Private Diamond Circle Tour from Akureyri

Discover North Iceland’s Diamond Circle from Akureyri! Visit Goðafoss, Lake Mývatn, Dettifoss, Ásbyrgi Canyon, and Húsavík for a mix of nature & adventure

Ásbyrgi canyon

Ásbyrgi canyon

Ásbyrgi Canyon is regarded by many as the most beautiful place in Iceland.

Ásbyrgi Canyon is regarded by many as the most beautiful place in Iceland.

This horseshoe-shaped canyon, measuring approximately 3.5 kilometers in length and up to 1 kilometer in width, is believed to have been formed by a catastrophic glacial flood caused by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago.

Folklore says that Ásbyrgi was formed when Sleipnir, Norse God Óðinn's eight-footed horse, put his hoof on the ground. Ásbyrgi, meaning the Shelter of Gods, is almost perfectly hoof-shaped. 

The canyon is surrounded by cliffs up to 100 meters high, creating a unique and mesmerizing landscape. In the canyon's center lies a lush green oasis, starkly contrasting the rugged and rocky terrain surrounding it.

One of the most spectacular features of Asbyrgi Canyon is the towering rock formations known as the "Church Floor" and the "Pillars of the Gods." These natural formations result from volcanic activity and erosion over millions of years, creating a dramatic and otherworldly atmosphere.

Visitors to Asbyrgi Canyon can explore the network of hiking trails that wind through the canyon, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The canyon is also home to diverse wildlife, including reindeer, Arctic foxes, and various bird species, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.