Famous Film Locations in South Iceland
Because of it's unique variety, South Iceland has featured in some of the world’s biggest productions, from Game of Thrones and Star Wars to The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. Each location offers not just stunning visuals but also a sense of atmosphere that helps bring unforgettable stories to life.
Game of Thrones – Wildlings, Dragons, and Frozen Lands
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Þjórsárdalur (Stöng & Gjáin): The Wildling village and dramatic canyon landscapes seen in Season 4–5.
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Stakkholtsgjá Canyon: The setting where Jon Snow’s group goes beyond the Wall in Season 7.
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Reynisfjara Beach: The black sands became Eastwatch-by-the-Sea.
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Mýrdalsjökull Glacier: Served as the icy wilderness north of the Wall.
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Skógafoss Waterfall: Seen when Jon and Daenerys arrive on dragonback in Season 8.
Star Wars: Rogue One – A Galaxy Far, Far Away
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Mýrdalssandur black desert & Reynisfjara: Provided the alien world backdrops for several off-world scenes.
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Hjörleifshöfði near Vík: A dramatic headland that added to the sci-fi feel.
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty – Daydream Adventure
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Skógafoss: Appears again as part of Walter’s “Himalayas” fantasy.
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Fjallsárlón & Kalfafellsdalur: Glaciers and valleys that doubled as rugged mountain scenery.
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Höfn Airport: Used as Greenland in the film.
Mission: Impossible – Fallout
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Parts of the dramatic helicopter chase sequence were filmed in Iceland, with Vatnajökull glacier and surrounding highlands used as the icy setting. Iceland’s raw and remote landscape created the perfect stand-in for Kashmir.
Other Big Productions
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Interstellar (2014): Though mostly shot in the south of Iceland around Svartifoss and Svínafellsjökull, it’s worth noting Iceland doubled as an alien planet in Christopher Nolan’s sci-fi hit.
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Batman Begins (2005): The opening training scenes of Bruce Wayne were filmed on Vatnajökull glacier.
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Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001): Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon was used for Arctic scenes.
Why Filmmakers Choose South Iceland
The variety of landscapes, short distances between locations, and accessibility make South Iceland highly practical for international film crews. Combined with its unique, untouched beauty, it continues to attract some of the biggest names in cinema.
Ready to Step Into the Scene?
After seeing how often South Iceland has appeared on the big screen, it’s natural to wonder what it would be like to stand on those very filming locations yourself. Whether it’s walking along the black sands of Reynisfjara, gazing up at Skógafoss, or exploring the rugged canyons of Þjórsárdalur, visiting these places brings the magic of film into real life.
And the best part? Experiencing them is easy. South Iceland is well connected by good roads and offers a wide range of tours, guides, and travel options that make exploring simple and enjoyable all year round.
So the only question left is: would you like to see these iconic landscapes for yourself?
Quick Map of Filming Locations
Here is a map highlighting the filming locations mentioned in this blog. It allows you to see exactly where your favorite movie scenes were shot in South Iceland and makes it easier to plan your own journey to these iconic spots. Use it as inspiration to retrace the steps of film crews and discover the dramatic landscapes that have captivated filmmakers from around the world.