Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Overview

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon stands as one of Iceland's most dramatic geological formations, a serpentine gorge that cuts through the landscape near the southern coast. This 100-metre-deep canyon stretches for approximately 2 kilometres, carved over thousands of years by the Fjaðrá river and glacial meltwater from the last ice age. The canyon's walls rise dramatically from the narrow riverbed below, creating a spectacular maze of moss-covered basalt formations and twisted rock faces that seem to undulate like a frozen river of stone.

The canyon gained international recognition after featuring in Justin Bieber's 2015 music video for "I'll Show You," leading to a dramatic increase in visitor numbers. This surge in popularity prompted temporary closures to protect the fragile ecosystem, highlighting the delicate balance between tourism and conservation. Today, well-maintained viewing platforms and designated paths allow visitors to experience the canyon's raw beauty whilst preserving its pristine environment. The interplay of light and shadow on the canyon walls, combined with the vibrant green moss that cloaks much of the rock face during warmer months, creates one of Iceland's most photographed natural wonders.

Quick Facts

**GPS Coordinates:** 63.7758°N, 18.1725°W

**Entry Fee:** Free

**Opening Hours:** Accessible 24/7 (viewing platforms may be closed in severe weather)

**Best Time to Visit:** May to September for optimal access and lighting

**Difficulty Level:** Easy to moderate (marked paths with some steep sections)

**Nearest Town:** Kirkjubæjarklaustur (41km northwest)

**Elevation:** Approximately 200 metres above sea level

**Canyon Depth:** Up to 100 metres

**Length:** 2 kilometres

How to Get There

Driving

From Reykjavík, take Route 1 (Ring Road) eastbound for approximately 253 kilometres towards Kirkjubæjarklaustur. The journey takes roughly 3 hours in good conditions. Continue past Kirkjubæjarklaustur for 41 kilometres, then turn left (north) onto Route 206. Follow this gravel road for 2.5 kilometres until you reach the designated car park. The final approach involves a short section of well-maintained gravel road suitable for all vehicle types, though care should be taken during wet conditions when the surface becomes slippery.

From Höfn, take Route 1 westbound for 125 kilometres (approximately 1.5 hours) to reach the Route 206 junction. The canyon serves as an excellent stopping point when travelling between Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and Reykjavík.

Parking

A purpose-built car park accommodates approximately 50 vehicles free of charge. During peak summer months (June-August), the car park fills rapidly between 10:00-16:00. Overnight parking is permitted, making this location suitable for those travelling in campervans. Additional overflow parking is available along Route 206, though visitors must ensure they don't obstruct local traffic.

Access

The main viewing area lies 300 metres from the car park via a well-marked gravel path. The route is suitable for most fitness levels, though the final approach to the viewing platforms involves some uneven terrain. For those seeking more dramatic vantage points, a hiking trail follows the canyon rim for approximately 1 kilometre, requiring moderate fitness levels and proper hiking footwear.

What to See and Do

The primary experience at Fjaðrárgljúfur involves walking along the canyon rim to appreciate the dramatic geological formations and sweeping views. Three main viewing platforms offer different perspectives: the first provides an overview of the canyon's serpentine shape, the second offers the classic postcard view featured in numerous photographs, and the third allows glimpses of the Fjaðrá river meandering through the canyon floor below.

The canyon's walls display fascinating geological features, including columnar basalt formations and layers of palagonite that tell the story of volcanic activity dating back over 9,000 years. During summer months, the vibrant green moss covering much of the rock face creates a striking contrast against the dark basalt, whilst Arctic terns and ravens can often be spotted nesting in the canyon walls.

Photography enthusiasts will find optimal lighting conditions during the golden hours just after sunrise and before sunset, when the low-angled light illuminates the canyon walls and enhances the texture of the rock formations. The viewing platforms accommodate tripods, though windy conditions are common and require sturdy equipment setup.

For more adventurous visitors, an unmarked trail continues beyond the main viewing area, offering additional vantage points and the opportunity to experience the canyon in relative solitude. This extension requires confident navigation skills and appropriate outdoor equipment.

Best Time to Visit

**May-June:** Excellent conditions with extended daylight hours, minimal crowds, and fresh green moss growth. Some lingering snow patches may affect access to remote viewpoints.

**July-August:** Peak season with optimal weather conditions and full accessibility. Expect crowds, particularly between 10:00-16:00. The midnight sun provides excellent late-evening photography opportunities.

**September:** Shoulder season offering good weather with significantly fewer visitors. Autumn colours begin to appear, though daylight hours decrease noticeably.

**October-April:** Limited accessibility due to snow and ice. The canyon takes on a stark, dramatic appearance during winter months, but proper winter hiking equipment is essential. Road conditions on Route 206 may require 4WD vehicles.

Safety

Strong winds are common along the canyon rim year-round. Viewing platform railings provide protection at designated areas, but unmarked sections of the rim lack barriers. Maintain a safe distance from cliff edges, particularly when conditions are wet or icy.

The gravel surface becomes extremely slippery during rain or when frost is present. Proper hiking boots with good grip are essential for exploring beyond the main platforms. Route 206 can become challenging for standard vehicles during severe weather, particularly in winter when ice formation is common.

Mobile phone coverage is intermittent throughout the area. Inform others of your planned visit duration and carry appropriate emergency supplies for extended hiking. Weather conditions can change rapidly, requiring visitors to be prepared for sudden temperature drops and precipitation.

Nearby Places

**Kirkjubæjarklaustur** (41km northwest): Historic settlement with accommodation, dining options, and fuel services. Features the distinctive Kirkjugólf basalt columns and serves as the primary service hub for the region.

**Skaftafell National Park** (89km east): Part of Vatnajökull National Park, offering glacier hiking, ice climbing, and access to Svartifoss waterfall with its distinctive basalt organ pipe formations.

**Eldhraun Lava Field** (15km west): The world's largest lava field formed by a single eruption, created during the devastating Lakagígar eruption of 1783-1784. Accessible viewpoints along Route 1.

**Lakagígar Crater Row** (65km northwest): The source of the 1783 eruption, accessible via F206 highland road (4WD required). Features over 100 craters along a 25-kilometre fissure.

**Dverghamrar Cliffs** (52km southeast): Dramatic basalt sea cliffs showcasing columnar jointing formations, easily accessible from Route 1 with designated parking and short walking paths.

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