The vast black sand plains of Sólheimasandur, located on Iceland’s southern coast, are a striking and otherworldly destination that captures the essence of Iceland’s rugged beauty. However, what has drawn even more visitors to this area is the eerie, abandoned wreckage of a US Navy DC-3 plane, which crashed on the desolate sands in 1973. The Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck has become an iconic and must-visit location for photographers, adventurers, and anyone fascinated by the blend of history and stark natural landscapes.

A person standing on top of the wreckage of a US Navy DC-3 airplane at Sólheimasandur in Iceland during twilight. The rusting, skeletal remains of the plane rest on the black sand beach, creating a stark contrast with the dark landscape. The overcast sky and distant snow-capped mountains add to the eerie, desolate atmosphere of the scene. The figure on top of the wreck adds a sense of scale and isolation to the image, highlighting the plane's lonely and abandoned state.

This article delves into the details of the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck, explaining how to get there, what to expect, and whether the experience is worth it for those visiting Iceland. We will also explore the surrounding Sólheimasandur black sand desert, which stretches out in all directions, creating a surreal and isolated atmosphere perfect for exploration.

The Story Behind the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck

The Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck is the remains of a US Navy DC-3 aircraft (commonly referred to as a C-117) that crash-landed on the black sands of Iceland on November 24, 1973. Fortunately, all crew members on board survived, but the exact details of what caused the crash have varied over time. The most commonly accepted version is that the plane ran out of fuel, forcing the pilot to attempt an emergency landing on the Sólheimasandur sands. Another version suggests that severe weather conditions may have contributed to the aircraft’s difficulties.

Since the crash, the wreck has been left to decay in the harsh Icelandic environment. Over the decades, the fuselage has been stripped of its wings and engines, but the shell of the plane remains remarkably intact, standing as a haunting reminder of the incident and adding a dramatic element to the landscape.

Despite the harsh and ever-changing weather of the area, the wreck has become an iconic photography spot, often appearing in music videos, commercials, and photo essays that capture the stark beauty of Iceland’s southern coast.

The wreckage of a US Navy DC-3 airplane at Sólheimasandur beach in Iceland, under a sky filled with rippling clouds. The plane, weathered and corroded, lies in stark contrast to the desolate, black sand landscape. The cockpit is heavily damaged, with parts of the fuselage missing. The surrounding area is barren, with only rocks and dark soil visible, adding to the eerie and isolated atmosphere of the scene.

Getting to Sólheimasandur: The Journey to the Plane Wreck

The Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck is not located directly along any major roads, so reaching it requires some preparation. The plane sits about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) inland from the Ring Road, Iceland’s main highway, which circles the island. The wreck is between the towns of Skógar and Vík, making it an accessible stop for those exploring the southern coast of Iceland.

How to Access the Wreck

To visit the plane wreck, visitors must first park at a designated area near the Ring Road. The walk from the parking area to the wreck takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes each way, covering a distance of about 4 kilometers (8 kilometers round trip). The path is relatively flat and easy to follow, but the landscape is barren, with little to no landmarks to guide you other than the path itself.

There are no facilities along the way, so it’s important to bring water, snacks, and appropriate clothing. The weather in Iceland is unpredictable, and even on a seemingly sunny day, strong winds or sudden rain can make the journey more challenging.

The Walk to the Plane Wreck

The walk across the Sólheimasandur desert is an experience in itself. The black sands stretch as far as the eye can see, with the endless, flat terrain giving the impression that you are walking across the surface of another planet. The journey to the plane is surreal and meditative, with the landscape constantly shifting under the influence of the wind and weather.

Because the walk takes about an hour each way, visitors should plan their trip carefully, taking into account the weather conditions and ensuring they have enough daylight for both the walk and time spent at the wreck. During winter months, the daylight hours are limited, so starting early in the day is crucial.

A close-up view of the US Navy DC-3 plane wreck on Sólheimasandur beach, Iceland. The metallic body of the plane is rusted and corroded, with large holes in the fuselage. The interior is exposed, showing the ribbed structure of the cabin. The warm sunlight highlights parts of the plane, contrasting against the cold, barren black sand and distant snow-covered mountains under a clear blue sky.

Is the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck Worth the Trip?

One of the most common questions asked by visitors is whether the trek to the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck is worth the time and effort. The answer largely depends on what kind of experience you are looking for.

For photography enthusiasts, the wreck offers a rare and dramatic setting. The juxtaposition of the plane’s skeletal remains against the black sands and the often moody Icelandic sky makes for striking photographs. The wreck’s isolated location also enhances the experience, allowing visitors to feel as though they have stumbled upon something forgotten by time.

For adventurers and those seeking unique experiences, the plane wreck is certainly worth the journey. The walk itself is a meditative experience, and reaching the wreck feels like a reward at the end of a desolate trek. The site’s remote nature also means that, depending on the time of year and day, you may have the wreck almost entirely to yourself.

However, for travelers on a tight schedule or those less inclined to long walks, the visit may not hold as much appeal. While the wreck is undeniably interesting, the round-trip walk takes about two hours, which can be a significant time commitment if you have other stops planned along Iceland’s southern coast.

A head-on view of the wreckage of the US Navy DC-3 plane on the black sand beach of Sólheimasandur, Iceland. The image shows the hollow, cylindrical fuselage with no cockpit or rear, creating a tunnel-like appearance. The barren, dark sand surrounds the wreckage, with mountains and a clear blue sky visible in the background. The rusted and worn remains of the plane contrast sharply against the natural, desolate landscape.

What to Expect When You Reach the Plane Wreck

When you finally arrive at the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck, the first thing that strikes you is how alien the scene looks. The wrecked fuselage of the DC-3 is both haunting and beautiful, its silver hull standing in stark contrast to the endless black sands. Over the years, the wreck has been weathered by the elements, but it remains intact, allowing visitors to explore both the exterior and interior.

The site is open to the public, but it’s important to treat the wreck with respect. While it’s possible to step inside the fuselage and take photos, visitors should avoid causing any further damage to the structure. The plane wreck is one of Iceland’s most popular photography spots, so during peak tourist season, you may find other visitors at the site. However, early mornings or late afternoons can provide quieter times for a more solitary experience.

For those lucky enough to visit on a clear night, the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck is also a fantastic spot to view the Northern Lights. The black sand, isolated location, and lack of light pollution make it an ideal setting for witnessing the aurora borealis, adding yet another layer of magic to this unforgettable site.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the walk to Solheimasandur Plane Wreck?

The walk from the parking area to the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck is approximately 4 kilometers each way. It takes about 45 to 60 minutes to reach the wreck, depending on your pace, making the round-trip journey around 8 kilometers, or 2 to 2.5 hours total.

Is Solheimasandur Plane Wreck worth it?

For photography enthusiasts and adventurers, the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck is definitely worth the trip. The walk across the barren black sand desert is a unique experience, and the wreck itself provides an eerie, iconic backdrop for photos. However, for those on a tight schedule or less interested in long walks, it may be less appealing.

How much does it cost to see the plane wreck in Sólheimasandur?

Visiting the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck is free of charge. There is no entrance fee, and the site is open to the public. However, visitors should be prepared for the long walk and should bring their own supplies, such as water and snacks.

What was the cause of the Iceland plane crash?

The Sólheimasandur plane crash occurred due to the aircraft running out of fuel while en route across southern Iceland. Fortunately, all crew members survived the emergency landing. Some sources suggest that severe weather may have played a role in the incident as well.

Tips for Visiting Sólheimasandur

To make the most of your visit to the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck, here are some practical tips to keep in mind:

  • Dress appropriately: Iceland’s weather is unpredictable, especially in the Sólheimasandur area, where strong winds are common. Wear warm layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy hiking boots.
  • Bring supplies: There are no services or facilities at the wreck site or along the walk, so be sure to bring water, snacks, and any other supplies you may need.
  • Check the weather: The barren landscape of Sólheimasandur offers little shelter from the elements. Before setting out, check the weather forecast to ensure you won’t be caught in heavy rain or wind during the walk.
  • Time your visit: To avoid crowds, consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Additionally, if you’re interested in seeing the Northern Lights, visiting the wreck at night during the winter months can be an incredible experience.

Camping Near Sólheimasandur

If you’re planning a camping trip along Iceland’s southern coast, Sólheimasandur is an ideal stop to include in your itinerary. While camping is not allowed directly at the wreck site, there are nearby campsites in towns like Vík, where you can set up camp and explore

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.