A spectacular canyon and waterfall (Kolufossar) in North Iceland, named after a giantess who used it as her kitchen.
Story & Legend
This canyon is named after the giantess Kola. Local folklore says she lived in a cave here and protected the canyon. She loved salmon, and it is said she dug the deep pits in the riverbed to use as cooking pots for her catch. It remains a hidden gem compared to the Golden Circle sites.
Geology & Science
Located just off the Ring Road in the Víðidalur valley, the river Víðidalsá has cut through the basalt bedrock, creating a series of waterfalls called Kolufossar. The gorge is over 1km long and up to 25 meters deep. The rock formations are sharp and jagged, showing the aggressive erosive power of the water.
Safety
WARNING: There are very few guardrails here. The edges are abrupt and the grass can be slippery right up to the drop-off. Do not take selfies near the edge. The bridge is narrow and used by cars, so be careful when walking across it to take photos.
Photo Tip
The view from the bridge looking down the canyon is the money shot. You can see the waterfalls cascading into the gorge. If you hike down to the river level (at your own risk), you can get a dramatic low-angle shot of the water rushing towards you.
Insider Tip
The best photos are taken from the bridge and the edge just past it. Do NOT try to climb down the steep walls of the canyon for a better angle; there are no safety rails and the rock is very crumbly.
Best Time to Visit
Late afternoon when the sun hits the waterfalls inside the deep gorge, lighting up the mist.
What to Bring
Shoes with excellent grip. The viewing areas are completely natural, lack guardrails, and can be dangerously slippery after rain.
