Drangajökull: the Westfjords' Only Glacier

The only glacier in Iceland's Westfjords: 160 km² of ice at just 925 meters elevation, and the Icelandic glacier that has held up best in a warming climate.

Last reviewed March 3, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel TeamEditorial policy
Region
Westfjords
Remote location. Allow at least 2 days for a visit.
While glaciers across Iceland shrink year after year, this remote Westfjords ice cap has held relatively steady, fed by heavy snowfall from North Atlantic storms. At just 925 meters elevation, Drangajökull is Iceland's lowest glacier; for its survival, precipitation has mattered as much as altitude.
Sources and last reviewed
Last reviewed: 2026-03-03

The Westfjords are remote with limited rescue services. Always carry emergency supplies, register your travel plans at safetravel.is, and check road conditions before driving.

Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.

Best for
Remote arctic wilderness

A remote glacier that sees few visitors.

Access
Remote; plan ahead

6–7 hours from Reykjavik. Limited infrastructure.

Pro tip
Combine with Hornstrandir

Add a Hornstrandir nature reserve hike if you have the time.

What to Expect

  • A low-altitude glacier in one of Iceland's wildest regions
  • Very few other visitors
  • Fjord and mountain scenery surrounding the ice
  • Arctic fox sightings common in the Hornstrandir area
  • Wilderness largely unchanged for centuries
  • Glacial rivers flowing into remote Westfjords valleys

Nearby Attractions

  • Hornstrandir nature reserve (boat access only)
  • Ísafjörður , capital of the Westfjords
  • Dynjandi waterfall (2–3 hours south)
  • Hesteyri abandoned village accessible by boat from Ísafjörður
  • Bolungarvík and the Ósvör Maritime Museum
  • Westfjords Heritage Museum in Ísafjörður

How to Get There

  • Drive to Ísafjörður (6–7 hours from Reykjavik) or fly (40 min)
  • From Ísafjörður, rough roads lead toward the glacier
  • 4x4 vehicle strongly recommended for final approach
  • Some roads closed October–May
  • Register your trip at safetravel.is before heading out

Best Time to Visit

  • June–August when roads are open and days are long
  • July offers the best weather odds in the Westfjords
  • Shoulder seasons can be beautiful but unpredictable
  • Winter access is extremely limited
  • Always check local conditions before traveling

Planning help

Drangajokull (Drangajökull) Glacier FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.