The Ultimate Guide to Iceland's Diamond Circle

Start planning your Diamond Circle trip with this guide to the route, the driving conditions, and the main attractions in North Iceland. The Diamond Circle is one of the region’s most scenic loops, known for its waterfalls, geothermal areas, volcanic formations, and canyon landscapes.

The Diamond Circle is North Iceland’s main sightseeing route and the region's answer to the Golden Circle. Here, you can visit the Dettifoss Waterfall, the Godafoss Waterfall, the Lake Myvatn Area, the Asbyrgi Canyon, and the town of Husavik. Diamond Circle tours offer a structured way to get around, while self-drive tours allow you to follow the loop at your own pace.

The main way travelers get to the Diamond Circle is by renting a car and driving the Ring Road from Reykjavik to Akureyri. Alternatively, you can save time with flights from Reykjavik to Akureyri and then continue by renting a car in Akureyri.

This guide outlines the complete loop and shows what you will see at each major stop, along with practical tips for driving, seasonal access, food and service points, and recommended places to stay. Continue reading to explore the full route and plan your journey through North Iceland.

Key Takeaways

• The Diamond Circle is a 155-mile (250-kilometer) driving loop in North Iceland that connects Godafoss Waterfall, Lake Myvatn, Dettifoss Waterfall, Asbyrgi Canyon, and the town of Husavik.

• A one-day Diamond Circle route is possible, but a two-day trip allows more time for viewpoints, walking paths, and nearby attractions.

• Travelers reach the Diamond Circle by driving the Ring Road north from Reykjavik or by flying to Akureyri and renting a car. Guided tours from Akureyri are also available for visitors who prefer not to drive or want a fully planned route.

• Lake Myvatn, Husavik, and Akureyri are the best bases for exploring the Diamond Circle because they offer the most food options, fuel stations, and services.

• The Diamond Circle is accessible in winter with proper preparation and 4x4 rental vehicles, but drivers should check road conditions before starting the route.

What Is the Diamond Circle in Iceland?

The Diamond Circle is a 155-mile (250-kilometer) driving route in North Iceland that connects five major attractions: Godafoss Waterfall, Lake Myvatn, Asbyrgi Canyon, Dettifoss Waterfall, and the coastal town of Husavik. It offers waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, geothermal sites, and canyon views in a single loop.

The Diamond Circle route is easy to drive in summer and usually accessible in winter if you rent 4x4 vehicles. Its length makes it possible to complete the loop in one day, but many visitors choose two days so they can enjoy the walking paths and viewpoints around Lake Myvatn and Jokulsargljufur Canyon.

What you see on the Diamond Circle includes lava fields, crater formations, hot spring areas, river canyons, and coastal scenery. This variety is why the Diamond Circle Iceland route is considered one of the best scenic drives in the north.

Diamond Circle Map and Route Overview

This map shows the full Diamond Circle route, including the key stops on the five main attractions. The map is designed to help you understand the overall layout of the Diamond Circle before you begin planning your trip. The next sections go into detail about each attraction, the best places to stay, where to eat, and what to expect when driving the route.

Main Attractions on the Diamond Circle

The Diamond Circle features five must-see destinations in North Iceland. Each stop highlights a different aspect of the region, including powerful waterfalls, geothermal activity, volcanic formations, canyon scenery, and coastal views. This section explains what to expect at each location and helps you decide how to travel along the Diamond Circle Route.

Dettifoss Waterfall

Dettifoss is one of the most powerful waterfalls in Europe and one of the most dramatic stops on the Diamond Circle. The waterfall sits on the Jokulsa a Fjollum River, which carries meltwater from Vatnajokull, the largest glacier in Iceland. Its average water flow is so strong that the mist from the falls can be seen from far across the surrounding landscape.

Most travelers visit the west side of Dettifoss, reached by the paved Road 862. This road is usually open in summer, and winter service is limited. From the west parking lot, it is an easy 0.6 miles (1 kilometer) walk to the main viewpoint.

The east side of Dettifoss is reached by the gravel Road 864. This route offers impressive, close-up views of the waterfall, but driving is slower and rougher, and the road usually closes once snow begins to fall in autumn.

Asbyrgi Canyon

Asbyrgi Canyon is a horseshoe-shaped canyon with cliffs and an inner valley on the Diamond Circle. It is part of Jokulsargljufur in Vatnajokull National Park and is easy to visit on a self-drive. Most travelers begin at Gljufrastofa, the Jokulsargljufur Visitor Centre, where you can get information about the canyon, nearby sights, and trail conditions.

If you only have one day to complete the Diamond Circle loop, focus on the short walking paths in Asbyrgi. The easy trail to Botnstjorn, a small pond at the base of the canyon, gives you the best sense of the area without taking much time. The viewpoints along the canyon walls are also quick stops that fit easily into a one-day route.

If you have two days or prefer a slower pace, Asbyrgi has longer hiking routes that explore the forested valley and the upper rim of the canyon. It also has a campsite, which is perfect for those interested in camping in Iceland or traveling with campervan rentals.

 Husavik Town

Husavik is one of the main stops on the Diamond Circle and is known as the whale watching capital of Iceland. The town is easy to explore on foot, with a variety of whale watching tours and things to do in Husavik close to the harbor.

Husavik Church is one of the town’s best-known landmarks, built in 1907 and overlooking the waterfront. Nearby, the Eurovision Exhibition displays costumes and props from the film Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga, which was partly filmed in Husavik.

Husavik has two notable museums: the Husavik Whale Museum, which features full whale skeletons and exhibits about the bay’s marine life, and the Husavik Museum, which covers local culture and regional history. For a relaxing end to the day, an entry to Geosea offers warm geothermal sea baths with wide views over Skjalfandi Bay.

Lake Myvatn

Lake Myvatn is one of the main stops on the Diamond Circle and one of the most geologically active areas in North Iceland. The lake was formed by a volcanic eruption more than two thousand years ago, and the region is known for its craters, lava formations, geothermal fields, and steaming vents.

If you only have one day to complete the Diamond Circle, one of the must-see attractions in the Myvatn Area is the geothermal field of Hverir, which offers quick access to steaming vents and boiling mud pots. Then, add a short visit to Dimmuborgir, where walking paths lead through dramatic lava formations.

There are more attractions to explore if you have more time. These include the volcanic area of Krafla, the rim trail on Hverfjall Crater, the Skutustadagigar Pseudocraters, and the Grjotagja Cave. An entry to the Earth Lagoon Myvatn offers a relaxing geothermal experience with views over the lava fields. 

Each attraction is only a short drive apart, and a Lake Myvatn sightseeing tour can cover everything in a single planned route. The town of Reykjahlid sits on the eastern side of the lake and has fuel stations, shops, restaurants, and Myvatn accommodations, which makes it one of the most convenient places to stay on the Diamond Circle.

Godafoss Waterfall

Godafoss is one of the best-known waterfalls on the Diamond Circle in North Iceland. The name is often translated as Waterfall of the Gods, and it’s linked to the story of the chieftain Thorgeir Ljosvetningagodi, who is said to have thrown statues of the old Norse gods into the falls when Iceland adopted Christianity in the year 1000.

The waterfall sits on the Skjalfandafljot River and forms a semicircular cascade about 98 feet (30 meters) wide. Godafoss is easy to reach on self-drives around the Ring Road, and both the east and west sides have marked parking areas and clear walking paths. A pedestrian bridge makes it simple to visit both sides in one stop.

The west side of Godafoss is the easiest to access because it sits directly off the Ring Road. A flat, well-maintained trail leads to close viewpoints of the water as it drops over the cliffs. This is the most visited side and the quickest stop for travelers.

The east side of Godafoss is reached by turning onto Road 844 and is usually quieter. It offers some of the best viewpoints for photography, with a viewing platform and a riverside path. The trails here can be narrower and more slippery, but the east side has a cafe, a restaurant, a small souvenir shop, and restrooms.

Hidden Gems and Detours on the Diamond Circle

 These lesser-known spots are perfect additions to your Diamond Circle self-drive tour. They offer beautiful landscapes, quiet trails, and great views, which make them ideal for a multi-day itinerary when you have extra time.

• Selfoss Waterfall: Often overshadowed by the Dettifoss Waterfall, Selfoss is a wide cascade shaped by the Jokulsa a Fjollum River as it pours over broad cliff edges. During the walk to Dettifoss, many visitors continue a short distance south to see Selfoss before looping back to the parking area.

• Hafragilsfoss Waterfall: Located a short distance from Dettifoss, Hafragilsfoss is a 89-foot (27-meter) waterfall with its own spectacular viewpoint above the Jokulsargljufur Canyon. It's a quick detour on Road 864 on the east side of Dettifoss for incredible views of the canyon and the mighty falls below.

• Hljodaklettar (Echo Rocks): Located within the Jokulsargljufur Canyon, Hljodaklettar features basalt formations, caves, and rock clusters that spiral and twist. It is an ideal spot for hikers interested in geology, accessible via a short detour from Road 862.

• Holmatungur Area: A beautiful, lesser-visited area of the Jokulsargljufur Canyon, Holmatungur features lush vegetation, winding river channels, and quiet viewpoints over the canyon walls. It’s an ideal spot for peaceful nature walks and offers views that highlight the incredible power of the river.

• Tjornes Peninsula: A scenic detour along Route 85 between Asbyrgi and Husavik, Tjornes Peninsula is known for its coastal views and striking geological layers. The cliffs here are a prime spot for fossil hunting and watching puffins in Iceland during the nesting season from mid-May to mid-August.

How To Get to the Diamond Circle by Air

Flying is one of the easiest ways to reach the Diamond Circle from Reykjavik. Daily flights from Reykjavik City Airport connect to Akureyri, which is the closest airport to the route. The flight takes about 45 minutes, the fastest way to reach North Iceland. After landing, most travelers rent a car and begin the drive along the coastline of the Eyjafjordur Fjord.

For your drive, you have two options for continuing east. The Vadlaheidi Tunnel is the quickest route and has an online toll fee of about 2,152 ISK (15 USD). You can also take the Vikurskard Scenic Road, a free mountain pass that is mainly used in summer. If you prefer not to drive, you can join a guided Diamond Circle tour from Akureyri.

From Reykjavik, you can also book flights to Egilsstadir in East Iceland, although it is less convenient for a focused Diamond Circle trip because it is farther from the loop. Travelers landing in Egilsstadir usually drive through the Hallormsstadur Forest and the area around Lagarfljot Lake before reaching the eastern side of the Diamond Circle.

How To Drive to the Diamond Circle From Reykjavik

You can reach the Diamond Circle from Reykjavik by driving the Ring Road north. This is by far the most popular option for visiting the region. The journey takes six to seven hours and covers about 241 miles (388 kilometers). The route is simple and well-marked before reaching Akureyri, the main gateway to North Iceland.

Akureyri sits about five hours from Reykjavik, and departing early gives you time to stop for lunch at one of the excellent restaurants in Akureyri before continuing east. From here, the drive toward the Diamond Circle continues either through the paid Vadlaheidi Tunnel or along the free summer road over Vikurskard.

There are N1 gas stations, rest areas, and viewpoints along the way. This practical option is for travelers who want to begin the Diamond Circle near Godafoss or Lake Myvatn and explore North Iceland as the primary focus of their trip.

If you are on a self-drive around the Ring Road, you can reach the Diamond Circle after passing through the Golden Circle, the South Coast, and the Eastfjords. From Egilsstadir, you continue to the eastern side of the route and begin at Asbyrgi Canyon or Dettifoss. Most travelers need five to seven days to complete this journey comfortably.

Practical Tips for Driving the Diamond Circle

• Fuel up before entering the loop, and remember there are no stations at Dettifoss or Asbyrgi. The main gas stations are in Akureyri, Reykjahlid at Lake Myvatn, Husavik, and Egilsstadir if you are coming from the east.

• Restrooms are available in Akureyri, at the N1 station in Reykjahlid, at the east side of Godafoss, at the Gljufrastofa Visitor Centre in Asbyrgi, and at the west parking area of Dettifoss during summer.

• Parking is available at all major stops along the Diamond Circle. Godafoss has lots on both sides of the river, Lake Myvatn attractions have paved parking areas, and Dettifoss has a parking lot on both sides.

• Road conditions change with the season, but most of the route is paved and easy to drive in summer. Dettifoss east (Road 864) usually closes in autumn, and the Vikurskard near Akureyri is best used only in summer.

• Download offline maps before you begin, since cell service can drop in remote areas between Myvatn, Dettifoss, and Asbyrgi. Checking weather updates and road status before you leave gives you real-time information on closures, wind conditions, and visibility.

• In winter, use 4x4 rental vehicles and expect slower travel times. Stick to the main paved roads, avoid minor gravel detours, and plan for sudden changes in weather. Allow extra time between stops so you can drive cautiously and avoid rushing between attractions.

Where To Stay on the Diamond Circle

Choosing the best place to stay on the Diamond Circle depends on whether you are planning a one-day loop or a two-day itinerary. The most popular Diamond Circle bases are Lake Myvatn, Husavik, and Akureyri, and each offers different advantages depending on your route and timing.

Akureyri Accommodation on the Diamond Circle

Akureyri is the best base if you are flying into North Iceland or planning to complete the Diamond Circle in a single day. It sits outside the loop but offers the widest range of hotels, restaurants, and services. This makes it convenient for one-day trips, especially if you want to return to a larger town after the drive.

Recommended places to stay in Akureyri:

• Hotel Natur Thorisstadir: A countryside hotel north of Akureyri with quiet surroundings and views of the coast. It suits travelers who want more space and a peaceful setting while staying close to town.

• Studios Saeluhus: Modern studio apartments with kitchen facilities and private hot tubs, ideal for travelers who want comfort and flexibility during their stay.

• The Viking Country Club: A unique guesthouse with themed decor and spacious rooms, suitable for travelers who want something different while staying within easy reach of Akureyri.

Lake Myvatn Accommodation on the Diamond Circle

Lake Myvatn is the most central and efficient base for the Diamond Circle. It provides the shortest driving times between Godafoss, Dettifoss, Asbyrgi, and Husavik. It is ideal for two-day trips, and it also works well for one-day loops if you are already in North Iceland, since all major attractions sit within a short drive of the lake.

Recommended places to stay around Lake Myvatn:

• Vogafjos Farm Resort: A family-run farm stay with comfortable rooms and direct access to Vogafjos Cowshed Cafe. It is well-suited for travelers who want a quiet setting close to the lake and geothermal areas.

• Fosshotel Myvatn: A modern hotel overlooking Lake Myvatn with spacious rooms and a polished design. It is a reliable option for travelers who want easy access to the main attractions around the lake.

• Sel Hotel Myvatn: A hotel near the Skutustadagigar Pseudocraters offering lake views and classic Icelandic hospitality. It is convenient for travelers who want a location right beside one of the most photographed sites in the region.

Husavik Accommodation on the Diamond Circle

Husavik is an excellent base for a two-day Diamond Circle itinerary. It sits between Lake Myvatn and Asbyrgi, which makes it easy to split the route over two days without lengthy backtracking. It can also work for one-day trips, especially if you want to focus on whale watching or a visit to GeoSea.

Recommended places to stay in Husavik:

• Kaldbaks Kot Cottages: A group of comfortable cottages set in a quiet rural area outside Husavik. These cottages work well for travelers who want privacy, scenic views, and extra space while staying close to the northern part of the Diamond Circle.

• Svartaborg: A modern countryside accommodation with stylish cabins and panoramic views. It is suitable for travelers who want a peaceful setting near Husavik while still being within easy driving distance of Asbyrgi and Lake Myvatn.

• Skogar Sunset Guesthouse: A cozy guesthouse surrounded by open landscapes, known for wide horizon views and calm surroundings. It fits travelers looking for a restful stay after a full day of sightseeing around the Diamond Circle.

Where To Eat on the Diamond Circle

Finding food along the Diamond Circle is easy if you know where to stop, and there are a variety of places to eat in North Iceland that are located along this route. Restaurants and cafes are clustered around Akureyri, Lake Myvatn, and Husavik, with fewer options near Godafoss and Asbyrgi.

Where To Eat in Akureyri​​​​

Restaurants in Akureyri offer the widest range of food options in North Iceland, which makes the town the most practical place to eat before beginning your Diamond Circle drive. You will find cafes for early starts, casual spots for quick meals, seafood restaurants near the harbor, and modern dining options in the town center.

• LYST: A popular cafe in the Akureyri Botanic Garden known for its fresh sourdough bread, high-quality coffee, seasonal dishes, and relaxing atmosphere. LYST is one of the best places for breakfast or a light lunch before heading east toward the Diamond Circle.

• Rub 23: A well-known restaurant in central Akureyri offering a mix of seafood and Asian-inspired dishes, including some of the best sushi in town. If you're in a rush, you can also pick up their takeaway sushi at one of the nearby Kronan Grocery Stores.

• Mulaberg Bistro and Bar: An upscale bistro inside Hotel Kea that offers modern Nordic cuisine prepared with local ingredients. It is a good option for a relaxed dinner in Akureyri before starting your Diamond Circle trip the next morning.

Where To Eat Near Godafoss

Dining options near Godafoss are limited but convenient for travelers driving between Akureyri and Lake Myvatn. Both eateries sit close to the parking areas on the east side of the waterfall, which makes them practical stops for a warm meal or a quick break before continuing the Diamond Circle.

• Godafoss Cafe Bistro: A bistro serving hot meals, sandwiches, and pastries on the east side of the falls, ideal for a meal between Akureyri and Lake Myvatn.

• Fossholl Guesthouse Restaurant: A home-style restaurant offering hearty Icelandic dishes, convenient for visitors exploring both sides of the waterfall.

Best Places To Eat Around Lake Myvatn

Lake Myvatn has the best variety of dining options inside the Diamond Circle. Most restaurants are located in or near Reykjahlid, which makes the area a convenient stop for breakfast, lunch, or dinner while exploring the geothermal and volcanic attractions around the lake.

• Daddi’s Pizza: One of the most popular places to eat in the Myvatn area, known for creative toppings, generous portions, and fast service. Daddi’s Pizza is a favorite stop for travelers who want a quick and satisfying meal.

• Vogafjos Cowshed Cafe: A cozy cafe that serves homemade bread, local dairy products, and traditional Icelandic meals beside a working cowshed.

• Gamli Baerinn: A restaurant offering hearty comfort food in the Reykjahlid area, suitable for lunch or dinner after a day of sightseeing.

Where To Eat in Husavik

Husavik has several reliable dining options, which make it a convenient place to stop for a meal during your Diamond Circle trip. Most restaurants are close to the harbor, so it is easy to combine a meal with a walk along the waterfront or a visit to local museums and viewpoints.

• Naustid: A cozy restaurant specializing in fresh fish and Icelandic comfort food, popular with travelers exploring the northern coastline.

• Gamli Baukur: A harborfront restaurant offering hearty meals and seafood dishes with waterfront views.

• Salka Restaurant: A warm, inviting spot serving seafood, pizzas, and seasonal dishes.

Where To Eat Near Asbyrgi

Asbyrgi has limited dining options, but it offers a few convenient places to grab snacks, drinks, and quick refreshments before or after exploring the canyon. These stops are practical for short breaks or for picking up small items before continuing along the Diamond Circle.

• Veggur Restaurant & Guesthouse: Located along Route 862, this is the main sit-down dining option near Asbyrgi. It serves specialties like meat soup and Arctic Char, along with a selection of craft beers. It operates year-round and sits at the edge of Vatnajokull National Park.

• Hotel Skulagardur Restaurant: You can purchase drinks and meals at Hotel Skulagardur's bar and restaurant on-site. The restaurant is seasonal and open from June to September.

• Asbyrgi Campsite Snack Bar: A small snack bar and shop located at the large campsite. Availability can be seasonal, so check opening times during your visit.

Where To Eat in Egilsstadir

Places to eat in East Iceland are more spread out, but restaurants in Egilsstadir offer some reliable stops for a meal before reaching the eastern side of the Diamond Circle.

Many travelers begin their route near Asbyrgi or Dettifoss after passing through the Eastfjords, and Egilsstadir is a convenient town for picking up food, snacks, or supplies before continuing north.

• Glod Restaurant: A modern dining option in Egilsstadir known for its warm atmosphere and a menu that features fresh ingredients and comforting dishes. Glod is a good choice for travelers who want a proper sit-down meal before starting the drive north.

• Askur Taproom: A relaxed spot offering light meals and locally inspired dishes, as well as a variety of drinks. Askur is ideal for travelers who prefer a casual meal before continuing toward Asbyrgi or Dettifoss.

• Kaffi Egilsstadir: A cafe that serves soups, pastries, and full meals. It works well for breakfast, lunch, or a quick stop before driving toward the more remote areas of the route.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Diamond Circle

This FAQ section answers the most common questions travelers search for when planning a Diamond Circle trip.

Is the Blue Diamond Route the same as the Diamond Circle?

No, the two routes are unrelated and are in separate parts of the country.

The Blue Diamond Route refers to a scenic driving route on the Reykjanes Peninsula, known for geothermal areas, volcanic landscapes, and attractions near Keflavik Airport. The Diamond Circle is an entirely different route located in North Iceland, connecting Godafoss, Lake Myvatn, Dettifoss, Asbyrgi Canyon, and Husavik.

Is the Diamond Circle worth visiting?

Yes. It is one of the most scenic drives in Iceland, combining major waterfalls, geothermal areas, volcanic craters, and dramatic canyon landscapes.

How far is the Diamond Circle from Reykjavik?

The Diamond Circle is about 241 miles (388 kilometers) from Reykjavik when driving the Ring Road north. The drive takes six to seven hours, and most travelers begin the loop near Akureyri or Lake Myvatn after arriving in North Iceland.

How long does it take to drive the Diamond Circle?

Most travelers need eight to ten hours to complete the full loop in one day. A two-day visit gives you more time for hikes and the viewpoints at Lake Myvatn and Jokulsargljufur.

Do you need a 4x4 for the Diamond Circle?

In summer, a regular car is fine for the paved sections. In winter, a 4x4 is recommended because of snow, ice, and reduced traction.

Can you drive the Diamond Circle in one day?

Yes. A one-day loop works well if you start early from Akureyri, Lake Myvatn, or Husavik and don't spend too much time on long hikes. If you're starting from Reykjavik, it is possible to drive the Diamond Circle in one day, but you would be driving for about 12 to 14 hours total. This leaves almost no time to see the famous spots.

Is the Diamond Circle accessible in winter?

Most of the loop is accessible in winter. The west side of Dettifoss remains open longer, while the east side usually closes once snow arrives. A 4x4 vehicle and checking road conditions in advance are recommended.

When is the best time to drive the Diamond Circle?

June to September offers the best driving conditions and full access to all viewpoints. In winter, the route is still possible to drive, but some roads close for the season because the snow, ice, and limited maintenance make certain areas unsafe.

Where does the Diamond Circle start?

The Diamond Circle has no official starting point. Common starting locations include Akureyri, Lake Myvatn, Husavik, and Asbyrgi, depending on where you are staying.

Which direction should you drive the Diamond Circle?

You can drive the route clockwise or counterclockwise. Most travelers go from Akureyri to Godafoss and Lake Myvatn first, then continue toward Dettifoss, Asbyrgi, and Husavik.

Start Planning Your Trip to the Diamond Circle in Iceland

The Diamond Circle is one of the top scenic routes in North Iceland. It brings together waterfalls, geothermal areas, volcanic landscapes, and canyon viewpoints in a single, easy-to-follow loop. You can complete the Diamond Circle in one day or spend two days on the route for more time at the viewpoints and walking paths.

Travelers who want to explore more of North Iceland can continue along the Arctic Coast Way, a coastal route that visits remote fjords, quiet fishing towns, sea cliffs, and lighthouse viewpoints. You can also access hidden destinations in North Iceland that sit beyond the main Diamond Circle loop.

If you are planning a trip to the Diamond Circle soon, which stop are you looking forward to the most? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments.