Thoughts

The following section contains some thoughts that I believe anyone, able-bodied or not, considering a trip to Iceland should ponder they may seem obvious and perhaps a little over the top, but I feel they are important.

Research and planning of the trip must be thorough.
The Internet is a good source of information and the Lonely Planet Guide for Iceland, Greenland & the Faroe Islands was a wise investment. I would recommend buying good up to date maps early on in your preparations. I found that the 1:250 000 Landmealingar series were ideal.

A feasible and realistic timescale is essential.
Travel in Iceland can be simple, if a little expensive in the summer months, with relatively clear roads and many buses running to all points of the compass. Flying could be an option and is only a little bit more expensive than the bus, the smallest of settlements often have a landing strip for light aircraft and there are even some in the interior. However out of summer travel can be a considerably more difficult with many roads closed due to snow and ice. You can check routes and accessibility on the Internet (see reference section). It would be prudent to think about the hours of light that are afforded in the summer months, it is not a great problem and can be an advantage when planning around weather conditions.

Selection and acquisition of equipment.
This depends greatly on your chosen activity and route. Take only tried and tested kit, Iceland is not the kind of place you want to find out a particular piece of essential gear doesn't work. The right clothing is essential be prepared at any time for the rain and wind, in the summer months temperatures near the glaciers can drop dramatically. Cyclists need to be aware that the main bike shops are in Reykjavik and Akuyrei so be prepared to carry plenty of spares and tools if venturing into the interior. For major repairs the locals are more than happy to help out if they can and Makid in Reykjavik offered to fly parts to me if I needed them which was of great comfort. If cycling/camping equipment can be hired but check out the Icelandic Mountain Bike Club website (see reference section).

Food, water and accommodation.
Food can be quite expensive in Iceland both in restaurants and in the supermarket. I took my own rations (left over from the Coppermine Expedition) These were dried rations and very tasty, as rations go. Because of this I was dependant on a water supply, this is not a problem in Iceland there is a lot of it and it's generally bug free. There have been very few cases of Giardia or any other waterborne bugs in Iceland, but it is still a wise precaution to check up stream for dead things like sheep etc before drawing water. There are a lot of rivers that are silt laden, so to combat this I took a Katadyn filter pump and some old (clean) stockings. Hotels are also expensive one cheap option is to use the hostels on the island, I did not use any but I was reliably informed that they are clean and tidy with plenty of room. Camping is the cheapest option but take the right gear.

The Disabled Traveller
Accessibility in Iceland for people with disabilities is definitely improving. In Reykjavik the roads and pavements are relatively good compared with the rest of the island, some hotels have suitable accommodation but they are few and are expensive. Toilet facilities for the disabled (Icelanders use 'handicapped' still) can generally be found at the touristy places but choose bars, clubs and restaurants wisely. Outside Reykjavik things can get tough, campsites are basic I only came across two with toilets suitable for wheelchairs I saw no evidence of facilities for people with sensory disabilities. Having said all that, Icelanders are helpful and sympathetic to the needs of people with disabilities they will move heaven and earth to make life easier for those that require help or advice they are the first to admit that there is room for improvement in this particular area.

Have contingency plans and the flexibility to implement them if you need to.
As I have already said, the situation, weather and terrain can change dramatically. So be prepared to change tack or alter your daily goals.

Prior training and mental preparation
This is essential if your trip involves physical activity, make sure you and/or your party are physically fit and mentally orientated to the task ahead. I found the gym is a good place to start and I also had quite an extensive 1st Aid kit with me. This contained creams and potions for those niggling muscular aches and pains that no amount of training is going to fend off.

Above all enjoy the experience.
Iceland has a lot to offer both the casual tourist and the more adventurous types. Take a good camera/video, for the many film/photographic opportunities. Icelanders are wonderfully friendly people they are more than happy to sit and chat and if you are in difficulty they will help in any way they can. They are proud of their country and culture and want to show it off to the visitor, so take full advantage.