Best for
Powerful glacial rapids
Blue-green water carving through narrow rock channels.
Barnafossar Waterfall Iceland: Complete Visitor Guide
A series of powerful glacial rapids on the Hvítá river in West Iceland, steeped in dark folklore and adjacent to the famous Hraunfossar.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Region
West Iceland
Easy access. Pair with Hraunfossar for a complete visit.
A series of rapids and small waterfalls adjacent to Hraunfossar on the Hvítá river. The name means "Children's Falls" from a tragic legend about two children who fell into the river from a now-destroyed natural bridge. The blue-green glacial water carves through narrow rock channels, creating a mesmerizing display of raw power.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
Stay behind barriers. Water is extremely powerful despite appearing calm. This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance—check official forecasts and road status before you drive.
Sources to check
Access
Easy
Short walk from Hraunfossar car park. Adjacent to Hraunfossar.
Pro tip
Visit in autumn
Golden birch trees contrast beautifully with the glacial water.
What to Expect at Barnafossar
- A series of turbulent rapids with blue-green glacial water
- Narrow rock channels carved by centuries of powerful flow
- Dark folklore about the tragic legend of the children
Nearby Attractions to Barnafossar
- Hraunfossar (lava field springs, adjacent)
- Deildartunguhver (Europe's most powerful hot spring)
- Reykholt (historical site of Snorri Sturluson)
How to Get to Barnafossar
- Located in Borgarfjörður, about 125 km north of Reykjavik
- Drive via Route 1 north, then Route 518 inland
- Approximately 1.5 hours drive from Reykjavik
- Free parking at Hraunfossar car park
- Short, easy walk from parking to the viewing platforms
Best Time to Visit Barnafossar
- Year-round: Barnafossar is accessible in all seasons
- Autumn: Golden birch trees create stunning contrast with blue water
- Summer: Longest daylight hours and easiest road conditions
- Winter: Ice formations add drama but paths may be slippery
- Always pair with a visit to adjacent Hraunfossar
Planning help
Barnafossar FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.