Hornstrandir — Last Wilderness★★
Iceland's Ultimate Wilderness Experience
The Hornstrandir Nature Reserve at the far northwest tip of the Westfjords is the most remote inhabited — no, uninhabited — place in Iceland. Since the 1950s, no one has lived here permanently: The last residents gave up when the living conditions became too harsh. Since then, nature has reclaimed the land.
The result: A pristine wilderness where Arctic foxes come within arm's length (they have no fear of humans here!), the cliffs are covered with seabirds, and the silence is broken only by the wind and waves. There are no roads, no houses, no infrastructure — only marked hiking trails and the remains of abandoned farms.
The Arctic foxes (Alopex lagopus) are so tame here that they are considered Iceland's best wildlife experience. The shy animals, which flee immediately elsewhere, lie by hiking trails and watch hikers curiously. The population is healthy and protected — hunting is prohibited in the reserve.
Hiking in Hornstrandir
The reserve is only accessible by boat — ferries from Ísafjörður (2–3h) bring hikers to various landing points. The most popular multi-day hikes:
- Hornvík Bay: 2–3 days. The most spectacular bay with the Hornbjarg cliffs (534m). Puffins, Arctic foxes, absolute solitude
- Hesteyri: 1–2 days. Abandoned village with restored houses. The most accessible part of Hornstrandir. Day tours possible
- Complete Crossing: 5–7 days. For experienced trekkers with tent, GPS, and self-sufficiency
Achtung
Hornstrandir is TRUE wilderness — no cell reception, no rescue routes, unpredictable weather. Only for experienced hikers with camping experience, GPS, and emergency equipment. Always register at safetravel.is! Guided tours recommended for first-time visitors.
