There is contiguous open area around Akureyri where the biosphere and landscape are extremely diverse, and vegetation in many places is especially lush. In the urban area there are also interesting natural features, and on the hills of Akureyri there are many intriguing plants.

Within the Akureyri town limits there are many interesting recreation areas and hiking paths. In this regard, the Óshólmur area of the Eyjafjarðará River south of the town, Krossanesborgir north of the Glerárthorp area and Kjarna Wood, which is part of a forested, recreational area planned to surround the Town of Akureyri. Walking paths lie throughout Kjarna Wood, and there is playground equipment, resting spots and barbecue facilities. Glerá River flows through Glerárdalur Valley, and its landscape is varied.

Those desiring longer, guided hikes can turn to the Akureyri Touring Club, which offers numerous, organised hikes during the summer and cross-country skiing during the winter. Also, horses can be rented for a special way to experience the area's nature: www.ffa.est.is

The Akureyri Botanical Garden is known far and wide for its beautiful walking paths and luxuriant flora. One of Akureyri's gems, it was founded by women in 1911, and it contains nearly every plant found in Iceland as well as about 4,000 foreign plants.