Hengifoss
Waterfall Tall eastern Iceland waterfall with columnar basalt layers
A tall waterfall in East Iceland, Hengifoss is known for its layered red strata and basalt cliffs; visitors hike a marked trail to view the falls and surrounding geology.
Hengifoss is a waterfall in eastern Iceland known for its tall drop and conspicuous red layers of clay between basalt strata in the cliff face. The waterfall is set in a steep-sided canyon and is a prominent natural attraction in the region.
The route to the falls follows a marked trail that climbs beside the river and passes views of layered geology and another striking waterfall, Litlanesfoss, which sits lower in the same gorge and is framed by columnar basalt. These geological contrasts are a key reason visitors go.
The waterfall and surrounding canyon have been formed by volcanic and glacial processes, exposing the alternating volcanic and sedimentary layers that produce the red-and-black banding. The site is managed as an accessible natural attraction with maintained paths.
Hengifoss is located in East Iceland’s highland river valleys, within driving distance of the town of Egilsstaðir and set in a landscape of steep canyons and upland plateaus.
- Height: Has a vertical drop of approximately 128 metres, making it among Iceland's tallest waterfalls and a popular hiking destination.
- Trail: The main trail from the parking area to the falls is roughly 2.5 kilometres one way and passes views of layered volcanic strata and the nearby Litlanesfoss waterfall.
What to See #
- Litlanesfoss: A second, smaller waterfall reached on the same trail, noted for its tall columnar basalt walls and striking hexagonal columns.
How to Get to Hengifoss #
Hengifoss is in East Iceland and is most commonly reached by road from Egilsstaðir. From Egilsstaðir follow Route 1 (the Ring Road) and turn onto the local access road to the Hengifoss parking area; the drive is roughly 20-30 minutes from Egilsstaðir. From the parking area expect a steep walking trail of about 2-3 km (roughly 30-45 minutes) each way up to the waterfall.
Tips for Visiting Hengifoss #
- Start the hike early in the day (or later in the evening in summer) to avoid the peak of mid-day visitors and to catch softer light on the red clay layers in the cliffs.
- Pause at the lower waterfall viewpoint to see Litlanesfoss's striking basalt columns - many visitors hike straight to Hengifoss and miss this dramatic feature on the same trail.
- Use the official parking/visitor area off Route 931 as your trailhead and follow the marked path and boardwalks; the route is well maintained but narrow in places so arriving early reduces congestion.
Best Time to Visit Hengifoss #
Visit in summer for the most reliable access to the waterfall and safest hiking conditions.
Weather & Climate near Hengifoss #
Hengifoss's climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with cool summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from -5°C to 14°C. Moderate rainfall (937 mm/year).
January
January is freezing with highs of 1°C and lows of -5°C. Significant rainfall (102 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
February
February is the coldest month with highs of 0°C and lows of -5°C. Regular rainfall (81 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
March
March is freezing with highs of 1°C and lows of -5°C. Regular rainfall (87 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
April
April is cold with highs of 3°C and lows of -3°C. Moderate rainfall (50 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
May
May is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 1°C. Moderate rainfall (46 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
June
June is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (47 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
July
July is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 7°C. Moderate rainfall (62 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
August
August is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 7°C. Moderate rainfall (73 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
September
September is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 4°C. Regular rainfall (97 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
October
October is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of 0°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (111 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
November
November is freezing with highs of 2°C and lows of -3°C. Regular rainfall (90 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
December
December is freezing with highs of 1°C and lows of -5°C. Regular rainfall (91 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
.jpg?width=600)
