Region
Far Northeast
175 km from Akureyri
Kopasker: Northeast Village Near Jokulsargljufur
A remote village in Iceland's far northeast, and a gateway to Jokulsargljufur canyon, Dettifoss waterfall, and the Arctic coast.
Population
~120
Far Northeast • Remote village
Kopasker is a small community on Iceland's remote northeastern coast, known for the earthquake that struck it in 1976. Today the village is a quiet gateway to Jokulsargljufur canyon, home of Dettifoss, Europe's most powerful waterfall, and to Asbyrgi canyon.
Sources and last reviewed
Last reviewed: 2026-03-03
Kopasker is a base for exploring the northern section of Vatnajokull National Park, including Dettifoss and Asbyrgi.
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Official sources to check
Population
~120
Remote Arctic community
Known for
Jokulsargljufur Access
Gateway to Dettifoss and Asbyrgi
Top Attractions near Kopasker
Dettifoss
Europe's most powerful waterfall, 30 km away
Asbyrgi Canyon
Horseshoe-shaped canyon with ancient forests
Jokulsargljufur Canyon
Glacial canyon in Vatnajokull National Park
Earthquake Centre
Museum documenting the 1976 earthquake
Melrakkaslétta Peninsula
Remote Arctic flatlands with birdlife
Kopasker Swimming Pool
Geothermal pool, a good stop after hiking
How to Get to Kopasker
From Akureyri: About 2-2.5 hours via Route 85 through Husavik along the scenic coast road.
From Reykjavik: About 7-8 hours via Route 1 and Route 85. Consider breaking the journey in Akureyri or Husavik.
To Dettifoss: Take Route 862 south from Kopasker (paved) or Route 864 (gravel) for different viewpoints of the waterfall.
Best Time to Visit Kopasker
Summer (June-August): Best access to Jokulsargljufur and Dettifoss with all roads open. Midnight sun and excellent hiking conditions.
Winter: Remote and quiet, with Northern Lights. Route 864 to Dettifoss closes, but Route 862 usually remains passable. Check road conditions.
Planning help
Kopasker FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.