One of Iceland's highest waterfalls (122m), plunging into a massive canyon alongside its neighbor, Granni. A stunning gem in the Thjórsárdalur Valley.
Story & Legend
Located near the edge of the Highlands and the ominous Hekla volcano, this spot offers a 'two-for-one' spectacle. For a long time, Háifoss was thought to be the highest waterfall in Iceland (122m). It lives in the Fossá river, a tributary of the longest river in Iceland, Þjórsá. Folklore says a giantess (Ogress) lived in the gorge and would throw rocks at travelers who disturbed her while she fished for trout. The noise of the falls was music to her ears.
Geology & Science
The waterfall drops into a deep gorge that exposes millions of years of lava strata. Right next to it is a second waterfall, Granni ('Neighbor'). The gorge itself is a textbook example of river erosion cutting back through lava layers.
Safety
The drive (Route 332) is a rough gravel road with big potholes, requiring a 4x4 or a car with high clearance. The cliffs at the viewing point are sheer with no guardrails. The wind here can be ferocious – hold onto your camera and car doors.
Photo Tip
This is a sunset location. The canyon opens to the southwest, allowing the setting sun to illuminate the falling water and the red rock layers. Use a tripod and a person standing on the cliff edge (safely!) to show the terrifying scale of the 122m drop.
Insider Tip
Walk along the canyon edge to the right of the main viewing area to capture both Háifoss and its neighboring waterfall, Granni, in a single wide-angle shot.
Best Time to Visit
Afternoon. The canyon is deep, and the afternoon sun lights up the cascading water and frequently creates rainbows.
What to Bring
Windbreaker and sturdy boots. The canyon edge has no guardrails and the wind can be incredibly strong, blowing mist up from the valley floor.
