Northeastern Iceland: Waterfalls, Volcanoes and Whales

Northeastern Iceland offers a variety of visitor experiences: waterfalls, volcanic landscapes and marine science. Trails and visitor facilities vary depending on the destination.

Waterfalls and Trails

Dettifoss is part of a remarkable series of waterfalls on the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river, which also includes Selfoss and Hafragilsfoss. The waterfall is 45 metres high and about 100 metres wide. A marked hiking trail leads from the car park to a viewpoint; the round trip takes just under an hour. Its height and width, along with the trail duration, give you concrete points of reference when planning this visit as part of your stay.

Goðafoss is also one of Iceland’s most powerful waterfalls. Trails run along both the eastern and western banks of the Skjálfandafljót; a footbridge connects the two areas. The area around Goðafoss is easily accessible for people with reduced mobility. This information can help you plan the visit differently from the walk to the viewpoint at Dettifoss: at Goðafoss, the focus is on the two riverbanks and the connection between them.

Volcanic Landscapes Around Mývatn

The landscape around Mývatn and Laxá has been shaped by extensive volcanic activity. Mývatn and Laxá are protected under Icelandic Special Act No. 97 of 9 June 2004 and are listed as internationally important wetlands under the Ramsar Convention. Volcanic landforms and protected status are equally integral to the character of this landscape.

Dimmuborgir is a labyrinthine lava field formed about 2,300 years ago during a volcanic eruption. A paved road leads there. The car park has a service building with toilets, food and drink facilities, and a souvenir shop. Its geological origins and the visitor facilities available provide different points of reference for this outing.

Hverfjall is a tuff crater formed about 2,500 years ago during a powerful explosive eruption. The hike up and around the crater is considered short and rewarding, with excellent views across the Mývatn region. The focus at Skútustaðagígar, by contrast, is its location on the southern shore of Mývatn: the craters are near Skútustaðir and can be reached by car via Route 848, Mývatnsvegur. The Gíg visitor centre at Skútustaðagígar has visitor information, an exhibition and toilets.

Whales and Marine Science in Húsavík

If you are interested in whales and marine life, Húsavík offers a distinct focus. The town is known for whale-watching tours in Skjálfandi Bay. The Whale Museum in Húsavík is an educational institution dedicated to whales and marine life. Tours and the museum offer different experiences: one focuses on whale watching, while the other provides information about whales and the sea.

Choose Accommodation Based on Your Interests

For planning purposes, the trail and access information provided for each attraction can help you make a practical comparison. Then check the location of each accommodation option in relation to your planned destinations, rather than assuming the distance to a particular place based on a regional label.

Explore more destinations: Dalvík, Akureyri.

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