Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

The ancient Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, located near the historic Kirkjubæjarklaustur Village in southeast Iceland, was formed approximately 9-10,000 years ago. It’s known for its steep, moss-covered walls and a serpentine-like shape, with the Fjaðrá River weaving through it like a snake. Visitors can enjoy a scenic hiking path and several viewing platforms overlooking Mögáfoss Waterfall on the western wall of the gorge. The canyon is accessible all year round, making it a favorite spot for both tourists and locals. 

Fjaðrárgljúfur is a stunning natural wonder, stretching 2 km (1.25 miles) long and 100 meters (328 feet) deep. Its fairytale-like appearance features twisting walls, irregular boulders, and patches of soft moss, giving it an otherworldly atmosphere.  

No wonder many scenes from the world-famous fantasy series Game of Thrones were filmed in Fjaðrárgljúfur. The canyon appears at 1:08 of the official trailer, where the dragons fly into the stunning wintry gorge. 

The beloved saga isn’t the only spotlight on this magical site. Nearly all of Justin Bieber’s music videos, including “I’ll Show You,” were made in Fjaðrárgljúfur, capturing its lush green vegetation in summer months.  

The gorge itself is impressive year-round. The best time to visit Fjadrargljufur Canyon depends on what you wish to experience. From June to August, Fjaðrárgljúfur experiences relatively dry weather, with temperatures averaging around 12°C (54°F). It’s a perfect time for hiking the scenic Fjaðrárgljúfur trail or camping near Fjaðrárgljúfur in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur village.  

As the temperatures drop in winter, the slopes become covered with snow, and the Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon waterfall partially freezes. The place wraps in a serene glow, ideal for those seeking peace away from the crowds. 

Fjaðrárgljúfur gorge is believed to have fully formed at the end of the last ice age, or about 9 thousand years ago when a sediment-rich glacial river carved its way through the soil. However, the basalt walls that are the foundation of the Fjaðrárgljúfur river canyon are considered to be approximately 2 million years old.  

As the river level gradually dropped, the formerly flooded canyon walls became covered with lush vegetation: vibrant grasses, delicate wildflowers, and soft moss. The downside? As the number of tourists increased, the slopes had to be fenced off to preserve the fragile flora of the gorge. 

Fjaðrárgljúfur is a low-risk attraction as long as you follow the safety rules and stay on the marked paths. Approaching the edge of the canyon is not only damaging to the fragile moss species but also dangerous, as the steep walls have a sudden drop. Rope fences line the entire area and mark the safest way to navigate.  

Here are some tips to make your visit to Fjaðrárgljúfur enjoyable and safe: 

• Respect the signs and stay on marked paths—don’t step off, even for a photo. 

• Use the designated observation platforms at the top of the gorge. Walking on the canyon floor is forbidden. 

• Be cautious of slippery surfaces, especially after rainfall. 

• Wear crampons during icy conditions in winter. 

• Stay on marked paths to avoid accidents near steep edges. 

• Exercise caution on muddy paths during spring and autumn. 

• Don’t climb, sit, or lean on the railings at the viewpoint. 

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon in winter is open for visitors to explore—and it’s absolutely gorgeous. The stream of the Fjaðrá River trickles peacefully while the hills accumulate snow, and the place truly looks like a scene out of a fantasy movie. 

Keep in mind that ice and heavy snowfall make it more challenging to reach the attraction. Use a four-wheel-drive vehicle; ordinary cars have too little traction on slippery surfaces. The road F206 leading to the gorge can experience closures, so check the online road conditions before you head to the Fjaðrárgljúfur in winter. 

Fjaðrárgljúfur was first closed in April 2018 due to a surge in tourism. The Icelandic Environment Agency initiated this action, as significant damage resulted from visitors straying off marked paths. 

While Fjadrargljufur Canyon is generally open, it may occasionally close during spring and autumn when the area becomes wet from snowmelt and rain. The muddy paths cause visitors to leave marked trails, further damaging the vegetation. Such closures, however, are rare and typically don’t last more than 2 weeks. 

Eldhraun Lava Field—Formed after the massive eruption in 1783, this mossy lava field covers an area of 565 square km (220 square mi). Located not far from the canyon, Eldhraun features one of the country's most impressive lava tube systems. 

Systrafoss Waterfall—Nestled just 10 km (6.2 mi) from the canyon, Systrafoss waterfall features two streams cascading down the sloping part of a mountain. The unique falls are 60 to 80 meters (196 to 262 feet) high and are fed by the nearby lake Systravatn. 

Stjórnarfoss Waterfall—This beautiful waterfall on the South Coast of Iceland is just a 13-minute drive from Fjadrargljufur. The cliff from which the waterfall cascades is dome-shaped, giving it an unusually rounded structure, perfect for photography.   

Fagrifoss Falls—Fagrifoss is one of the most majestic waterfalls in the highlands, measuring an impressive 80 meters (262 feet). The road to the falls is rugged and requires a river crossing, but it can be reached with a four-wheel-drive vehicle—and the views are well worth it. 

Systrastapi Rock—The historic "Sisters' Rock" (Systrastapi) is a large, steep hill west of Kirkjubæjarklaustur, just 6 km (3.7 mi) from the canyon. The attraction is named after an Icelandic folk tale about two nuns who were buried in the area. 

Kirkjugólf Natural Monument—Just 11 minutes' drive from the picturesque Fjadrargljufur is Kirkjugólf, with its hexagonal basalt rocks known as "the church floor." Interestingly, there has never been a church or building in the area. The shape of the stones is completely natural. 

Raudarfoss Waterfall—Famous for its unique bridal veil shape and rare color, Raudarfoss translates as the red waterfall. The rusty hue of the water comes from iron in the soil. The falls are only an 18-minute drive from the canyon and are easily accessible for all travelers. 

Dverghamrar Cliffs—Known as the Dwarf Cliffs, Dverghamrar features high hexagonal basalt columns. This eye-catching spot is intertwined with myths and legends. It’s nestled 21.2 km (13 mi) from the Fjadrargljufur Gorge and has a free parking area nearby. 

Foss a Síðu—Located just off the ring road, 20 km (12.4 mi) from the canyon, Foss a Síðu is one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in Iceland. Its cascade falls like a thin white thread from dark ancient cliffs, measuring over 30 meters (98 feet) in height. 

Skaftareldahraun lava field—Situated 12 km (7.4 mi) from Fjadrargljufur, the moss-covered Skaftareldahraun looks like a place from another planet. The green moss contrasts beautifully with the black volcanic rocks, making it an excellent place for photography enthusiasts.