Things to do & places to visit in Northeast Region, Iceland

Northeast Region #3 destination in Iceland 2023. The average rating score is 4.58 based on 30.3k traveler reviews, of 160 attractions. Timezone: Atlantic/Reykjavik, current date and time: Saturday, May 11, 2024, 9:11.

Top things to do (36)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Saga Travel (1.544 reviews)
- Three great shore excursions !
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 1:30 PM 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Private Tours • Photography Tours • Day Trips

We booked 3 shore excursions with Saga Travel - Lake Myvatn from Akureyri and the Golden Circle and South Coast tours fro Reykjavik. Baldvin from Saga travel was great to work with - answered questions and responded quickly. We really enjoyed all 3 small group tours and saw so much during our cruise stops in Akureyri and Reykjavik. Our tour guide/driver on each tour was professional and knowledgeable and enjoyed sharing information about their country. Scenery was amazing. Highly recommend their shore excursions! See more..
5.0 Viking Rafting (1.055 reviews)
- AWESOME RAFTING EXPERIENCE!!
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM River Rafting & Tubing • Day Trips

We had a very nice time with the Basque guy. Very good introduction from Mark about rafting principles. All in all a great experience and definitely worth the time. Kayaks made us feel safe and the equipment was of good quality. Food after the rafting was very nicely cooked. See more..
5.0 Whale Watching Hauganes (540 reviews)
- 10/10 Would definitely recommend. An amazing experience!
Saturday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Boat Tours • Fishing Charters & Tours • Dolphin & Whale Watching • Nature & Wildlife Tours

If you want to be sure to see some whales then you have to book with Whale Watching Hauganes. Truly an amazing experience. We saw a whale every 45 seconds for about 35-40 mins once we made it out to the Fjord. The captain and the guide have a keen eye for spotting the whales right before they pop up and are quick to yell them out. The boats used for their tours are really well maintained and perfect for whale watching as you can move around the boat and change directions to look from. Whale Watching Hauganes also offers hot chocolate, coffee and sweet treats for their guest which was a really pleasant gesture that went a long way with everyone onboard. This is a great tour for families, couples, friends or even solo travelers as you’ll be sure to meet others on the boat. Thank you to everyone at Whale Watching Hauganes for creating such an unforgettable experience. 10/10 WOULD DEFINITELY RECOMMEND. See more..
5.0 Salka Whale Watching (502 reviews)
- Cheaper and better
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Boat Tours • Dolphin & Whale Watching • Nature & Wildlife Tours

We had a very nice experience, the guide could explain us a lot of things which was nice as well. We could see a lot of whales, one of them jumping out of the water. Moreover, the ticket includes discounts in the salka restaurant as well as in the whale museum. To recommend. See more..
5.0 Arctic Sea Tours Whale Watching (463 reviews)
- A highlight during our holidays!
Boat Tours • Fishing Charters & Tours • Dolphin & Whale Watching • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Speed Boats Tours

After a friendly welcome in which we were given comfortable warm overalls, we boarded the rib boat. The guide was very good in spotting the whales and the dolphins, where the fast comfortable rib boat brought us very quickly very close to these animals: amazing to be able to see them up so close (even regularly right next to the boat) – just awesome! The sunset at sea itself was so movingly beautiful and that it didn't get dark was also an experience in itself. Back to land, we were welcomed again by the friendly owner to share our experiences. See more..
5.0 Husavik Adventures (298 reviews)
- Amazing whale watching
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Dolphin & Whale Watching • Speed Boats Tours

Amazing experience, really well organised and friendly. Knowledgeable crew who ensured we had a great chance to see puffins and whales. In the RIB we got to see both humpback and blue whales, being first out and fast to respond to sightings. Had a bonus dolphin sighting as well. See more..
5.0 Polar Hestar (239 reviews)
- An incredible experience!
Horseback Riding Tours

There are a lot of horseback riding options in Iceland, but we have no doubt this was the perfect choice for our trip! Polar Hestar was easy to book with, quickly got us ready and safe for our ride, and everyone we spoke with from start to finish was kind and accommodating. We opted for the 2 hour mountains and river tour and have no regrets! We were worried about 2 hours being a bit long, especially with my husband never having ridden before, and though we were definitely tired afterward, the two hour trip was easy enough and went by very quickly. Our horses were well mannered and it was really cool being able to ride faster during a few points in the trip. We even got up to a gallop for a split second! The scenery, especially during mid/late September when we visited was stunning. I felt so at peace during this experience taking in all the views. We couldn't recommend this experience more! See more..
5.0 Skjaldarvik Tours (211 reviews)
- Best initiation horse riding for kids ever.
Temporarily closed - Closed until further notice Spent 1-2 hours Horseback Riding Tours

Skjaldarvik Tours provides Horse tours. We offer short riding tours in the area surrounding Skjaldarvik, where people get a chance to learn about the Icelandic horse under expert supervision. We also offer photo and feed horse tour where you can come close to the horses, learn about them, feed them some treats and take some amazing photos. See more..
5.0 Inspiration Iceland (208 reviews)
- Knarrarberg: A Space of the Comfort of Home and Inspiration for the Soul
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Sightseeing Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours

Knarrarberg in Akureyri is a beautiful retreat and yoga center. They hosted our event in early August of 2022 at their beautiful place on the hill overlooking the bay and mountains near the city. Our comfort was seen to at ever turn, and it felt like home away from home. The facility was perfect for our group of 40+ people, and yet cozy to be in. The room we held our meetings in has full windows on both sides that let in the light and beauty of the area. This added to the uplifting feeling of our subjects of discussion. It was inspiring to be there. See more..
5.0 Star Travel (201 reviews)
- Iceland in 4 days
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Private Tours • Photography Tours • Day Trips

My wife and I spent 4 days touring Iceland with Reynir in August. We had a fantastic time. Reynir met us at our Cruise ports each day on time and ready to tour. We visited many of the "must see" attractions as well as travelling in the more remote areas. Reynir is a great guide; very knowledgeable, easy going, flexible and accommodating. We thoroughly enjoyed our time in Iceland with Reynir and hope to return. I would highly recommend Reynir as a guide. Phil & Carol See more..
5.0 Whale Watching Hjalteyri (169 reviews)
- Wonderful company - spectacular trip
Boat Tours • Dolphin & Whale Watching • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Day Trips

We’d originally booked for Husavik but the seas were going to be too rough. North Sailing gave us the option to move to a location in the fjord that would be more protected. We worried that we might not see whales there, but our r worries we’re almost immediately put to rest when we got out of n the water. We saw a humpback and stayed with it for quite a while. Then almost right away we saw a second larger humpback and stayed with it for some time. I never felt the captain was getting too close, though, or stressing the whales in any way. The weather wasn’t ideal as it was cold, rainy and windy. But the gear we were given really helped keep us warm and dry. Once we made the move to return to port, we were served cocoa and cinnamon rolls. The staff were all great and we really enjoyed the whale expert who was spotting the whale and giving lots of interesting information. We wouldn’t hesitate to book with them again. It was a highlight of our trip. See more..
5.0 Askja (149 reviews)
- 4x4 WD needed, F905 is OK
Geologic Formations

We went there around mid August '14. We left Myvatn lake around 8.30am. We had a Dacia Duster 4 WD which was OK for the F905 river crossing during that period. We couldn't go through the F88 since the road was close due to high water level. Still, the F905 is an amazing road. I absolutely recommend to rent a 4x4 and experience by yourself a "once in a lifetime" experience. We arrived there around 12.30am (including time to take pictures at every corner...). The hike from the car parking to the lake site is very easy to do (30min). Unfortunately part of the lake coast collapsed few days earlier (!), causing a small tsunami (!!!), therefore the access to Viti lake for a bath was closed. Next time ;) See more..
5.0 Snow Dogs (147 reviews)
- Excellent dog sledding ride
Saturday: Ski & Snow Tours • Private Tours

This was a last minute splurge, and we don't regret the mini $$$$ "investment" to go dog sledding in Iceland. We loved every second of the ride, the dogs were awesome, and we even got snuggle time with them afterwards (kids loved it). I only wish that the ride was a bit longer, but I really appreciate that the dogs are cared for by the owners. It was refreshing to experience how much the dogs love to go for a run! Excellent. See more..
5.0 Geo Travel (130 reviews)
- Iceland/Myvatn in winter
4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours • Hiking & Camping Tours • Private Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Day Trips

When we were in Iceland in Feb 2022 with Voigt Travel, all the local arrangements were made by Geotravel, the local guides around Myvatn. They do absolutely great work, and are very flexible and do what they promise. And even much more ... Anton is the driving force behind the name, but he has a very strong and powerfull team around him. They made our trip to Iceland perfect !! See more..
5.0 IceAk - Super Jeep Tours (125 reviews)
- Just do it!
4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Private Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours

From start to finish this tour was ACES! Specifically, my guide, Ingi ☺️ A gentlemen through and through, he took extra steps to make sure I felt safe in icy scenarios that challenged me, kept the adventure going & kept me laughing and excited for the next destination. Carefully, choosing which site we should see next based on the daylight, Ingi was thoughtful throughout. His extensive knowledge on Icelandic history and the terrain was remarkable, to say the least. This tour was scheduled via my tour agent, Charlie The Traveler, making it so that all I had to do was be ready and waiting in the lobby of my hotel. I was picked up right on time and thoroughly enjoyed the Icelandic landscape and jaw-dropping views of calderas, thermal baths, waterfalls, volcanic rock piles and so much more! Tittilate the senses and get the best exposure to the North by booking your tour with IceAk and requesting Ingi! You can thank me later ☺️ See more..
5.0 Lava Horses (118 reviews)
- Great tour with Lava horses
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Private Tours • Horseback Riding Tours

We took a 2h tour, which was great. We were a bit worried because we are not skilled riders, but the horses are very nice and easy to handle even for ten year old kid. We were accompanied by twoo guides, and did almost 10 km through very interesting landscape - from lava fields, to forest, river bed…2h time gives a lot of opportunities to talk with guides about different aspects of living in North Iceland. We also experienced very pleasant tolt:) it was really great experience. See more..
5.0 Keli Sea Tours (88 reviews)
- Fantastic trip with a fantastic crew and boat and lots of whales
Boat Tours • Dolphin & Whale Watching

We had a fantastic time on a beautiful boat with a family crew, who went an extra mile to ensure that we definitely see whales. Very friendly, very experienced and if you book through the webpage, you receive 10% discount. We loved it and recommend it very highly. The trip took longer than expected which was fantastic as the crew wanted us to definitely see whales…and we did. Definitely better than a speed boat and I would only go out with them again. Thank you guys for an unforgettable trip. See more..
5.0 The Transportation Museum at Ystafell (85 reviews)
- Great car collection
Saturday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums

The Transportation Museum at Ystafell is the oldest car museum in Iceland and has one of the largest collections of cars in the country. It also features many other types of vehicles and plenty of antique treasures to discover. See more..
5.0 Fairytale At Sea (84 reviews)
- Nature Tour at 50 mph!
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Waterskiing & Jetskiing

A unique experience! All the fun of being on a jet ski while observing nature around yourself in hard to reach places. The jet skis themselves were top notch, alongside the great gear that completely sealed us in from the wet & cold. Saw many species of birds who zoomed alongside us as we sped through the fjords. Truly a great experience with a local who gave us information on the wildlife and the surrounding area. Also, the people who run the business are just lovely and funny people. I would highly recommend for those who want the freedom and excitement exploring nature. See more..
5.0 Riding Iceland ehf (83 reviews)
- Excellent winter trip
Multi-day Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Horseback Riding Tours

I had a fabulous time at the Saltvik farm of Riding Iceland. While the weather was a challenge (cold winds, low temperatures and lot of snow) they made it work and took the effort to think of different beautiful rides (using a trailer). The food was amazing! The horses are well trained and they were able to find great matches between rider and horse. See more..
5.0 Tvistur Horse Rental (78 reviews)
- Wonderful experience
Spent 2-3 hours Horseback Riding Tours

Pleasant and enjoyable ride, beautiful scenery. Our guides Hjölli and María were so kind and helpful. Splendid ! See more..
4.5 Myvatn Nature Baths (Jardbodin vid Myvatn) (2.745 reviews)
- Beautiful Experience
Hot Springs & Geysers

Drawing on a centuries-old tradition, the tastefully designed complex offers bathers a completely natural experience that begins with a relaxing dip amidst clouds of steam rising up from a fissure deep in the Earth´s surface, and ends with a luxurious swim in a pool of geothermal water drawn from depths of up to 2.500 metres.Containing a unique blend of minerals, silicates and geothermal microorganisms, the warm, soothing waters of Mývatn Nature Baths are beneficial to skin and spirit alike, creating a sense of wellbeing which lingers on as a lasting memory of your visit to this spellbinding area at Europe´s outer limits.Facilities on offer include a reception area and restaurant seating 120 guests, changing rooms and showers for up to 300 guests, two natural steam baths accommodating up to 50 bathers at a time, and a 5000m2 geothermal bathing pool maintained at a constant temperature of 38-40ºC. See more..
4.5 Dettifoss Waterfall (2.307 reviews)
- Powerful experience
Saturday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 2-3 hours Waterfalls

Europe's largest waterfall (by volume) is well worth a visit. You have two options. Either you follow the crowds and see the falls from the Western side, or you take the bumpy gravel road to see the falls from the East. On the Eastern side, you get closer to the falls and if you come in the morning, you will have the sun in your back for good photography. (For the same reason, late afternoon visits are probably better fram the Western side if you want to take good pictures.) See more..
4.5 North Sailing (2.110 reviews)
- Amazing Eco-Sailing Adventure
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Boat Tours • Eco Tours • Dolphin & Whale Watching • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Day Trips

Our Family of 4 very much enjoyed our sailing and whale watching tour by North Sailing. We took the electric eco-friendly ship and it was amazing. We were able to see quite a few whales and some quite close. The captain and crew were very experienced and it made a huge difference in the number of whales we were able to see. They crew shared stories and details about the whales. They also served a hot snack during the trip. I would recommend getting the full-body sailing outerwear that is included with the trip. No matter how warm it may be onshore, out on the water it can be very windy and cold and you will be on deck the entire trip. Can't wait for a return trip! See more..
4.5 Godafoss (2.007 reviews)
- Beautiful Falls
Waterfalls

This is a very beautiful waterfall along the Ring Road. Very accessible with a large parking lot and an easy walk to numerous viewing points. Unfortunately when we visited it was later in the day and starting to rain but we enjoyed walking to it for viewing. Not as tall as some of the other falls in Iceland but definitely wider than most. For sure make it a stop since it is very easy to see - even from the road! See more..
4.5 Námafjall Hverir (1.976 reviews)
- Surreal landscape with strong sulphur smells but well worth a visit
Geologic Formations

We visited Hverir on a cruise ship excursion around the Myvatn Lake area and our stop here was the highlight of the day for me. The landscape is surreal, very outworldly, but the colours, smells and sights were strangely attractive. There is a circular walk you can take from the parking area (charged) that takes you around the mud pools and fumeroles, giving you a chance to see and feel the geothermal heat and activity up close. Note that you mustn't cross the ropes (for health and safety reasons) as you can get burnt if you get caught up too close with the mud pools, but you get very close to them anyway, close enough to see all the action. The steaming fumeroles are a great way to warm your hands up on a cold day (as it was when we visited). Well worth a stop. See more..
4.5 Gentle Giants Whale Watching (1.920 reviews)
- Close enough to hear the Humpbacks
Saturday: Boat Tours • Dolphin & Whale Watching • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Speed Boats Tours

Our guide and captain were so friendly and both educated us and presented to us the beauty of the wildlife in the sea in their bay. We saw both Minke and Humpback whales. The puffins were so fun to watch and learn about. Highly recommend the rib boat as it allowed us to get close enough to hear the breaths of the Humpback and to learn when it was going to show us some tail! See more..
4.5 Lake Myvatn (1.110 reviews)
- Bring a face/head netting for your Lake Myvatn adventure. You won’t regret it.
Saturday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Bodies of Water

Lake Myvatn and it’s surrounding areas are beautiful except for the millions of midges or black flies that swarm you when you get out of your car. These things for the most part don’t sting (supposedly they do bite) but what they are is annoying and just ruin the hike or activity you’re about to embark on. Tips to mitigate: pick/bring with you a mosquito face/head netting or if you forget to pack/bring one, head to the only grocery store in Lake Myvatn where you can purchase one (price was about 1500isk). Not sure if repellents will work as I did not try or have any at hand. But having the face/head netting worked like a charm. Best money I spent. Trust me, you’ll want one of these. See more..
4.5 Akureyri Botanical Garden (924 reviews)
- Flower paradise
Spent 1-2 hours Gardens

We visited in mid July, by this time, the effort of all staff to bring the flowers to a perfect state had arrived. The colours were vibrant and beautiful. Information plates were everywhere, helping to inform the visitor. The cafe was in full flow. See more..
4.5 Krafla Lava Fields (763 reviews)
- Interesting but no Yellowstone
Nature & Wildlife Areas

Do you compare an art museum to Chicago Art Institute, do you compare a house to Fallingwater? It may seem a bit unfair, but that is what we found ourselves doing. The lava fields are interesting and the trails easy to walk. They are right off the main road, so definitely go, but no, they are not Norris Gysir Basin in Yellowstone - but then again nothing is. See more..