Although British travellers still remain restricted in where they can go on holiday, Iceland is one of the few places which stands accessible and as fascinating to tourists as ever.
From the impressive herds of Icelandic Horses to the dramatic landscapes, the island has much to offer those who feel ready for an adventure and who would like to explore the rich fields, hot springs, volcanoes and glaciers… maybe you’d even like to travel on the back of a native horse, the perfect all-terrain vehicle! The question remains… can Brits enter Iceland and what do they need to do?
The quick answer is YES, at time of writing (July 1st) British travellers can enter Iceland if they can prove that they are fully vaccinated (+14 days) or that they have previously had and recovered from COVID-19. Icelandic authorities will accept the NHS Covid Pass or a letter from the NHS to show your vaccination status. Vaccinated travellers do not require any additional testing for entry to Iceland and as of 1st July 2021, the border screening of vaccinated visitors (or those recovered from the virus) will cease. Entry requirements are regularly updated on the UK government website here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/iceland/entry-requirements
Visitors to Iceland must pre-register their visit on Iceland’s dedicated COVID-19 website here: https://visit.covid.is/
And up to date information regarding all aspects of travel to Iceland is available on the Visit Iceland site: https://visiticeland.com/
Currently Iceland sits firmly on the UK’s green list for travellers, meaning that there is no quarantine when coming home. You are required to take a COVID-19 test in the three days before you travel home (this can be an antigen test and you can pre-order one and take it with you!), to complete a ‘passenger locator form’ and to book a test for day 2 after your arrival home.
For those interested in a riding holiday in Iceland, specialist travel agency Far and Ride can advise you on your options and help you with making the necessary arrangements: farandride.com. IHSGB members receive a 5% discount.