East Iceland Driving Guide: Ring Road, Fjords & Jökulsárlón

East Iceland is often the most overlooked section of the Ring Road. Most tourists rush through on their way to Jökulsárglúfur. But those who slow down discover one of Iceland's most beautiful and peaceful regions — with fjords, mountain villages, and vast landscapes unlike anything else in the country.

How to get to East Iceland

Route 1 runs through East Iceland between Egilsstaðir in the north and Höfn in the south. The total length of this section is around 300 km. Average driving time without stops is 3.5–4 hours, but plan 2 days with stops.

Egilsstaðir — the hub of East Iceland

Egilsstaðir is the largest town in East Iceland and a great base for exploring the region. Here you'll find the only larger shopping centre in the area, petrol stations (N1 and Orkan), and an airport with regular flights to Reykjavík. From Egilsstaðir, it's a short drive to Hallormsstaður forest — Iceland's largest woodland.

The East Fjords

The East Fjords (Austurfjörðir) are 14 fjords cutting into the land from Reyðarfjörður in the south to Borgarfjörður eystri in the north. Routes 92 and 96 run along them. The road is narrow and winding but well-maintained. Key towns include:

• Seyðisfjörður — Artists' town with colourful houses and a ferry to Denmark and Norway. Route 93 climbs over a mountain pass to reach it — beautiful but can be icy.
• Neskaupstaður — The largest town in East Iceland. Good services.
• Borgarfjörður eystri — Famous for puffins and a rare feature: Álfaborg, where locals believe elves live.

Jökulsárlón — the crown jewel of East Iceland

Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is one of Iceland's most famous natural landmarks. Floating blue icebergs. Seals lounging on the ice. Where the lagoon meets the sea. Route 1 crosses directly over a bridge spanning the lagoon's outflow — you can stop and walk down to Diamond Beach where icebergs wash ashore on black sand.

The Jökulsárlón car park is free but fills quickly in peak season. Arrive early morning or late evening.

Skaftafell — part of Vatnajökull National Park

Skaftafell is a large nature area with multiple hiking trails, including the walk to Svartifoss — a waterfall surrounded by basalt columns. From the Skaftafell car park, it's a 1.5 km trail. A great stop whether you're heading east or west.

Road conditions in East Iceland

Route 1 is paved and generally in good condition. However, some fjord roads (especially Route 93 to Seyðisfjörður) are narrow, winding and can be icy in winter. Always check road conditions at road.is or the Vegagerðin app before setting out.