Northeast

Austurland

Plan your trip to Northeast

Northeast Iceland is a remote and rugged region where dramatic waterfalls, pristine wilderness, and untouched nature dominate the landscape. Centered around the gateway town of Egilsstaðir, this corner of Iceland offers adventurous travelers a chance to experience Iceland's raw beauty away from the crowds. The region is best explored during summer months when roads are passable and hiking conditions are optimal.

Getting there & around

Fly into Egilsstaðir Airport (also serving Akureyri flights), which is the main transport hub for Northeast Iceland. From there, rent a car to explore the region—driving is essential as public transport is limited. The Ring Road (Route 1) connects Egilsstaðir to other parts of Iceland, though winter conditions can make driving challenging in this remote area.

How long to stay

Plan 3-4 days minimum to experience the region's highlights, including waterfalls, hiking, and coastal scenery. A full week allows for deeper exploration of remote valleys and less-visited attractions.

When to go

June to September offers the best conditions for visiting, with mild weather, long daylight hours, and accessible hiking trails and roads. October to May sees harsh winter conditions, snow-blocked routes, and severely limited daylight, making travel difficult for all but the most experienced adventurers.

Suggested itinerary

  1. Arrive in Egilsstaðir & Explore Town — Arrive at Egilsstaðir Airport and pick up your rental car, then explore the region's main town and settle into your accommodation. Use this day to stock up on supplies and get oriented before heading into the wilderness.
  2. Waterfall & Coastal Day — Drive to nearby waterfalls and coastal areas accessible from Egilsstaðir, taking short hikes to experience the region's dramatic water features and seascapes. This day suits all fitness levels and introduces you to Northeast Iceland's distinctive geography.
  3. Mountain Hiking & Remote Exploration — Venture into the highlands for a full-day hiking adventure, exploring remote valleys and untouched terrain. Return to Egilsstaðir by evening, or extend your stay to explore further east toward the coast.

Frequently asked questions

Is Northeast Iceland worth visiting?

Yes, if you seek solitude and raw wilderness away from Iceland's tourist hotspots. The region offers dramatic waterfalls, pristine hiking, and authentic Icelandic nature, but requires more planning and a rental car than more accessible areas.

How do I get to Northeast Iceland?

Fly into Egilsstaðir Airport, which receives international flights or connections via Reykjavik. Rent a car at the airport, as it's the only practical way to explore the remote region.

Can you drive to Northeast Iceland in winter?

Driving is very challenging and not recommended for most travelers from October to May due to snow, ice, and short daylight hours. Roads can close unexpectedly, and conditions change rapidly in this remote region.

What's the closest airport to Northeast Iceland?

Egilsstaðir Airport (KEF) is the primary gateway, located in the heart of the region. Alternatively, you can fly into Keflavik International Airport near Reykjavik and drive 5+ hours to reach Northeast Iceland.

Do I need 4WD to explore Northeast Iceland?

For summer travel on main roads, a regular rental car is sufficient, but 4WD is recommended if you plan to venture onto mountain roads or F-roads (rough highland routes). Always check road conditions before traveling.

History

Northeast Iceland, known as Austurland, has long been shaped by its isolation and harsh volcanic landscape. Settled by Norse Vikings in the 9th century, the region developed a distinct identity through fishing and sheep farming, with small coastal communities becoming the lifeblood of the area. During Iceland's medieval period, Austurland remained relatively remote, and this remoteness persisted into modern times, creating a strong sense of local pride and resilience. The 20th century brought gradual modernization, though the region's character has remained deeply rooted in its seafaring heritage and connection to nature.

Culture

Austurland is characterized by a deep connection to the sea and mountains, with fishing traditions forming the backbone of its culture and economy. The people of the region are known for their warmth and storytelling, maintaining strong ties to Iceland's Viking heritage and folklore. What distinguishes Austurland is its stunning wilderness areas, including the dramatic Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and vast highlands, which continue to shape both daily life and regional identity.

Language

The Icelandic spoken in Austurland carries subtle dialectal features, though it remains mutually intelligible with standard Icelandic across the nation. Useful local phrases include "Halló" for hello and "Takk fyrir" meaning thank you, and visitors will find that locals deeply appreciate any effort to engage with the Icelandic language.

Best time to visit

Visit June to September for hiking and waterfalls, as winter roads can be challenging in this remote region.

Places to visit

Where to eat