays off. You’ll not only stay safe, but you’ll also get access to areas that are off-limits to rental cars or big groups. The extra effort means fewer crowds—and often, no one else at all.

For couples who want their day to feel like an escape from the world, this kind of experience is perfect. You get to slow down, enjoy each other’s company, and really soak in the moment without distractions. Whether you’re exchanging vows by a hidden glacier lagoon or sharing a quiet meal by a remote waterfall, these kinds of moments are hard to find in more popular locations.

5.) Your elopement can double as the most incredible honeymoon adventure

One of the best parts about choosing Iceland for your elopement is that you don’t have to leave the country once you’ve said “I do.” Your wedding day and your honeymoon can happen in the same place—no airport rush, no complicated transfers, no need to plan two separate trips. Just one incredible journey, start to finish.

The landscapes are so diverse that no two days feel the same. You can spend your elopement day exploring glaciers, hiking to waterfalls, or taking a helicopter to a remote mountain ridge. Then, for your honeymoon, relax in natural hot springs, take a road trip along the coast, or stay in a cozy cabin under the stars. It’s all here.

Combining your elopement and honeymoon also gives you time to slow down and fully enjoy the moment. Instead of cramming everything into one day and then flying off somewhere else, you get to settle in, breathe, and really experience this beautiful country together. You’re not rushing off to the next thing—you’re living it.

There are also tons of unique experiences you can plan together: whale watching, glacier kayaking, ice cave tours, volcano hikes, and even horse riding on Icelandic horses. And between all that, you can enjoy quiet evenings with local food, a glass of wine, and views that feel like something out of a dream.

6.) You can include meaningful cultural elements of Iceland

One way to make your elopement ceremony truly unique is by including traditional Icelandic or Norse-inspired elements.

Drinking from the Horn

A popular and symbolic tradition is drinking from a Viking-style horn. This can be done after your vows, as a shared toast to your future. Couples often fill the horn with Icelandic local beer. It’s a powerful, fun way to mark the beginning of your marriage and connect with the Viking heritage that runs deep in Iceland’s history.

Including a Lava Stone

Iceland is a land of fire and ice—literally. Including a lava stone in your ceremony is a subtle way to recognize the power of nature that surrounds you. Some couples hold a lava rock during their vows, place it near them as a grounding symbol, or carry it home as a keepsake. It represents strength, endurance, and the ever-changing nature of love—just like the volcanic land under your feet.

Offering a Gift to the Hidden People

Icelandic folklore plays a huge role in the culture here, and one charming tradition is to offer a small gift to the hidden people—also known as elves. These mythical beings are believed to live in rocks, hills, and natural formations across the country. Many Icelanders still treat their presence with respect. As part of your ceremony, you can leave a flower, a stone, or a simple token as a sign of gratitude to the land and its unseen guardians. It’s a sweet and respectful gesture that adds a layer of local magic to your day.

Celebrate with Icelandic Treats

After the ceremony, you can also celebrate with something simple and delicious: traditional Icelandic treats. Kleinur (twisted doughnuts) and cinnamon buns are local favorites—cozy, sweet, and perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee after your vows. Whether you're having a picnic in the moss or cozying up in a cabin, these small delights bring comfort and a taste of Icelandic tradition to your elopement day.

7.) Iceland is safe, clean, and easy to travel around

When planning an elopement, one of the biggest priorities for many couples is finding a destination that feels simple, safe, and stress-free. Iceland checks all those boxes. It’s one of the safest countries in the world, known for its clean environment, minimal crime, and reliable infrastructure—all of which make it an ideal location for a relaxed, meaningful elopement experience.

The country places a strong emphasis on sustainability, with almost all of its energy coming from renewable sources like geothermal and hydropower. Towns and cities are kept tidy, and Icelanders have a deep respect for the natural environment. You won’t find litter on trails or pollution in the air.

Getting around Iceland is surprisingly easy, too. The main roads are well-maintained, and you can reach many incredible locations within just a few hours of driving from Reykjavík.

Plus, almost everyone speaks English, which makes communication easy. Signs are clear, services are reliable, and planning ahead is simple.

8.) There are no snakes or dangerous animals

Here’s something you might not expect to be a big deal when planning an elopement—but actually is: Iceland has no snakes or dangerous wildlife. None. That’s right—no venomous snakes hiding in the grass, no bears in the woods, no mountain lions lurking behind rocks. Just open space, peaceful nature, and the freedom to explore without worry.

This is especially great news for anyone who might be a little nervous in nature. Not everyone is a fearless outdoor explorer—and that’s okay. If you love the idea of an adventurous elopement but get uneasy around wildlife, Iceland is the perfect destination.

9.) You can easily plan a zero-waste or low-footprint elopement

f sustainability is important to you and your partner, Iceland is one of the best places in the world to have a low-impact or even zero-waste elopement. The country is deeply connected to nature, runs almost entirely on renewable energy, and offers an environment where reducing your footprint is not only possible—it’s encouraged.

For couples who want their wedding day to reflect their values, this is a chance to celebrate your love without leaving a trace behind. And with a bit of intentional planning, it’s surprisingly simple to pull off.

One of the biggest ways to reduce the environmental impact of your elopement is by hiring local vendors. From photographers to florists and guides, choosing people who live and work in Iceland means less travel and a smaller carbon footprint. You’re also supporting the local economy and reducing the need for shipping or importing goods.

The most important part of a zero-waste elopement? Respect the land. Stay on marked trails, pack out everything you bring in, and avoid disturbing local flora or wildlife. Icelanders take environmental protection seriously, and as guests, we should do the same.

10.) Your day can involve crazy cool activities:

If you’re the kind of couple that craves adventure, Iceland is the perfect place to turn your elopement day into more than just a ceremony. This isn’t about standing still for a quick vow exchange and calling it a day—it’s about making memories that feel exciting, bold, and completely your own.

In Iceland, you can build your elopement around unforgettable experiences like glacier hiking, kayaking in glacier lagoons, or even riding Icelandic horses through lava fields. These activities turn your wedding day into a full-on adventure—one that you’ll be talking about for the rest of your lives.

These kinds of activities aren’t just for the sake of a good photo (though you’ll definitely get those, too). They’re for couples who want to do something on their wedding day. Who wants to create real memories—not just look back on how it looked, but how it felt? You’ll laugh, move, explore, and end the day knowing that you truly made the most of it.

If you're dreaming of a wedding day that doesn’t follow tradition and gives you stories that sound like something out of a movie, Iceland gives you the freedom to build that. Your elopement can be more than just a ceremony—it can be the most incredible adventure of your life.