Dettifoss Tours
Best Dettifoss Waterfall Tours in Iceland ー Largest Selection and Lowest Prices
Experience the power of Europe’s most powerful waterfall on Dettifoss tours. Discover the spectacular scenery that makes Dettifoss a must-see destination.

Best Dettifoss Waterfall Tours in Iceland ー Largest Selection and Lowest Prices

Experience the power of Europe’s most powerful waterfall on Dettifoss tours. Discover the spectacular scenery that makes Dettifoss a must-see destination.
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Recognized as Iceland's Leading Travel Agency for 7 consecutive years at the World Travel Awards, we are the most trusted source for planning your Icelandic adventure.
Largest Selection of Services
With over 2000 tours, we offer the most extensive range of tours and activities across Iceland, ensuring you find the perfect experience for your interests and schedule.
Best Price Guarantee
We guarantee the lowest prices for all our tours. If you find a better price elsewhere, we'll match it; that’s how confident we are that you won’t find better prices anywhere else.
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Enjoy peace of mind with our flexible booking options, including free cancellation policies that allow you to plan your trip with confidence.
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Benefit from the insights of local experts who have curated and quality-checked every tour, ensuring authentic and memorable experiences.
Multilingual 24/7 Customer Support
Our dedicated support team is available to assist you 24/7 in 14 languages. We promise you help within seconds, ensuring you're never left waiting.
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Book with us for exclusive discounts at Iceland’s best places, helping you save big on your trip to Iceland.
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What You Need To Know About Visiting Dettifoss Waterfall

 

Dettifoss is one of the most powerful waterfalls in Europe and a striking natural landmark in North Iceland. It is strongest during the warmer months when glacial melt increases the flow of the Jokulsa a Fjollum River, sending massive amounts of water crashing into the Jokulsargljufur Canyon.

The waterfall is 330 feet (100 meters) wide, and the water drops 148 feet (45 meters) into the canyon, creating an impressive and unforgettable sight.

Top 5 Day Trips to Dettifoss Waterfall

Perfect for those with just one day to explore North Iceland, these tours offer a chance to see Dettifoss Waterfall, nearby lakes, and dramatic highland landscapes—all in a single, unforgettable day.

  1. The Diamond Circle Tour from Akureyri with Lake Myvatn & Asbyrgi Canyon: Visit the powerful Dettifoss Waterfall, the serene Lake Myvatn, and the dramatic Asbyrgi Canyon while enjoying expert guidance throughout.

  2. Private North Iceland Sightseeing Tour from Akureyri with Nature Baths: Combine Icelandic waterfalls with geothermal relaxation on this private tour with stops at Dettifoss and two more waterfalls. 

  3. Private 10-Hour Diamond Circle Super Jeep Tour from Lake Myvatn: Experience North Iceland in comfort and style on a private Super Jeep adventure. This tour takes you to Dettifoss Waterfall, Asbyrgi Canyon, and Husavik. 

  4. Iconic 9.5-Hour 4x4 Tour to Lake Myvatn, Dettifoss, Selfoss & Godafoss Waterfalls with Bathing: Take a full-day adventure through North Iceland’s most iconic sights, including Dettifoss and a warm soak in Myvatn Nature Baths.

  5. Thrilling 8.5-Hour Godafoss Waterfall, Lake Myvatn, and Dettifoss Waterfall Tour from Akureyri Port: Perfect for cruise passengers or short visits, this 8.5-hour tour covers Dettifoss, Godafoss, and Lake Myvatn. 

Top 5 Self Drive Tours with a Dettifoss Waterfall Stop

Perfect for travelers who want to explore Iceland at their own pace, these self-drive packages include stops in North Iceland, with Dettifoss Waterfall featured in the itinerary. Enjoy the freedom to follow your own schedule while discovering Iceland’s dramatic waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and highland scenery.

  1. Incredible 1-week Summer Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road of Iceland & Golden Circle: Visit the Golden Circle, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes, with a stop at Dettifoss for a taste of North Iceland’s dramatic scenery.

  2. 14 Day Self Drive Tour Around Iceland & The Westfjords: Discover Iceland and the remote Westfjords on this 14-day adventure. Drive through rugged coastlines, fjords, and mountains. 

  3. 7-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland: Take a full week to circle Iceland at your own pace. This tour covers iconic waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanoes.

  4. Full 10-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road of Iceland: Experience Iceland’s natural wonders and chase the northern lights on this 10-day self-drive tour. 

  5. 9-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland & Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Combine Iceland’s Ring Road highlights with the striking landscapes of Snaefellsnes Peninsula on this nine-day self-drive tour. 

Where is Dettifoss Waterfall Located? 

Dettifoss Waterfall is located in Vatnajokull National Park, on the Jokulsa a Fjollum River, which comes from the Vatnajokull Glacier. The waterfall is also part of the Diamond Circle, a popular tourist route around Husavik and Lake Myvatn, making it one of the must-see destinations in North Iceland.

When is the Best Time To Visit Dettifoss? 

The best time to visit Dettifoss is during Iceland’s summer months, from June to September, when the roads are accessible, trails are easier to navigate, and the views are at their best. 

Winter visits, from October to May, are possible but can be more challenging due to snow, ice, and road closures, though they offer stunning frozen landscapes for those seeking a unique experience.

How to Get to Dettifoss Waterfall? 

Dettifoss can be reached via two main routes.

  • Route 862 - This road, taking you to the west side, is paved and accessible to all vehicles throughout the year, making it a safer option in any season. 

  • Route 864 - This road leads you to the east side, offering a closer view of the waterfall, but it requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle and is usually closed in winter.

For a more relaxed experience, guided Diamond Circle tours or Ring Road tours are recommended. Self-drive packages are also popular, allowing travelers to explore Dettifoss along with other North Iceland highlights. 

Many Myvatn tours and Akureyri tours include stops at Dettifoss, and shore excursions from Akureyri frequently feature this iconic waterfall too.

Attractions Close to Dettifoss Waterfall

Make the most of your Dettifoss tour by visiting nearby attractions. If you are on a self-drive tour, you can plan your itinerary to include these stops. On guided tours, your guide may have extra time to add a few additional attractions to your day.

  • Hafragilsfoss Waterfall: Just downstream from Dettifoss, Hafragilsfoss is another powerful waterfall along the same river. It drops 89 feet (27 meters), creating a dramatic and thunderous scene

  • Hverir Geothermal Area: Located near Lake Myvatn, Hverir is a geothermal area with incredible, otherworldly landscapes. Boiling mud pools, steaming vents, and colorful mineral deposits make it feel like you are exploring another planet.

  • Myvatn Nature Baths: Some Dettifoss tours include a stop at the Myvatn Nature Baths, where you can relax in geothermally heated pools and steam baths. This is a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring Iceland’s dramatic waterfalls and highlands.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best Dettifoss tour?
A popular choice is the Diamond Circle tour from Akureyri, which offers a full experience of Dettifoss Waterfall, Lake Myvatn, and Husavik with a small group. For a more exclusive experience, you can also book a private sightseeing tour of North Iceland.
What are the types of Dettifoss tours I can join?
Guided tours and self-drive tours are the most popular ways to visit Dettifoss. For a unique perspective, helicopter tours, like the Flying Tour over the Diamond Circle, offer breathtaking aerial views of the waterfall, the surrounding canyon, and nearby waterfalls.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Super Jeep tours provide thrilling rides over rugged terrain, giving you access to remote viewpoints and the chance to explore Iceland’s highlands in style.
How long does a Dettifoss tour take?
Diamond Circle tours that include Dettifoss, departing from Akureyri or Myvatn, typically last around eight hours. If you're visiting on your own, driving from Akureyri to Dettifoss takes around two hours. Plan to spend one hour there.
Is it safe to visit Dettifoss?
Yes. The area is safe if you stay on marked trails and behind barriers. Conditions can be windy and slippery, so follow your guide’s instructions on tours.
Is there an entrance fee to visit Dettifoss? ​​​​​​​
No, Dettifoss and the surrounding waterfalls in Vatnajokull National Park are free to visit.
Can I swim at Dettifoss?
No. The river is extremely powerful and dangerous. Swimming or entering the water is strictly prohibited.
How far is the walk from the parking lot to Dettifoss?
The west side is about a 15-minute walk, while the east side is roughly 10 minutes. Paths are generally well-marked but can be uneven
What wildlife can I see near Dettifoss?
Birdwatchers may spot arctic terns, ptarmigans, and occasionally falcons. Sightings of foxes or reindeer are rare but possible in the surrounding Highlands.
Is Dettifoss wheelchair accessible?
The west side is somewhat manageable for visitors with limited mobility, though rocky terrain can be tricky. The east side is not wheelchair accessible.
What is the best time of day for photos at Dettifoss?
Morning visits offer fewer crowds and soft, beautiful light for photography. Midday provides the brightest light but more visitors.
What other sights can I see on Dettifoss tours?
North Iceland tours often include Dettifoss alongside Selfoss, Asbyrgi Canyon, and other highlights, giving travelers a more complete highland adventure. Some tours also allow you to visit Godafoss Waterfall and the Earth Lagoon, making it possible to see multiple iconic North Iceland attractions in a single day tour.
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