Discovering East Iceland: A Full Guide

The Best Places to Visit in East Iceland

East Iceland, with its rugged landscapes and beautiful fjords, is home to some of the country's most captivating sights.

Vatnajökull National Park

It’s quite unfair to list this amazing national park, one of the three that there are in Iceland, as it covers 14% of the national territory. It’s, in fact, the largest national park in Europe. But it’s true that Vatnajökull National Park has a good part inside the east region. This place is one of the reasons for the ice in Iceland.

The park is named after a huge glacier, and is characterized by its constant interaction between Iceland's fire and ice, as there’s volcanic activity happening underneath the ice, creating unique formations. The park is also home to many ice caves, and some of them can be explored.

The main attractions in the park are: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Skaftafell, Dettifoss, and Hvannadalshnúkur, among others.

Seyðisfjörður

One of the best-known towns in East Iceland is Seyðisfjörður, located at the end of a long fjord. It’s known for its colorful wooden houses, vibrant art scene, and rich history. The drive to Seyðisfjörður over Fjarðarheiði Pass is an adventure in itself, offering panoramic views of mountains and waterfalls.

Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss Waterfalls

Iceland is well known for its waterfalls, offering a huge variety in size and shape. In the east of the country, you can find two that are not short of spectacular. And they are really close to one another, with a trail that connects them both.

Hengifoss is one of Iceland's tallest waterfalls, with a dramatic drop down a 128-meter (420 feet) cliff, surrounded by striking basalt columns. The hike to Hengifoss takes you past Litlanesfoss, another stunning waterfall framed by hexagonal basalt formations. The trek is moderately challenging but rewards you with breathtaking views.

Stórurð

If you like hiking, then Stórurð should be on your list. This unique area is known for its giant boulders, turquoise ponds, and lush green valleys, creating a place that looks like no other and that's perfect for a day hike. The trail to Stórurð offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and is especially beautiful in the summer when wildflowers are in full bloom.

Vök Baths

Get to Lake Urriðavatn to discover Vök Baths, a unique geothermal spa experience in East Iceland. These baths are less known than others in the country, and for that reason Vök is a more intimate and serene location, where you can soak in hot pools while enjoying views of the surrounding nature. The floating pools, built directly into the lake, offer a one-of-a-kind way to unwind after a day of exploring.

The Eastfjords

East Iceland is shaped by its fjords, that stretch along the coast of the region. Exploring them is one of the highlights in this part of the country, as each fjord has its own charm. They are dotted with nice fishing villages, colorful houses, and impressive settings. Don't miss the fjords of Borgarfjörður Eystri, known for its puffin colonies and hiking trails, or the tranquil beauty of Mjóifjörður, one of Iceland's most secluded fjords.

Lagarfljót

This large lake, situated near the town of Egilsstaðir, is the Icelandic equivalent to Loch Ness. It’s famous for the Lagarfljótsormur, a legendary sea monster said to live in its waters. While it’s quite unlikely to see the creature, the lake itself is stunning, surrounded by dense forests and mountains. Nearby, you'll find the Hallormsstaðaskógur forest, Iceland's largest forest, which offers a variety of hiking and cycling trails.

Djúpivogur

Djúpivogur is a charming coastal village with a rich history and a strong connection to the arts. This town is the oldest settlement in the region. The village is known for hosting a unique outdoor exhibition called "Eggin í Gleðivík”, by sculptor Sigurður Guðmundsson. It’s a series of giant granite eggs representing the different bird species in the area.

It’s the only city in Iceland that promotes the slow movement, an initiative that looks to improve the quality of life of the citizens by taking a slower and more thoughtful approach to their daily lives.

Víknaslóðir Trails

Víknaslóðir is a network of hiking paths that offer some of the most spectacular views in East Iceland. The trails range from short day hikes to multi-day treks that will take you through isolated fjords, abandoned farms, and untouched wilderness. This network of trails is a fantastic way to get to know some less-known parts of the region.

Petra's Stone Collection

If you are into geology, this is a stop you’ve got to make. Get to the village of Stöðvarfjörður to see one of Iceland’s most particular collections: Petra’s Stone Collection. A local woman called Petra Sveinsdóttir gathered, over the decades, thousands of rocks and minerals and are now displayed in her home and garden. The collection shows the amazing variety of geological elements that make up the country.

Eskifjörður

This small fishing town is one of the hidden gems of East Iceland. Eskifjörður is known for its well-preserved historic buildings, easy-going lifestyle, and access to outdoor activities like hiking and, in winter, skiing. You can also learn about the local fishing history in the town’s maritime museum. There are lots of beautiful mountains nearby where you can go hiking.

Papey Island

Papey Island, just off the coast near Djúpivogur, is one of Iceland’s hotspots for birdwatching. It’s particularly known for its large puffin colony. The island was inhabited from the first settlements in Iceland until the mid-20th Century. There’s still an old lighthouse, a church, and the ruins of a farm. You can take a boat from Djúpivogur if you want to visit the island.

Activities in East Iceland

Most of the things to see and do in Iceland are outdoors, and the East region is no different. There are plenty of things here that allow you to connect with nature and experience the region's unique landscapes.

Hiking

One of the best ways to discover the region is by foot. Hiking is a fantastic option to explore East Iceland's rugged terrain. There are hundreds of hiking trails in the region, with options for different levels of difficulty and length.

Popular hikes include the trail to Stórurð; the loop around Seyðisfjörður; and the paths through Hallormsstaðaskógur forest. For those seeking a more immersive experience with nature, there are multi-day hikes in some of the most remote areas of the region. The Víknaslóðir trails near Borgarfjörður Eystri is a popular option.

Wildlife Watching

East Iceland is home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great destination for birdwatching and whale watching. The cliffs of Borgarfjörður Eystri and Papey Island are home to large colonies of puffins. It’s also pretty common to spot seals in the fjords and, occasionally, whales. Summer is usually the best season to see animals in their natural habitat.

Fishing

Fishing culture has played a crucial role in East Iceland's culture. The rivers and lakes in the region are full of fish, and there are plenty of opportunities to catch some. Lagarfljót is known for its Arctic char and huge trout –not to mention the lake’s monster. The rivers of Breiðdalsá and Jökulsá í Fljótsdal are popular for salmon fishing. In most of these places you will need a license that can be obtained locally.

Skiing and Snowboarding

In the winter, East Iceland transforms into a fantastic spot for winter sports, with excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Close to the town of Eskifjörður we can find Oddsskarð, one of Iceland's best ski resorts, with good slopes, cross-country trails, and stunning views of the surrounding fjords.

If you are not that into skiing, the region's snowy landscapes are perfect for snowshoeing or simply enjoying the looks of the region in winter.

Geothermal Swimming

No trip to Iceland is complete without a bath in a geothermal pool, and East Iceland has some fantastic options. In addition to Vök Baths, there are several smaller, more rustic hot springs throughout the region. One of the most popular is Laugarfell, located in the highlands near Kárahnjúkar. The hot spring here is surrounded by great mountains, offering a peaceful and scenic spot to relax.

What's the Weather Like in East Iceland?

The weather in East Iceland, like in the whole country, can be as varied as its natural wonders. However, generally, the region has a milder climate than the rest of Iceland, thanks to its location sheltered by mountains and its proximity to the sea. But, still, the weather can change and be quite different within the same season. Even on the same day, notable changes can be experienced.

Summer (June to August): Summer in East Iceland is characterized by long daylight hours and relatively mild temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). This is the best time to visit if you want to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife watching. However, even in summer, it's wise to pack warm layers, as temperatures can drop in the evenings and in the highlands. The best way to adapt to the changes is wearing layers that can be added or removed.

Autumn (September and October): Autumn brings cooler temperatures and a gradual decrease in the number of daylight hours. On the other hand, the forests look especially nice with the different colors of the fall. The temperatures range between 5°C and 10°C (41°F to 50°F) and a higher chance of rain than in summer. The region becomes quieter as the tourist season winds down, making it a great time to visit if you prefer being on your own. By the end of October, the first days of snow can be expected.

Winter (November to March): Winters in East Iceland are long and cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snow is common, especially in the mountains, creating perfect conditions for skiing and snowboarding. However, the roads can be challenging to navigate due to ice and snow, so it's essential to check conditions regularly and be prepared for delays. Some may even be closed due to adverse weather.

Spring (April and May): Spring is a transitional season, with temperatures slowly warming up and the landscape coming back to life. Early spring can still feel like winter, but by May, the region is blooming with wildflowers and the days are getting longer. Temperatures go from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F), and while the weather is generally improving, it's still unpredictable, and rain is frequent.

Travel Tips

• Plan ahead for accommodation: East Iceland is less prepared for tourism than other parts of the country. While this might be a plus, it also means that accommodation options can be limited, especially during the peak summer season. Booking in advance is highly recommended, whether you're staying in a hotel, guesthouse, or camping.
• Rent a car: To fully experience East Iceland, having your own vehicle is almost essential. The region's attractions are spread out, and public transportation options are limited. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended if you plan to explore the highlands or visit remote areas, as some roads can be rough and unpaved.
• Be prepared for the weather: The weather here can be unpredictable, so it's important to pack layers and waterproof gear, even in the summer. Always check the weather forecast before heading out, especially if you're planning outdoor activities.
• Respect nature and wildlife: Iceland's natural beauty is the country’s most important treasure, and it’s everyone's duty to help preserve it. Stick to marked trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and take your trash with you. The "leave no trace" principle is especially important in remote areas.