Kolugljúfur Canyon
A breathtaking hidden gem featuring a powerful waterfall cascading into a dramatic, rugged gorge. Easily accessible and free to visit.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Kolugljúfur Canyon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking hidden gem featuring a powerful waterfall cascading into a dramatic, rugged gorge. Easily accessible and free to visit.
"Kolugljúfur Canyon is a breathtaking hidden treasure in Iceland! The roaring waterfall cascading into the dramatic, rugged gorge creates a stunning spectacle."
🚗 Drive the Bridge
Park on the side of the single-lane bridge for the best views of Kolufossar. It's worth the short walk if it's full.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Expect mud and soft ground. Good footwear is essential for exploring safely and getting closer to the falls.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kolufossar Waterfall
Main canyon
A powerful waterfall plunging into a dramatic, rugged gorge. The views from the bridge are stunning.
The Red Falls
Downstream from Kolufossar
Discover a unique waterfall rich in iron, giving it a striking red hue. A hidden gem within the canyon.
Kerafossar Waterfall
Short drive back towards Ring Road
A less-visited waterfall featuring a fish ladder, offering a serene and unique viewing experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Kolugljúfur Canyon
Safety and What to Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive the Bridge
Park on the side of the single-lane bridge for the best views of Kolufossar. It's worth the short walk if it's full.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Expect mud and soft ground. Good footwear is essential for exploring safely and getting closer to the falls.
Kolugljúfur Canyon
⚠️ Safety First!
The canyon edges are unguarded and unstable. Never take risks near the cliffs.
📸 Capture the Red Falls
Don't miss the unique red-hued waterfall downstream. It's a stunning, lesser-seen part of the canyon.
Better route? Kolugljufur canyon to Stykkisholmur.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive the Bridge
Park on the side of the single-lane bridge for the best views of Kolufossar. It's worth the short walk if it's full.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Expect mud and soft ground. Good footwear is essential for exploring safely and getting closer to the falls.
⚠️ Safety First!
The canyon edges are unguarded and unstable. Never take risks near the cliffs.
📸 Capture the Red Falls
Don't miss the unique red-hued waterfall downstream. It's a stunning, lesser-seen part of the canyon.
⏱️ Allow 30-60 Minutes
Plenty of time to explore the main falls and nearby Kerafossar without feeling rushed.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kolugljúfur Canyon is praised as a breathtaking hidden treasure, offering a dramatic waterfall and rugged gorge with minimal crowds. Visitors appreciate its easy accessibility off the Ring Road and free parking, though some note the gravel road can be rough and parking fills quickly. Safety is a key concern due to unguarded, unstable edges.
"Good little stop that is lesser known and which has a short hike to a waterfall and beautiful canyon. There is very little elevation gain, but there is no loop trail, so you have to go to the end of one side, and come back, and repeat for the other side. The best views are off the bridge and to the areas immediately down to the left and right."
Henry Southworth
"This is a lesser known stop that I read about on a travel blog. It wasnt even mentioned in my Rick Steves Iceland travel guide. I had my doubts about its merits going in since it hadnt made mention in the book but it is 110% worthy of a stop over.
Its only about 5 km off the ring road and while it is part gravel it was an easily traversed road, smooth and very functional. The road to the canyon is partly a loop so GPS may drop you onto road 715 a bit sooner in which case it will be about 10 km off the ring. Either way...do it...its worth it!
Parking at the canyon is free. I recommend driving across the single lane bridge and parking on that side because this is where your best views of Kolufossar come from but if its full you can easily just walk across.
See the first large fall, you can get pretty close for great views but definitely walk under the bridge and continue a little way down the canyon as you will be rewarded with great views of 2 additional falls. One is rich in iron and very red. Be mindful of unstable rocks and dont be stupid about where you position yourself. All of these falls are unguarded and have the risk of dangerous, deadly falls. Use common sense and exercise caution.
Plan 30-60 minutes here, its very beautiful. No WC but parking is free. A short distance down the road heading back toward the shorter arm in the direction of the ring road there is another worthy stop called Kerafossar which is a waterfall with a fishladder for the salmon spawn. Also worthy of a stop...requires a short walk up some rocky hills beyond the parking lot to view it but its very cool. Youll have the place to yourselves. Adds another 20-30 minutes for walk and viewing."
Ingrid Hill
"The best stop on our trip. Love, love, love this place! Some dummies taking chances on edge of soft cliffs--not worth it people! Bring sturdy footwear as there's mud, soft ground, stepping up and down to get closer if you want."
Theresa Tee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kolugljúfur Canyon is located about 5 km off the Ring Road (Route 1). Take the turn-off for Road 715. While the road is partly gravel, it's generally well-maintained and accessible for most vehicles, though some describe it as rough.
The road leading to Kolugljúfur Canyon is a mix of paved and gravel sections. Travelers have noted it can be rough in parts, so drive with caution.
GPS navigation should guide you directly to the canyon. Some users mention that GPS might direct you to Road 715 slightly earlier, making the detour about 10 km off the Ring Road. Either way, it's a worthwhile stop.
While generally accessible, the road can be rough. Locals have even humorously planted flowers in potholes to highlight the road's condition.
The drive from Kolugljúfur Canyon to Stykkishólmur takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, regardless of the route taken. One route is shorter in distance but takes the same amount of time.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, parking and access to Kolugljúfur Canyon are completely free. This makes it an excellent budget-friendly stop on your Icelandic adventure.
Kolugljúfur Canyon is an natural attraction and is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and better viewing.
There is no need to book tickets in advance as Kolugljúfur Canyon is a natural site with free entry. Simply drive up and explore!
Yes, there is free parking available. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Arriving earlier in the day is advisable.
Unfortunately, there are no restrooms available at Kolugljúfur Canyon. It's advisable to use facilities before you arrive or plan accordingly.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The best views are from the single-lane bridge and the areas immediately to its left and right. You can also walk along the edge for different perspectives.
Most visitors find 30-60 minutes sufficient to explore the main waterfall and its surroundings. If you visit Kerafossar as well, add another 20-30 minutes.
There isn't a loop trail. You'll need to walk to the end of one side of the canyon and return, then repeat for the other side to see all the viewpoints.
Absolutely! The dramatic gorge, powerful waterfall, and unique red falls make it a fantastic spot for photographers. The light in the late afternoon can be particularly beautiful.
The canyon edges are unstable and unguarded. Always exercise extreme caution, stay on marked paths where available, and never get too close to the edge.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Summer mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds. Late afternoons provide a beautiful golden hour glow, enhancing the dramatic landscape.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the canyon. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the waterfalls. Consider a polarizing filter to manage reflections on the water.
The single-lane bridge offers a classic perspective. Walking along the canyon rim provides numerous angles, and don't forget to seek out the unique red-hued waterfall downstream.
Experiment with different elevations by carefully venturing slightly off the main path (while prioritizing safety). Capturing the spray from the waterfall can add dynamism to your photos.
Be extremely mindful of the unstable ground and sheer drops. Always maintain a safe distance and never lean over the edge. Your safety is paramount.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring sturdy shoes for everyone, as the ground can be uneven and muddy. While there are no specific play areas, the sheer scale and power of the waterfalls are captivating for all ages. The nearby Kerafossar also provides a gentler, more contained experience for younger children. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited.
📸 Photographers
For the best shots, consider visiting during the golden hours of summer morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the vastness of the canyon, while a telephoto lens can isolate details of the cascades. Always prioritize safety when seeking unique angles; the canyon edges are unstable and unforgiving.
🚗 Road Trippers
Be prepared for a short stretch of gravel road leading to the canyon. While generally manageable, it's wise to drive cautiously. The canyon offers a less crowded alternative to some of Iceland's more famous waterfalls, providing a more intimate experience with nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Canyon's Waterfalls
Beyond Kolufossar, venture further downstream to discover the 'Red Falls'. This unique waterfall is stained a striking red due to its high iron content, offering a visually distinct and memorable sight. It's a testament to the diverse geological features within the canyon.
For an additional natural wonder, a short drive back towards the Ring Road leads to Kerafossar. This waterfall is notable for its integrated fish ladder, designed to aid salmon during their spawning season. It provides a quieter, more serene experience compared to the main falls and is often enjoyed in solitude.
Navigating and Accessing Kolugljúfur Canyon
Parking at the canyon is free, which is a significant plus for budget-conscious travelers. The most recommended parking spot is on the side of the single-lane bridge, as it offers immediate access to prime viewing areas for Kolufossar. If this spot is full, don't worry; you can easily park on the other side and walk across the bridge.
Be aware that GPS navigation might sometimes direct you to Road 715 a bit earlier than expected, potentially extending the detour to about 10 km. Regardless of the exact route, the journey is considered well worth the effort by those who visit.
Safety and Responsible Visiting
Sturdy footwear is highly recommended. The terrain can be muddy and soft, especially after rain, and you may need to step up and down to get closer to certain viewpoints. Wearing appropriate shoes will enhance your comfort and safety during exploration.
It's also important to note that there are no restrooms at the site. Visitors should plan accordingly by using facilities before arriving or at their next stop. Remember to respect the natural environment and leave no trace behind.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit