What You Need to Know About Visiting Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

What sets Fjaðrárgljúfur apart from other Icelandic canyons?

The River Fjaðrá begins its journey in the country’s mountainous interior, following a meandering route to lower ground. Fjaðrárgljúfur’s most incredible canyon is a hundred metres deep and two kilometres long and has carved a winding path through the valley, weaving between a series of interlocking spurs. If you plan on walking the length of the canyon, allow at least an hour, and make sure you check out waterfalls such as Mögáfoss that are tucked away out of sight.

Fjaðrárgljúfur is often described as a fairytale canyon, and even by Icelandic standards, it’s quite remarkable for its beauty. It’s a place where nature has created something truly spectacular. Don’t take our word for it: in 2015, Justin Bieber filmed a music video here, and later, it was also a filming location for Game of Thrones.

How was Fjaðrárgljúfur formed?

To understand how Fjaðrárgljúfur was formed, we need to travel back in time some two million years to when the palagonite bedrock was laid down. The canyon began to take shape much more recently, about 9000 years ago, around the end of the Ice Age. The glacier that covered this valley retreated as temperatures warmed u,p and the meltwater flowed into the valley.

The water was a powerful force, not least because it was carrying much sediment and using it to erode the rock with which it came into contact. If you look closely at the sides of the valley, you might spot fluvial terraces, which provide clear evidence that there was once a lake here. The depth of today’s canyon shows just how impactful water can be when it comes to shaping the landscape. 

Can visitors access all of the canyon?

The moss-covered canyon is fragile, and its vegetation is easily damaged. Due to the relatively cold climate, it takes longer to repair itself than it would in more tropical locales. Meanwhile, visitor numbers have climbed steadily in Iceland over the last couple of decades. As the canyon’s popularity grew, the increased footfall created a problem, and from time to time, the authorities prevent access in order to give the vegetation time to recover. This happens from time to time, so if you are really keen to visit Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon yourself, then check online to see if there are any closures in effect or planned. 

Do you need a 4x4?

It’s not necessary to rent a 4x4 to visit Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, even during the winter months. You’ll find it close to the town of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. The road that you’ll need to follow that links the canyon’s car park to the ring road – the 206 – is a gravel road, but it’s flattish and for the most part well-maintained. You’ll need to follow it for about 6 kilometres to reach the canyon. 

Along the way, if you come across potholes, so long as you take it slowly, the road shouldn’t present a problem for small compact cars. Renting a 2WD vehicle is perfectly adequate if this is the furthest off the main road you plan to drive, though you may wish to upgrade to give you more grip in the event of icy conditions.

Is there parking at the site?

Yes, there’s a small car park at the end of the canyon. Motorists now have to pay for parking, which can be paid via the Parka app and costs 1000 ISK for a 24-hour period if you have a standard car.

FAQ

How long do I spend at Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon?

About 1 to 1.5 hours is perfect. That gives you time to walk the trail, take in the views, and snap a few photos.

How to get to Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon?

It’s just off the Ring Road near Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Take Route 206 — a gravel road — for about 6 km. You don’t need a 4x4 unless the weather’s bad.

How to pronounce Fjaðrárgljúfur?

It sounds like fyath-rouhr-glue-vur. Don’t worry if you don’t get it perfect — even Icelanders admit it’s a tricky one!

What is Fjaðrárgljúfur?

It’s a stunning canyon in South Iceland, carved by glacial water over thousands of years. Think steep mossy cliffs, winding rivers, and fairytale vibes.