A Common Moss Mistake Is One Of The Worst Things Tourists Do While In Iceland

Iceland, often referred to as the "Land of Fire and Ice," is a destination that feels as though it belongs to a fantasy novel. Its landscape is a breathtaking blend of erupting geysers, towering waterfalls, vast glaciers, and black sand beaches. Travelers from across the globe come to marvel at the otherworldly beauty of serene Icelandic hot springs, explore blue ice caves, visit the whale watching capital of Europe, or bask beneath the ethereal glow of the northern lights. Among these natural gems, one feature is impossible to overlook — its vibrant moss-covered terrain. From lava fields to emerald-hued canyons like Fjaorargljufur, moss seems to blanket everything in sight, giving Iceland its uniquely magical appeal as one of the most mesmerizing places on Earth.

However, this verdant wonder isn't just for show. Iceland's moss is fragile and vital to the ecosystem, making it a seriously endangered aspects of the country's natural beauty. Unfortunately, touching the moss — or worse, stepping on it or taking it with you — has become one of the most harmful mistakes tourists can make while enjoying Iceland's natural splendor.

Iceland's moss is more than a decorative feature; it plays a critical role in the country's delicate ecosystem. With more than 460 species thriving in its harsh climate, moss aids in soil stability, prevents erosion, and retains water, which is essential in Iceland's often unforgiving environment. It also supports biodiversity, serves as food for grazing animals, and contributes to carbon sequestration, helping regulate the climate.

But this remarkable organism is also incredibly fragile. The country's short growing season means that moss can take decades — or even centuries — to recover if damaged. When stepped on or crushed, moss loses its ability to photosynthesize effectively, threatening its survival. A simple footprint can leave a scar that remains visible for years, detracting from the natural beauty that drew people there in the first place.

With Iceland's surge in tourism — jumping from around 700,000 visitors in 2012 to over 2.2 million in 2023 – the strain on its environment has grown. Justin Bieber's music video for "I'll Show You" was released in 2015 and quickly gained over 500 million views on YouTube, inspiring visitors to trample Fjaorargljufur Canyon's mossy terrain. High profile incidents, such as this one have only highlighted the dangers of unchecked tourism. These fragile ecosystems require both education and respect to ensure their preservation for future generations.

Protecting Iceland's moss — and its wider environment — requires thoughtful action from every visitor. Fortunately, small changes can have a big impact. The Environment Agency of Iceland requests that tourists always stick to designated paths and trails. These routes are specifically designed to protect sensitive areas while still allowing people to enjoy the scenery. The Environment Agency of Iceland has implemented restrictions in certain locations, such as Fjaorargljufur Canyon, to reduce environmental damage, and create more infrastructure to protect the natural world. Respect closures, even if they alter the plans you made before traveling half-way around the world. It might be a bummer, but adaptation is key to survival.

Resist the temptation to touch or walk on the moss. It make look ever-so-soft and inviting, but even light contact with the moss and lichen can cause irreversible damage. The rule is simple: look, but don't touch. Aim to educate yourself before visiting Iceland. Understanding the country's fragile ecosystem fosters a greater appreciation for its natural wonders. Adopting a Leave No Trace practice, such as avoiding off-trail exploration and a mindset of leaving it better than you found it, ensures you leave Iceland pristine. The country's sunning landscapes are a gift to be admired and respected by visitors before and after you. By treading carefully — literally and figuratively — you can help preserve its magical mossy terrain for generations to come who aim to tick it off their bucket list destinations.