Boom in Tourists Flocks to Þingvellir National Park
Crowds Gathering and Celebrations Abound at Þingvellir - Popular Destination Swarms with Visitors during Festivities
Park manager Einar Á. E. Sæmundsen discloses an astounding 5-6% upgrade in tourist numbers gracing Þingvellir National Park this year. "We've certainly seen an influx of folks, according to our counters in Almannagjá," Sæmundsen told Morgunblaðið, confirming that the area is still manageable despite the surge. During peak summer hours, approximately 4,000-5,000 people traverse the rift each day, with the busiest period being between 10 a.m. and noon.
"Everyone seems to make a beeline for Þingvellir-whether they're aware of the history or not," Sæmundsen explained, noting that many visitors hail from Europe and the United States. He also points out a growing number of tourists from Asia.
Podcasts Stir American Interest
As per the Icelandic Tourist Board, about 28% of visitors in Iceland originate from the U.S. Several American tourists at Þingvellir shared with Morgunblaðið that they were inspired to visit Iceland after tuning into a podcast.
Keith Nelson, Emily Miner, and Ken Nelson from the U.S. were thrilled to explore the historic site after touring parts of the Golden Circle. "After cruising across the barren southern coast, I gotta admit I was genuinely surprised to stumble upon trees," said Emily Miner.
Their curiosity in Iceland was piqued after tuning in to Saga Things, a podcast about Icelandic sagas. "A buddy of mine who's into powerlifting is absolutely raring to give the Húsafell Stone a go," said Keith Nelson.
On-site Events and Activities
A Buzzin' Summer Awaits at Þingvellir, according to Sæmundsen. Upcoming events include a cycling race, a cross-country half-marathon, and a traditional gathering by the Ásatrúarfélagið (Icelandic neopagan association) at the old assembly site. The youth wing of the Independence Party (SUS) will celebrate its 95th anniversary with an event at the Valhöll site, while plans are also underway to open the area to musicians and performers. Guided Thursday walks featuring local scholars, including Dagrún Óskarsdóttir, are part of regular events at Þingvellir.
The Droning On Conundrum
One of the tricky aspects of managing the park, according to Sæmundsen, is dealing with unauthorized drone use. "We don't dedicate entire days chasing them, but it can be a pain. The pilot could be miles away and out of sight," he explained.
Standard drone regulations issued by the Icelandic Transport Authority apply at Þingvellir, including prohibitions on flying over crowds. There are no specific penalties for violations, but park rangers usually approach drone operators and educate them about the rules. "They're typically receptive," Sæmundsen added.
"Drones are fantastic tools, but it's understandable that folks in Almannagjá or nearby ridges may not enjoy having one buzzing overhead." Sæmundsen advises drone operators to visit early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize disturbances.
Paramedic on Standby
Sæmundsen stated that the park places a strong emphasis on safety, and a paramedic is stationed on duty every day. "We may well be the only establishment of our kind in the country that has a paramedic operating round the clock," he said.
The medic is based near the popular Silfra fissure but is reachable throughout the park. "You never know what might happen-people might trip, get injured, or have a heart attack," Sæmundsen pointed out.
Last year, the park's paramedic and rangers responded to 220 emergency calls.
Preserving the Magic
The increase in tourism at Þingvellir has led to significant challenges in managing the park, particularly in preserving its delicate natural and cultural environment. With heavy foot traffic, new protective measures like ropes and fences have been put in place to safeguard ancient lava fields and sensitive areas within the park. However, balancing preservation with accessibility remains an ongoing challenge for park managers.
"The surge in tourist numbers at Þingvellir National Park this year has led to an increase in visitors from various parts of the world, including Europe, the United States, and Asia. This trend is partly attributable to podcasts like Saga Things, which have stirred American interest in Iceland."
"Upcoming events at Þingvellir include a cycling race, a cross-country half-marathon, and performances by musicians and performers, adding to the park's appeal for travelers interested in news, lifestyle, sports, and history."
