Located in eastern Iceland, the Eastfjords form part of the Austurland region. The area is known for deep fjords, steep mountains, waterfalls, and picturesque fishing villages.

It is an excellent destination for scenic road trips, hiking, photography, and nature exploration.

From colorful Seyðisfjörður to the secluded Mjóifjörður, each destination offers a different view of eastern Iceland's landscape.

Natural Landscape and Wildlife

The Eastfjords feature narrow sea inlets, rugged mountains, sheltered bays, and green valleys. Waterfalls and rivers add to the scenery, while the region's wildlife includes seabirds, wild reindeer, and Atlantic puffins.

Best Places to Visit

Seyðisfjörður

This picturesque village sits at the end of a scenic fjord. Its colorful wooden buildings, harbor, and surrounding mountains make it one of the region's most recognizable destinations. Nearby Gufufoss waterfall is also worth visiting.

Borgarfjörður Eystri

Known for colorful mountains and hiking trails, Borgarfjörður Eystri is home to Stórurð, a remarkable landscape of enormous boulders and turquoise pools. The return hike generally takes four to five hours. Nearby Hafnarhólmi offers excellent puffin observation opportunities, particularly from mid-April to early August.

Mjóifjörður

This narrow fjord is surrounded by steep mountains and offers beautiful coastal views. Its main attraction, Klifbrekkufossar, consists of several cascading waterfalls. The access road is seasonal, so check conditions before visiting.

Reyðarfjörður, Fáskrúðsfjörður, and Djúpivogur

These coastal communities offer attractive harbors, mountain views, and opportunities to experience local village life. Berufjörður, near Djúpivogur, is another scenic fjord worth exploring.

Outdoor Activities

Hiking is one of the main activities in the Eastfjords, especially around Borgarfjörður Eystri and Stórurð. Visitors can also enjoy wildlife observation, coastal walks, waterfall visits, and photography.

Best Time to Visit

- Summer (June–August): Best for hiking, road trips, village visits, and puffin observation.

- Autumn (September–October): Pleasant for photography and quieter coastal sightseeing.

- Winter (November–March): Offers snowy mountain scenery and opportunities to see the northern lights.

- Spring (April–May): Brings longer daylight hours, although some mountain roads and trails may remain inaccessible.

How to Get There

By Rental Car

Renting a car is the most flexible way to explore the region. Route 1, Iceland's Ring Road, connects the Eastfjords with other parts of the country. Route 93 links Egilsstaðir with Seyðisfjörður. Rental prices generally range from $40–$150 per day, depending on the vehicle and season.

By Air

Egilsstaðir Airport connects eastern Iceland with Reykjavík through domestic flights. From there, visitors can rent a car to explore nearby fjords and villages.

By Road

Driving from Reykjavík to Egilsstaðir generally takes around 7.5–8.5 hours, depending on road and weather conditions.

Accommodation

The Eastfjords offer guesthouses, hotels, cottages, apartments, and campsites. Egilsstaðir is a convenient base, while smaller coastal villages provide stays closer to the scenery.

Typical prices include:

- Guesthouses: $100–$180 per night.

- Mid-range hotels: $180–$300 per night.

- Cottages and apartments: $150–$280 per night.

- Campsites: $15–$35 per person per night.

Prices vary by season, and booking ahead is recommended during summer.

Local Food and Dining

Seafood is a highlight of eastern Iceland's cuisine, with fish soup, grilled fish, and other seafood dishes widely available. Cafés also serve salads, sandwiches, soups, and baked goods.

Typical prices include:

- Breakfast: $15–$25.

- Fish soup: $20–$30.

- Seafood main dish: $30–$50.

- Vegetable-based meal: $20–$35.

- Sandwich or light meal: $12–$20.

Practical Travel Tips

- Check road and weather conditions before driving.

- Bring warm, waterproof clothing.

- Refuel in larger towns before visiting remote areas.

- Allow extra time for winding roads and scenic stops.

- Check hiking trail conditions before setting out.

- Book accommodation early for summer travel.

Discover Eastern Iceland

The Eastfjords combine dramatic landscapes, charming coastal villages, waterfalls, and rewarding outdoor activities. Whether exploring Seyðisfjörður, hiking to Stórurð, or following the winding roads around Mjóifjörður, visitors can experience a quieter and distinctive side of Iceland.