Best for
Sandur plain scenery
Vast braided channels across black volcanic sand with glacier views.
Markarfljot (Markarfljót) River Iceland: Glacial River & Sandur Guide
A 100 km glacial river fed by Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull, braiding across a vast black sandur plain near Þórsmörk with dramatic canyon scenery.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Region
South Iceland
Broad sandur plain. Ford crossings require 4x4.
Markarfljót is one of South Iceland's most impressive glacial rivers. Stretching 100 km from the ice caps of Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull to the coast, it carves a deep canyon through volcanic rock before spreading across a broad sandur plain of black sand and gravel. The river's braided channels shift constantly, creating an ever-changing landscape that serves as a natural gateway to the Þórsmörk wilderness.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
Ford crossings of Markarfljót are dangerous and should only be attempted in modified vehicles with experienced drivers. Check SafeTravel and road.is for current conditions.
Sources to check
Length
~100 km
From glacial sources to the south coast through deep canyons.
Pro tip
Hike the canyon rim
Canyon viewpoints offer dramatic perspectives without river crossings.
What to Expect at Markarfljót
- Broad braided river channels across black volcanic sandur
- Deep canyon with dramatic volcanic rock walls
- Glacier views of Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull
- Constantly shifting channels creating an ever-changing landscape
- Hiking trails along the canyon rim with panoramic volcanic scenery
- Views of both Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers from the broad river plain
Nearby Attractions
- Þórsmörk nature reserve
- Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls
- Eyjafjallajökull visitor center
- Hvolsvöllur and Saga Centre for Viking history
- Fimmvörðuháls volcanic craters from the 2010 eruption
How to Get to Markarfljót
- The sandur plain is visible from Route 1 near Hvolsvöllur
- Canyon viewpoints accessible via side roads south of Hvolsvöllur
- About 2 hours from Reykjavik via Route 1
- 4x4 required for ford crossings and highland access
- Highland buses serve the Þórsmörk area in summer
Best Time to Visit Markarfljót
- Summer (June–August): Best access and lowest water levels
- Canyon rim hikes accessible May through October
- The sandur plain is viewable from Route 1 year-round
- Afternoon glacial melt raises water levels—mornings are calmer
- Autumn offers dramatic light and fewer visitors
Planning help
Markarfljót River FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.