Remote Iceland Travel Guide: Westfjords, Highlands & East Fjords

Iceland’s remote areas offer unparalleled natural beauty and solitude, far from the popular Golden Circle and Reykjavik. These regions, including the dramatic Westfjords, vast Highlands, and tranquil East Fjords, demand careful planning but reward adventurers with pristine landscapes and authentic experiences.

Unveiling the Westfjords: Iceland’s Wild Frontier

The Westfjords stand out as one of Europe’s most isolated peninsulas, characterized by steep fjords, towering bird cliffs, and tiny fishing communities. This area feels worlds away from mainland tourism, with gravel roads winding through moss-covered hills and dramatic coastlines where puffins and Arctic foxes thrive.

Key attractions include the tiered Dynjandi waterfall, cascading like a bridal veil over multiple levels, and Látrabjarg cliffs, Europe’s largest bird sanctuary from May to August. The Hornstrandir Nature Reserve offers pristine hiking trails accessible only by boat, emphasizing the region’s untouched wilderness.

• Dynjandi Waterfall: A multi-tiered marvel best viewed in summer for full flow.
• Látrabjarg Cliffs: Prime puffin spotting; bring binoculars for close encounters.
• Hornstrandir Reserve: Multi-day hikes with no facilities—pack accordingly.
• Arctic Fox Centre in Súðavík: Learn about Iceland’s only native land mammal.

Reaching the Westfjords requires commitment: drive F-roads with a 4×4 vehicle or take domestic flights to Ísafjörður. Summer (June-August) is ideal due to milder weather and open paths.

Conquering the Highlands: Interior Wilderness Adventures

Iceland’s Highlands form the uninhabited heart of the island, home to massive glaciers like Vatnajökull, colorful rhyolite mountains, and geothermal wonders. This highland plateau, accessible only via rugged F-roads from June to September, features lava fields, hot springs, and volcanic calderas that create an otherworldly escape.

Standout spots include Landmannalaugar, famous for hiking amid vibrant rhyolite hills and natural hot springs, and Þórsmörk valley, nestled between glaciers and volcanoes with glacial rivers carving dramatic gorges. Hveravellir Nature Reserve showcases bubbling geothermal pools, while Askja caldera offers a haunting volcanic crater lake.

For self-drivers, routes like F208 and Kjölur provide thrilling access but require experience with river crossings and weather changes. Guided tours mitigate risks in this unforgiving terrain.

East Fjords: Serene Coasts and Cultural Gems

The East Fjords contrast with their gentler terrain of green meadows, glacial rivers, and colorful villages hugging misty mountains. Less visited than other areas, this region features scenic drives along twisty coastal roads, reindeer herds, and artistic communities like Seyðisfjörður.

Highlights encompass Hengifoss waterfall with its striking red clay layers, Hallormsstaðaskógur forest—Iceland’s largest—and Borgarfjörður Eystri for puffin watching. Fishing villages offer fresh seafood and stories of local resilience.

• Seyðisfjörður: Rainbow-hued houses, arts festivals, ferry port vibes.
• Hengifoss: Basalt columns and clay-striped falls; short hike required.
• Hallormsstaðaskógur: Rare wooded trails amid barren landscapes.
• Borgarfjörður Eystri: Puffin colonies and remote beaches.

Drive from Egilsstaðir or fly in for efficiency; the 900-km Arctic Coast Way extension northward amplifies the isolation.

North Iceland and Snæfellsnes: Coastal Remote Escapes

North Iceland’s Arctic Coast Way winds through peninsulas and villages, ideal for Northern Lights viewing near Mývatn or Húsavík. Snæfellsnes Peninsula, dubbed ‘Iceland in Miniature,’ packs volcanoes, glaciers, and Kirkjufell mountain into a compact loop.

Explore Arnarstapi’s sea arches, Hellnar’s cliffs, and whale-watching in Húsavík. These areas thin crowds quickly, just an hour from Reykjavik for Snæfellsnes.

Essential Transportation Options for Remote Travel

Navigating Iceland’s outskirts demands versatile transport:

• 4×4 Rental: Mandatory for F-roads; opt for high clearance and insurance.
• Domestic Flights: To Ísafjörður or Egilsstaðir; quickest for West/East.
• Expedition Cruises: Westfjords and East coast access via boat.
• Guided Tours/Buses: Safest for Highlands; superjeeps cross rivers.

Check road.is for conditions; gravel roads challenge standard cars.

Packing Smart: Gear for Iceland’s Harsh Remotes

Weather shifts rapidly—pack layers, waterproofs, sturdy boots, and navigation tools. Essentials include:

• Thermal base layers, fleece, Gore-Tex jacket/pants.
• Hiking poles, GPS app, power bank.
• Emergency kit: first aid, satellite communicator, extra fuel.
• Food/water for 24+ hours; remote areas lack services.

Highlands demand river-fording prep; Westfjords need binoculars for wildlife.

Weather, Safety, and Leave No Trace Principles

Remote Iceland features high winds, sudden fog, and flash floods. Monitor vedur.is, avoid solo travel, and inform others of plans. Glacial hikes require crampons; F-roads forbid novices.

Follow Leave No Trace: pack out waste, stick to paths, respect wildlife. Permits needed for some reserves like Hornstrandir.

Best Seasons and Budgeting for Off-the-Beaten-Path Trips

Summer (June-August) opens roads and maximizes daylight. Shoulder seasons offer auroras but risk closures. Budget: $200-400/day for car, fuel, lodging (huts/camping cheaper).

Sample 10-Day Remote Iceland Itinerary

1. Days 1-2: Reykjavik to Snæfellsnes—Kirkjufell, coastal hikes.
2. Days 3-5: Westfjords via ferry—Dynjandi, Látrabjarg.
3. Days 6-7: Highlands loop—Landmannalaugar, Þórsmörk.
4. Days 8-9: East Fjords—Seyðisfjörður, Hengifoss.
5. Day 10: North to Mývatn, return via Ring Road.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is a 4×4 necessary for the Westfjords?

Yes, for gravel F-roads; standard cars risk damage.

When are Highlands roads open?

June to September; check road.is daily.

Can I camp in remote areas?

Yes, with restrictions; use designated sites or huts.

Best time for Northern Lights in the North?

September-March, away from city lights.

Are guided tours worth it for beginners?

Absolutely—for safety and local insights.