How to get to Raufarhöfn

Planning a trip to Raufarhöfn means choosing a route to the northernmost village on the mainland of Iceland. This secluded settlement on the Melrakkaslétta peninsula attracts travellers with its rugged Arctic nature and the feeling of being at the edge of the world. You can get here by combining a domestic flight to regional centres with a journey by rental car or the infrequent bus services.

Since the village itself does not have its own airport, the optimal way to arrive by air is to fly to the nearest major transport hubs. The most convenient options are the airport in the city of Akureyri (AEY) or the airport in Egilsstaðir (EGS), which receive regular flights and are well-connected to the rest of the country.

From these cities, travellers will need to continue their journey by land. Although Isafjordur (IFJ) airport is also mentioned in the list of nearby ones, it is located in another part of the country (the Westfjords) and is logistically less convenient for a trip to the northeast.

Railway services in Iceland are completely absent, so it is impossible to reach Raufarhöfn by train. There are no train stations or passenger trains on the island, even in the capital or major cities like Akureyri.

The main alternative to rail transport for moving between regions are rental cars and intercity buses.

Reaching Raufarhöfn by bus is possible, but it requires careful planning, as there may not be direct routes. Usually, the route is planned through regional hubs, such as Akureyri or Egilsstaðir, from where local buses depart to remote settlements.

Travellers are advised to check the schedule in advance on the official websites of carriers (for example, Strætó), as the frequency of trips to this sparsely populated region depends heavily on the season and weather conditions.

Travelling by car is the most reliable way to get to Raufarhöfn. The route from the "northern capital" Akureyri will take about 2.6 hours; during this time, you will drive approximately 205 km along picturesque roads. The journey from the east, from the town of Egilsstaðir, will be about 263 km and require just over 3 hours behind the wheel.

For those planning a grand journey across the entire country from Isafjordur, the road will be long: a distance of 737 km will take no less than 9.2 hours of pure driving time.

A trip to Raufarhöfn is an immersion into the Arctic atmosphere, requiring proper preparation. Here are a few tips to make your journey safe and comfortable.

1. Clothing and Gear. The weather here is unpredictable and windy. Be sure to bring a windproof jacket, waterproof footwear, and a warm hat, even in summer.
2. Transport. For a trip to this region, it is best to rent a four-wheel drive vehicle (4x4), especially if you are travelling outside the summer season.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Icelandic Króna (ISK). Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but having a small amount of cash for remote places is useful.
4. Refueling and Supplies. Always monitor your fuel level and refuel at every opportunity. The distances between gas stations and shops here are significant.
5. Connectivity. Mobile coverage works stably, but download offline maps in advance. Most locals speak fluent English.
6. Road Safety. Strictly observe the speed limit and watch out for sheep, which often wander onto the roadway. Driving off-road is strictly prohibited by law.
7. Daylight Hours. Keep in mind that in winter, daylight lasts only a few hours, while in summer, the sun practically does not set below the horizon.
8. Local Attraction. Do not miss the chance to visit the "Arctic Henge" — a modern stone circle, ideal for observing the Northern Lights.

By following these recommendations, you can enjoy the silence and rugged beauty of Iceland's northernmost edge without unnecessary worries.