Epic Guide to Iceland’s Diamond Circle

Stretching over 250 kilometres across the north of Iceland, the Diamond Circle is a magnificent circuit passing through some of the most stunning attractions and otherworldly landscapes in this region. Whether you’ve been planning this trip for a while or have only just discovered it, an epic adventure awaits you on the Diamond Circle in Iceland.

Diamond Circle: Key Stats 

Before you hit the road, these are some Diamond Circle stats you should be aware of:

• Distance: 250 km (155 miles)

• Travel Days: 1 - 3 days

• Recommended Travel Time: April to October 

• Recommended activities: Hiking and whale-watching

Top Attractions 

The Diamond Circle features five main attractions: the historic and scenic Goðafoss, the surreal blue and green landscapes of Lake Mývatn, the mighty white waters of Dettifoss, Europe's most powerful waterfall, the crescent-shaped marvel of Ásbyrgi canyon, and Húsavík, Iceland's vibrant whale-watching hub with its deep blue ocean views.

Goðafoss 

Visit the historic site where the last official totems of Norse mythology were disposed of by the leader of Iceland’s Parliament following its conversion to Christianity in 1000. The “Waterfall of the Gods” is a mighty cascade that won’t disappoint.

Lake Mývatn 

Explore otherworldly landscapes in Lake Mývatn featuring pseudocraters, lava pillars, lava fields, and hot springs. Iceland’s fourth-largest lake supports a rich ecosystem of aquatic plants, marsh birds, and the greatest variety of ducks anywhere in the world. Fosshotel Mývatn is only a stone’s throw from this unique natural environment.

Ásbyrgi Canyon 

The horse-shoe-shaped canyon in Öxarfjörður, hiking at Ásbyrgi is a chance to explore the enormous cliff faces reaching up to 100 metres in height. The towering cliffs and sizable rock “island" shield the lush green plant life from harsh weather conditions.

Dettifoss  

Europe’s most powerful waterfall is impactful even before you’ve set your eyes on it: you can hear the cascading water crash down to a staggering fall of 45 metres (148 feet). Follow the main pathway to the viewpoint and watch the mist rising from this mighty waterfall engulf its surroundings.

Húsavík

Nestled in the Skjálfandi Bay (“The Whale Capital of Iceland”), Húsavík is a celebration of Iceland’s maritime heritage. This fishing town is also linked with the Eurovision Song Contest, a connection which you can explore on the Fire and Saga tour. Fosshotel Húsavík offers comfortable lodgings as you explore the best of this Diamond Circle region. 

How to Get to the Diamond Circle? 

Iceland’s Diamond Circle is about 30 kilometres (18 miles) from Akureyri. How you get there depends on what your starting point is. If you’re coming from Egilsstaðir in East Iceland, you need to drive anti-clockwise around the Ring Road. From Reykjavík, you can travel either clockwise (6.5 hours of driving), or anti-clockwise (10.5 hours). 

Can You Drive the Diamond Circle?

A self-drive road trip is the best way to explore the Diamond Circle. Of course, you’ll have to rent a car, plan your route, and secure accommodation, but once you’re on the road, you have the freedom to go at your own pace. 

You can drive across the complete Diamond Circle circuit in just four hours! Whether you want to pack in as much sightseeing as you can in a day or take your time with attraction is all up to you. Just bear in mind that days are relatively shorter in the Icelandic winter, so you don’t want to cram too many sights all at once. 

The rhombus-shaped 250-kilometre route that is the Diamond Circle captures the geological power of Iceland. With boiling geothermal pools, crater lakes, and solidified lava strongholds, it’s impossible not to feel the force of the geological movement underneath. Whether you’re planning a future trip or heading out on one soon, Diamond Circle Iceland is an epic adventure waiting to unfold.