Best Eastfjords Tours in Iceland — Largest Selection & Cheapest Prices Guaranteed
Select starting location
Select dates
Add travelers
East Fjords Tours
Refine the results by using the filters
Explore an unequalled wealth of tours and packages
Verified customer reviews
Read first-hand reviews by customers from across the world
Everything you need to know about the Eastfjords of Iceland
The Eastfjords of Iceland are a treasure trove of natural wonders, rich history, and tranquil charm. While often overlooked in favor of more famous attractions, this region offers some of the most diverse and captivating landscapes in the country. From towering mountains like Vestrahorn to serene fjords and quaint fishing villages, the Eastfjords are perfect for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.
Accessible year-round, the Eastfjords offer unique adventures in both winter and summer, from glacier climbing and ice caving to birdwatching and hiking. A short, scenic flight from Reykjavik to Egilsstadir—the region’s largest town—makes it easier than ever to incorporate East Iceland into your itinerary. Whether you’re drawn to untouched nature, cultural heritage, or quiet retreats, the Eastfjords are a destination that shouldn’t be missed.
The Eastfjords boast some of Iceland’s most dramatic and diverse scenery, characterized by jagged mountain peaks, pristine fjords, and lush valleys. Visitors can explore natural wonders like Hengifoss Waterfall, Storurd Boulder Fields, and the picturesque Vestrahorn Mountain. The region also offers unique opportunities to experience Iceland’s wildlife, from puffins nesting on coastal cliffs to seals basking on rocky shores.
Egilsstadir serves as the main hub for travelers, offering modern amenities and a gateway to the region’s treasures. Seydisfjordur, with its colorful streets and vibrant arts scene, is another must-visit town surrounded by hiking trails and waterfalls. From the volcanic Viti Crater Lake to the historic island of Papey, the Eastfjords are rich in both natural beauty and cultural significance, making them an essential part of any Iceland itinerary.
Best Self-Drive Tours in the Eastfjords of Iceland
Self-drive tours are an ideal way to explore the Eastfjords at your own pace, allowing you to discover the road-less-traveled and enjoy the freedom to follow your own sense of adventure. This region offers scenic drives that wind through fjords, past waterfalls, and over rugged mountain passes.
-
10-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland: Embark on a 10-day adventure around Iceland’s Ring Road, exploring glaciers, waterfalls, fjords, and charming villages at your own pace.
-
1-week Summer Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road of Iceland: Discover Iceland’s top attractions in a single week, from the Golden Circle to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and the Eastfjords.
-
7-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland: Experience Iceland’s natural wonders on this action-packed week-long journey around the entire Ring Road.
-
2-Week Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road of Iceland & the Westfjords: Immerse yourself in Iceland’s diverse landscapes, culture, and hidden gems over two weeks of leisurely exploration.
Top Multi-Day Tours and Vacation Packages in Iceland's Eastfjords
Multi-day tours and vacation packages provide expertly curated itineraries for travelers who want to surround themselves in the beauty of East Iceland. These packages include accommodations, transportation, and guided activities, making them a hassle-free way to explore. Many guided tours to the region are curated for photographers due to the Eastfjords’ dramatic scenery, abundant wildlife, and atmospheric lighting.
-
6-Day Fast-Paced Guided Vacation Package of the Ring Road of Iceland: Journey through Iceland’s iconic Ring Road in just six days, with expert guides leading you to glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes.
-
10-Day Summer Photography Workshop on the Ring Road of Iceland with Vatnajokull & Myvatn: Explore Iceland’s vibrant summer landscapes with a focus on photography, capturing waterfalls, glaciers, and Midnight Sun vistas along the Ring Road.
-
14-Day Photography Workshop | Ring Road in the Winter: A dream for photographers, this two-week adventure captures Iceland’s stunning beauty, from the remote Highlands to picturesque villages.
Best Adventure Tours in the Eastfjords of Iceland
For adventure-seekers, the Eastfjords offer a wealth of exciting activities that showcase the region’s natural beauty and unique terrain.
-
Midnight Sun Horseback Riding Tour in East Iceland: Experience the magic of the Midnight Sun on horseback as you explore the serene landscapes of East Iceland under the extended daylight hours of summer.
-
Glacier Jeep Sightseeing Tour on Vatnajokull: Embark on an exhilarating journey atop Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajokull, with a snowcat or jeep adventure offering panoramic views of the icy expanse.
-
Sightseeing Flight over Jokulsarlon & Hvannadalshnjukur: Soar above Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes on a scenic flight, offering unparalleled views of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Vatnajokull Glacier, and the country’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnjukur.
-
Horse Riding Wilderness Tour in the Countryside of East Iceland: Discover the beauty of the Eastfjords on a guided horse-riding tour, traversing scenic trails and enjoying the unique gait of Icelandic horses.
Top Nature Tours in Iceland's Eastfjords
Guided nature tours allow visitors to delve deeper into the Eastfjords’ stunning landscapes, with expert insights along the way.
-
Vok Baths near Egilsstadir: Relax in the soothing, geothermal floating pools of Lake Urridavatn, surrounded by the peaceful natural beauty of East Iceland.
-
RIB Puffin Tour in East Iceland: Get up close to Iceland’s iconic puffins on a high-speed RIB safari, exploring the coastal cliffs and bird colonies of East Iceland.
-
Summer Tour to Studlagil Canyon and the Vok Baths: Explore the dramatic basalt columns of Studlagil Canyon before unwinding in the relaxing geothermal waters of Vok Baths on this full-day guided tour.
Best Places to Stay in the Eastfjords
Top accommodations in the Eastfjords cater to all types of travelers, offering options that range from luxury retreats to cozy cabins:
-
Egilsstadir: Stay in the heart of the Eastfjords with easy access to nearby attractions, modern amenities, and transportation.
-
Seydisfjordur: Enjoy a charming village setting surrounded by waterfalls and mountains.
-
Eskifjordur: Experience the tranquility of a traditional fishing village with stunning fjord views and outdoor adventure opportunities.
-
Breiddalsvik: Relax in a peaceful coastal setting, ideal for travelers seeking quiet retreats and access to scenic hiking trails.
-
Djupivogur: Discover a slow-paced coastal village known for its birdlife, local art scene, and proximity to unique geological formations.
Travel Tips for Visitors to Iceland's Eastfjords
-
Fly to Egilsstadir: Save travel time by taking a quick flight from Reykjavik, offering a scenic aerial view of Iceland’s landscapes.
-
Pack Smartly: Bring layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy hiking boots to prepare for changing weather conditions.
-
Drive Safely: Rent a 4WD vehicle in winter and check road conditions on SafeTravel.is.
-
Respect Nature: Stick to marked trails and leave no trace to preserve the Eastfjords’ pristine environment.
Uncover the Magic of the Eastfjords
The Eastfjords of Iceland offer a captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re exploring the area with a self-drive tour, guided package, or activity-filled excursion, East Iceland tours promise unforgettable memories. With highlights like Hengifoss Waterfall, Vestrahorn Mountain, and the quiet charm of Egilsstadir, the Eastfjords are a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique Icelandic experience.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best tours in the Eastfjords?
- Midnight Sun Horseback Riding Tour in East Iceland: Experience the magic of Iceland’s Midnight Sun on a serene horseback ride through the breathtaking landscapes of East Iceland.
- Glacier Jeep Sightseeing Tour on Vatnajokull: Embark on an unforgettable journey atop Vatnajokull Glacier, Europe’s largest, with either a snowcat or jeep for unforgettable panoramic views.
- Summer Tour to Studlagil Canyon and the Vok Baths from Egilsstadir: Explore the striking basalt columns of Studlagil Canyon and unwind in the geothermal serenity of Vok Baths on this full-day guided experience.
- Puffin Tour in East Iceland: Encounter Iceland’s puffins in their natural environment on a small boat tour.
Are there tours from Reykjavik to the Eastfjords?
- Multi-Day Eastfjords Tours: These guided tours cover the Ring Road and include stops in the Eastfjords.
- Self-Drive Eastfjords Packages: Tailored itineraries allow travelers to explore the region at their own pace with rental cars and pre-booked accommodations.
What is there to see in the Eastfjords?
- Vestrahorn Mountain: A dramatic, jagged peak perfect for photographers.
- Hallormsstadaskogur Forest: Iceland’s largest national forest, ideal for hiking, camping, and nature walks.
- Lake Lagarfljot: A serene lake surrounded by folklore, said to be home to a wyrm-like monster.
- Hengifoss Waterfall: One of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, surrounded by striking red volcanic strata.
- Seydisfjordur: A coastal town with a charming village church and photogenic rainbow street.
How long does it take to travel to the Eastfjords from Reykjavik?
- Traveling clockwise along the Ring Road, it takes approximately 8 hours to reach Egilsstadir by car.
- Counterclockwise, you will arrive in Hofn after about 6 hours.
Flying:
- A flight from Reykjavik to Egilsstadir takes around 1 hour, making it the quickest way to reach the Eastfjords.
Can I stay in the Eastfjords?
- Egilsstadir: Modern amenities and a central location
- Seydisfjordur: Waterfalls and charming village scenery
- Eskifjordur: Tranquil fishing village experiences
- Breiddalsvik: Peaceful coastal retreat
- Djupivogur: Birdlife, local art, and relaxed atmosphere
Are the roads easy to drive in the East of Iceland?
While most roads remain accessible in winter, icy conditions and snow can make driving challenging. It is recommended to:
- Rent a 4WD vehicle.
- Check weather and road conditions on SafeTravel.is.
When is the best time to visit the Eastfjords of Iceland?
- Summer (June–August): Ideal for hiking, camping, and attending local events like the Lunga Arts Festival.
- Winter (November–March): Perfect for Northern Lights hunting, snowy landscapes, and fewer crowds.
What is the weather like in the Eastfjords?
- Summer: Mild temperatures with extended daylight hours.
- Winter: Frequent snowfall, with clear skies offering excellent opportunities for Northern Lights viewing.
How can I find reindeer in the Eastfjords?
- Winter: Reindeer move closer to the coast for grazing and can often be seen near Vopnafjordur or Breiddalsvik.
- Summer: They migrate to higher elevations in search of cooler conditions.
What are some hidden gems in the Eastfjords?
- Litlanesfoss Waterfall: A lesser-known waterfall near Hengifoss framed by towering basalt columns.
- Storurd Boulder Fields: A surreal landscape of turquoise ponds and giant boulders, accessible via a scenic hike.
- Petra’s Stone Collection: A quirky museum in Stodvarfjordur featuring an impressive array of locally collected stones and minerals.
Are the Eastfjords a good destination for families?
- Easy Hiking Trails: Hallormsstadaskogur Forest and Borgarfjordur Eystri have trails suitable for all ages.
- Vok Baths: Geothermal pools are perfect for relaxation and fun for the whole family.
- Wildlife Watching: Kids will love spotting puffins, seals, and reindeer in their natural habitats.
Can I see the Northern Lights in the Eastfjords?
- Egilsstadir outskirts: Away from the town lights, offering open views.
- Vestrahorn Mountain: A dramatic backdrop for aurora photography.
- Hallormsstadaskogur Forest: A serene and unique spot to enjoy the Northern Lights surrounded by nature.
What wildlife can I see in the Eastfjords?
- Reindeer: The only wild reindeer population in Iceland is found here.
- Puffins: Coastal cliffs like those at Skrudur and Papey Island are ideal for puffin spotting in summer.
- Seals: Commonly seen lounging on rocky shores or swimming near fishing villages.
- Seabirds: Look for guillemots, fulmars, and Arctic terns along the fjords.
Where can I camp in the Eastfjords?
- Hallormsstadaskogur: Two designated campsites, Atlavik and Hofdavik, located in Iceland’s largest forest.
- Djupivogur Campsite: A scenic spot near the harbor, with modern facilities.
- Vopnafjordur Campsite: A quieter option in the northern Eastfjords, surrounded by tranquil landscapes.
What are the best places for photography in the Eastfjords?
- Vestrahorn Mountain: Perfect for capturing rugged mountain reflections on black sand beaches.
- Seydisfjordur Rainbow Street: A vibrant scene with a picturesque blue church.
- Hengifoss Waterfall: Framed by red basalt cliffs, ideal for long-exposure shots.
- Papey Island: Coastal vistas and puffin colonies.
What are the most scenic drives in the Eastfjords?
- Route 93 to Seydisfjordur: A winding road that descends into the colorful village of Seydisfjordur, surrounded by waterfalls.
- Route 939 (Oxi Pass): A shortcut between Egilsstadir and Berufjordur with dramatic mountain views (summer only).
- Coastal Route 1: Drive along fjords and coastal landscapes as you pass through the fishing villages Djupivogur, Breiddalsvik, and Faskrudsfjordur.
What local foods should I try in the Eastfjords?
- Fresh Seafood: Trout from Lake Lagarfljot and lobster in Hofn are local specialties.
- Lamb Dishes: Icelandic lamb, free-range and grass-fed, is a staple in the region.
- Reindeer Meat: A unique delicacy found in East Iceland.
- Skyr Desserts: A creamy, Icelandic yogurt often served with berries or honey.
Are there geothermal attractions in the Eastfjords?
- Vok Baths: Floating geothermal pools on Lake Urridavatn, offering stunning views and a cafe.
- Djupivogur Hot Tubs: Small, natural hot tubs with a view of the fjord, located near the harbor.
Are there summer festivals in the Eastfjords?
- Lunga Arts Festival (July): A celebration of art and creativity held in Seydisfjordur, featuring workshops, performances, and exhibitions.
- Braedslan Music Festival (July): An intimate music festival hosted in a repurposed herring factory in Borgarfjordur Eystri.
How big are the Eastfjords?
What sights and activities does Egilsstadir offer?
- East Iceland Heritage Museum: Learn about the region’s cultural and natural history.
- Vok Baths: Relax in geothermal pools floating on Lake Urridavatn.
- Hiking Trails: Discover scenic paths leading to Hengifoss Waterfall or through Hallormsstadaskogur Forest.
- Local Cuisine: Sample Icelandic delicacies in local restaurants and cafes.
Is it possible to camp in Hallormsstadaskogur Forest?
Is it possible to travel to the Eastfjords by ferry?
- Domestic Ferry: Currently, no internal ferries operate between Iceland’s regions and the Eastfjords.
Download Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.
