Best Photography Adventures in Northwest Iceland

March 12, 2026 · Travel Tips

photographer: real_ jansen : https://jansenaphotography.mypixieset.com/

Discover Photography Adventures in Northwest Iceland

Northwest Iceland is a dream playground for photographers. From tumbling waterfalls to rugged coastlines, every turn reveals a new postcard-worthy scene. Make Ourhotels.is your home base and rest easy after a day of shooting the most dramatic landscapes this region offers.

Where to Stay

  • Hvítá Inn (Borgarfjörður, close to Borgarnes) – a cozy countryside retreat just steps from the famous Hvítá river.
  • Truck Inn (at Hvítá) – unique rooms in refurbished trucks, perfect for capturing that offbeat Icelandic vibe.
  • The Stykkishólmur Inn – ideally located for harbor views, colorful boats, and the iconic Súgandisey island.
  • Ísafjörður Inn – in the heart of the Westfjords, surrounded by steep mountains and Arctic light.

Top Photography Spots

  • Dynjandi Waterfall – a tiered cascade that glows golden at sunset. Best lighting in early evening.
  • Hornstrandir Nature Reserve – dramatic cliffs and Arctic foxes. Accessible by boat from Ísafjörður.
  • Rauðisandur Beach – red sand dunes stretch toward the horizon. Ideal at dawn for soft pastel skies.
  • Kirkjufell & Kirkjufellsfoss – the most photographed mountain in Iceland. Try a long exposure with the waterfall in the foreground.
  • Stykkishólmur Harbor – colorful fishing boats reflected in glassy water. Early morning light is magical here.

When to Go

• Summer (May–July): Midnight sun, blooming lupine fields, and clear nights for golden-hour photography.
• Autumn (September–October): Northern lights season kicks in, and fall colors add warmth to the landscape.
• Winter (November–March): Snow-dusted peaks and chance of auroras. Roads can be challenging—plan extra travel time.

What to Pack

  • Sturdy tripod for long exposures and aurora shots
  • Wide-angle and telephoto lenses
  • Waterproof jacket and pants
  • Hiking boots with good grip
  • Extra batteries and memory cards (cold drains batteries fast)

How Long to Stay

A 5–7 day itinerary lets you:

  • Explore multiple fjords and coastlines
  • Chase sunrise and sunset at different spots
  • Relax between shoots at one of the comfortable Ourhotels.is properties

Book Your Adventure

Ready to capture the magic of Northwest Iceland? Plan your stay at Hvítá Inn, Ísafjörður Inn, or any Ourhotels.is property and enjoy personalized recommendations for local photography tours. Visit Ourhotels.is today and secure your room for an unforgettable Icelandic journey.