Aldeyjarfoss
A breathtaking 20m waterfall framed by ancient, hexagonal basalt columns in Iceland's rugged highlands.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, good light
Aldeyjarfoss
Best Time
Fewer crowds, good light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking 20m waterfall framed by ancient, hexagonal basalt columns in Iceland's rugged highlands.
"Stunning waterfall just a short walk from the parking. Hardly any visitors and very peaceful."
🚗 4WD is Recommended
The last few miles are an F-road. If you don't have 4WD, be prepared for a 4km walk. :car:
🥾 Hike to the Base
Continue the trail left of the main viewpoint for an up-close experience with the falls. :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Basalt Column Masterpiece
Waterfall base
Witness the dramatic 20-meter glacial waterfall cascading through unique, hexagonal basalt columns.
The Cascading Falls
Main viewpoint
Marvel at the powerful glacial water plunging into the canyon, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
Scenic Canyon Trail
To the right of the main falls
Explore trails along the river for different perspectives and discover smaller cascades.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Aldeyjarfoss: 4WD is Key
Best Time for Fewer Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 4WD is Recommended
The last few miles are an F-road. If you don't have 4WD, be prepared for a 4km walk. :car:
🥾 Hike to the Base
Continue the trail left of the main viewpoint for an up-close experience with the falls. :hiking_boot:
📸 Long Exposure Magic
Capture the water's flow with long exposure photography for a dreamy effect.
🚪 Close the Gates
This waterfall is on a farm; please close the gates you pass through. :door:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 4WD is Recommended
The last few miles are an F-road. If you don't have 4WD, be prepared for a 4km walk. :car:
🥾 Hike to the Base
Continue the trail left of the main viewpoint for an up-close experience with the falls. :hiking_boot:
📸 Long Exposure Magic
Capture the water's flow with long exposure photography for a dreamy effect.
🚪 Close the Gates
This waterfall is on a farm; please close the gates you pass through. :door:
🚽 Pit Toilets Available
Restrooms are available at the parking lot for your convenience. :toilet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Aldeyjarfoss for its stunning beauty, particularly the unique basalt columns framing the powerful glacial waterfall. The relatively few visitors and peaceful atmosphere are often highlighted, though the challenging F-road access requiring 4WD is a common point of consideration. Some express disappointment with increasing crowds during peak times.
"Beautiful falls! Short downhill hike from trailhead leading to multiple viewpoints. If you continue down the trail to the left, you can get all the way down right near the falls. Challenging uphill coming back, and the road to get there is an F road, should have four wheel drive"
Henry Southworth
"Stunning waterfall just a short walk from the parking. Hardly any visitors and very peaceful. Scenic drive along the river. You’ll need a 4x4 for the last part of the road. Toilets available at the parking area."
Marianna Aronov
"Maybe one of the best Waterfalls I've been to the past 9 days. The rock basalt columns are amazing and the fall is just beautiful. Be sure to close the two gates you go through as this is on a farm."
Bowdier Sackett
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Aldeyjarfoss is located in the Icelandic highlands. The final 2-3 miles are on an F-road (F26), which requires a 4WD vehicle. If you don't have 4WD, you can park before the F-road and walk approximately 4km to the waterfall. The drive itself offers scenic views of rivers and farmland.
Generally, RVs are not recommended for the F-road leading to Aldeyjarfoss due to its rugged nature. It's best to park before the F-road and walk, or use a 4WD vehicle.
The F-roads in Iceland, including the one to Aldeyjarfoss, are typically only open during the summer months when snow and ice have melted. Check road conditions before your visit.
The F-road is unpaved and can be rough, with potential for potholes and river crossings. A small 4x4 is usually sufficient, but caution is advised.
Yes, several tour operators offer guided trips to Aldeyjarfoss, often as part of a larger highland tour. This is a good option if you don't have a 4WD vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Aldeyjarfoss. It is a natural attraction freely accessible to the public.
Aldeyjarfoss is accessible 24/7, as it is an outdoor natural attraction. However, daylight hours are recommended for safety and better viewing, especially during winter.
No booking is required for Aldeyjarfoss. As it's a natural site, you can visit anytime.
The main restriction is the need for a 4WD vehicle for the final stretch of road. Be mindful of the farm location and close gates behind you.
Yes, Aldeyjarfoss can be a part of a day trip, especially if you are exploring the highlands. However, factor in the driving time and the potential walk if you don't have 4WD.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful light for photography. The 'golden hour' can create stunning shots with the basalt columns.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the waterfall and columns. A tripod is essential for long exposure shots to smooth the water.
Drone usage is generally permitted in Iceland, but always check local regulations and be respectful of other visitors and the environment. Some visitors have used drones to capture unique aerial views.
Experiment with different angles, including getting close to the base of the falls or exploring the canyon trails. Long exposures can create a mystical feel.
Be cautious of slippery rocks and the force of the water. Stay on marked paths and maintain a safe distance, especially when the ground is wet.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main activity is admiring the waterfall and its unique basalt columns. You can also hike along the river for different viewpoints and enjoy the surrounding highland scenery. +1
Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the falls, take photos, and explore the nearby trails. If walking from the F-road, add extra time for the hike.
Yes, there are pit toilets available at the parking area.
It can get busy, especially during peak summer hours. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon can help avoid crowds.
Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots as the terrain can be uneven and wet. Dress in layers, as Icelandic weather can change quickly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
There are pit toilets at the parking lot, which is convenient. The short walk from the parking to the main viewpoint is manageable for most children. Encourage them to look for the unique basalt columns and listen to the roar of the water. Ensure they stay on marked paths and are supervised closely near the water's edge due to slippery rocks.
🚗 Adventure Seekers & 4WD Enthusiasts
Once at the falls, consider hiking the trails along the river to discover different vantage points and smaller cascades. The unique basalt formations are a photographer's dream, and the raw power of the glacial water is truly awe-inspiring. This is a place where you can truly immerse yourself in Iceland's wild, untamed nature.
📸 Photographers
Explore different angles by taking the trails to the right of the main viewpoint. The light can be magical during the golden hours, so plan your visit accordingly. Don't be afraid to get creative with your shots – focus on the textures of the basalt, the patterns of the water, or the scale of the canyon.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Aldeyjarfoss
+1These columns not only provide a unique visual contrast to the cascading water but also contribute to the waterfall's distinctive character. Photographers often highlight the interplay between the dark, angular basalt and the white, frothy water, creating a scene that feels both raw and artistic.
Understanding the geological origins of Aldeyjarfoss adds another layer of appreciation for its beauty. It's a powerful reminder of the dynamic forces that have shaped Iceland's landscape over millennia.
Navigating the F-Roads to Aldeyjarfoss
If your rental vehicle is not a 4WD, or if you are traveling in an RV, you will need to park before the F-road begins. From there, it's approximately a 4km walk to the waterfall. While this adds to your journey, many visitors find the walk to be a pleasant and scenic experience, offering views of the surrounding river and farmland.
It's crucial to check the road conditions before you set off, as F-roads are typically only open during the summer months (usually from June to September) when the snow and ice have melted. Always drive cautiously and be prepared for challenging conditions.
Photography Tips for Aldeyjarfoss
+1Experiment with different focal lengths. A wide-angle lens will help you capture the grand scale of the waterfall and its surroundings, while a telephoto lens can isolate details of the basalt columns or the water's descent. Consider shooting during the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – for soft, warm light that enhances the textures and colors of the landscape.
Don't forget to explore the surrounding area. Trails leading away from the main viewpoint can offer alternative perspectives and smaller cascades. If you're using a drone, be mindful of regulations and other visitors, but aerial shots can provide a unique appreciation for the waterfall's placement within the canyon.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit