Raufarhöfn Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Raufarhöfn in North Iceland with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best attractions, activities, accommodations, and more in this charming town.


Raufarhöfn Travel Guide: A Comprehensive Tour

Located at the northeastern tip of Iceland, Raufarhöfn is a charming town known for its rugged coastline, stunning vistas, and abundant wildlife. While not as well-known as some of Iceland’s other tourist hotspots, Raufarhöfn has much to offer travelers seeking to experience Iceland’s natural and cultural treasures without the crowds. In this travel guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about visiting Raufarhöfn, from where to stay and what to do, to the best time to visit and cultural customs to be aware of.

List of Places to Visit in Raufarhöfn

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, or simply enjoying the beauty of Iceland’s wild landscapes, Raufarhöfn has something for everyone. Here are just a few of the top attractions and things to do during your stay:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Arctic Henge: Inspired by Icelandic mythology and the landscape of the surrounding area, the Arctic Henge is a massive, 25-meter-tall stone monument that serves as a cultural center and gathering place. Visitors can take guided tours of the site and learn about its history and significance to the community.

  • Herring Era Museum: Dedicated to the history of the town’s once-thriving fishing industry, the Herring Era Museum features exhibits on everything from the tools and techniques used to catch and process herring, to the social and cultural impact of the industry on the region.

  • Viking Longhouse: Dating back to the 9th century, this remarkably well-preserved Viking longhouse is a testament to Iceland’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can take guided tours of the site and learn about life on the island in the Viking era.

Natural Attractions of Raufarhöfn: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Arctic Circle Monument: Perched on the coast overlooking the Arctic Ocean, this iconic monument marks the spot where the Arctic Circle passes through Iceland. Visitors can take in stunning views of the sea and the surrounding landscape, and the midnight sun in the summer is a particularly unforgettable sight.

  • Raufarhöfn Lighthouse: Built in 1956, this towering white lighthouse sits at the edge of the town’s harbor, offering panoramic views of the Arctic Ocean and the rugged coastline. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and learn about its history and importance to the local community.

  • Puffin Watching: Raufarhöfn is home to large colonies of puffins, those adorable black and white seabirds that are such an iconic part of Iceland’s wildlife. Visitors can take boat tours from the harbor to see the puffins up close and learn more about their habits and habitat.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Raufarhöfn

Raufarhöfn is a nature-lover’s paradise, with miles of pristine hiking and biking trails that wind through the town and the surrounding countryside. Here are just a few of the most popular routes:

  • Raufarhöfn Coastal Trail: This 6.5-kilometer trail follows the coastline from the town out to the Arctic Circle Monument, offering stunning views of the sea and the surrounding mountains.

  • Raufarhöfn to Kópasker Bike Route: This 55.6-kilometer bike route takes riders through some of the most beautiful landscapes in North Iceland, including mountains, valleys, and fjords.

  • Ólafsfjörður to Raufarhöfn Hike: This challenging 32-kilometer hike takes hikers through some of Iceland’s most dramatic and rugged scenery, with spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and waterfalls.

Best Things to Do in Raufarhöfn: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply to soak in the local culture, Raufarhöfn has plenty of amazing things to do. Here are just a few of the best activities and tours:

  • Northern Lights Tours: Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, and Raufarhöfn is no exception. Visitors can book guided tours during the winter months to see this magical natural phenomenon in all its glory.

  • Horseback Riding: Icelandic horses are a unique breed famous for their strength, intelligence, and beauty. Visitors can take guided horseback riding tours through the countryside, with opportunities to see wildlife, spectacular vistas, and historic sites along the way.

  • Hot Springs Excursions: Iceland is home to numerous hot springs, geysers, and other geothermal wonders, and Raufarhöfn is no exception. Visitors can take guided tours to soak in natural hot springs, watch geysers erupt, and learn more about Iceland’s unique geology and geography.

Week-Long Itinerary for Raufarhöfn

If you’re planning to spend a week in Raufarhöfn, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Raufarhöfn, check into your accommodations, and explore the town’s historic sites and museums.

  • Day 2: Take a guided hiking or biking tour of the countryside, with stops at the Arctic Circle Monument, the Puffin colonies, and other natural attractions.

  • Day 3: Book a Northern Lights tour and experience one of Iceland’s most magical and otherworldly natural phenomena.

  • Day 4: Take a horseback riding tour of the local countryside, with opportunities to see wildlife, spectacular vistas, and historic sites.

  • Day 5: Visit one of the local hot springs for a relaxing soak and a chance to learn more about Iceland’s unique geology and geography.

  • Day 6: Take a boat tour to see whales, seals, and other marine life in the waters around Raufarhöfn.

  • Day 7: Enjoy a leisurely day exploring the town, shopping for souvenirs, and trying local food and drinks.

Food and Drink Scene of Raufarhöfn

Icelandic cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and Raufarhöfn is no exception. Here are a few must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Icelandic Lamb: Iceland is famous for its traditional breed of sheep, which produce some of the most delicious and flavorful lamb in the world. Roast lamb is a staple of Icelandic cuisine, often served with locally grown vegetables and potatoes.

  • Skyr: This thick, creamy yogurt-like substance is a staple of Icelandic cuisine, often served with fresh berries and other fruits as a breakfast or snack.

  • Fish Soup: With a thriving fishing industry, it’s no surprise that seafood is a major component of Icelandic cuisine. Fish soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s often served with hearty bread and butter.

Local Beverages

  • Brennivín: Also known as “Black Death,” this potent Icelandic liquor is made from distilled potatoes and flavored with caraway seeds. It’s a traditional drink served during festivals and celebrations.

  • Icelandic Beer: Despite a long history of prohibition, Iceland has a thriving craft beer scene today. Some of the best-known breweries are located in Reykjavik, but visitors to Raufarhöfn can also sample locally brewed beers at pubs and restaurants around town.

Where to Stay in Raufarhöfn: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

While Raufarhöfn is a relatively small town, there are several options for accommodations to suit a range of preferences and budgets. Some popular choices include:

  • Arctic Henge Guesthouse: Located in the heart of the town, this guesthouse offers comfortable rooms and easy access to many of the town’s top attractions.

  • Ytra-Áland Guesthouse: Set in a stunning location on a nearby farmstead, this guesthouse offers a peaceful and picturesque getaway for travelers seeking to get away from it all.

  • Langarbuð: With its cozy, rustic charm and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coastline, Langarbuð is a popular choice for travelers looking for an authentic Icelandic experience.

What to Buy in Raufarhöfn: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

No trip to Iceland is complete without bringing home some souvenirs to remember your experience. Here are a few things you might want to consider picking up:

  • Icelandic Woolens: From cozy sweaters to warm blankets and scarves, Icelandic wool products are renowned for their quality, warmth, and durability.

  • Local Art and Crafts: A wide variety of art and crafts can be found in Raufarhöfn, including pottery, jewelry, and handmade wooden goods.

  • Icelandic Food and Drink: Bring home some Icelandic delicacies to share with friends and family back home, such as smoked salmon, dried fish, or locally produced spirits and beer.

Local Culture and Customs of Raufarhöfn

Icelanders are known for their friendly, welcoming nature, but it’s important to be aware of some cultural customs and norms when visiting Raufarhöfn. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Respect for Nature: Icelanders have a deep reverence for the natural beauty and fragile ecosystems of their country, and visitors are expected to show the same respect.

  • Tipping: While tipping in restaurants and other service industries is common in many countries, it is not expected in Iceland.

  • Punctuality: Icelanders place a high value on punctuality, and it’s considered rude to be late or keep others waiting.

Best Time to Visit Raufarhöfn

The best time to visit Raufarhöfn depends largely on your preferences and travel plans. Summer is the peak tourist season, with long daylight hours and milder temperatures, making it a great time for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. Winter is a quieter time in Raufarhöfn, but a great time to see the Northern Lights and take part in winter sports and other activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Raufarhöfn

Here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Raufarhöfn:

DO:

  • Do try local cuisine and sample traditional Icelandic dishes and beverages.

  • Do respect Iceland’s natural beauty and fragile ecosystems.

  • Do dress appropriately for the season and weather conditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.

  • Don’t be late or keep others waiting.

  • Don’t leave a messy or disruptive scene in your accommodations.

Safety and Health

Iceland is generally a safe and healthy country to visit, with low crime rates and high standards of healthcare. However, visitors should be aware of a few things when traveling to Raufarhöfn:

Safety in Raufarhöfn

  • Raufarhöfn is a small and relatively safe town, but it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions.

  • Be sure to check weather conditions and road conditions before embarking on outdoor activities like hiking or biking, as the weather in Iceland can change quickly.

Health in Raufarhöfn

  • Iceland has high standards of healthcare, but visitors should still take precautions to prevent illness and injury.

  • Be sure to pack sufficient supplies of any medications you may need, as obtaining them in Iceland can be difficult and expensive.

Getting to Raufarhöfn: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Raufarhöfn can be a bit tricky, as the town is located in a remote part of Iceland. Here are a few transportation options and logistics to consider:

Airports Near Raufarhöfn

The nearest airport to Raufarhöfn is located in Húsavík, approximately 120 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Raufarhöfn

The nearest bus station is located in Húsavík, approximately 120 kilometers away.

Other Options

Some visitors choose to rent a car and drive to Raufarhöfn, which can be a scenic and enjoyable way to see the areanci. However, it’s important to be aware of Iceland’s often-challenging weather and road conditions, particularly in the winter.

How to Get Around in Raufarhöfn

While Raufarhöfn is a small town, most of the major attractions and sites are located outside the town itself, which means that visitors will need some means of transportation to get around. Some popular options include:

  • Rental Car: Renting a car can be a convenient way to see the sights in and around Raufarhöfn, particularly if you plan to do a lot of hiking, biking or other outdoor activities.

  • Bus Tours: A variety of bus tours are available that cover many of the major attractions in and around Raufarhöfn.

  • Walking or Biking: For visitors who prefer a more active approach to sightseeing, walking or biking can be a great way to explore the town and the surrounding countryside.

Where to Go Next from Raufarhöfn: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

While Raufarhöfn has much to offer on its own, visitors who have the time and inclination to explore more of Iceland’s natural and cultural treasures can find plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to choose from. Here are a few options to consider:

  • Húsavík: Located just 120 kilometers south of Raufarhöfn, Húsavík is a charming town renowned for its whale-watching opportunities, as well as its historic churches and museums.

  • Akureyri: As the largest town in northern Iceland, Akureyri is a regional hub for culture, arts, and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore museums and galleries, go skiing or hiking, or relax in the town’s many cafes and restaurants.

  • Mývatn: This stunning volcanic lake and surrounding area offers visitors a chance to see some of Iceland’s most unique and otherworldly landscapes, including hot springs, geothermal vents, and lava fields.

Conclusion

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a chance to immerse yourself in the rich natural and cultural history of Iceland, Raufarhöfn is a destination worth considering. From hiking and biking to cultural attractions and delicious local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this hidden gem of North Iceland.