Things To Do in East Iceland – Untouched Landscapes & Quiet Adventures

East Iceland is one of the country’s most underrated regions. With dramatic fjords, small artistic villages, wild reindeer, and forested hiking trails, the east feels more personal and less touristed than other parts of the country.

This part of Iceland is perfect for travelers who enjoy:

• Slower-paced exploration
• Local culture and creative communities
• Immersive nature
• Wildlife spotting and solitude

In this guide, you’ll discover the best things to do in East Iceland — from fjord-side fishing towns and mountain passes to natural hot springs and hidden waterfalls.

Where Is East Iceland and Why Go?

East Iceland stretches from the town of Höfn in the south to Vopnafjörður in the north, with most towns nestled along deep fjords carved by ancient glaciers.

Why visit East Iceland?

• Fewer crowds
• Unique wildlife (reindeer, puffins, seals)
• Coastal drives with epic mountain views
• Iceland’s largest forest (Hallormsstaðaskógur)
• Local arts, slow food, and cozy guesthouses

Top Things To Do in East Iceland

🏘️ 1. Visit Seyðisfjörður – The Most Charming Town in Iceland

Tucked between steep fjord cliffs, Seyðisfjörður is known for its:

• Colorful houses and artsy vibe
• Iconic blue church and rainbow-painted street
• Summer arts festival (LungA)
• Cafés, galleries, and hiking trails

💡 Reach it by driving over Fjarðarheiði mountain pass, which is spectacular in both summer and winter.

🌲 2. Explore Hallormsstaðaskógur – Iceland’s Largest Forest

Located near Egilsstaðir, this forest offers:

• Well-marked hiking trails
• Lakeside picnic spots
• Birdwatching opportunities
• Autumn foliage (rare in Iceland)

It’s also home to Lagarfljót Lake, rumored to have its own version of the Loch Ness Monster!

💦 3. Hike to Hengifoss – Iceland’s Third-Highest Waterfall

One of the most striking waterfalls in Iceland, Hengifoss plunges 128 meters down a cliff streaked with red and black volcanic layers.

• Moderate 2.5-hour round-trip hike
• Pass Litlanesfoss, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by basalt columns
• Great viewpoint of the canyon below

🐑 4. See Petra’s Stone Collection in Stöðvarfjörður

A unique museum created by local legend Petra Sveinsdóttir, who collected beautiful stones from East Iceland over decades.

• Displayed in her home and garden
• A surprising and quirky stop
• Appeals to both geology lovers and curious travelers

🧖 5. Soak in Vök Baths – Floating Geothermal Spas

Just outside Egilsstaðir, Vök Baths feature:

• Floating hot pools built on Lake Urriðavatn
• Cold plunge pools, tea bar, and lakeside views
• Designed with eco-sustainability in mind

Perfect stop after a hike or long drive through the east.

🦌 6. Spot Wild Reindeer in the Eastfjords

East Iceland is the only region where wild reindeer roam freely.

• Most commonly seen in winter and spring
• Found in areas around Breiðdalsvík, Reyðarfjörður, and Egilsstaðir
• Best viewed from a distance with binoculars

Be sure to drive slowly and respect their space.

🗻 7. Drive the Eastfjords Scenic Route

The Ring Road detours inland, so to truly experience the east, take the fjords route:

• Djúpivogur
• Breiðdalsvík
• Fáskrúðsfjörður
• Reyðarfjörður
• Eskifjörður
• Neskaupstaður

Each fjord has a different character, and the drive between them includes steep cliffs, tunnels, and ocean views.

🖼️ 8. Discover Djúpivogur – A Slow Travel Town

A certified Cittaslow community, Djúpivogur promotes sustainable, mindful travel.

• Outdoor sculpture: Eggin í Gleðivík (34 giant granite eggs)
• Birdwatching area and seaside trails
• Great base for day trips to Papey Island

🌊 9. Hike in Borgarfjörður Eystri – Elves, Puffins & Mountains

One of the most remote areas in the east, known for:

• Víknaslóðir hiking trails through untouched valleys and mountains
• Hafnarhólmi puffin colony (May to August)
• Local legends of elves and hidden people
• Fewer tourists and deep cultural roots

This area is a hiker’s paradise, ideal in late spring to early autumn.

⛪ 10. Visit Fáskrúðsfjörður – The French Connection

Once home to French fishermen, this fjord town preserves:

• A French hospital (now a hotel & museum)
• French signage throughout town
• Charming seaside walks and maritime history

Outdoor Activities in East Iceland

• 🥾 Hiking: Víknaslóðir (Borgarfjörður), Hallormsstaður trails, Hengifoss
• 🛶 Kayaking: Lake Lagarfljót, coastal fjords
• 🦅 Birdwatching: Puffins in Borgarfjörður, Arctic terns in Djúpivogur
• 🐟 Fishing: Rivers near Egilsstaðir and mountain lakes
• 🏞️ Photography: Autumn leaves in the forest, fjord reflections, waterfalls

Travel Tips for East Iceland

• 🛣️ Allow 2–4 days to explore the Eastfjords at a relaxed pace
• 🧭 Most towns are small but scenic — ideal for slow travel
• 🧊 In winter, expect snow and limited daylight — 4x4 rental strongly recommended
• 📍 Use Egilsstaðir as a base or overnight in smaller fjord villages
• ⛽ Fuel up when you can — gas stations are limited in remote areas

Best Time to Visit East Iceland

If your planing a trip in Iceland, you might also want to check out what to do in south Iceland, what to do in west Iceland and what to do in North Iceland. Here is our guide for an entire Ring Road adventure in Iceland.