Drangajökull

Iceland's Northernmost Glacier

160 km² Total Area
925m Highest Point
66.2°N Latitude

About Drangajökull

Iceland's northernmost glacier caps the remote mountains of the Westfjords, representing one of the country's last true wilderness areas and the only ice cap not retreating significantly due to climate change.

🧊 Glacier Characteristics

  • Area: 160 km² (smallest of major ice caps)
  • Northernmost glacier in Iceland
  • Relatively stable due to high latitude
  • Multiple outlet glaciers flow to fjords

🏔️ Geography

  • Covers ancient volcanic mountains
  • Highest peak: 925m at Jökulháls
  • Steep outlet glaciers to the sea
  • Arctic/subarctic climate zone

🌍 Climate Significance

  • Most stable of Iceland's glaciers
  • High latitude preserves ice mass
  • Important climate research site
  • Minimal retreat compared to southern glaciers

Drangajökull Location & Access

Located in Iceland's remote Westfjords peninsula, Drangajökull is the country's northernmost glacier. Use this map to plan your approach and understand the challenging but rewarding journey required to reach this pristine wilderness.

Map Legend

Drangajökull Glacier
Ísafjörður Airport (closest access)
Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

Note: Road access is extremely limited. Most visitors approach via hiking from coastal areas or by chartered boat/helicopter.

The Remote Westfjords

Drangajökull sits atop the dramatic landscape of Iceland's Westfjords, a region of towering sea cliffs, deep fjords, and vast wilderness areas rarely visited by tourists.

🗺️ Europe's Edge

The Westfjords represent one of the most remote and pristine regions in Europe, where traditional Icelandic culture persists and nature reigns supreme. Drangajökull crowns this wilderness kingdom.

Landscape Features

  • Dramatic fjords carved by ancient glaciers
  • Sea cliffs up to 400m high
  • Countless waterfalls from glacial melt
  • Pristine valleys and alpine lakes

Cultural Heritage

  • Traditional fishing communities
  • Centuries-old farming practices
  • Rich folklore and ghost stories
  • Abandoning settlements due to isolation

Arctic Wildlife Refuge

The pristine wilderness around Drangajökull supports Iceland's densest population of Arctic foxes and serves as a crucial breeding ground for countless seabirds.

🦊 Arctic Fox

  • Iceland's only native land mammal
  • Highest density population in Westfjords
  • Both blue and white color phases
  • Protected research area at Hornstrandir

🐧 Seabird Colonies

  • Millions of seabirds nest on sea cliffs
  • Puffins, guillemots, and fulmars
  • Arctic terns and great skuas
  • One of Europe's largest bird cliffs

🐋 Marine Life

  • Whale watching from Ísafjörður
  • Seals on glacial beaches
  • Rich marine ecosystems in fjords
  • Cold Arctic waters

Visiting Drangajökull

⚠️ Extreme Remote Location

Drangajökull is Iceland's most remote glacier. Access requires serious planning, 4x4 vehicles, and wilderness experience. Weather can change rapidly and rescue is difficult.

🚗 Getting There

  • Fly to Ísafjörður (45 min from Reykjavík)
  • Drive to trailheads (2-3 hours on gravel roads)
  • 4x4 vehicle essential
  • Road conditions vary greatly

🥾 Activities

  • Multi-day hiking expeditions
  • Glacier edge exploration (guided only)
  • Wildlife photography
  • Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

🗓️ Best Time

  • June-August: Best weather window
  • Arctic foxes: Most active in summer
  • Birds: June-July breeding season
  • Snow possible any time of year