Do I need a 4x4 vehicle to visit Suður-Múlasýsla?

For staying on main roads (Route 1) in summer, a regular car suffices. For exploring interior highlands, gravel roads, or visiting outside June-August, a 4x4 is strongly recommended.

Are there supermarkets in the province?

Yes, but limited. Djúpivogur has a small supermarket (Krambúðin). For major supplies, stock up in larger towns like Höfn or Egilsstaðir before entering.

Can I see the Northern Lights here?

Yes, from September to April with clear, dark skies. The remote location offers excellent visibility away from light pollution.

Is English widely spoken?

Yes, nearly all Icelanders speak excellent English, especially in tourism-related businesses.

What unique wildlife can I see?

Puffins on Papey Island (summer), seals along the coast, reindeer in eastern highlands, and various seabirds. Whales (humpback, minke) are often spotted offshore.

Iceland is part of the Schengen Area. Visa requirements depend on your nationality; many countries have visa-free access for up to 90 days.

What currency is used?

Icelandic Króna (ISK). Credit cards are widely accepted; cash is rarely needed.

Can I drink tap water?

Yes, tap water is pure and delicious. No need to buy bottled water.

What is the weather like?

Highly variable. Expect rain, wind, and sun all in one day. Temperatures range from 0°C in winter to 15°C in summer.

Limited. Bring enough cash or use cards; ATMs are in larger towns like Djúpivogur.

Highly recommended for gravel roads and mountain tracks. Many rental cars are 4WD.

Is wild camping allowed?

Yes, with restrictions: camp on uncultivated land, away from houses, and leave no trace. Not allowed in national parks.

What wildlife can I see?

Reindeer, Arctic foxes, seals, and many seabirds. Whales can be seen in fjords.

Are there guided tours?

Limited but available for glacier hiking, ice caving, and wildlife tours. Book in advance.

Can I see the Northern Lights?

Yes, from September to March on clear, dark nights. Away from light pollution.

Waterproof jacket and pants, warm layers, sturdy hiking boots, swimsuit, and a headlamp.

Suour-mùla

ProvinceIceland, Europe

Suour-mùla is a STATE in Iceland, Europe.

Suður-Múlasýsla (often spelled Suour-mùla in older texts) is one of Iceland's most captivating and geologically diverse provinces, located in the country's eastern region. This area offers travelers a spectacular blend of dramatic fjords, volcanic landscapes, and charming fishing villages that feel authentically Icelandic. The province is anchored by the picturesque town of Djúpivogur, known for its historic harbor, unique Eggin í Gleðivík sculpture installation, and as a gateway to the stunning Búlandstindur mountain. Nature enthusiasts will be drawn to the remote Papey Island, home to thousands of puffins and seals, accessible by boat tours. The surrounding highlands feature geothermal areas, glacial rivers, and the rugged wilderness of the Vatnajökull National Park periphery. Suour-múla's coastline reveals black sand beaches, towering sea cliffs, and opportunities for whale watching. This region provides a quieter, more intimate Icelandic experience compared to the popular Golden Circle, with breathtaking scenery at every turn and a deep connection to Iceland's fishing heritage and sagas.

Best time to visit Suour-mùla

June to August offers mild temperatures (8-15°C), nearly 24-hour daylight (midnight sun), accessible highland roads, and peak puffin season. September brings stunning autumn colors and fewer crowds. Winter (November-March) is harsh with limited daylight but offers chances to see Northern Lights and experience extreme isolation. Many services and roads close in winter.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Cold 1-7°C, rain and wind, snow at higher elevations

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Quiet, northern lights, some roads close

Know before you go

Getting there

EGS

Egilsstaðir Airport

Domestic

80 km away

HFN

Hornafjörður Airport

Domestic

120 km away

KEF

Keflavík International Airport

International

600 km away

Getting around

"A rental car (preferably 4x4 for flexibility) is essential for exploring Suður-Múlasýsla. Public transportation is virtually non-existent in this rural province. The Ring Road (Route 1) connects main areas, but many attractions require detours on gravel roads (e.g., to Papey ferry). Fuel stations are sparse—fill up when possible. Domestic flights connect Reykjavík to nearby Egilsstaðir Airport. Taxis are limited to town services. Popular navigation apps include Google Maps and Maps.me, but always carry physical maps as cellular coverage can be spotty."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

20 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in towns and guesthouses, limited in remote areas

Local SIM

Local SIM available at Egilsstaðir Airport from $10

Calling code

+354

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Low crime but weather and terrain pose risks. Scams are rare but be cautious with unofficial tour operators.

Night safety

7/10

Low crime but weather and terrain pose risks. Scams are rare but be cautious with unofficial tour operators.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Suður-Múlasýsla is extremely safe with virtually no violent crime. The primary dangers are natural: rapidly changing weather, strong coastal winds, treacherous ocean currents, and unstable cliffs. Always check road conditions at road.is, especially on Route 1 (Ring Road) which passes through. F-roads (mountain roads) require 4x4 vehicles and should only be attempted in summer by experienced drivers. Avoid walking on glaciers without a certified guide. There are no areas to avoid for crime, but respect private property when exploring. No notable scams exist—this is a straightforward, honest community."

Police

112

Ambulance

112

Fire

112

Tourist Police

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical services in Suður-Múlasýsla are limited to local health centers (Heilsugæslustöð) in towns like Djúpivogur. For serious emergencies, patients are transferred to the regional hospital in Höfn (Safnahúsið) or the national hospital in Reykjavík. Travelers should carry comprehensive travel health insurance that covers medical evacuation. No specific vaccinations are required for Iceland, but routine vaccines should be up-to-date. The remote terrain poses risks of hypothermia, falls, and weather-related exposure. Tap water is safe to drink. Bring any prescription medications, as pharmacies (apótek) are scarce in rural areas."

Culture

Local customs

"Icelanders value punctuality, personal space, and quiet respect. Remove shoes when entering homes. Tipping is not expected but appreciated for exceptional service. Swimwear is required in geothermal pools—shower thoroughly nude before entering. Dress in layers for changeable weather. The province has strong fishing traditions—respect local regulations and private fishing rights. Many places close early; plan meals accordingly."

IcelandicEnglish

Costs and practicals

Currency

Icelandic Króna (ISK) · kr

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$20-30 | a main course at a restaurant costs around $25

Hotels

$100-200 | budget guesthouses from $100/night, hotels $150-250

Local transport

$80-120 | daily car rental ~$100, fuel ~$2/liter

Cost notes

Prices are high due to remoteness. Self-catering and camping reduce costs.

Timezone

Atlantic/Reykjavik +00:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

3,500

Area

3,970 km²

Government

Municipalities within a national county system

Type

Province

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Keblavik, Keblavikas, Keflavik, Keflavika, Keflavikur, Keflavík, Keflavíkur, Keflavīka, Kephlabik, Keplavik, kai fu la wei ke, kepeullabikeu, kepuravuiku, kyflafyk, Κεφλαβίκ, Кеблавик, Кеплавик, Кеплавік, Кефлавик, Кефлавік, Կեֆլավիկ, קפלאוויק, كيفلافيك, კებლავიკი, ケプラヴィーク, 凯夫拉维克, 케플라비크

Capital CityMajor HubNatureHikingFjordsWildlifeRemoteAdventurePhotographyGlacier