Raufarhöfn is a small seaside village on the Arctic Edge, making it one of the northernmost places in Iceland. The village, home to around 200 residents, primarily relies on fisheries, though tourism is steadily growing. Its harbor, naturally framed by a cape, provides a unique and scenic guide for ships arriving on shore.
Known for its tranquility and surrounded by spectacular nature, Raufarhöfn is located near a national park, just a 40-minute drive from the spot where Sleipnir, Odin’s horse from Norse mythology, is said to have left his hoofprint. Nearby, in the village of Kópasker, only half an hour away, visitors can explore an earthquake museum and a folk museum. Between Raufarhöfn and Kópasker lies a magnificent prairie with diverse birdlife.
Raufarhöfn is situated on Melrakkaslétta, a region renowned for its lakes, excellent for fishing, and visited by numerous bird species annually. Known locally as “The Prairie,” Melrakkaslétta is celebrated for its stunning beauty and mesmerizing solar displays during summer evenings when the sun lingers on the horizon. The Northernmost point of Iceland, Hraunhafnartangi, is located here. The prairie hosts at least 53 bird species that lay eggs each year, with sea and moorland birds dominating the landscape.
One of Iceland’s newest attractions, Raufahafnarport, is noted for its natural surroundings and tranquility. Visitors are greeted warmly by the residents and can enjoy the peaceful environment.
While admiring the birdlife and nature, you can hike up to the Arctic Henge, which, similar to Stonehenge, functions as a massive sundial. It captures the sunrays, casts shadows in precise locations, and frames the light through aligned gateways. Just a half-hour drive away, you’ll find Ásbyrgi, a gigantic horseshoe-shaped rock formation. Ásbyrgi, along with its geological wonders like Hljóðaklettar and Dettifoss, is one of Iceland’s most admired walking destinations.
![](https://www.cruiseiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Raufarhöfn-heimskautsgerdi.jpg)
![](https://www.cruiseiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Raufarhöfn-fuglar-i-fjöru.jpg)
![](https://www.cruiseiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Raufarhöfn-harbor-map.png)
- Popular tours
- Ásbyrgi Canyon
- Snartarstaðir- The Northern Þingeyjarsýsla Heritage Museum
- The Earthquake Center in Kópasker
General information | |
Pilot | Yes, compulsory |
Tidal movement | Approximately 1m |
Maximum ship dimensions | |
Hafnarbryggja | |
Length | 95m |
Draft | 7-8m |
Air draft | No restrictions |
Beam | No restrictions |
Anchorage | |
Available | Yes |
Pontoons | Yes |
Tugboats | No |
Type of bottom | Sand / Gravel |
Minimum depth | 15m |
Distance from anchorage to tender pier | 1 nautical mile |
Port services | |
Bunkers | No |
Supplies | No |
Waste handling | No |
Fresh water | Yes |
Pilot channel | 12 |
Emergency channel | 16 |
Medical emergency | 112 |
ISPS approved | No |
Ship tenders | No |
Crew facilities | No |
Transportation | |
Shuttle services | Yes, if ordered in advance |
Excursion buses | Yes, if ordered in advance |
Taxis | No |
Public transportation | No |
Rental cars | No |
Passenger facilities | |
Terminal building for passengers | No |
Tourist information | No |
Shopping | Yes |
Restrooms | No |
Local currency | ISK |
Currency exchange | No |
ATM | No |
Internet access | No |
Guide service | Yes, if ordered in advance |
City maps | Yes |
Public telephones | No |
Mailboxes | Yes |
Distances | |
City centre | 100m |
Airport | 120km Húsavík airport (Domestic) |
Contact info | |
Visiting address | Port of Raufarhöfn, 675 Raufarhöfn |
Contact person | Gunnar Páll Baldursson |
Mobile | M: +354-8942989 |
Website | www.raufarhofn.is and www.nordurthing.is |
port@raufarhofn.is |