Best for
Canyon drama + twin falls
Háifoss and Granni side by side—truly epic.
Háifoss Waterfall Iceland: Complete Visitor Guide
Iceland's third-tallest waterfall at 122 meters, plunging into a dramatic highland canyon alongside its neighbor Granni.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Region
South Iceland (Highlands)
Remote highland location. Rough road, high clearance needed.
Háifoss is Iceland's third-tallest waterfall, plunging 122 meters into a dramatic canyon on the Fossá river in the Þjórsárdalur valley. Adjacent to the smaller Granni waterfall, the pair create one of Iceland's most spectacular highland scenes. The remote location requires a rough gravel road but rewards visitors with raw, uncrowded beauty.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Cliff edges are unfenced and winds can be strong—check road conditions and weather before driving the highland road.
Sources to check
Access
Rough road (4x4 recommended)
30–45 min on gravel from the main road.
Pro tip
Go in June
Peak meltwater flow for the most dramatic cascade.
What to Expect at Háifoss
- A 122-meter freefall into a deep, colorful canyon
- Granni waterfall visible right next to Háifoss
- Remote, uncrowded highland setting with no facilities
Nearby Attractions to Háifoss
- Granni waterfall (adjacent twin falls)
- Þjórsárdalur valley and Stöng Viking ruins
- Gjáin canyon (lush oasis nearby)
How to Get to Háifoss
- Located in the Þjórsárdalur valley, South Iceland highlands
- About 120 km east of Selfoss via Route 32 then gravel road
- High-clearance vehicle strongly recommended
- Last section is rough gravel—30–45 minutes from main road
- No facilities at the site—bring water and supplies
Best Time to Visit Háifoss
- June–September: road is accessible, best conditions
- Early summer offers highest meltwater flow
- Road is typically closed October–May due to snow
- Midnight sun in June/July allows late-evening visits
- Check road.is for current highland road status
Planning help
Háifoss FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.