Guide de Voyage : Budara River and Canyon

Budara river is a natural wonder in Reydarfjordur in the Eastfjords of Iceland. It runs through the Budara canyon, characterized by steep cliffs, beautiful scenery, and exciting hiking trails.

Whether embarking on a stroll or a more challenging trek, Budara river offers something for nature enthusiasts of all ages and abilities. Its breathtaking beauty in the countryside makes it a lovely destination for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in Iceland's awe-inspiring natural landscapes.

Adventurers can explore and hike along the canyon created by the Budara river when embarking on self-drive tours in Iceland. While the canyon isn't part of the standard itinerary, some flexible tours spend multiple days in the Eastfjords. For example, this 11-day Ring Road of Iceland self-drive tour spends three days in East Iceland.

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Photo above from VisitAusturland. No edits made.

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About the Budara River and Canyon

The Budara river, spelled Búðará in Icelandic, is located in the coastal town of Reydarfjordur in East Iceland. The river flows through the town, and its canyon is just half a mile from the town center, making it accessible to both locals and travelers.

Carved over thousands of years by the Budara river, the canyon features steep cliffs, towering rock formations, and vibrant vegetation. Budara is known to have an irregular shape and height, snaking throughout the town and the surrounding countryside.

Exploring Budara canyon offers an immersive experience in Iceland's pristine wilderness. Hiking trails wind through the canyon, allowing adventurers to discover its hidden treasures off the beaten path. Along the way, you can admire cascading waterfalls like Budararfoss and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and fjords.

Budara canyon also serves as a haven for wildlife, with native flora and fauna thriving in its diverse ecosystem. In the summer, birdwatchers may spot various Icelandic birds in the landscape.

Photo from Flickr, Creative Commons, by Nicolas Lœuillet. No edits made.

Geology and Physical Features of Budara Canyon

Like the rest of the canyons in Iceland, Budara in Reydarfjordur showcases geological formations shaped over the centuries. 

Natural erosion and the powerful flow of the Budara river have sculpted the canyon's rugged terrain. In addition, seasonal changes in water levels alter the canyon's appearance, further sculpting its walls and revealing hidden features.

These natural processes resulted in dramatic features such as narrow gorges, deep ravines, and imposing rock formations.

Geologically, the canyon comprises layers of volcanic rock, basalt columns, and sedimentary deposits, reflecting Iceland's dynamic geological history. The presence of volcanic activity in the region has contributed to the formation of such unique geological features.

How to Get to Budara Canyon

Photo from Flickr, Creative Commons, by Tristan Ferne. No edits made.

Visitors have several options to travel to the Budara river in Reydarfjordur depending on their preferences and starting point.

If traveling from Reykjavik, 410 miles (660 kilometers) away, the most convenient way to reach the Budara river is with an affordable rental car. From the Icelandic capital, travelers can embark on a scenic drive northward and eastward along the Ring Road (Route 1).

Upon reaching the town of Egilsstadir, the largest settlement in the Eastfjords region, you can continue the journey eastward on Route 1 until Route 92. Turning onto Route 92, just follow the signs to Reydarfjordur town, where the Budara canyon is located. 

The drive from Egilsstadir to Reydarfjordur takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on the road and weather conditions. Once in the coastal town, getting to the canyon is quite easy by car or on foot.

Why Visit the Budara River and Canyon?

Visiting the Budara river in Iceland offers a unique opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of Iceland's natural landscapes. Visitors can explore scenic hiking trails, discover hidden waterfalls, and marvel at stunning geological formations.

Away from the hustle and bustle of urban life, adventurers can unwind and reconnect with nature as they traverse the rugged terrain that surrounds the river. The Budara canyon is easily reachable by foot or car, making it a convenient destination for travelers of all ages and abilities. 

Nearby Attractions in East Iceland from Budara River and Canyon

After hiking around Budara river and Reydarfjordur, make sure to check out other exciting destinations in East Iceland.

Egilsstadir, the largest town in East Iceland, is a short drive from Reydarfjordur. It serves as a gateway to the region's diverse attractions, with shops, restaurants, and cultural sites. Additionally, Egilsstadir offers easy access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching in the surrounding wilderness.

Vok Baths, located near Egilsstadir town center, is a modern geothermal spa with mineral-rich waters and lake views. With a range of infinity pools, saunas, and relaxation areas, Vok Baths provides an excellent thermal bathing experience for travelers seeking to unwind.

If you prefer to explore deeper into nature, don't miss the chance to stop by the Hallormsstadaskogur forest. Here, you can explore hiking trails, picnic areas, and campsites surrounded by thousands of trees.