Jökulsárgljúfur National Park
One of the most recommended sites to visit in North Iceland is Jökulsárgljúfur Park. The park is located at the southern end of one of the largest rivers in Iceland and the most powerful in Europe, Jökulsá á Fjöllum, which flows northward from Vatnajökull—the largest glacier in the world outside the polar ice caps. The park's present appearance was formed following volcanic eruptions in the area, which diverted the river waters and carved new canyons.
The park can also be reached from its southern side, but access from the northern side is more recommended: from the direction of Húsavík, continue driving along Road 85. The road splits into two roads leading to the sites: Road 864 leads to the eastern side of the park, and Road 862 leads to its western side. Note that both are gravel roads about 30 km long in each direction. Road 862 was previously an F-road and unsuitable for regular vehicles, but today it has been renovated and is suitable for all vehicle types.
A trip to the park offers travelers some of the most fascinating landscapes in the region, and it is recommended to spend about three hours there.
♦ To book a private walking tour (for multiple participants) in Jökulsárgljúfur Park departing from Akureyri:
Ásbyrgi Canyon
The Horseshoe Canyon is undoubtedly one of the most popular hiking areas in Iceland. The horseshoe is 3.5 km long, about 1 km wide, and its cliff walls reach up to 100 meters high. On the open side of the horseshoe, there is a strikingly beautiful island called Eyjan. To reach the canyon, drive along Road 85 and follow the signs to the visitor center, where they will suggest various trails of differing difficulty levels—for example, a one-hour trail to Lake Botnstjörn, a two-hour trail to the summit of Eyjan, and more. For more details, click here.
Dettifoss Waterfall
An enormous waterfall, 45 meters high and 100 meters wide. The volume of water pouring over the falls is beyond description—the water originates from glacial melt and the flow is exceptionally impressive. Beware of slipping—there are no guardrails along the sides of the waterfall, and you can get very close to the edge.
Selfoss Waterfall
A very wide and unique waterfall. There is a walking trail between these two waterfalls—2.5 km from the Dettifoss parking lot to Selfoss and back.
These are the most beautiful and impressive waterfalls, but those who haven't had their fill of beauty can also visit Hafragilsfoss (27 meters high) and Réttarfoss (7 meters high).
♦ Recommended 6-8 day guided tours in Iceland from Viator