How to Hike to the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck in Iceland

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I did a lot of incredible things in Iceland! From hot springs, volcano hikes, and waterfall chasing. But one of my favorite experiences was visiting the famous Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck. Here is everything you need to know.

Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck

If you are wondering what the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck is, you are not alone. Here is the story behind it.

In 1973, a United States Navy DC-3 plane crash-landed on Iceland’s southern coast after running out of fuel.

Thankfully, everyone on board survived, but the aircraft was abandoned right where it landed! On a stretch of volcanic sand in the middle of nowhere.

Over time, the fuselage weathered into a striking relic, stripped of its wings and tail, and became an unexpected photo hotspot.

Sign at the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck parking area explaining the 4-mile hike and safety tips.

Today, the wreck sits about two miles inland from the Ring Road, surrounded by a dramatic black sand landscape that makes it feel almost otherworldly.

We stopped here on our trip around Ring Road! Read my Iceland Ring Road Itinerary – 41 Stops, Map & Tips (2025)!

It’s been featured in music videos and movies, too!

Most famously, it was featured in Justin Bieber’s “I’ll Show You” music video, which helped skyrocket its popularity on social media.

It also made an appearance in the Bollywood film Dilwale and has been the backdrop for countless influencer photo shoots, travel vlogs, and drone reels.

My Visit to the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck

When we arrived at the parking lot, the wind was absolutely brutal.

It was cold enough to make our faces sting the second we stepped outside.

The Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck seen from a distance, surrounded by endless black sand.

After looking out toward the endless stretch of sand, we made the call to skip the long hike and hop on the shuttle instead.

Best decision ever.

Taking the Shuttle

The shuttle runs regularly from the main parking lot and takes you straight to the wreck site in about 10–15 minutes.

It’s not glamorous; you’ll be in a rugged off-road bus bouncing through the sand.

But it saves time and energy, especially on cold or rainy days.

The shuttle bus to the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck saves time and keeps you out of the wind.

You can pay right there at the lot, and credit cards are accepted.

Tickets are valid for a return trip on the same day. So you can stay as long as you like!

The price is $25 each, and you can even book your tickets in advance on their website.

Hiking to Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck

If you’re up for the walk, the trail is about 4 miles round trip on flat but totally exposed terrain.

There’s no shade, no cover, and no landmarks to break up the landscape, so it can feel longer than it is.

In nice weather, it’s doable—but bring layers, water, and be prepared for wind. Lots of it.

The DC-3 wreckage on Sólheimasandur, standing alone on Iceland’s black sand desert.

When researching it, I was told to skip the hike as it’s very boring and flat on a road. And honestly, they were right.

We also did the Hengifoss Waterfall Hike in East Iceland, a few days earlier. So I was tired from that.

Exploring the Plane Wreck Site

Once you arrive, it’s easy to see why this place is so popular. Seeing the wreck up close is surreal.

The Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck, resting on the black sand in Iceland.

The fuselage is wide open, so you can actually walk inside the plane, peek through the windows, and imagine what it must have been like back in 1973.

Walking inside the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck’s hollow fuselage.

The metal is weathered and covered in graffiti, but it still has this powerful presence, like it’s frozen in time.

Graffiti and stickers covering part of the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck fuselage in Iceland.

Most people (us included) take a moment to climb up and stand on the wing for a classic photo.

Just be careful—it can be slick, especially in colder months.

Standing on the wing of the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck, one of Iceland’s most surreal photo spots.

Once you’ve explored the plane from every angle, take a walk down the slope toward the water.

The nearby black sand beach is nice to take a walk down to look at.

Back view of the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck showing the hollow fuselage against the black sand.

From a distance, the plane looks even more out of place.

Just a ghostly shell sitting in the middle of nowhere. It’s the kind of scene that really sticks with you.

Tips for Visiting Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck

Dress for the wind: It’s freezing and wide open, so wear windproof layers, gloves, and a hat.
Hike or shuttle: The hike is 4 miles round trip on flat terrain, or take the shuttle to save time and stay warm.
Wear good shoes: The metal can be slippery, so sturdy, non-slip boots are a must.
Go early or late: Visit outside peak hours for fewer crowds and better photo ops.
Bring snacks and water: There are no bathrooms or food options near the site.
Check drone rules: Drones are allowed in some areas but not all, so look up the latest restrictions.
Be respectful: Don’t damage the plane or leave trash—help preserve it for future travelers.