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The sheer force of nature is demonstrated at Dettifoss, Europe’s largest waterfall by volume, where meltwater from the Vatnajökull ice cap roils and tumbles over a precipice into the gorge below. The cloud of spray produced by the thundering water can be seen from far across the grey basalt landscape, and as you approach, the sound of the plummeting water greets you well before the falls come into view. So dramatic are the falls, that they have featured in many Hollywood productions, including Thor, Oblivion, and in the opening sequence of Ridley Scott’s Prometheus.
The drama of the falls comes partly from the stark rocky landscape that surrounds it and the scale of the canyon into which it falls. The Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon, a huge gash in the Earth, is the largest in Iceland, dropping 45 m (148 ft) at the point of the falls. Most striking, however, is the sheer force of the falls. Roughly 100 m (328 ft) wide, at the height of their flow over 1000 litres (219 gallons) of water plunge over the edge every second. It’s hard to comprehend the figures, but in person, it’s an arresting sight and sound. And, the spray produced means you should be prepared to get wet even from the safety of the marked trails around the falls.
You can view the falls from both banks of the Jökulslá River, though most visitors arrive on the west bank where a paved road and walking paths offer easy access. The east side of the falls is accessed by a rough track but offers better views, particularly when the spray is high enough to obscure views from the west bank.
Flow is at its strongest in the summer months, when meltwater from the Vatnajökull glacier thrusts through the landscape. The mineral-rich water from the glacier is a milky grey from the silt it carries, lending an unusual monochrome effect to the scene. But, on clear days, the views are often brightened by double rainbows as the spray is illuminated by the sun.
In winter, although the rate of water passing through the falls drops considerably, you’ll see icicles hanging from the rocks around the falls and the surroundings are covered in snow. At this time of year, the road can be closed due to bad weather and dangerous driving conditions, but you can still join a tour to make the journey here.
The region around Dettifoss and the Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon offers dramatic scenery and rewarding hiking. About 1.5 km (1 mile) upstream from Dettifoss is Selfoss, another impressive waterfall. Although it’s neither as tall nor as powerful as Dettifoss, its broad ribbon of cascading water dropping over a low horseshoe of cliffs is well worth the effort to get to.
Downstream from Dettifoss, though difficult to access on foot, is Hafragilsfoss, a powerful waterfall that drops into one of the deepest parts of the canyon. Here, the river has cut through a crater row revealing a lava pipe in the cliff wall.
A short drive from Dettifoss by 4x4 is the Ásbyrgi Canyon, a dramatic terrace of cliffs that overlook a lush valley. The cliffs rise up to 100 m (328 ft) and extend over 3.5 km (2 miles) in length along a canyon so wide it can be difficult to make out the other side.
Best time to visit Dettifoss
Dettifoss is impressive year-round, but the falls are at their most powerful between June and August. This is also the peak time for visitors, however, and it can get busy. In winter, the low light, frozen landscape and fewer visitors make it a rewarding time to visit, but you’ll need to join a tour as the road can be closed.
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Suggested itineraries featuring Dettifoss
Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Dettifoss, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places near Dettifoss
- Lake M媒vatn 23 miles away
- Akureyri 50 miles away
- North Iceland 65 miles away
- Eastfjords 69 miles away
- Troll Peninsula 75 miles away
- Vatnaj枚kull National Park 92 miles away
- 闯枚办耻濒蝉谩谤濒贸苍 123 miles away
- 尝补苍驳箩枚办耻濒濒 135 miles away
- South Iceland 144 miles away
- Golden Circle 160 miles away
- West Iceland 183 miles away
- South Coast 184 miles away
- Flatey 190 miles away
- 搁别测办箩补惫铆办 200 miles away
- Westman Islands 202 miles away
- Sn忙fellsnes Peninsula 204 miles away
- Blue Lagoon 223 miles away
- Southwest Iceland 225 miles away
Photos of Dettifoss
Our expert guides to exploring Dettifoss
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Dettifoss, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Dettifoss at its best.
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Highlights of Iceland: volcanoes, glaciers, whales and waterfalls Highlights of Iceland: volcanoes, glaciers, whales and waterfalls
Highlights of Iceland: volcanoes, glaciers, whales and waterfalls
Iceland is shaped by fire, ice and folklore. Whether you鈥檙e a summer or winter visitor, you鈥檒l find lots to experience here, from whale watching to hiking through ice caves and even bathing in beer. Iceland specialist Katy shares her highlights.
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