Must-see
Dynjandi Waterfall
A tiered wedding-cake waterfall, one of the most beautiful in Iceland.
Westfjords
Arnarfjordur (Arnarfjörður) Fjord Iceland: Complete Visitor Guide
Known as the Eagle Fjord, Arnarfjordur is the second-largest fjord in the Westfjords, stretching 30km into remote wilderness. Home to the iconic Dynjandi waterfall and the Sea Monster Museum in Bildudalur, this dramatic fjord offers some of Iceland's most untouched landscapes.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Key Stop
Dynjandi
Accessible via Route 60 (Dynjandisheiði).
Widely considered the most beautiful fjord in the Westfjords, Arnarfjörður is a theater of geology. It is where the landscape feels biggest, dominated by the thundering tiers of Dynjandi waterfall and sharp, pyramid-like mountains that frame the sea. It is a place of monsters in folklore and majesty in reality.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
Mountain passes to reach Arnarfjörður can close in winter. In summer, the gravel sections are manageable but require slower speeds.
Sources to check
Culture
Sea Monsters
Visit the quirky and well-designed Sea Monster Museum in Bíldudalur.
Access
Mountain Pass
Requires driving over Dynjandisheiði—scenic but weather-dependent.
Wildlife
Arctic Foxes
The Westfjords host Iceland's largest arctic fox population, often spotted in the mountains.
Art
Selárdalur
Visit the abandoned farm where self-taught artist Samúel Jónsson created whimsical folk art sculptures.
Kayaking
Fjord Paddling
Sheltered waters make Arnarfjörður ideal for kayaking with mountain reflections.
What to Expect
- Dynjandi waterfall cascading 100 meters in a dramatic wedding-cake formation
- Remote wilderness with minimal tourist infrastructure outside Bildudalur
- Arctic fox sightings in the surrounding mountains, especially at dawn and dusk
- Selárdalur folk art sculptures by self-taught artist Samúel Jónsson
- Sea monster folklore explored at the quirky museum in Bildudalur
- Sheltered kayaking waters reflecting pyramid-shaped mountain peaks
How to Get to Arnarfjörður
Driving from Reykjavik
The drive from Reykjavik to Arnarfjörður is approximately 380km (5-6 hours). Take Route 1 north, then Route 60 west through Búðardalur and over Dynjandisheiði pass. The mountain pass offers spectacular views but can be challenging in poor weather.
Road Conditions
Route 60 over Dynjandisheiði pass is mostly paved but includes a high mountain section that can be snowy or foggy. Some coastal roads around the fjord are gravel. The pass may close temporarily in severe winter weather. Always check road.is before departure.
Best Time to Visit Arnarfjörður
Summer (June-August)
The ideal time to visit. Midnight sun provides 24-hour daylight, all roads are open, and Dynjandi is at full flow. Weather is mildest (8-15°C) and all services in Bíldudalur are operational.
Shoulder Season (May, Sept)
Fewer tourists and dramatic weather. Some services may have reduced hours. Northern lights visible in September. Mountain pass can be unpredictable. Expect 4-10°C temperatures.
Winter (Oct-April)
Access is challenging—Dynjandisheiði pass may close for extended periods. Only 4-5 hours of daylight in December. Great for northern lights but limited services. Not recommended for first-time visitors.
Nearby Attractions
Dynjandi Waterfall
Iceland's most majestic tiered waterfall, a 100m cascade known as the Jewel of the Westfjords.
Sea Monster Museum
Quirky and well-designed museum in Bíldudalur exploring the region's sea monster folklore and sightings.
Selárdalur Art Farm
Remote abandoned farm with charming folk art sculptures and a replica of a Roman basilica by Samúel Jónsson.
Rauðasandur Beach
Stunning red and golden sand beach on the southern Westfjords coast, about 90 minutes south.
Látrabjarg Bird Cliffs
Europe's largest bird cliff and westernmost point, home to millions of seabirds including puffins.
Planning help
Arnarfjörður FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.