Top Waterfall
Hengifoss
128 m — one of Iceland's tallest waterfalls
Fljotsdalur (Fljótsdalur): Iceland's Waterfall Valley
Fljótsdalur
Updated February 10, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
The richest valley in Iceland for waterfalls, including Hengifoss (128 m), Strútsfoss, and Kirkjufoss. Located near Egilsstaðir and Lagarfljót lake in East Iceland.
Region
East Iceland
Best time: June – September
Fljótsdalur is part of the Fljótsdalshérað district, surrounded by mountains and highland heath. The valley is renowned for its extraordinary concentration of waterfalls, with Hengifoss standing at 128 m as one of Iceland's tallest. The distinctive red clay layers between the basalt strata make Hengifoss uniquely photogenic. Nearby Lagarfljót lake adds to the area's mystique with its legendary lake monster.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-10
Hiking trails to waterfalls can be slippery when wet. Wear sturdy footwear and bring layers for changing mountain weather.
Sources to check
Nearby Town
Egilsstaðir
East Iceland's main service center
Best Season
Jun–Sep
Warmest weather and accessible trails
Landscape
Mountains
Surrounded by mountains and highland heath
Waterfall
Litlanesfoss
Stunning basalt column waterfall on the trail to Hengifoss, a geological wonder
Forest
Hallormsstaður
Iceland's largest forest surrounds the valley — excellent for walking and camping
Key Highlights
Hengifoss (128 m)
One of Iceland's tallest waterfalls with striking red clay layers between basalt strata
Strútsfoss
A dramatic waterfall in a rugged canyon setting, one of East Iceland's tallest
Kirkjufoss
A picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush green vegetation
Lagarfljót Lake
Long, narrow lake famous for its legendary lake monster — Lagarfljótsormur
How to Get There
- Route 931 leads into the valley from Egilsstaðir in East Iceland, about 25 km
- Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss waterfall trailhead is accessible from Route 931 at Lagarfljót lake
- Egilsstaðir is the main service hub with fuel, shops, accommodation, and a domestic airport
- The road to Hallormsstaðaskógur forest continues along the lake shore from the valley
- Domestic flights from Reykjavik to Egilsstaðir take 45 minutes
Best Time to Visit
- June-August: Best for Hengifoss hike (2-3 hours round trip), all trails open, 8-15°C
- July: Peak visitor season — Hallormsstaðaskógur forest at its most lush
- September: Fewer hikers, autumn foliage in Iceland's largest forest, photography ideal
- May: Waterfalls impressive from snowmelt, but upper trails may still have snow patches
- Year-round: Lower valley accessible but Hengifoss trail can be icy in winter
Planning help
Fljotsdalur FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.