A draft bill published on Iceland’s government consultation portal this week proposes a new nature and infrastructure fee for non-resident visitors to Þingvellir, Gullfoss and Geysir. The fee — 4,500 ISK between 1 June and 31 October, and 3,000 ISK at other times — would apply to visitors aged 18 and over who are not tax resident in Iceland, and is due to take effect from 1 May 2026. The proposed pass would be valid for one year from purchase and cover all three sites, with no restriction on the number of visits within that period.
Why this matters for photographers
Þingvellir, Gullfoss and Geysir are among the most visited photography locations in Iceland, drawing landscape photographers throughout every season. The new fee would represent an additional cost on top of any guided tour, rental car, or parking charges at other state-owned sites visited on the same trip. Photographers who plan to return to these locations multiple times during a single trip — common practice for those chasing particular light conditions or weather — should note that the annual pass structure does allow repeat visits. Separately, Þingvellir National Park would cease charging for parking under the same proposal, which currently costs around 1,000 ISK per car.
What photographers should do
- Monitor the progress of the draft bill through official Icelandic government channels before booking trips planned for May 2026 or later, as the fee structure may change before the legislation is finalised.
- Factor the additional cost — 3,000 or 4,500 ISK depending on season — into your overall trip budget when pricing vehicle hire, accommodation and guided tours to the Golden Circle.
- If booking a guided Golden Circle tour, check with operators directly about whether the fee will be included in their pricing or charged separately to passengers.
For full guidance, see our Iceland F-Roads for Photographers: Access, Safety & Seasons.
Source: RÚV English — https://www.ruv.is/english/2026-09-28-unfair-tax-or-reasonable-contribution-488210/