Asbyrgi Canyon is a spectacular horseshoe-shaped depression in Northeast Iceland steeped in local folklore. Explore the canyon's otherworldly landscape, and discover the fascinating geological forces that shaped it.
This beloved natural feature measures approximately 2.2 miles (3.5 kilometers) in length and 0.7 miles (1.1 kilometers) in width. It is only a small corner of Vatnajokull National Park, but undoubtedly one of its most breathtaking features.
Located about 39 miles (60 kilometers) from Husavik, one of Iceland’s top whale-watching destinations, Asbyrgi Canyon is a highlight of many North Iceland tours, including popular Diamond Circle tours. The canyon is best explored in the summer months, when the roads are most accessible for visitors.
Read on to learn more about this incredible natural landscape and what you can do there.
Key Takeaways
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Steeped in Mythology: Asbyrgi’s evocative shape has given it particular significance in Icelandic folklore and myth.
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Ideal for Wildlife Explorers: The canyon offers a spacious campsite, several hiking trails, and countless opportunities to spot local birds, insects, and mammals.
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An Ancient Legacy: Asbyrgi is a wonder millions of years in the making, and an onsite visitor center reveals many of its secrets.
Geology and Formation of Asbyrgi Canyon
Geologists estimate that Asbyrgi Canyon began to form eight to 10 million years ago, in the wake of the last Ice Age, following catastrophic glacial flooding of the Jokulsa a Fjollum River. This flooding likely occurred due to a volcanic eruption beneath the ice cap of the Vatnajokull Glacier.
Only 3000 years ago, this process repeated itself, further sculpting the spectacular gorge we know and love today.
The canyon’s 328-foot (100-meter) cliff faces and the thick birch and willow woodland below create a blend of terrain quite unlike anywhere else in Iceland. Other tree species here include spruce, larch and pine, and visitors can hike to a small lake called Botnstjorn.
One of Asbyrgi’s most distinctive features is Eyjan ("The Island"), a hikeable, 82-foot (25-meter) rock formation that divides the canyon for almost half its length.
Asbyrgi Canyon Folklore
Icelandic folklore supposes an alternative theory of the canyon’s formation, as it does with many other landmarks around the country. Legend has it that Odin’s eight-legged steed, Sleipnir, stomped his immortal foot at Asbyrgi, leaving a colossal hoofprint in the earth that remains to this day.
A wealth of art and literature depicts Sleipnir as Asbyrgi’s true creator. Other myths claim that Asbyrgi is the capital city and true home to Iceland’s “hidden people” — the Huldufolk, and elves.
Many of Iceland’s folk tales revolve around these magical people and the bizarre punishments and plots they dole out.
Things To Do at Asbyrgi Canyon
There’s much more to do at this natural attraction than stare in awe. Asbyrgi Canyon beckons visitors to hands-on exploration of some of North Iceland’s greatest wonders.
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Asbyrgi Visitor Center: Also known as Gljufrastofa, the Visitor Center houses an educational exhibition about the national park and the wildlife that call it home.
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Camping: Asbyrgi features a large campsite that accommodates tents and camper vans. Like other camping areas in the country, it's important to camp responsibly and follow local guidelines for camping in Iceland.
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Hiking: Several hiking trails of varying difficulty provide an exhilarating trek and a bird’s eye views of Asbyrgi. Casual hikers may try the Asbyrgi Loop, a 1.9-mile (3-kilometer) walk.
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Wildlife and Bird Watching: The canyon is a haven for bird watchers looking to glimpse a variety of species, including puffins, guillemots, Eurasian wigeons, Northern fulmars, and ravens. In the summer, Asbyrgi Canyon’s lush vegetation supports broad biodiversity including many species of butterfly, and small mammals like the Arctic fox.
How to Get to Asbyrgi Canyon
Travellers can easily reach Asbyrgi Canyon by car from Husavik or on a self-drive tour from Reykjavik. In winter, we recommend renting a 4x4 vehicle for safer travel. For those who prefer not to drive, a variety of guided tours are also available.
1. Self-Drive Tours
Take Asbyrgi and its surrounding landmarks at your own pace with self-drive tours.
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7-Day Self-Drive Tour of Arctic Coast Way : This week-long tour is concentrated in North Iceland, taking you to off-the-beaten-path features along the Diamond Circle and Arctic Coast Way.
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10-Day Self-Drive Ring Road Tour: Explore the most iconic spots along the Ring Road and on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula at your own pace with this 10-day journey.
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11-Day Self-Drive Circle of Iceland Tour: This leisurely road trip includes stops at several breathtaking Northern Iceland landmarks, including Asbyrgi.
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12-Day Self-Drive Ring Road and National Parks Tour: This slightly longer tour includes three national parks and the volcanic lake of Myvatn.
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15-Day Self-Drive Hot Springs and Golden Circle Tour: Take a dip in some of the most wondrous natural pools and hot springs on this two-week summer self-drive adventure.
2. Vacation Packages
For a turnkey experience, book a vacation package that includes accommodations, transportation, guided tours, and optional add-on excursions.
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8-Day Summer Vacation Package: This summer package includes whale watching and guided glacier hiking, and offers many exciting add-on activities.
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10-Day Summer Vacation Package with Waterfalls and Hot Springs: One of the features of this comprehensive trip is a guided tour from Akureyri to Dettifoss Waterfall and Asbyrgi Canyon.
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11-Day Vacation Package with Local Guides: Leave everything, including the driving, to our local guides with this summer tour around the Ring Road.
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12-Day Ring Road Vacation Package: After whisking you away to the best of Iceland’s natural wonders, this tour concludes with two full days in the city of Reykjavik.
3. Guided Multi-Day Tours
Guided multi-day tours are great for first-time visitors to the country and experienced tourists seeking out lesser-known gems.
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6-Day Photography Tour: North Iceland offers some of the most magnificent landscapes in the world, and this tour comes with a professional photographer to advise you on how to best capture them.
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8-Day Summer Tour: Ideal for small groups, this Ring Road tour includes a glacier hike, whale watching, ice caving, and a boat trip.
4. Guided Day Tours
Only have a day or even just a few hours? A variety of guided day tours will take you through the canyon with an expert by your side.
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1-Hour Airplane Tour: Take in the sights of Asbyrgi Canyon, Dettifoss Waterfall, and the Namafjall Geothermal Area from the skies with an expert pilot/tour guide.
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9-Hour Minibus Tour: Leaving from Akureyri, this day tour hits all the highlights of the Diamond Circle.
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10-Hour Jeep Tour: Hop in a rugged, all-terrain vehicle for this private tour, hitting all the most picturesque landmarks in the North.
Places to Stay Near Asbyrgi Canyon
If you prefer to stay close to the Asbyrgi cliffs, consider booking accommodations in Husavik, the nearest town. The gorgeous coastal village is approximately 38.5 miles (62 kilometers) from the canyon.
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Fosshotel Husavik: This modern, three-star hotel features the whale-themed eatery, Moby Dick.
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Hotel Godafoss: Stay at a cozy, nine-room hotel within walking distance of Godafoss Waterfall.
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Husavik Cape Hotel: Relax and compare recommendations with your fellow travelers in the comfortable communal room of this welcoming guesthouse.
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Skutustadir Farm House: The gems of North Iceland lie a stone’s throw from this guesthouse, which features a communal kitchen for cooking and dining with new friends.
FAQs About Asbyrgi Canyon
1. What can I see at Asbyrgi Canyon?
The canyon offers stunning landscapes with towering cliffs, green vegetation, and the tranquil Asbyrgi Pond.
2. When is the best time to visit Asbyrgi Canyon?
The best time to visit Asbyrgi Canyon is during the summer months (June to September) when the weather is milder, the hiking trails are accessible, and the flora is at its most vibrant. However, the canyon’s beauty can be enjoyed year-round, and winter displays a serene, snow-covered landscape.
3. Is there an entrance fee for Asbyrgi Canyon?
No, Asbyrgi Canyon is open to the public and free to explore. However, if you plan to camp, there might be a small fee for the campsite.
4. Can I drive into the canyon?
Yes, but only certain roads are accessible to vehicles. A well-maintained road leads to the parking area near the canyon, from which you can walk to various viewpoints and trails. The roads are gravel, so make sure your vehicle is suitable for those conditions.
5. Is it safe to visit Asbyrgi Canyon in winter?
Asbyrgi Canyon winter visits can be unpredictable, and travel can be more challenging due to snow and icy conditions. Some hiking trails may be closed or more difficult to navigate.
Prepare carefully for winter weather. Check road conditions before you go, and take a vehicle properly equipped for winter driving.
Iceland’s Horseshoe Canyon Is Not To Be Missed
Asbyrgi Canyon is one of the most desirable destinations in North Iceland, and it’s quite easy to visit. Travelers who love the outdoors will find lots of things to do, from hiking to photography to bird watching.
Horseshoe Canyon is especially welcoming in the summer, when the weather is mild, days are long, and wildlife is active. Asbyrgi has a special significance in Icelandic myth and folklore, making it an eye-opening destination for anyone interested in Icelandic myth and traditional storytelling.
