A waterfall that gracefully descends a series of cliffs from the mountains of Jökuldalur almost down to the Ring Road, with a car park right off Route 1 and only a short walk to the falls.
Story & Legend
Rjúkandi is a waterfall by Jökuldalur in East Iceland, and one you don't have to hunt for: it is visible from the Ring Road itself. The falls are fed by the river Ysta-Rjúkandi, dropping from the mountain edge almost down to Highway 1.
Geology & Science
The waterfall descends a few cliffs in stages, from the mountains almost down to the road. The water comes from the river Ysta-Rjúkandi.
Safety
This is a roadside stop: the car park sits directly beside Route 1 and the walk to the falls is short. The footpaths are unpaved, with gravel and boardwalk sections.
Photo Tip
The falls stack in stages down the cliff face, so a vertical frame captures the whole staircase. Shoot from the path below and include a person on the trail for scale — from the road the waterfall looks deceptively small.
Insider tip
You don't need to plan a detour for this one: the car park is right off Route 1 and the regional tourist board describes the access as very good — only a short walk. It makes an easy leg-stretch stop on the Jökuldalur stretch of the Ring Road.
Best Time to Visit
Whenever you are driving this stretch of the Ring Road — it is a quick roadside stop rather than a detour.
What to Bring
Normal travel wear; the paths are unpaved, so wear shoes you don't mind getting dusty or muddy.
Frequently asked questions
Can you see Rjúkandi from the Ring Road?
Yes. Rjúkandi is visible from Route 1 in Jökuldalur, and there is a car park by the main road with only a short walk to the falls.
Which river feeds Rjúkandi?
The waterfall is fed by the river Ysta-Rjúkandi, and it descends from the mountains almost down to Highway 1.
