Iceland🇮🇸 | townsEgilsstaðirtransport hub, forest walks, lake access | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Egilsstaðir
👍 Recommendedtown ranked #4
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated September 4, 2026

Steam from your coffee curls into the cold, dry air as a bus hisses away, leaving a brief silence broken only by boots on gravel and the low hum of the Ring Road. The lake is a flat sheet of pewter, mountains smudged purple behind it, and the smell is wet grass, fuel, and woodsmoke from a nearby guesthouse kitchen. This is Egilsstaðir, the small transport hub of East Iceland, sitting inland where roads from the north, south, and fjords intersect.

For backpackers, it’s more crossroads than climax. You stop here to reset: stock up at the supermarket, catch a bus, warm up between harsher stretches of the Eastfjords. The upside is convenience and calm; the downside is that it feels practical more than poetic, especially compared with Seyðisfjörður’s steep-sided fjord drama or Borgarfjörður Eystri’s hiking paradise. Evenings are low-key: hostel kitchens full of simmering pasta, people trading road intel over drying socks, then early nights under thin curtains that never quite block the late light. You’ll meet other travelers easily because everyone funnels through the same few guesthouses and bus stops, but most are in transit mode, thinking about where they’re heading next rather than settling in here.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 Iceland Travel Guide.

Best time to go: April - October
Population: ~2,600
Daily cost: USD75 to 120 [visiticeland.com]

Get your Iceland guide

62 ranked highlights, routes & tips, works offline (240 pages)

Loading the map 🌍

CLICK TO FILTER

cities

towns

villages

landmarks

national parks

hikes

beaches

attractions

festivals

regions

SHOW COUNTRY’S BESTSHOW ALL

💡 Find me the best route

✨ Why go?
Ranked #4 town in IcelandThe unique appeal for travelers

In the heart of Iceland, Egilsstaðir offers a unique blend of atmosphere and natural beauty that beckons backpackers seeking a breather. This village is a gateway to stunning hikes and serene landscapes, making it a perfect stop between the more frenetic spots like Reykjavik and the East Fjords. The slower pace here invites you to breathe deeply, with the crisp air carrying hints of pine and earth.

You’ll find cozy cafés where locals share stories over coffee, creating a sense of community that’s hard to find in busier towns. Whether you’re a solo traveler craving quiet or a couple looking for a romantic escape, Egilsstaðir caters to all. Most backpackers linger just long enough to recharge, but those who stay a bit longer discover hidden trails and local characters that enrich their journey. … read more 👉

Want to include Egilsstaðir in your Iceland route?
Create a personalized Iceland itinerary that includes Egilsstaðir and the places that fit your trip — based on your travel style, budget, and available time. Get your route in seconds.

Generate my trip

💡 HighlightsWhat this place is best known for

Lagarfljót shoreline and bridge: Walkable waterfront right by town with sweeping views of the long lake/river, good picnic spots, easy access for photos and the local legend of the Lagarfljót Worm gives the place a quirky, memorable local flavor.
Egilsstaðarkirkja (Egilsstaðir Church): The town’s church is a simple, well-kept example of Icelandic parish life—clean architecture, seasonal services, and a peaceful graveyard that reflects local history and community roots.
Sundlaug Egilsstaða (Egilsstaðir Swimming Pool): A proper Icelandic experience—geothermal pools, hot tubs, and a sauna where locals hang out; great after hiking or driving and a cultural window into everyday Icelandic life.
Egilsstaðir Tourist Information / Visitor Center: The local info center in town is the practical

… read more 👉

Lagarfljót shoreline and bridge: Walkable waterfront right by town with sweeping views of the long lake/river, good picnic spots, easy access for photos and the local legend of the Lagarfljót Worm gives the place a quirky, memorable local flavor.
Egilsstaðarkirkja (Egilsstaðir Church): The town’s church is a simple, well-kept example of Icelandic parish life—clean architecture, seasonal services, and a peaceful graveyard that reflects local history and community roots.
Sundlaug Egilsstaða (Egilsstaðir Swimming Pool): A proper Icelandic experience—geothermal pools, hot tubs, and a sauna where locals hang out; great after hiking or driving and a cultural window into everyday Icelandic life.
Egilsstaðir Tourist Information / Visitor Center: The local info center in town is the practical hub for maps, day-trip planning, local exhibitions and tips from staff about nearby hikes, wildlife spots, and cultural events—worth a stop as soon as you arrive.
Egilsstaðir Airport (EGS) viewing area: Small regional airport right on the edge of town; quick to visit for watching domestic flights, seeing small aircraft up close, and understanding how this transport hub connects East Iceland to Reykjavík.

Nearby day-trip highlights worth exploring: Hallormsstaðaskógur (Iceland’s largest forest), the dramatic Hengifoss waterfall, Gunnar Gunnarsson’s house at Skriðuklaustur, and the artsy fjord town Seyðisfjörður — Hengifoss is my personal favorite.

Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Iceland

example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Iceland

example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Iceland

example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Iceland

example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Iceland

example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Iceland

example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Iceland

example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Iceland

Stop researching. Start exploring.
Discover all 62 highlights,ranked
and organized into practical routes.

Get instant access

🏘️ NeighborhoodsKey areas and districts to know

Egilsstaðir is the gateway to East Iceland’s wild landscapes, but the town itself is compact and easy to navigate. Knowing where to base yourself can save time and energy, letting you soak in the crisp air and rugged views without unnecessary hassle.

Downtown Egilsstaðir
This is the heart of the action—small but packed with essentials. You’ll find grocery stores, cafes, and a handful of guesthouses within a 10-minute walk. It’s the best spot if you want quick access to buses heading out to hiking trails or the airport shuttle. Nightlife is low-key but lively enough for a beer and chat after a day on the trails. Perfect for short stays or if you want to keep things simple and social.

Lake Lagarfljót Area
Just a few kilometers from downtown, this quieter zone offers cabins and campsites with direct lake views. It’s ideal if you crave peaceful mornings with mist rising off the water and don’t mind a short drive or bike ride into town. The vibe is slow and reflective, great for longer stays where you want to disconnect and recharge.

Railway Station Vicinity
A practical choice for those arriving by train or bus, this area is less scenic but highly functional. Accommodations here tend to be budget-friendly and basic. It’s a good fallback if you’re on a tight schedule or want to maximize early departures without fuss.

Each area has its rhythm—choose the one that matches your pace and plans, and you’ll find Egilsstaðir’s quiet charm waiting just outside your door.

⌛️ 1 day1-day itinerary for Egilsstaðir

Egilsstaðir is the beating heart of East Iceland, a town where the raw wilderness meets a surprisingly lively local scene. It’s not flashy, but that’s exactly why it feels genuine. The air carries a crispness that hints at the nearby Lagarfljót lake, and the scent of pine from Hallormsstaður forest lingers faintly, grounding you in nature even as you stroll through town.

Start your morning with a walk along the banks of the Lagarfljót river. The light here in the early hours is soft, casting long shadows over the water’s surface, perfect for a quiet moment or some photos. Pop into a local bakery—try the rye bread, dense and slightly sweet, a staple that feels like a warm handshake from the region. Then head to the East Iceland Heritage Museum. It’s small but packed with stories that give context to the rugged landscape you’re about to explore.

Afternoon calls for a short drive to the lesser-known Skriðuklaustur estate, a place that’s often overlooked but rich in history and surrounded by wildflowers and mossy lava fields. The house itself, once home to a famous Icelandic writer, offers a peaceful contrast to the raw outdoors. On your way back, swing through the quiet neighborhood of Eiðar, where you can glimpse everyday Icelandic life away from the tourist buzz.

As evening falls, settle into a cozy café in Egilsstaðir’s town center. The fading light filters through large windows, and the hum of locals chatting creates a warm backdrop. Order a bowl of lamb soup—simple, hearty, and exactly what you need after a day spent between forest, river, and history. This isn’t just a stopover; it’s a chance to feel the pulse of East Iceland in one day, without rushing past the details that make it real.

Turn your Egilsstaðir visit into an Iceland adventure
Build a complete Iceland route with Egilsstaðir, hidden gems, must-see destinations, and realistic travel times included.

Generate my trip

🌤️ When to go?Weather, crowds, and seasonal trade-offs

Weather: Egilsstaðir’s weather swings dramatically. Summer (June-August) offers mild temperatures around 10-15°C (50-59°F), perfect for hiking without freezing or sweating buckets. Winter plunges below freezing, often -5 to -10°C (23-14°F), making trails icy and daylight scarce.

Daylight Hours: In summer, the midnight sun stretches daylight to nearly 24 hours, giving you endless time to explore. Winter flips the script with as little as 4-5 hours of light, which can feel claustrophobic and limits hiking windows.

Crowds: Summer draws the most visitors, especially July, so expect busier trails and pricier accommodations. Shoulder seasons (May and September) strike a balance—fewer people but still decent weather.

Seasonal Activities: Summer unlocks river rafting, horseback riding, and

… read more 👉

Weather: Egilsstaðir’s weather swings dramatically. Summer (June-August) offers mild temperatures around 10-15°C (50-59°F), perfect for hiking without freezing or sweating buckets. Winter plunges below freezing, often -5 to -10°C (23-14°F), making trails icy and daylight scarce.

Daylight Hours: In summer, the midnight sun stretches daylight to nearly 24 hours, giving you endless time to explore. Winter flips the script with as little as 4-5 hours of light, which can feel claustrophobic and limits hiking windows.

Crowds: Summer draws the most visitors, especially July, so expect busier trails and pricier accommodations. Shoulder seasons (May and September) strike a balance—fewer people but still decent weather.

Seasonal Activities: Summer unlocks river rafting, horseback riding, and lush valley hikes. Winter is for hardcore adventurers chasing the Northern Lights, but many trails close due to snow.

Price Fluctuations: Accommodation and tours spike in summer, sometimes doubling compared to off-season. Booking early or aiming for shoulder months can save you serious cash.

Pro-tip: Visit in late May or early September—daylight lingers, crowds thin, and the landscape shifts between spring bloom and autumn gold, giving you a richer, quieter experience without the summer price tag.

source: climatestotravel.comJANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDEC

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutIceland Travel Guide

An offline-friendly backpacking guide with optimized travel routes, ranked highlights, transport advice, and the best areas to stay.

The digital guide (240 pages) contains:
✅ 62 highlights, ranked by travel appeal
✅ Optimized 5, 10 & 15-day travel routes
✅ Cities, national parks, landmarks, beaches
✅ How to get around
✅ Offline-friendly for travel without Wi-Fi
👉 Click to see all 30+ guide features

📅 Plan smarter in minutes, not weeks
✅ Month by month travel advice
✅ Festivals & national holidays
✅ Budget expectations

🗺️ Go to the right places, skip the overrated ones
✅ Honest pros & cons of destinations
✅ Top hikes, parks & viewpoints
✅ Lesser-known places most travelers miss
✅ Clear “worth it vs skip it” guidance

🛏️ Travel smoothly without rookie mistakes
✅ Best areas to stay
✅ Transport systems explained simply
✅ Common scams & safety advice
✅ SIM cards, money & practical tips

🌍 Understand the country, not just visit it
✅ Culture & traditions
✅ 52 Essential phrases & customs
✅ Festivals worth planning around
✅ Traveler-friendly historical context
✅ Insights that make places more meaningful

📱 Built for real travel conditions
✅ Fully downloadable PDF
✅ Works completely offline
✅ Optimized for phone use
✅ Useful in remote areas & buses
✅ Everything in one place

Save weeks of stressful planning

Get instant access to your full guide. 30‑day money-back guarantee.

+ Add another guide for just US$7.80

By proceeding you agree to our terms.
Sent to your inbox immediately after payment • 100% Secure Checkout

Best Backpacking
Travel Advisor
2025

What others say about Take Your Backpack Guides:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Fantastic, amazing amount of information!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

My goodness this is amazing, it's what I've been looking for hats off too you!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I think this is absolutely BRILLIANT

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Very complete and informative. It's still missing places, but I gotta to commend you

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is truly amazing, thank you, can't wait to explore it with my kids!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Awesome resource, thank you!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is amazing! Can't wait to explore the ones I haven't seen

⭐⭐⭐⭐

I love this! Well done, great idea.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thanks for taking the time to make this gem!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This might be the best website I've ever seen.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Congratulations, and thank you so much for your work; it's incredibly valuable.

⭐⭐⭐⭐

In all seriousness I think you did a great job pointing out the important spots

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

10/10 very good

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

As someone who's only just starting to visit regularly this is awesome, thank you.

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you very much! I'm going to visit my dad, it's going to be very useful!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is really cool! We'll be travelling for the first time and this definitely come in handy.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

You are now our minister of culture, congratulations 👨‍💼

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Just wanted to tell you that this is a pearl! Going to follow your recommendations.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is so cool. I'll definitely be using the resource for my travels soon.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is very impressive! Good work.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is an amazing and informative site. Very well done!

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas to stay in Iceland

Egilsstaðir is the hub of East Iceland, a village where the air carries a crispness that hints at the wild landscapes just beyond town. For backpackers, the best places to stay are those that balance comfort with access to nature, because here, the real draw is stepping outside your door into raw Icelandic wilderness.

Start with Lyngás Guesthouse. It’s a no-frills spot, but that’s the point—you get a clean, cozy room and a kitchen to cook your own meals, which saves you from the steep prices of local restaurants. The light in the common room in the late afternoon has a soft, golden quality that makes planning your next hike feel like part of the adventure.

If you want to meet other travelers and swap stories, Tehúsið Hostel is your go-to. It’s lively without being overwhelming, with dorms that open onto a courtyard where the scent of fresh bread from the nearby bakery drifts in. Staying here means you’re a short walk from the river, where the sound of flowing water is a constant companion.

For a touch more privacy without losing that backpacker vibe, Lake Hotel Egilsstaðir offers simple rooms with views over Lagarfljót lake. The early morning light here is sharp and clear, perfect for a quiet moment before you hit the trails.

Choosing any of these means you’re not just bunking down—you’re stepping into the rhythm of Egilsstaðir, where the village’s calm pulse sets the stage for exploring the rugged East Icelandic landscape.

Best hostels in Iceland

Best quality hotels in Iceland

🚌 Getting aroundHow to get from A to B

Egilsstaðir moves at the pace of the wilderness around it—unhurried but deliberate. The air carries a crispness that sharpens your senses, a mix of pine and river mist that clings to the skin. This town isn’t about rigid timetables or frantic rush; it’s about syncing with the natural rhythm of the East Fjords. You’ll find that things here unfold with a quiet confidence, where buses and boats don’t scream urgency but arrive like a calm invitation to explore further. The light shifts slowly over the mountains, and so should your plans—flexible, patient, and ready to soak in the subtle shifts of the landscape.

Walking: Egilsstaðir’s compact center is best explored on foot. The town’s layout is straightforward, with most services, cafes, and the small lake Lagarfljót within a 15-20 minute

… read more 👉

Walking: Egilsstaðir’s compact center is best explored on foot. The town’s layout is straightforward, with most services, cafes, and the small lake Lagarfljót within a 15-20 minute stroll. Walking lets you catch the scent of fresh birch and the distant sound of water—no schedule needed, just your own pace.

Local Bus (Strætó): The regional bus network connects Egilsstaðir to nearby villages and key spots like Seyðisfjörður. Buses typically run from early morning around 7:00 AM until early evening, roughly 6:00 PM, with limited frequency—plan ahead to avoid long waits. Tickets are affordable, around 1,000 ISK for short hops, but expect basic comfort and a slower pace as the bus navigates winding fjord roads.

Car Rentals: For budget travelers willing to stretch a bit, renting a car is the best way to unlock the East Fjords’ hidden corners. Prices start around 7,000 ISK per day for a small vehicle. The freedom to stop where the light hits just right or to chase waterfalls on your own schedule is worth the cost if you want to move beyond the town’s quiet pulse.

Taxi Services: Taxis exist but are pricey and best reserved for late-night returns or when you’re hauling gear. Expect fares to start around 2,500 ISK for short trips within town. They’re reliable but not a daily budget option.

Bicycle Rentals: A growing option for the adventurous, bikes let you cover more ground than walking but still keep you close to the landscape’s textures—the crunch of gravel, the cool breeze off the lake. Rentals are seasonal and cost about 2,000-3,000 ISK per day. Ideal for sunny days when the light is soft and the air smells of wet earth.

👛 Costs (as of 4 September 2026)How expensive it really is

Backpacking in Egilsstaðir, Iceland, means embracing a raw, northern atmosphere where every krona counts but the landscape rewards you with a quiet, rugged charm. Here’s how your daily costs typically break down:

Dorm Accommodation: Expect to pay around $40 to $60 USD per night for a bed in a hostel dorm. Options are limited but clean and functional, often with shared kitchen access. Booking ahead is smart, especially in summer when the light lingers late and the town fills up.
Meals: Food here leans toward the pricey side. Budget about $15 to $25 USD for a simple meal at a café or gas station convenience store. Cooking your own meals is a solid way to save, with groceries costing roughly $10 to $20 USD per day depending on your appetite and choice of ingredients.
Local Transport: Egilsstaðir

… read more 👉

Dorm Accommodation: Expect to pay around $40 to $60 USD per night for a bed in a hostel dorm. Options are limited but clean and functional, often with shared kitchen access. Booking ahead is smart, especially in summer when the light lingers late and the town fills up.
Meals: Food here leans toward the pricey side. Budget about $15 to $25 USD for a simple meal at a café or gas station convenience store. Cooking your own meals is a solid way to save, with groceries costing roughly $10 to $20 USD per day depending on your appetite and choice of ingredients.
Local Transport: Egilsstaðir is small enough to explore mostly on foot, but if you need to get around, local buses or taxis can run $5 to $15 USD per trip. Renting a bike or hitchhiking are common alternatives to stretch your budget and soak in the fresh air.
Basic Activities/Entry Fees: Many natural attractions around Egilsstaðir, like hiking trails or waterfalls, are free. If you want to visit museums or cultural sites, budget $5 to $10 USD. Guided tours or special activities can push this higher, but independent exploration is the real draw here.
Miscellaneous Expenses: Factor in about $5 to $10 USD for essentials like water, snacks, or a coffee. Internet access and laundry services might add a few dollars more, depending on your needs.

All told, a realistic daily budget for backpacking in Egilsstaðir hovers between $75 and $120 USD. It’s not the cheapest spot in Iceland, but the payoff is in the quiet mornings by the lake and the chance to experience the Eastfjords without the crowds. Planning meals and transport carefully lets you stretch your funds and soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed or skimping on comfort.

source: visiticeland.com

⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

🚌 Day tripsWhere to go beyond the main area

Egilsstaðir is your gateway to Iceland’s wild heart, a cozy village that serves as a perfect base for unforgettable day trips. The surrounding landscapes are raw and breathtaking, but the real magic lies in how easily you can access them.

Lake Seyðisfjörður
Just a 30-minute drive from Egilsstaðir, this charming town is a feast for the senses. The road winds through lush valleys, and as you approach, the colorful wooden houses pop against the backdrop of steep mountains. Spend time wandering the quaint streets, soaking in the local art scene, and enjoying fresh seafood at a cozy café. The round trip will set you back about $20 in gas, and the best time to visit is during the summer when the vibrant arts festival lights up the town. A common mistake? Underestimating the weather; pack layers, even in summer. 👉 Explore Egilsstaðir

Hallormsstaðaskógur National Forest
A mere 20-minute drive from Egilsstaðir, this forest is Iceland’s largest and offers a refreshing contrast to the stark landscapes. Trails meander through birch and spruce trees, with the scent of pine filling the air. You can hike to the stunning Lagarfljót lake, where legends of a lake monster abound. The round trip can be done in about 4 hours, costing nothing but your time. Spring and early summer are ideal for wildflowers, but be cautious of muddy trails in the fall. Many first-timers miss the forest’s hidden waterfalls, so keep your eyes peeled. 👉 Explore Egilsstaðir

Stokksnes Peninsula
About an hour’s drive from Egilsstaðir, this dramatic coastline is where black sand meets jagged mountains. The view of Vestrahorn is jaw-dropping, especially at sunrise when the light dances on the peaks. Bring a packed lunch and enjoy it on the beach, where the salty breeze invigorates your spirit. Expect to spend around $30 for gas and snacks. The best time to go is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, when the crowds thin out. A rookie mistake? Not checking the tides; the beach can be treacherous at high tide. 👉 Explore Egilsstaðir

Dettifoss Waterfall
While a bit farther at about 1.5 hours away, Dettifoss is worth every minute. Known as Europe’s most powerful waterfall, the roar of the water is a primal experience. The surrounding landscape is stark and beautiful, with volcanic rock and moss creating a surreal atmosphere. The round trip can be done in about 3 hours, costing around $40 for gas. Late spring is ideal for viewing the waterfall at its fullest. Many first-timers miss the less-traveled viewpoints; venture a bit off the main path for a more intimate experience. 👉 Explore Egilsstaðir

Want to know what more Iceland offers?
The Iceland Travel Guide describes 62 highlights, from cities to national parks, from beaches to hikes

Get the Travel Guide -

🛡️ SafetySafety Tips and Common Scams in Egilsstaðir

Egilsstaðir is one of those rare Icelandic towns where you can drop your guard without losing your edge. It’s broadly safe, but the real challenge is staying sharp in the quiet moments. The town’s calm streets can lull you into a false sense of security, especially after dark when the long twilight fades to near silence. Solo travelers should keep to well-lit areas near the main square and avoid wandering down empty side streets late at night—not because of crime, but because the isolation can feel unsettling. There aren’t typical scams here, but the occasional tourist markup in cafes or souvenir shops means a quick price check never hurts. Carry yourself like you belong—confident, aware, and ready to enjoy the crisp air without distraction.

Check Country Safety

FAQCommon questions from travelers

Egilsstaðir is worth visiting for its role as the hub of East Iceland and access to nearby natural attractions like Hallormsstaðaskógur forest and Lagarfljót lake. It offers cultural experiences and local amenities beyond just a stopover. The town has a small but interesting museum and several hiking trails.

Two days are sufficient to explore Egilsstaðir and its immediate surroundings, including the forest, lake, and local cultural sites. This allows time for a relaxed pace and a day trip to nearby villages or natural landmarks.

Egilsstaðir can be visited as a day trip from smaller nearby villages but not conveniently from larger cities due to distances. The nearest larger town is about 150 km away, making day trips from there long and less practical.

⚠️ Things can change over time, so always validate details locally before you go.

Other Icelandic towns near Egilsstaðir

Explore more nearby:

Husavik—whale watching, geothermal baths, colorful harbor| 161 km away
Akureyri—harbor views, botanical gardens, northern art scene| 177 km away
Selfoss—riverbank walks, geothermal pools, crossroads town| 348 km away

💡 Not sure where to go next?
Create a personalized itinerary for Iceland including Egilsstaðir and the places that fit your trip.

Generate my itinerary

👉 Discover all towns

Or checkout all Iceland has to offer (think cities, towns, villages, national parks, hikes, beaches, festivals)

Explore Iceland

We 💚 feedbackWhat to keep in mind

Egilsstaðir is a gateway to Iceland’s wild heart, where the air is crisp and the landscape shifts from lush valleys to rugged mountains. You’ll find a sense of peace here, especially by the serene Lagarfljót lake. But be ready for the weather—it can change on a dime, so pack layers and a good sense of humor. Embrace the unpredictability; it’s part of the adventure.

✈️ When did I visit Iceland?
In July 2019 I visited this magical island. For sure in my top-3 for spectacular landscapes. Rented a car and did the whole ring-road.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in Iceland, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.

🙋‍♂️ Give feedback

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpack

Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

Read the full story

Get full Iceland guide •

Iceland🇮🇸 | townsEgilsstaðirtransport hub, forest walks, lake access | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Egilsstaðir
👍 Recommendedtown ranked #4
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated September 4, 2026

✨ Why go?
Ranked #4 town in IcelandThe unique appeal for travelers

💡 HighlightsWhat this place is best known for

Things to do near Egilsstaðir

Vök Baths Admission Ticket

Stuðlagil Canyon Hike and Vök Baths - Shore Excursion

Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach Tour from Djúpivogur

Shore Excursion Express: Glaciers - Black Sand Diamond Beach

Tour desde Djúpivogur: Stokksnes-Vestrahorn-Höfn(lunch)-viewpoint

Tour desde Djúpivogur para máximum 6 Personas

Private transfer to Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss

Private Photo Session with a Local Photographer in Egilsstadir

Egilsstadir Airport EGS to Egilsstadir-RoundTrip Private Transfer

Egilsstadir to Egilsstadir Airport EGS-Departure Private Transfer

🏘️ NeighborhoodsKey areas and districts to know

⌛️ 1 day1-day itinerary for Egilsstaðir

🌤️ When to go?Weather, crowds, and seasonal trade-offs

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutIceland Travel Guide

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas to stay in Iceland

🚌 Getting aroundHow to get from A to B

👛 Costs (as of 4 September 2026)How expensive it really is

🚌 Day tripsWhere to go beyond the main area

🛡️ SafetySafety Tips and Common Scams in Egilsstaðir

FAQCommon questions from travelers

Other Icelandic towns near Egilsstaðir

We 💚 feedbackWhat to keep in mind

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Iceland🇮🇸 | townsEgilsstaðirtransport hub, forest walks, lake access | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Egilsstaðir👍 Recommendedtown ranked #4By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated September 4, 2026addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8c5521')

✨ Why go?Ranked #4 town in IcelandaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8c615f')The unique appeal for travelersaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8c6165')

💡 HighlightsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8c751b')What this place is best known foraddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8c7522')

Things to do near Egilsstaðir

Vök Baths Admission Ticket

Stuðlagil Canyon Hike and Vök Baths - Shore Excursion

Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach Tour from Djúpivogur

Shore Excursion Express: Glaciers - Black Sand Diamond Beach

Tour desde Djúpivogur: Stokksnes-Vestrahorn-Höfn(lunch)-viewpoint

Tour desde Djúpivogur para máximum 6 Personas

Private transfer to Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss

Private Photo Session with a Local Photographer in Egilsstadir

Egilsstadir Airport EGS to Egilsstadir-RoundTrip Private Transfer

Egilsstadir to Egilsstadir Airport EGS-Departure Private Transfer

🏘️ NeighborhoodsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8c7c9c')Key areas and districts to knowaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8c7ca0')

⌛️ 1 dayaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8c85c4')1-day itinerary for EgilsstaðiraddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8c85c8')

🌤️ When to go?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8c8e80')Weather, crowds, and seasonal trade-offsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8c8e85')

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutIceland Travel Guide

🛏️ Where to stay?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8ca61a')Best areas to stay in IcelandaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8ca61f')

🚌 Getting aroundaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8cb073')How to get from A to BaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8cb078')

👛 Costs (as of 4 September 2026)addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8cbafc')How expensive it really isaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8cbb01')

🚌 Day tripsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8d4583')Where to go beyond the main areaaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8d4588')

🛡️ SafetyaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8d46fe')Safety Tips and Common Scams in EgilsstaðiraddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8d4702')

FAQaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8d478d')Common questions from travelersaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8d4792')

Other Icelandic towns near EgilsstaðiraddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8d56a3')

We 💚 feedbackaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8d585e')What to keep in mindaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8d5864')

👋 Meet the founderaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8d58d3')Who’s Behind Take Your Backpack?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a9d97d8d58d7')

Backpacking in Egilsstaðir
👍 Recommendedtown ranked #4
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated September 4, 2026

✨ Why go?
Ranked #4 town in IcelandThe unique appeal for travelers

💡 HighlightsWhat this place is best known for

🏘️ NeighborhoodsKey areas and districts to know

⌛️ 1 day1-day itinerary for Egilsstaðir

🌤️ When to go?Weather, crowds, and seasonal trade-offs

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas to stay in Iceland

🚌 Getting aroundHow to get from A to B

👛 Costs (as of 4 September 2026)How expensive it really is

🚌 Day tripsWhere to go beyond the main area

🛡️ SafetySafety Tips and Common Scams in Egilsstaðir

FAQCommon questions from travelers

Other Icelandic towns near Egilsstaðir

We 💚 feedbackWhat to keep in mind

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?