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How to visit Hengifoss waterfall, Iceland
If you're thinking of hiking in Iceland, make a note of this name: Hengifoss. This waterfall is not only one of the highest in the country, with its imposing 128 meter dropbut also one of the most photogenic. And we're not exaggerating: seeing it from the carRetera is already impressive, but acercarsWalking to its base is an unforgettable experience.
Located in the Eastern Fjords, Hengifoss is a top stop for hiking lovers in Iceland.The path to the waterfall takes you through an incredible volcanic setting, with breathtaking views and another beautiful waterfall along the way, Litlanesfoss. But what truly makes it unique is its appearance: layers of black basalt separated by thin layers of red clay that create a dramatic color contrast.
How to get to Hengifoss and where appearedcar
Hengifoss is located in eastern Iceland, just 36 kilometers from EgilsstadirGetting there is very easy: you just have to follow the edge of Lake Lagarfljót along the carTake secondary route 95 and then 931. Both are paved and in very good condition, so you won't have any problems, whichever way you go. rental car o camper van.
The journey is worth it in itself. This area crosses the only forest in IcelandAnd in many sections you'll have spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. carThe road crosses the lake via a bridge, and just on the other side you can already see Hengifoss in the background, nestled into the hillside.
Just after crossing the bridge, you'll see a carTel indicating the left turn. About The main parking lot is 100 meters away., free, with bathrooms and, if you go during peak season, even a food truck to recharge your batteries before or after trekking.
Route to the Hengifoss waterfall
Step-by-step route to Hengifoss
The route to Hengifoss begins from the parking lot itself, along a well-marked and well-maintained path. It doesn't have any major slopes, so It is suitable for anyone with a healthy physical condition. Along the route there are two viewing platforms with benches to rest and enjoy the scenery.
The first section is 1 kilometer with about 150 meters of elevation gain, which takes about 15-20 minutes to complete. From the first viewpoint you can see LitlanesfossA 30-meter waterfall surrounded by vertical basalt columns, formed by the cooling of lava. At the viewpoint itself there is a carexplanatory text about this geological phenomenon.
You will also have some Spectacular views of Lake Lagarfljót and the surrounding mountains, a typical Icelandic landscape that already justifies the walk.
From Litlanesfoss to the beginning of the valley leading to Hengifoss there is about 650 meters further, which can be easily covered in 10 minutes.
The last section of the route, already inside the valley, is about 600 meters further, which takes another 10 minutes… or 20 if, like us, you stop every now and then to take photos. In this area there may be water on the trail if the river is running strong, but there are rocks and wooden planks that facilitate the passage.
Just before arriving, you will cross a wooden walkway which leads to the main viewpoint, from where you can appreciate the splendor of the Hengifoss waterfallAnd if the water level allows, you can carefully walk over the rocks to get closer.caryou even more to its base.
💡Tip: If you have one, wear waterproof shoes. And if you go outside the summer months, some crampons They will be very useful to you.
ᐈᐈ Prepare your luggage without leaving you anything reading: Suitcase to travel to Iceland.
How to get to the top in Hengifoss
By chance we saw some photos online with a very different perspective of the Hengifoss waterfall than the ones we had on our first visit, so we decided to try it. a new route to walk along the left side of the mountain until you reach the top of the waterfall.
The turnoff to this new trail is about 200 meters after the Litlanefoss waterfall on the left side of the river. The path is not very well defined in the first sections so you will have to go a little cross-country until you find it. Then the path climbs in a clear and simple way to a large stone milestone. From there you skirt the cliff enjoying beautiful views until you reach the waterfall. To return you can retrace your steps or cross the river and go down the opposite one.
The views From above they are more spectacular than from below So if you like to try unusual routes, I definitely recommend this one.
We hope that our Guide to visiting Hengifoss has been helpful in organizing your trip. If you have any questions, please leave them in the comments, and to continue organizing your trip, you can read our other articles. Guides for traveling to Iceland.
Hi Alba. Is the route to the top close to the route to the bottom? How long does it take to complete this alternative route?
thanks!
Hi Cris, on the left side of the river, you'll follow the same path as the normal route until about 200 meters past Litlanefoss. Once you take the detour, it's completely different. One goes into the valley to end up ahead, and the other goes up the hill. As for the time to Litlanefoss, it's about 15 minutes, and from the detour to the top, it took just under an hour, and another hour or so downhill. In our case, we crossed the river upstream and followed the return path up the hill on the right. I hope this helps! If you have any questions, you can check out the stories from that day on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/stories/highlights/18000117127861794/
Hello! 🙂 Is it possible to go in October?
Hi Irene, no problem!