East Iceland

East Iceland feels wilder, quieter, and more spacious than many other parts of the country, with deep fjords, small coastal villages, waterfalls, and mountain roads shaping the journey from one settlement to the next. The region, also known as Austurland, is known for its dramatic coastlines, scattered communities, and landscapes where nature always seems close. It offers a different pace of Iceland, one defined less by crowds and more by atmosphere, distance, and the beauty of the Eastfjords. 

Part of East Iceland’s appeal is the contrast it holds within a single region. Places like Seyðisfjörður bring color, art, and history beneath steep mountain walls, while areas around Egilsstaðir open onto lakes, forests, highlands, and routes toward some of the east’s best-known natural landmarks. Hengifoss, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, adds another layer with its striking red-streaked cliffs and gorge setting. 

East Iceland Highlights

• Explore East Iceland for dramatic fjords, mountain scenery, and charming coastal villages. 
• Discover Seyðisfjörður, Egilsstaðir, and Hengifoss in one of Iceland’s most scenic and varied regions. 
• Add East Iceland to your Iceland itinerary for nature, local character, and a quieter side of the country.