East

Austurland (suður)

Plan your trip to East

East Iceland is a rugged, less-visited region dominated by Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier, and a dramatic coastline of remote fjords and black sand beaches. This corner of Iceland offers pristine wilderness, excellent hiking, and glacier adventures with far fewer tourists than the south coast. The region's capital, Höfn, serves as the main hub for exploring one of Iceland's most untamed landscapes.

Getting there & around

Fly into Keflavík International Airport (near Reykjavik) and rent a car to drive the Ring Road (Route 1) southeast to East Iceland—about 5-6 hours to Höfn. Alternatively, take a domestic flight to Egilsstaðir in the northeast, then drive 4-5 hours south to Höfn. No train service reaches this region, so a rental car is essential for exploring the fjords and glacier access points.

How long to stay

Plan for 4-6 days in East Iceland to experience Vatnajökull glacier, the eastern fjords, and Höfn's surroundings without rushing. A shorter 3-day trip is possible if you're only doing a glacier tour and one fjord excursion, but the region rewards slower exploration.

When to go

June to September offers stable weather, accessible glacier tours, and fully open mountain roads—July and August are warmest but busiest. May and October are shoulder seasons with fewer tourists and decent conditions, though some glacier tours and mountain routes may be limited.

Suggested itinerary

  1. Arrive in Höfn and Explore the Coast — Reach Höfn and explore the coastal town, including the harbor and local seafood restaurants. Take a short drive along Route 1 to spot glacial rivers, black sand beaches, and the dramatic view of Vatnajökull across the plains.
  2. Vatnajökull Glacier Tour — Join a guided glacier hiking or ice cave tour on Vatnajökull—book in advance as tours fill quickly. The experience provides close-up views of crevasses, seracs, and the glacier's ever-changing surface.
  3. Eastern Fjords and Mountain Roads — Drive into the eastern fjords via smaller roads like Route 94 to Egilsstaðir or explore the Eastfjords' fishing villages and hiking trails. Stop at viewpoints overlooking the fjords and visit small communities like Seyðisfjörður if weather permits.

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to hike on Vatnajökull glacier alone?

No—hiking on Vatnajökull without a guide is dangerous due to crevasses, sudden weather changes, and hidden meltwater streams. Always book a professional glacier tour operator in Höfn.

Can you drive to Vatnajökull glacier?

You can drive to glacier access points and visitor centers near Vatnajökull, but to actually walk on the glacier, you must join a guided tour. The nearest drive-up point is Skaftafell, about an hour west of Höfn.

How many days do you need in East Iceland?

3 days is the minimum for a glacier tour and basic exploration, but 4-6 days lets you experience multiple fjords, hiking trails, and the region properly without feeling rushed.

What is the weather like in East Iceland?

Summer (June-August) brings mild temperatures (10-15°C) and long daylight hours, while winter is dark and cold (-5 to 0°C). The region is windy year-round, and mountain weather can change rapidly even in summer.

Do you need a 4x4 car in East Iceland?

A regular car suffices for Route 1 and main roads to Höfn, but a 4x4 is necessary for mountain passes and F-roads leading into the fjords, especially outside summer months. Check road conditions before traveling.

History

Southeast Iceland has long been shaped by its dramatic glacial and volcanic landscape, with settlements historically concentrated in the narrow coastal strips where fishing and farming were possible. The region's development accelerated in the 20th century as improved transportation and the fishing industry brought prosperity to towns like Egilsstaðir. The construction of the Ring Road in stages through the latter half of the 1900s connected previously isolated communities and transformed the region's economy and demographics. Today, the southeast remains defined by its frontier character, combining traditional Icelandic heritage with the resilience required to thrive in one of the country's most challenging environments.

Culture

The southeast is known for its fiercely independent spirit and strong connection to fishing traditions, with the local community maintaining deep ties to the sea despite the region's remoteness. The landscape itself dominates local culture, inspiring distinctive artistic expressions and a profound respect for nature's power, evident in local folklore and the way residents engage with the dramatic glaciers, mountains, and fjords. Visitors often note the genuine warmth and storytelling tradition of southeast Icelanders, who embrace both their heritage and the modern tourism that has reshaped the region in recent decades.

Language

The local dialect spoken in Southeast Iceland carries distinctive features characteristic of East Iceland, with subtle pronunciation and vocabulary differences from standard Reykjavik Icelandic. Useful phrases include 'Halló' for hello and 'Takk' for thank you, though English is widely spoken among younger residents and in tourist areas.

Best time to visit

Visit June to September to explore Vatnajökull glacier and eastern fjords without severe weather conditions.

Places to visit

Where to eat