North Iceland is a hidden gem that often gets overlooked. From breathtaking waterfalls to cozy little villages, this part of the country has a charm that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re into exploring rugged landscapes or just want to soak in some peaceful scenery, North Iceland has something special waiting for you! Continue reading for 5 sights you have to visit during your trip to North Iceland.
Other resources to help you plan the perfect trip to Iceland!
- 10 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Iceland: Essential Tips for a Smooth Trip
- How Much a 2 Week Trip to Iceland Really Costs
- Is 2 Days Enough Time to Explore the Golden Circle?
- Vik, Iceland: A Complete Travel Checklist for 2024
- Ultimate Guide to Vatnajökull National Park: Must-See Sights and Activities
- Exploring East Iceland: Hiking, Hot Springs, and Hidden Gems
- If you are planning a trip to Iceland, I recommend booking your rental car through Go Rental and use my code Caitlyn5 for 5% off your car!
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Dettifoss
Dettifoss is renowned as one of the most powerful waterfalls in Europe due to its immense volume of water cascading down. This makes it a must-visit spot in Iceland!
There are two viewpoints to admire Dettifoss: from the east and west sides. The west side is considered the main viewpoint, as it offers paved roads and restroom facilities. In contrast, reaching the east side requires navigating an unpaved road, which typically doesn’t open until late May or June. I explored the west side trail, so I can only speak to those conditions.
The trail on the west side is often snow-covered until late June or July, and it can be closed due to dangerous conditions when the snow beginnings to melt. From the parking lot, it’s about a 0.5-mile walk to the Dettifoss viewpoint. For a view of Selfoss, follow the signs off the main trail. This part of the trail is rocky and can be slippery, so watch your step and take your time. While the east side is said to offer a better view of the waterfall, the west side is still stunning. The entire trail, covering both Dettifoss and Selfoss, is around 1.5 miles and takes about an hour to complete.
Goðafoss
Goðafoss, also known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” is located about 45 minutes from Akureyri. This waterfall is unique due to its semicircular shape, where the water plunges 39 feet down and spans 100 feet across. The trail to view the waterfall is short and paved, offering many viewpoints along the way. You can see the falls from either side, with parking available on both. The left side features a gift shop, cafe, and restrooms.
Hverir
Hverir is a geothermal area located near Lake Myvatn and is one of the most active in the country, known for its otherworldly landscapes. Here, you’ll encounter fumaroles—vents from the Earth’s core—along with boiling mud pools and other geothermal features. A trail guides you through the area, showcasing all the sights. It’s crucial to stay on the designated path, as some areas are fragile or dangerously hot.
Be aware that the sulfur smell is very strong here. You’ll notice it even while driving by, but it becomes more intense as you explore the area. If you can get past the odor, Hverir offers a unique experience that you won’t find elsewhere in your travels.
Whale Watching
While in Akureyri, I highly recommend taking a whale-watching cruise down the fjord! The tour departs right from the heart of Akureyri, so you won’t have to travel far to get on board. The cruise lasts between 2.5 to 3.5 hours, and you’re guaranteed to see a whale or you can rebook for free. On our tour, we saw multiple minke whales and humpback whales that came right up to the boat.
We booked through Whale Watching Akureyri, and tickets were around $100. They provided hot beverages and warm overalls if needed, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Kolugljúfur Canyon
Kolugljúfur Canyon is a quick detour off the Ring Road, making it a perfect stop while traveling between Akureyri and Reykjavik (or the Snæfellsnes Peninsula). It’s located down a well-maintained gravel road and features small parking lots on both sides of the canyon. Walking paths lead you down into the canyon for a closer view of the waterfall.
For those interested in a longer hike, there are plenty of paths along and into the canyon that offer more extensive exploration. If you’re just looking for a quick stop to stretch your legs, you can still get great views of the waterfall with a short walk.
Why you Should Visit North Iceland
North Iceland often flies under the radar—either dismissed as not worth the trip or overlooked due to time constraints. However, if you find yourself with the opportunity, I highly recommend exploring North Iceland and seeing all the wonderful sights it has to offer.
