Ófærufoss

Overview

Ófærufoss stands as one of Iceland's most dramatically situated waterfalls, plunging 35 metres into the depths of the Eldgjá canyon in two distinct tiers. Located in the remote highlands of southern Iceland, this powerful cascade epitomises the raw, untamed beauty of the island's interior wilderness. The waterfall's name, meaning "Impassable Falls," reflects both its historical role as a natural barrier and its continued inaccessibility for much of the year.

What sets Ófærufoss apart from Iceland's more famous waterfalls is its extraordinary geological setting within Eldgjá, the world's largest volcanic canyon. The falls thunder down ancient lava walls formed during a massive eruption in 934-940 CE, creating a scene of almost primordial intensity. Until 1993, a natural stone arch spanned the waterfall between its two drops, but this iconic feature collapsed, leaving behind an even more rugged and uncompromising landscape. The waterfall's isolation in the Icelandic Highlands ensures that those who make the challenging journey are rewarded with an experience largely unchanged by tourism.

Quick Facts

**GPS Coordinates:** 63.9833°N, 18.5500°W

**Entry Fee:** Free

**Opening Hours:** 24 hours (road access permitting)

**Best Time to Visit:** July to September

**Difficulty:** Challenging - requires F-road capable vehicle

**Nearest Settlement:** Kirkjubæjarklaustur, 65km southeast

**Elevation:** 610 metres above sea level

**Drop Height:** 35 metres (two tiers)

**Access Season:** Mid-June to mid-October (weather dependent)

How to Get There

Driving

From Reykjavík, take Route 1 (Ring Road) east for approximately 230km to Kirkjubæjarklaustur (2.5 hours). Continue east on Route 1 for 23km, then turn north onto F208 (Fjallabak syðri). Follow F208 for 42km through increasingly rugged terrain until you reach the parking area near Ófærufoss. The total journey covers 295km and takes approximately 4.5 hours in good conditions.

The F208 is a mountain road requiring a 4WD vehicle with high clearance. River crossings, though generally shallow, can be treacherous after heavy rainfall. Check road conditions at road.is and safetravel.is before departure, as the route may be impassable due to snow, ice, or flooding even during summer months.

Parking

A small gravel parking area accommodates approximately 10-15 vehicles near the waterfall viewpoint. Parking is free but space is limited during peak summer months. The area offers no facilities - bring all necessary supplies and remove all waste.

Access

From the parking area, Ófærufoss is visible and accessible via a short 200-metre walk across uneven volcanic terrain. The path is unmarked and requires careful footing over loose rocks and potentially slippery surfaces near the waterfall's edge.

What to See and Do

The primary attraction is the waterfall itself, best viewed from the western rim of the canyon where the full power and scale become apparent. The upper falls drop approximately 15 metres before the water gathers in a small pool, then cascades another 20 metres into the canyon depths below. The basalt canyon walls, carved by the Ófæra river and shaped by volcanic activity, provide a stark, dramatic backdrop that changes character throughout the day as light angles shift.

Photography opportunities are exceptional, particularly during the golden hours when the canyon walls glow with warm light. The absence of the former natural arch has created different composition possibilities, with the raw, broken rock formations now dominating the scene. Early morning often brings atmospheric mist rising from the canyon, while late evening can produce spectacular light effects on the falling water.

Geological enthusiasts will appreciate the clear evidence of Iceland's volcanic history visible in the canyon's stratified lava layers. The site offers excellent examples of columnar basalt formations and demonstrates the erosive power of glacial meltwater over centuries.

Best Time to Visit

**July-August:** Peak season with the most reliable road access and warmest weather. Expect the highest visitor numbers, though still minimal compared to mainstream attractions. Daylight extends until nearly midnight, providing excellent photography opportunities.

**June and September:** Shoulder season offering good weather with fewer visitors. Road conditions may be less predictable, particularly in early June when snow patches can linger. September brings autumn colours to the sparse highland vegetation.

**October:** Final month of reliable access before winter road closures. Weather becomes increasingly unpredictable with potential for snow and ice. Daylight hours decrease significantly but can provide dramatic atmospheric conditions.

**November-May:** Road access typically impossible due to snow and ice. Attempted access during winter is extremely dangerous and not recommended even for experienced highland travellers.

Safety

The F208 presents significant challenges requiring proper preparation and equipment. River crossings, though typically shallow, can become dangerous after heavy rainfall or during spring snowmelt. Always travel with adequate food, water, warm clothing, and emergency communication devices.

Canyon edges around Ófærufoss are unstable with loose volcanic rock and no safety barriers. Maintain safe distances from cliff edges, particularly when conditions are wet or icy. The remote location means emergency assistance may be hours away.

Weather conditions can change rapidly in the highlands. Sudden storms, temperature drops, and reduced visibility are common even in summer. Check weather forecasts and inform others of your travel plans before departure.

Mobile phone coverage is unreliable or non-existent in this area. Consider carrying a satellite communication device for emergencies.

Nearby Places

**Eldgjá Canyon** (5km north): The world's largest volcanic canyon, stretching 75km and offering spectacular hiking opportunities through the same eruption system that created Ófærufoss.

**Landmannalaugar** (45km northwest): Iceland's premier highland hiking destination featuring colourful rhyolite mountains, hot springs, and extensive trail networks accessible via F208 and F224.

**Lakagígar (Laki Craters)** (35km east): A dramatic row of volcanic craters created during the devastating 1783-1784 eruption, accessible via F206 from F208.

**Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon** (55km southeast): A more accessible but equally dramatic canyon near Kirkjubæjarklaustur, reachable by standard vehicles.

**Skaftafell National Park** (85km southeast): Part of Vatnajökull National Park, offering glacier hiking, ice caves, and the famous Svartifoss waterfall with its basalt column backdrop.

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