Did you know? Lake Lagarfljót is home to Iceland's legendary lake monster, Lagarfljótsormurinn. Sightings of the mysterious creature have been reported for centuries.
History of East Iceland
East Iceland is one of Iceland's most distinctive regions, offering visitors unique landscapes, rich history, and authentic Icelandic experiences.
Top Attractions in East Iceland
From rainbow towns to basalt canyons and ancient legends
Álfaborg (Elf Rock) Borgarfjörður Eystri
Rising dramatically above the fishing village of Borgarfjörður Eystri, Álfaborg is one of Iceland's most famous elf dwellings. The mountain's vibrant orange, red, and purple rhyolite formations create an otherworldly landscape that locals have long associated with the hidden people. According to folklore, this is the residence of the Elf Queen herself, and many Icelanders refuse to disturb the rocks or build near the mountain out of respect for its inhabitants.
Learn more →Borgarfjörður Eystri Elf Capital
Borgarfjörður Eystri is a stunning fjord and tiny village in East Iceland, renowned as Iceland's elf capital. The colorful rhyolite mountains create a magical landscape. The Álfaborg (Elf City) rock formation is believed to be the home of the elf queen of Iceland.
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Borgarfjörður Eystri
Borgarfjörður Eystri is a unique destination and attraction in East Iceland. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Private Silfra Snorkeling 6 p. group - Meet on Location - with Underwater Photos
From $899
Book NowBreiðamerkurfjall Mountain Viewpoint
Breiðamerkurfjall provides one of the most dramatic viewpoints in Southeast Iceland, overlooking the vast Vatnajökull ice cap, glacier tongues, and coastal lagoons. The viewpoint is reached via a moderately challenging hike that rewards visitors with 360-degree panoramas. On clear days, you can see from the glacier to the Atlantic Ocean, including Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.
Learn more →Breiðdalsvík Village
A remote fishing village in a stunning fjord valley surrounded by towering mountains. Whether you're drawn by dramatic landscapes, fascinating history, or unique experiences, this site offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Búlandstindur
Búlandstindur is a unique destination and attraction in East Iceland. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Private Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 2 Day Tour & Glacier Hike
From $7240
Book NowDjúpivogur Village & Eggin í Gleðivík
Djúpivogur is a small fishing village on Iceland's east coast, known for its colourful harbour and the famous Eggin í Gleðivík egg sculpture sculpture walk — 34 large granite eggs representing bird species found in the area, placed along the shoreline.
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Dyrfjöll
Dyrfjöll is a remarkable natural wonder in East Iceland. This breathtaking natural attraction showcases the diverse and dramatic landscapes that make Iceland one of the world's most unique destinations. From its geological formations to its rich biodiversity, this site offers an unforgettable experience.
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East Iceland Heritage Museum
East Iceland Heritage Museum is a cultural attraction in East Iceland. This museum offers visitors fascinating insights into Iceland's rich history and heritage. Explore captivating exhibitions and learn about the country's people, traditions and remarkable story from the age of the Vikings to today.
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Private 2-Day Glacier Lagoon, Ice Cave and Northern Lights
From $7400
Book NowEastfjords Scenic Route
The Eastfjords offer some of Iceland's most dramatic and remote scenery, with narrow fjords, steep mountainsides, and charming fishing villages accessible via winding coastal roads. Highlights include colorful Seyðisfjörður and the puffin cliffs at Borgarfjörður Eystri.
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Egilsstaðir
Egilsstaðir is a unique destination and attraction in East Iceland. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Eskifjörður
Eskifjörður is a vibrant neighborhood and destination in East Iceland. Explore the unique character and charm of this area, with its mix of culture, architecture and local life. From colorful buildings to local cafes and shops, this part of Iceland offers an authentic glimpse into daily Icelandic life.
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Reykjavik Private Northern Lights Tour with Pro Photographer
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Book NowFáskrúðsfjörur Village
A historic Eastfjords village with strong French heritage from 19th-century fishing fleets. Whether you're drawn by dramatic landscapes, fascinating history, or unique experiences, this site offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Fáskrúðsfjörður
Fáskrúðsfjörður is a historic site in East Iceland. This important landmark offers a fascinating window into Iceland's rich past. With roots stretching back to the Viking Age and beyond, the site preserves stories of the people and events that shaped modern Iceland.
Learn more →Gufufoss Waterfall
Gufufoss is a beautiful waterfall on the Fjarðarheiði mountain pass between Egilsstaðir and Seyðisfjörður. The falls plunge into a narrow gorge surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. It's easily accessible from the roadside, making it a popular photo stop.
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Glacier Adventure at Sólheimajökull Private Tour
From $389.7
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Hallormsstaðaskógur
Hallormsstaðaskógur is a remarkable natural wonder in East Iceland. This breathtaking natural attraction showcases the diverse and dramatic landscapes that make Iceland one of the world's most unique destinations. From its geological formations to its rich biodiversity, this site offers an unforgettable experience.
Learn more →Hallormsstaðaskógur Forest
Hallormsstaðaskógur is Iceland's largest forest, covering the slopes above the eastern shore of Lagarfljót lake. Trails wind through birch and conifer woodland, offering a rare green escape in Iceland's otherwise open landscape.
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Hengifoss
Hengifoss is a unique destination and attraction in East Iceland. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Visit the Volcanoes - Half Day Private Tour - up to 9 passengers
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Book NowHengifoss Waterfall
Iceland's third highest waterfall at 128 metres with distinctive red clay layers in the cliff face. The surrounding landscape adds to the dramatic setting, making it a rewarding stop for photographers and nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy the sound of cascading water and the mist that catches the light on sunny days, sometimes creating beautiful rainbows.
Learn more →Humarhöfnin (Langoustine Haven)
Humarhöfnin is located in Höfn harbor, East Iceland.
Learn more →Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Jökulsárlón is Iceland's most famous glacier lagoon, a breathtaking natural wonder where massive icebergs calve from Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and float through the deep lagoon before drifting out to sea. The lagoon has quadrupled in size since 1975 due to climate change. Boat tours navigate among the ice sculptures, and seals are frequently spotted.
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Klifbrekkufossar
Klifbrekkufossar is a stunning waterfall located in East Iceland. This magnificent cascade showcases the raw power and beauty of Iceland's landscape. Fed by glacial meltwater and rainfall, the waterfall is a spectacular sight in all seasons, surrounded by dramatic lava rock formations.
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Lake Lagarfljót
Lake Lagarfljót is a remarkable natural wonder in East Iceland. This breathtaking natural attraction showcases the diverse and dramatic landscapes that make Iceland one of the world's most unique destinations. From its geological formations to its rich biodiversity, this site offers an unforgettable experience.
Learn more →Lagarfljót Lake
Lagarfljót is Iceland's third largest lake and the longest, stretching 53 km through the valley of Fljótsdalur. It is famous for its murky glacial waters and the legend of the Lagarfljótsormur — Iceland's own lake monster.
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Litlanesfoss
Litlanesfoss is a stunning waterfall located in East Iceland. This magnificent cascade showcases the raw power and beauty of Iceland's landscape. Fed by glacial meltwater and rainfall, the waterfall is a spectacular sight in all seasons, surrounded by dramatic lava rock formations.
Learn more →Litlanesfoss Waterfall
Litlanesfoss is located on the trail to Hengifoss in East Iceland, approximately 20 minutes' walk from the trailhead. Key features: - Height: ~30 metres - Exceptional basalt column formations - On trail to Hengifoss - First waterfall encountered on hike Access: - Same trailhead as Hengifoss - 20-minute walk from parking - Viewpoint platform Combine with: Hengifoss (continue 20 min further) Visit duration: 10–15 minutes (or part of Hengifoss hike).
Learn more →Mjóifjörður — Narrow Fjord
Mjóifjörður is located in East Iceland between Reyðarfjörður and Seyðisfjörður. Key features: - Narrow uninhabited fjord - Steep vertical cliffs - Multiple waterfalls cascading into fjord - Abandoned lighthouse at fjord head - Complete isolation Access: - **Route 953**: Narrow gravel road from Route 1 - Mountain pass (steep, winding) - 4x4 recommended (not required but helpful) - Summer only (closed winter) - Single-lane sections Highlights: - **Waterfalls**: Multiple cascades down cliffs - **Mjóafjarðarnes lighthouse**: Abandoned (1947-1988) - Ruined farm ruins - Dramatic cliffside scenery Isolation: - No permanent residents - No services - Cell signal sporadic - Few tourists (most skip it) Combine with: Route 1 Eastfjords, Seyðisfjörður, Reyðarfjörður Visit duration: 2-3 hours (drive + exploration). Nearby: Reyðarfjörður (40 km).
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Mjóifjörður
Mjóifjörður is a vibrant neighborhood and destination in East Iceland. Explore the unique character and charm of this area, with its mix of culture, architecture and local life. From colorful buildings to local cafes and shops, this part of Iceland offers an authentic glimpse into daily Icelandic life.
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Neskaupstaður
Neskaupstaður is a vibrant neighborhood and destination in East Iceland. Explore the unique character and charm of this area, with its mix of culture, architecture and local life. From colorful buildings to local cafes and shops, this part of Iceland offers an authentic glimpse into daily Icelandic life.
Learn more →Papey Island
Papey is a small island off the east coast of Iceland, accessible by boat from Djúpivogur. It may have been inhabited by Irish monks before Norse settlement and today hosts one of Iceland's largest concentrations of puffins alongside a historic 19th-century lighthouse.
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Petras Stone Collection
Petras Stone Collection is a unique destination and attraction in East Iceland. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Reyðarfjörður
Reyðarfjörður is a vibrant neighborhood and destination in East Iceland. Explore the unique character and charm of this area, with its mix of culture, architecture and local life. From colorful buildings to local cafes and shops, this part of Iceland offers an authentic glimpse into daily Icelandic life.
Learn more →Rjúkandifoss Waterfall
Rjúkandifoss is located along Route 1 in the Eastfjords region of East Iceland. Key features: - Height: 100+ metres (multiple tiers) - Visible from Ring Road - Red scree slope backdrop - Rainbow potential in spray Access: - Route 1 (Ring Road) - Roadside pullout - No hike required - Free, open year-round Nearby: Egilsstaðir, Eastfjords villages Visit duration: 10–15 minutes (photo stop).
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Seyðisfjörður
Seyðisfjörður is a unique destination and attraction in East Iceland. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
Learn more →Seyðisfjörður Fjord & Rainbow Street
Seyðisfjörður is one of Iceland's most charming towns, nestled at the end of a stunning fjord surrounded by waterfalls and mountains. The town is famous for its rainbow-painted street leading to the blue church, symbolizing diversity and welcome. The well-preserved wooden houses date from the early 20th century.
Learn more →Seyðisfjörður Town
Picturesque fjord village with colorful wooden houses, blue church, rainbow street, and artistic community — gateway to Faroe Islands ferry. The town's history reflects the broader patterns of Icelandic settlement and development, while its present-day character combines traditional charm with modern amenities.
Learn more →Skaftfell Center for Visual Art
Contemporary art center in Seyðisfjörður hosting exhibitions, residencies and cultural events. Through carefully curated exhibitions, interactive displays, and authentic artifacts, the museum creates an engaging and educational experience. It serves as both a community resource and a destination for travelers seeking deeper understanding of Icelandic culture.
Learn more →Skálanes Nature Reserve
Skálanes is a remote organic farm and nature reserve at the head of Seyðisfjörður, accessible by a rough mountain track. The reserve protects important bird habitats and offers some of the most pristine and isolated wilderness in East Iceland.
Learn more →Skriðuklaustur Medieval Monastery
Skriðuklaustur was Iceland's only monastery, founded in 1493 and operated until the Reformation in 1550. Archaeological excavations have revealed fascinating insights into medieval Icelandic monastic life. Today, the site includes a museum displaying artifacts from the monastery and the residence of author Gunnar Gunnarsson.
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Skrúður Island
Skrúður Island is a unique destination and attraction in East Iceland. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
Learn more →Stöðvarfjörður Village
A tiny fjord village famous for its mineral collection museum and beautiful coastal setting. Whether you're drawn by dramatic landscapes, fascinating history, or unique experiences, this site offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Stokksnes
Stokksnes is a stunning beach located in East Iceland. This dramatic coastal area features Iceland's distinctive black volcanic sand, shaped by powerful ocean waves. The beach offers dramatic views of the sea and surrounding landscape, and is home to diverse marine wildlife including seals and seabirds.
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Stórurð
Stórurð is a unique destination and attraction in East Iceland. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
Learn more →Stórurð (The Giant Boulders)
Stórurð is one of East Iceland's most stunning hidden treasures - a high mountain valley filled with gigantic boulders scattered around bright turquoise pools. The 4-hour round trip hike is challenging but incredibly rewarding. The surreal landscape feels otherworldly, with massive rocks creating natural bridges and shelters.
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Stuðlagil Canyon
Stuðlagil Canyon is a remarkable volcanic wonder in East Iceland. This dramatic landscape was shaped by powerful volcanic forces over thousands of years. Visitors can witness the raw geological power of Iceland's volcanic heritage through dramatic lava fields, craters and unique rock formations.
Learn more →Stuðlagil Canyon
Spectacular canyon with towering basalt columns and bright turquoise glacial river — Iceland's hidden gem discovered in 2017. The interplay of water, volcanic rock, and time has created a landscape of extraordinary beauty, with columns, overhangs, and formations that make it one of Iceland's most impressive geological features.
Learn more →Vestrahorn Mountain & Stokksnes
Vestrahorn is a stunning mountain on Iceland's southeast coast, known for its jagged peaks and perfect reflections in tidal pools on Stokksnes black sand beach. The mountain's distinctive shape and the surrounding dunes create an otherworldly landscape popular with photographers. The area also features Viking Village, a film set from 2010 that adds to the dramatic scenery.
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Viking Village Movie Set, Stokksnes Peninsula, Iceland
The Viking Village Movie Set on the Stokksnes Peninsula is a striking film location built for a historical movie production near Vestrahorn Mountain in Southeast Iceland. Although the movie was never completed, the wooden Viking-style buildings remain and create a dramatic setting against black sand dunes and steep mountain peaks. Today, the site is a popular stop for photographers and travelers exploring Southeast Iceland. Combined with the nearby Vestrahorn viewpoints and coastline, it offers one of the most cinematic landscapes along the Ring Road.
Learn more →Vök Baths
Vök Baths offers a unique geothermal bathing experience with floating pools extending over Lake Urriðavatn. The warm mineral water contrasts beautifully with the cool lake and surrounding East Iceland landscape.
Learn more →Vopnafjörður Geothermal Pool
Vopnafjörður Swimming Pool is located in Vopnafjörður village in Northeast Iceland. Facilities: - Outdoor pool (heated) - Hot tubs (~38-40°C) - Steam room - Changing rooms and showers - Natural geothermal water Vopnafjörður village: - Population: ~700 - Remote East Iceland location - Fishing and fish processing - Eastfjords scenic area Access: - Route 85 (coastal road) - Village center - Open year-round - Admission: ~1,000 ISK The pool serves as community hub for tiny village and stopover for travelers exploring East Iceland's remote coast. Combine with: Bustarfell turf farm museum, Hofsá river (salmon fishing), East Iceland coastal drives Visit duration: 1 hour.
Learn more →Hidden Gems
Off-the-beaten-path spots most tourists miss
Borgarfjörður Eystri
Often called Iceland's puffin capital, this remote village at the end of Borgarfjörður fjord is home to one of Iceland's largest and most accessible Atlantic puffin colonies. Thousands of puffins nest in the cliffs above the harbor from May to August, and you can watch them at remarkably close range from a dedicated viewing platform. The village is also a starting point for the Víknaslóðir hiking trails through some of East Iceland's most dramatic fjord landscapes.
Djúpivogur
Djúpivogur is a small fishing village on the East Iceland coast perched between mountains and sea. The village is home to 'Eggin í Gleðivík' — a shoreside art installation featuring 34 large stone eggs representing bird species native to the area. The village has one of Iceland's most pleasant micro-climates and the harbor offers views of the dramatic Búlandstindur pyramid-shaped mountain, which locals consider a mystical power place.
Stöðvarfjörður – Petra's Stone Collection
In the tiny fjord village of Stöðvarfjörður stands one of Iceland's most unusual attractions: a private collection of minerals and stones gathered over a lifetime by the late Ljósbjörg Petra María Sveinsdóttir. Starting in childhood, Petra filled her entire house and garden with geological specimens — crystals, zeolites, rhyolite, lava formations and countless other stones found across Iceland. The collection is now a museum and a testament to one person's extraordinary lifelong obsession.
Legends & Folklore of the East
East Iceland is one of the richest regions in the country for folklore. The fjords and remote valleys have long been home to stories of hidden people, monsters, and mystical forces embedded in the landscape.
The most famous legend is the Lagarfljótsormurinn — the Lagarfljót Worm — a giant serpent said to lurk in the depths of the murky glacial lake. First recorded in 1345, the legend describes a worm placed on a gold ring that grew so monstrous it had to be thrown into the lake. Sightings have been reported ever since, and a 2012 video claiming to capture the creature on camera went viral worldwide, reigniting ancient fears.
The colorful town of Seyðisfjörður is steeped in the energy of the rainbow street — a symbol painted by artists along the road to the old blue church. Local belief holds that the fjord surrounding the town is watched over by hidden people living within the mountains, and residents take care not to disturb the cliffs where they are said to dwell.
Lagarfljótsormurinn
Giant serpent lurking in Lake Lagarfljót — Iceland's Loch Ness monster, first recorded in 1345.
Rainbow Street
Seyðisfjörður's rainbow road to the blue church — a symbol of the town's creative and spiritual identity.
Hidden People
East Iceland's isolated fjords are said to be home to huldufólk — elves living within the mountain cliffs.
Top Tours in East Iceland
Best-rated experiences — book instantly with free cancellation
Private Silfra Snorkeling 6 p. group - Meet on Location - with Underwater Photos
From $899
Book NowPrivate Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 2 Day Tour & Glacier Hike
From $7240
Book NowReykjavik Private Northern Lights Tour with Pro Photographer
From $1666.73
Book NowVisit the Volcanoes - Half Day Private Tour - up to 9 passengers
From $1200
Book NowFrequently Asked Questions
How many days do I need for East Iceland?▾
2–3 days for Ring Road travellers covering the main highlights. Allow 4–5 days if you want to explore the East Fjords properly — there are dozens of small fjords and villages worth visiting.
What is the best time to visit East Iceland?▾
June to August for the best weather and all sights accessible. September offers stunning autumn colours. Winter brings Northern Lights but some roads may be difficult.
Do I need a 4x4 in East Iceland?▾
For the main Ring Road sights, no. A 4x4 is useful for highland F-roads and some remote fjord roads, but most popular destinations are accessible in a regular car.
Is Stuðlagil Canyon easy to visit?▾
The main viewpoint is accessible without a 4x4 — park at Klaustursel farm and walk 15–20 minutes. The riverbed walk for the iconic basalt column photos requires crossing the Jökla river, which needs a 4x4.
Can I see the Northern Lights in East Iceland?▾
Yes — East Iceland is excellent for Northern Lights due to minimal light pollution. The East Fjords offer dramatic dark skies and reflections over the water. September to March is best.
Haunted Places in East Iceland
East Iceland is strongly connected to legends of mysterious creatures and hidden-people territories. The deep fjords and remote valleys have harbored supernatural stories for over a thousand years.
Lagarfljót Lake
Home of the legendary Lagarfljótsormurinn — Iceland's serpent monster. Sightings have been reported continuously for over 700 years.
Hengifoss
The layered cliffs surrounding this dramatic waterfall are believed to contain hidden spiritual passageways between the human world and beyond.
Stórurð Boulder Field
This otherworldly landscape of giant boulders surrounded by turquoise lakes is considered sacred hidden-people territory in local tradition.
Seyðisfjörður Valley
Spirits are said to live inside the sheer cliffs of this colorful fjord, appearing as mist-figures on foggy autumn mornings.
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⚔️ Viking Heritage
Saga sites and Viking routes in this region