Health & Medical Care

Iceland has a first-class healthcare system — life expectancy is among the highest in the world (84 years). Medical care is modern and comprehensive, although limited in remote areas.

Medical Care

• Landspítali (University Hospital Reykjavík): The main hospital in Iceland with an emergency room — open 24/7. Address: Hringbraut, 101 Reykjavík, Tel: +354 543 1000
• Akureyri Hospital: The second largest hospital in the north. For emergencies in North Iceland
• Health Centers (Heilsugæslustöðvar): In almost every major town. Usually open Mon–Fri 8 AM–4 PM. Walk-ins possible, but with waiting time
• Pharmacies (Apótek): In Reykjavík and all major towns. Many medications that are over-the-counter in Germany require a prescription in Iceland

EHIC Card (European Health Insurance Card)

As an EU/EWR citizen, you are entitled to basic medical care with the EHIC card (on the back of your German health insurance card) under the same conditions as Icelanders. This means: You pay the Icelandic co-payment (approx. 6,000–10,000 ISK / 40–67€ for a doctor's visit). A travel health insurance is still strongly recommended — it covers repatriation, mountain rescue, and treatment costs beyond basic care.

Typical Health Risks

• Cold and hypothermia: The most common problem, especially during hikes and glacier tours. Wet clothing + wind = dangerous. Layering principle and spare clothing in the backpack!
• Burns from hot springs: The second most common tourist injury. Geothermal water can be 80–100°C hot. NEVER enter unmarked springs, always test the temperature first
• Sunburn: Yes, even in Iceland! UV radiation is surprisingly strong due to the thin atmosphere and reflection on glaciers and snow. Sunscreen (SPF 50) and sunglasses are essential
• Blisters: During long hikes on uneven terrain. Break in hiking boots beforehand, take blister plasters
• Midges at Mývatn: The name means "Midge Lake" — and it's no joke. In summer (June–August), the midge swarms can be extreme. A head net and DEET spray help. The midges don't bite, but they crawl into eyes, nose, and mouth
• Altitude sickness: No risk in Iceland — the highest point is Hvannadalshnjúkur at only 2,110 meters

Travel Pharmacy

Recommended items for the Iceland trip:

• Painkillers (Ibuprofen/Paracetamol)
• Plasters, blister plasters (Compeed), wound disinfectant
• Remedies for travel sickness (for whale watching tours and rough seas!)
• Sunscreen SPF 50 + lip care with UV protection
• Insect repellent (DEET) for the Mývatn region
• Eye drops (against wind and sand)
• Personal long-term medication in sufficient quantity