Famous from photos all over social media – a trip to Iceland would not be complete without a hike to Solheimasandur Plane Wreck. What’s the best places to photograph in Iceland? The plane wreck creates a great photo shot opportunity, and the location is convenient for those on a roadtrip along the southern coast of Iceland.
No trip to Iceland should exclude the DC Plane wreck. Provided that the parking is free, the hike is free, it’s one of the most inexpensive activities that a tourist to Iceland can do. Plus, all your friends will recognize the famous plane wreck of Iceland from all the photos online.
Overview
- Location: Sólheimasandur, 10 minute drive from Skogafoss Waterfall
- Distance: 4.3 miles (7 km) round trip
- Time: 2-3 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
Information on the DC Plane Wreck
So, what is the plane wreck in Iceland? It’s the most famous plane crash in Iceland.
The DC3 Plane was owned and operated by the United States Navy. In 1973, the plane crashed on the southern coast of Iceland. The story of how the aircraft crashed has two different stories. The first, is that the airplane ran out of a fuel and crash landed on the beach. The second story is that the plane suffered from severe icing and was then forced to crash. Either way, the crew was not harmed in the landing and the end result was the same: the plane was abandoned for decades.
The fuselage is still intact on the black sand beach where it lies.
Route to Hike to Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck
Is Sólheimasandur plane crash closed? No, the regulations involving visitors to the wreck has changed. Vehicle used to be allowed to drive out to the wreck, which has now been ceased. You have to park in a parking lot and walk to the plane wreck now.
The route out to the Solheimasandur plane wreck is a very straight-forward one. The path to the wreck is surrounded by bright yellow poles, and leads out towards the beach. After walking for 2-miles out you will eventually find the plane amongst some small dirt mounds.
The hike to the DC plane wreck is a straight path with minimal winding. There is no elevation gain (or if there was any it was very minimal).
How long is the walk to the plane wreck in Iceland? The trip is 2 miles and will take approximately one hour to hike to Solheimasandur Plane Wreck. This is no hike to Geldingadalir – and is accessible to a variety of ability groups.
The path is unpaved and is mainly gravel, dirt and rocks. Walking isn’t difficult, and the hike can be done in regular running shoes.
The view out to the hike is unremarkable, you will see mainly black open fields of rock and dirt on the way out. It’s difficult to tell if you are getting close as you do not see the wreck until you are right on it. On the return route, you will be able to view the mountains off in the distance which is more appealing than the walk to the plane wreck.
When to Hike to Solehimasandur Plane Wreck
The hike to the DC plane wreck is a popular one. Social media has made this a must do for those visiting or driving along the Ring Road. The hike to Solehimasandur plane wreck is an easy one – therefore you can visit any time of year. I personally went in March, there was some snow on the ground and while it was just above freezing outside it was very bearable and manageable with the appropriate clothing attire.
Due to the popularity I recommend visiting the plane wreck first thing in the morning. My hike at 6 am had no one at the DC Plane wreck. This allowed me to take my drone out, take some photos from above and near the fuselage without worrying about other tourists. I was able to get the photos I wanted without interrupting (or have others interrupt) my photos.
When I started my walk back to the parking lot around 7am there were three other groups that had just arrived. While that is still a very small number of people visiting, it was still nice to have the wreck completely to myself. Given that the wreck is the only object for visitors, I do not imagine most will spend a long time at the wreck. It’s really just competing for photos with other tourist that I would recommend doing it first thing in the morning.
Can you visit DC Plane wreck in Winter?
Yes, you can hike to Solheimasandur Plane Wreck in winter. I visited the plane wreck in the beginning of April. There was still snow on the ground. The downside was the cold, I had packed my winter gear so I was more than prepared for that. Upside is that there was no one else at the plane wreck when I went first thing in the morning. I can only imagine the crowds during the summer months.
The largest concern for visiting in winter will be the road conditions on Route 1 – the Ring Road, and the conditions outside for the hike to the plane wreck. If you aren’t a confident winter driver, and do not have proper winter clothes, then do not hike to the plane wreck in winter.
Can you climb on the DC Plane Wreck?
Frequently asked is can you climb on the plane crash in Iceland.
No, there are signs posted all over to not climb on the DC Plane wreck. This famous plane wreck of Iceland is falling apart as you will quickly notice once reaching there. The reason the signs saying not to climb the wreck are posted are for safety reasons due to the continued decay.
We see all the social media people climbing on the top, and all over the plane wreck – just know that you are not allowed to do such from the owner of the land. With the sign postings, I imagine this is for the owner of the land to not be held liable for any accidents that occur from those climbing. So if you want to – it’s at your own risks and health insurance coverage. Just remember, it’s out in the middle of no where so if something does happen it may cost a lot to evacuate!
The DC-3 plane wreck is a historic site, and climbing on or around it may pose risks to both visitors and the site itself. The plane is weathered and has become a popular photography and hiking destination in its own right.
To preserve the site and ensure the safety of visitors, it’s essential to adhere to local regulations and guidelines. Most visitors choose to explore the area around the plane wreck, take photographs, and enjoy the unique landscape without attempting to climb on the aircraft. Respecting the natural environment and historical significance of the site contributes to its preservation for future generations.
Driving and Parking for Hike to DC Plane Wreck
How do you get to the plane wreck in Iceland? The DC Plane wreck is located just off of Ring Road (Route 1) in Southern Iceland. Making it easy to get to when doing a road trip around the southern part of Iceland. Just drive along Route 1, and your google maps can tell you the exact parking lot.
To reach the hike to Solheimasandur Plane Wreck, the parking lot is just off of the Þjóðvegur (Route 1) otherwise known as the Ring Road as the road circles the entirety of Iceland.
You may have already planned a visit to the famous Skógafoss Waterfall and the hike to the DC Plane wreck is only an additional 10 minute drive down the Ring Road.
There is a gravel parking lot off of Route 1, and you can park your vehicle there and that is the starting point for the hike to Solehimasandur plane wreck. In the past you used to be able to drive your vehicle out to the wreck, but the land owners have since voted against that. Now driving your vehicle out to the site will result in a fine.
Is there a Shuttle Bus to the DC Wreck?
Yes, there are shuttle bus services to the DC plane wreck. However, the services are not free. You will have to pay 2.500 ISK on location at the parking lot to be taken by the bus. The bus will take ten minutes to the wreck site, so it does save visitors time if you are on a time crunch. The bus shuttle leaves about every hour from the parking lot, and from the plane wreck.
The shuttle is only operated in the summer months.
Learn more about the shuttle bus option here.
If you don’t want to hike, but want a more unique experience than a shuttle bus – then check out this ATV tour. It includes driving along the side of the beach, and then up to the DC Plane wreck. Much more adventure orientated than a hike.
Where to stay to visit the DC Wreck?
I stayed in the neighbor town of Vik, Iceland. This popular town was located only 20 minutes away. For things to do Vik Iceland, I came in the evening before and visited the famous Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – a beautiful black sand beach that can also be dangerous.
If you are looking for the Northern lights, Vik is a great town to attempt a sighting – the clear nights are known for having the lights appear. I stayed up that night to try and catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights but was not fortunate enough to witness them on my visit.
How far is it from Reykjavik to Vik? Only a two and a half hour drive. Vik is a great stopping point along the Southern Ring Road route if you end goal is to see the glaciers. Before stopping there visit some of the other locations along the famous Ring Road.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the Iceland Plane Wreck Hike suitable for beginners? The hike to the DC-3 plane wreck in Iceland is generally manageable for beginners. However, it involves walking on uneven terrain and crossing a black sand beach, which can be physically demanding.
2. How long does it take to hike to the plane wreck and back? The round-trip hike typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. The actual time may vary based on individual hiking speed and the weather conditions.
3. Can I visit the plane wreck without a guided tour?Yes, it is possible to visit the plane wreck without a guided tour. The trail is marked, and many visitors choose to explore independently. However, guided tours are available for those who prefer assistance.
4. Is the trail to the plane wreck well-marked? The trail is marked with stakes, making it relatively easy to follow. However, visibility can be challenging in certain weather conditions, so it’s essential to stay on the marked path.
5. What should I wear for the hike? Wear sturdy hiking shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain. Dress in layers, considering Iceland’s unpredictable weather. Be prepared for wind and rain.
6. Can I fly a drone to capture aerial views of the plane wreck? Drone flights are prohibited in the vicinity of the plane wreck. Respect local regulations and preserve the natural environment by refraining from drone use.
7. Are there restroom facilities along the trail? There are no restroom facilities along the trail. Plan accordingly and use facilities before starting the hike.
8. Can I camp near the plane wreck? Camping near the plane wreck is not allowed. Respect local regulations and choose designated campsites if planning an overnight stay.
10. Are there age restrictions for the hike? Answer: There are no official age restrictions, but parents should assess whether the hike is suitable for their children. The trail includes some challenging sections, and caution is advised.
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