How did reindeer end up in Iceland?

Reindeer were introduced to Iceland from Norway between 1771 and 1787. The intention was to establish domesticated herds for farming, similar to the Sámi reindeer herding tradition in Scandinavia. However, the herding efforts failed and the reindeer went feral. Today's population descends entirely from those original Norwegian imports.

Where can I see reindeer in Iceland?

Reindeer are found exclusively in East Iceland, primarily in the highland areas around Snæfell mountain, the Fljótsdalshérað district, and the valleys around Egilsstaðir. In winter, herds descend to lower elevations and can sometimes be seen from Route 1 (the Ring Road) in the east. The area between Egilsstaðir and Djúpivogur offers the best roadside sighting chances.

Are reindeer hunted in Iceland?

Yes, a regulated annual reindeer hunt takes place in East Iceland each summer (July–September). The Icelandic Environment Agency sets quotas each year based on population surveys to keep the herd at a sustainable size of around 3,000 animals. Hunting licenses are allocated by lottery to Icelandic residents.

Can I approach or feed wild reindeer?

No, you should never approach or attempt to feed wild reindeer. They are shy animals and will flee if humans get too close, wasting energy they need for survival. Use binoculars or a telephoto lens from a distance. If you encounter reindeer near the road, slow down and do not honk or flash lights. Feeding wildlife is prohibited in Iceland.

Reindeer in East Iceland: History, Where to See Them

Introduced from Norway in 1771, wild reindeer herds roam the highlands and valleys of East Iceland, the only region where they are found.

Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team

Location

East Iceland

Snæfell, Fljótsdalshérað, near Egilsstaðir

Iceland's reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) are the descendants of animals imported from Norway between 1771 and 1787. Originally brought for domestic farming in the style of Scandinavian Sámi herding, the experiment failed and the reindeer escaped into the wild. While herds were once scattered across northern and eastern Iceland, today's population of roughly 3,000 animals is confined to the eastern part of the country, ranging from the highland areas around Snæfell mountain down to the lowland valleys near Egilsstaðir. Unlike their Scandinavian cousins, Icelandic reindeer are entirely wild and unmanaged beyond an annual population-control hunt.

Safety + sourcing

Last updated: 2026-02-01

This guide is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Conditions in Iceland can change quickly—always check official alerts and road conditions before you drive or hike.

Sources to check

Population

~3,000

Managed through annual regulated hunt to maintain balance

Introduced

1771–1787

Originally imported from Norway for farming, now fully wild

Range

East Iceland

The only region where reindeer are found in Iceland

What to Expect

Population: ~3,000 animals

Managed through an annual regulated hunt (July-September) to maintain the population at approximately 3,000 individuals. The Icelandic Environment Agency sets quotas based on aerial surveys.

Best viewing: November-March (roadside)

Easiest sightings in winter when herds descend to lower elevations. Route 1 between Egilsstaðir and Djúpivogur offers the best roadside chances, especially early morning and late evening.

Summer viewing: highlands near Snæfell

In summer (June-August), reindeer graze in highland pastures above 500m around Snæfell mountain. Sightings require hiking into remote areas and are less predictable. No marked viewing sites.

Specific locations

Primary range: Fljótsdalshérað district around Egilsstaðir, highland areas around Snæfell mountain, valleys toward Djúpivogur. Found only in East Iceland—nowhere else in the country.

Rut season: September-October

Bulls compete for females with antler clashing and displays. Larger groups form during the rut, making this one of the more dramatic viewing periods—but herds are still in highlands.

Calving: May

Calves born in May can stand within hours. Mothers are protective. Both sexes grow antlers—bulls shed in winter, cows keep theirs through spring for protecting calves.

Where to See Them

Reindeer are found exclusively in East Iceland—do not confuse Snæfell mountain (East Iceland) with Snæfellsjökull (Snæfellsnes peninsula, West Iceland). For roadside viewing, drive Route 1 between Egilsstaðir and Berufjörður (approximately 100 km, no 4WD required). This stretch of the Ring Road passes through lowland areas where herds descend in winter. Early morning and late evening are best. The East Iceland Heritage Museum in Egilsstaðir has exhibits on reindeer history. For summer viewing, highland hiking routes around Snæfell mountain (accessed via Route 910 or F-road 923—4WD required for F-roads) offer sighting chances, though reindeer are unpredictable. Egilsstaðir is the nearest service town, reachable by domestic flights from Reykjavík (1 hour) or by driving Route 1 (8-9 hours).

Best Time to Visit

November-March: Easiest roadside viewing as herds descend to lower elevations near Route 1. Herds of 20-100+ animals possible. Snow-covered landscapes create dramatic scenes. Daylight limited to 4-7 hours in midwinter—plan drives accordingly. September-October: Rut season brings larger aggregations in the highlands; bulls at their most active; antlers fully developed. June-August: Reindeer scattered across highland pastures above 500m; sightings require hiking and are less predictable; spectacular scenery. April-May: Calving season; cows with newborn calves in sheltered valleys; transitional period between highland and lowland ranges. Regardless of season, early morning and late evening are the most active times for reindeer movement. Drive carefully on Route 1 in East Iceland—reindeer may be on or near the road, especially in low light.

Planning help

Reindeer FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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