Travel Destinations in East Iceland
East Iceland is a magical region of natural phenomena: glaciers, forests, bird cliffs, vast open spaces, high mountains, unique fjords, waterfalls, rivers, and more. East Iceland is a gem of natural wonders and history. It is an area rich in relics from the distant past, traces of ancient lifestyles, and culture. Today, around 10,000 people live in the east, living and working in modern Iceland while maintaining strong historical roots.
♦ Recommended 6-8 day guided tours in Iceland booking from Viator
The Town of Egilsstadir
The capital of the East and its main town is Egilsstaðir, with a population of about 2,500. Founded in 1947, the town has not stopped developing since. Its airport has made the town more accessible, and today it concentrates most of the services for the residents of East Iceland.
Day Trips from Egilsstadir
♦ Booking a day trip to the canyon and baths departing from Egilsstaðir (via Viator):
Stuðlagil Canyon and Vök Baths Day Tour
Egilsstaðir's strategic location makes it an ideal base for wonderful day trips in the area. Here are several recommendations:
♦ The town is located on the banks of the river Lagarfljót, which flows down from the massive glacier Vatnajökull. South of Egilsstaðir, the river widens into the long and deep lake Lögurinn, home, according to legend, to the monster Lagarfljótsormurinn. The river area is pleasant to spend time in and well worth visiting.
♦ Hengifoss Waterfall - The second highest waterfall in Iceland reaches a height of 128 meters. The waterfall cascades alongside basalt columns partially striped in red, which lend it a unique appearance. To reach the waterfall, drive south from Egilsstaðir on Route 1 for about 11 km. Then turn right onto Route 931 and continue for about 21 km. Along the way, cross a bridge and eventually reach an intersection where you turn left onto Route 933 and drive for about 1.6 km. The parking lot is on the right, from which you continue on foot for about 10 minutes to the waterfall. To reach a scenic viewpoint overlooking the waterfall, there is a hiking trail of 2.5 km in each direction.
♦ Hallormsstaður Forest - The largest forest in Iceland spans 740 sq km and is a true delight and a popular spot for hiking, camping, and for anyone looking to enjoy the Icelandic outdoors. The forest is located on the eastern side of Lake Lögurinn, adjacent to Route 931.
♦ Kárahnjúkar Dam is the largest and most massive construction project ever built in Iceland, and quickly became a must-see site for travelers, who are awestruck by the sheer size of the structure. A dam of this type is the largest in Europe, stretching roughly 60 km in length and standing 193 meters high.
♦ Below the dam lies Hafrahvammagljúfur Canyon, carved by the long river Jökulsá. The canyon is very impressive and drops to a depth of 200 meters. There is a short walking trail leading to a recommended viewpoint.
♦ A few kilometers north of the dam lies the Laugarvalladalur valley. You will recognize it by the steam rising from the natural hot springs, which gave the valley its name. Travelers are welcome to bathe under the warm, natural waterfall pouring from the cliff, creating an authentic natural shower.
♥ Recommended Lodging in Egilsstadir:
Icelandair Hotel Herad
3-star hotel. Free parking. Located in the town of Egilsstaðir close to Route 1.
Hotel Edda Egilsstadir
Located in the town of Egilsstaðir. Free parking. Free Wi-Fi in public areas. Private shower.
Lyngas Guesthouse
Located in the town of Egilsstaðir close to Route 1. Basic rooms with free Wi-Fi.
Shared bathroom and kitchen.
The East Fjords:
The region features 15 unique fjords that are wonderful to visit. Driving along them offers an extraordinary journey filled with unforgettable landscapes. You will fall in love with the East Fjords even if you do not visit many of them and simply drive past, but if you do wish to visit interesting sights, here is a list of recommended fjords and towns (in order from north to south):
♦ Shore excursion tailored for cruise passengers in the town of Djúpivogur (port pickup):
Shared Group Glacier Lagoon Tour from Djupivogur
The Town of Vopnafjordur
The town is located about 95 km north of Egilsstaðir, roughly an hour and fifteen minutes' drive. The town has around 700 residents and offers several points of interest:
♦ Bustarfell Museum showcases local folk farming heritage. Continue along the trail leading from the museum toward elf rock formations and 4-million-year-old fossils. These fossils may suggest that in the distant past, during the Ice Age, the European continent was connected to Iceland with a land bridge to Scotland.
♦ The prominent, striking cliff of Fuglabjarganes is located on the northern shore of the fjord. The site features a marked hiking trail highly recommended for birdwatching enthusiasts.
♦ Hellisheiði – The highest and steepest mountain pass in Iceland reaches an elevation of 656 meters. The colorful mountains and distinctive scenery provide an unforgettable view. The marked walking trails are highly recommended.
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Did you know? The East Fjords region is over 13 million years old, making it one of the oldest regions in Iceland from a geological perspective. The area gained its distinct shape from the retreat of glaciers that blanketed the region many years ago during the Ice Age. |
Scenery along the drive through the East Fjords:
The Town of Borgarfjordur
The town is situated 70 km northeast of Egilsstaðir, about an hour's drive away. The settlement has only about 130 inhabitants, yet it is a true paradise for nature lovers. The town is considered an ideal spot for birdwatching in general, and Atlantic puffin viewing in particular. Every year, roughly 10,000 puffins arrive at the town's coastline, and a visit is worthwhile just to encounter this special local bird. In addition, it is one of the two largest volcanic areas in Iceland, and as such offers numerous points of interest:
♦ At the entrance to town, you will encounter some of the most dramatic and distinctive mountains in East Iceland, towering to an elevation of 1,136 meters. These are the Dyrfjöll mountains—a massive "door" dominating the skyline and revealing impressive cliffs. In the heart of the mountain range lies the region's best-kept secret, Stórurð. It is a mysterious and captivating place, a labyrinth of massive boulders between which flows a small meadow stream. The stunning turquoise waters nestled amid giant rocks create a scene you will never forget.
♦ The Brúnavík hiking trail is one of the most famous and recommended paths around town. The trail spans 12 km and runs along the town's gorgeous inlet. The hike takes about 5-6 hours along marked trails.
♦ If these descriptions appeal to you and you are interested in an organized tour here, two companies offer excursions of this kind: Icelandic Mountain Guides and Elf Tours.
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Did you know? The town has a long history steeped in folklore about elves and fairies. |
The Town of Seydisfjordur
The town is located about 30 km east of Egilsstaðir, less than half an hour's drive away. The fjord spans 17 km in length and is framed between two high and beautiful peaks: Mount Strandartindur rising to 1,010 meters, and the taller Mount Bjólfur, reaching 1,085 meters.
♦ Mount Bjólfur – A hiking trail leading to an altitude of 600 meters on the mountain brings you to one of the most renowned and beloved viewpoints in Iceland. The mountain looks out over the entire fjord, offering a breathtaking panoramic view. To reach the trail from Egilsstaðir, take Route 93; however, halfway through, the road turns into an unpaved gravel track that can be quite challenging to drive. A good 4x4 vehicle is required to continue. If you arrive in a standard passenger vehicle, you can park midway along the road near the tall monument on the right side and continue on foot toward the viewpoint. The walk takes about an hour and a half each way. On the way up to the viewpoint, you will also pass by the impressive Gufufoss waterfall.
♦ Vestdalur – In this unique nature reserve, you will find a picturesque valley located about one kilometer north of town. It features a hiking trail renowned for the numerous waterfalls along the way—especially recommended for nature lovers who appreciate lush, cascading landscapes.
♦ Austdalur – The starting point of a recommended hiking route leading out toward Mjóifjörður fjord. You should allocate at least half a day for this trail. Austdalur is situated about half an hour's drive east along the fjord. The fjord itself is 18 km long and 2 km wide, and the road leading to it is accessible only during the summer months. At the fjord, you will find striking viewpoints, a lighthouse, as well as a local restaurant and hotel.
♦ At the southern end of the fjord lies Skálanes Nature Reserve, highly recommended for nature lovers. The reserve is rich in diverse plant life and numerous bird species, making it ideal for a tranquil day walk.
♦ "Mountain Champion" - The local hiking club has placed weatherproof boxes containing summit guest books atop seven different peaks throughout the area. You can log your personal journey and leave your mark for travelers following in your footsteps. A map showing mountain names and route descriptions can be obtained at the visitor center. This is a delightful, distinctive challenge for avid hikers.
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Did you know? In the northern part of the fjord lies the farm Dvergasteinn, where a church once stood that was relocated twice: once in the early 19th century and again in 1920. |
View from Mount Bjolfur (Photo: Ido Barak):
Gufufoss Waterfall (Photo: Ido Barak):
The Town of Reydarfjordur
The town is located 34 km south of Egilsstaðir and has a population of over 2,200. It sits along the shores of the widest and longest of the East Fjords, featuring several scenic highlights:
♦ Grænafell - A wooded and inviting hiking area located on the slopes of the mountain by the same name. An easy, marked trail leads up to the mountain from the Fagradalur valley. There is another beautiful hiking trail running along the river Geithúsaá. These trails are among the most popular and cherished by hikers in the region.
♦ World War II Museum - During the war, the fjord served as a key Allied military base. The armed forces made strategic use of the harbor facilities and stationed numerous troops here. History buffs can visit the local museum, which commemorates Allied operations in Iceland during wartime. The museum is open during the summer months only (June 1 – August 31), 7 days a week.
The Town of Eskifjordur
The town is situated approximately 50 km southeast of Egilsstaðir, only a fifteen-minute drive between Reyðarfjörður and Eskifjörður (driving along Route 92).
♦ The peak of Hólmatindur rises 985 meters above the fjord. The climb to the top is demanding and suitable for experienced hikers only, but once you reach the summit you will never tire of the dramatic panoramic vista opening before your eyes. At the summit, you will find guestbooks where you can document your impressions.
♦ Between Reyðarfjörður and Eskifjörður lies the Hólmanes Nature Reserve. Here you will find many diverse bird species alongside uniquely shaped rock formations. It is a fantastic setting for outdoor adventures along the cliff edges and coastline.
♦ Helgustaðanáma – A spar (Iceland spar crystal) mine famous both within Iceland and globally. The mine is located a short distance from the fjord, reached via a walking trail. The site is designated as a protected nature reserve, and removing crystals from the mine is strictly prohibited.
Nordfjordur Fjord
The fjord is situated roughly 70 km from Egilsstaðir, at the end of Route 92.
♦ In town, massive avalanche barriers have been built to safeguard the community from winter snowslides. Marked walking paths lead up to the tops of these structures, providing sweeping scenic vistas. Additionally, trails lead from the ridges toward the Neskaupstaður nature reserve—an overlook you simply cannot miss!
♦ The easternmost point of Iceland is called Gerpir. It features a majestic cliff rising to a height of 661 meters, offering breathtaking views over the surrounding fjords. Walking along the edge of this promontory, formed over 12 million years ago, is an unforgettable experience.
♦ Páskahellir Cave was carved out by ocean waves relentlessly crashing into the rock walls and eroding hollows. Beside the cave are the fossilized remains of ancient trees engulfed in lava following a volcanic eruption 12 million years ago. The eruption left behind striking basalt formations, which you can explore along convenient, marked trails.
The Town of Stodvarfjordur
The town is located about 70 km south of Egilsstaðir, along Route 96. It is a cozy coastal village with only about 200 inhabitants.
♦ Petra's Stone Collection - Petra was a kind local woman who collected minerals and stones since 1946. Her collection fills her home and the vibrant garden alongside it. The rock shapes and minerals are extraordinary and well worth exploring. The property is open to the public for visits throughout the house and garden.
♦ A walking trail in the Jafnadalur valley leads to the northern edge of the fjord, where you will encounter an impressive natural phenomenon: the distinctive Einbúi rocks standing solitary and tall, hard to miss against the landscape.
♦ Saxa - Near the ocean waves you will find a formation resembling a geyser, though it is actually caused by sea surges forcing water up through clefts in the shoreline rocks rather than subterranean geothermal activity. The waves crash violently into the fissures, sending dramatic plumes of spray into the air.
The Town of Berufjordur
The town is located an hour's drive south of Egilsstaðir along Route 1. The fjord stretches 20 km in length and offers a variety of attractions:
♦ Berufjarðarskarð is a gorgeous walking pass connecting the community of Breiðdalsvík / Breiðdalur with the fjord itself. The trail passes among striking volcanic formations and involves an ascent of 700 meters. You should allow 3-4 hours for this hike.
♦ Meleyri is a lovely black-sand beach distinctly different from ordinary shorelines. The coast is ideal for birdwatching and scenic shoreline strolls.
♦ Beljandi is one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the area. The route is accessible primarily by 4x4 vehicles, though there is a marked footpath branching off Route 964. Nearby along this road also sits Flögufoss waterfall, which cascades through an opening in the rock face and plunges 60 meters down.
More Adventure Activities in East Iceland:
♦ Horseback Riding: A wonderful way to experience the scenery of the East Fjords is from the saddle.
Icelandic Farm Holidays offers various tours, including trail rides in Vopnafjörður. Located 60 km north of Egilsstaðir in Húsey, another local outfit carries the town name and provides guided horseback tours ranging from 2 hours up to 2 days.
♦ A full-day trip to volcano Askja and its surroundings can be booked here through the trusted Viator platform:
Askja and Holuhraun Day Tour from Lake Myvatn The tour departs from Lake Mývatn (from the information center office, or with hotel pickup around the lake area).
♦ Hiking: Walking trails in East Iceland offer travelers unspoiled nature, dramatic scenery, and an exceptional atmosphere. Out of Borgarfjörður, fantastic guided excursions explore the local area, focusing primarily on regional geology and folklore history. In addition, tour operator Tanni Travel offers guided trips for groups, families, and solo travelers.
♦ Skiing: 17 km from Egilsstaðir is a ski area offering winter sports enthusiasts a variety of runs. The main ski slope runs for 1,000 meters, alongside an area suited for children. In the Eskifjörður fjord area, there is another ski center operated by Oddsskarð. Ski equipment rentals are available on site.
♦ Fishing: An unforgettable angling experience in the fjord of Seyðisfjörður. Head out on a fully equipped boat over the deep blue fjord waters. After your catch, you can prepare the fish on site and savor freshly caught seafood.
♦ Swimming Pools: You can enjoy Iceland's relaxing heated pools in the east as well, located in Egilsstadir and in Eskifjordur.