The picturesque birthplace of Icelandic democracy is drenched in the blood of its brutal past.

This stunning concert hall has become a symbol of Iceland's national recovery.

Two volcanic lakes in an enormous crater formed in a prehistoric eruption.

Strange rock formations tower above the river that snakes through this enchanting Icelandic canyon.

This tumultuous Icelandic lava field looks so alien European researchers want to use it as a stand-in for Mars.

A sulfuric martian landscape that looks far better than it smells.

Three columns of volcanic rock shoot out of the ocean.

This wrecked airplane has been sitting on a black sand beach since the 1970s.

If a glacial river suddenly diving into a sheer chasm via a dramatic, multi-stage waterfall isn't peak Iceland, it's certainly close.

These ominous lava formations were said to be an entrance to the netherworld so of course they inspired a famous metal band.

This valley of hot springs and boiling mud pots is home to the record-holding "Geysir," which originated the English word.

This natural Icelandic fissure allows divers to swim right between two volatile tectonic plates.

The most powerful waterfall in all of Europe.

This elegant arc of a waterfall marks a religious turning point.

Walk in the footsteps of the gods and straddle two tectonic plates.

Iceland's largest lagoon is home to stunning multi-colored icebergs.

One of the tallest buildings in Iceland, and perhaps, the most visually impressive.

This fantastical waterfall is hidden in a cave located in a cracked cliff.

This volcanic cave lake is essentially hard proof that Iceland is the most magical place on Earth.

Rising from the sea like a stone monster.

The unique waterfall in Iceland's south features a backdrop of geometric black lava columns.

Medicinal spa created with the discharge from a geothermal energy plant.

Preserved Inca city and site of the last Inca stronghold against the Spanish conquistadors.

The stones of this Incan wall complex fit together so well you couldn't fit a piece of paper between some of them.