North West
About
North West
Iceland’s Wildest and Most Untouched Region
The North West of Iceland is where the country becomes truly remote. This vast and rugged region is defined by dramatic fjords, steep mountains, quiet fishing villages, and some of the least visited landscapes in Iceland. It is a place for travelers who want to go beyond the obvious and experience Iceland at its rawest and most peaceful.
Here, the distances are longer, the roads are quieter, and the scenery feels bigger and more untamed. You’ll find towering cliffs, deep fjords, wide open valleys, hot springs in the middle of nowhere, and wildlife-rich coastlines where seals, seabirds, and sometimes even whales can be spotted from the shore.
North West
Our Local Advice
The North West is best suited for travelers who are comfortable with longer driving days and changing conditions. Plan fewer stops per day, give yourself extra time, and stay flexible. Weather can change quickly, and some mountain roads or remote routes are only open in summer.
We strongly recommend spending several days in this region if you decide to include it in your trip. Rushing through it means missing what makes it special. The North West is about slow travel, big landscapes, and discovering places you didn’t even know existed.
If you want to experience Iceland’s wild side, away from the crowds and close to nature, the North West is one of the most rewarding regions in the country.
Popular Tours
- 12 Hours
- Easy
- Reykjavík
Explore this hidden gem of Iceland at your own pace.
260.000 ISK
private
- 2 Hours
- Easy
- Reykholt
Geothermal bath & spa at Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring
7.900 ISK
Admission
- 11 Hours
- Easy
- Reykjavík
Experience the diverse beauty of lava fields, majestic mountains, and the iconic Kirkjufell
18.900 ISK
Small Group
- 3,5 Hours
- Easy
- Ísafjörður
Best half-day Ísafjörður shore excursion
17.990 ISK
Attractions
Your questions answered
Common questions
How many days should I plan for the North West?
We recommend at least three to five days to properly experience the North West. Distances are long, roads are slower, and many of the best places are spread far apart. This is a region where rushing does not make sense, and the journey itself is a big part of the experience.
Is the North West difficult to drive?
The main roads are generally in good condition, but many routes are narrow, winding, and slower than in other parts of Iceland. Some mountain roads and remote areas are only open in summer and may require a 4×4. You should always check road and weather conditions before driving in this region.
What makes the North West different from other regions in Iceland?
The North West is much more remote and less visited than areas like the South Coast or Golden Circle. It offers bigger solitude, fewer tourists, and a stronger feeling of wilderness. The landscapes are more rugged, the fjords deeper, and the distances longer, making it ideal for travelers who want a quieter and more adventurous experience.
When is the best time to visit the North West?
The best time to visit is from late June to early September, when most roads are open and conditions are more predictable. In winter and early spring, many routes can be closed due to snow and weather, and travel becomes much more challenging.