Matkaopas: Budararfoss Waterfall

Budararfoss, or "Búðarárfoss" in Icelandic, is a beautiful waterfall in East Iceland. It's just outside the town of Reydarfjordur.

The Budarfoss waterfall is situated along the Budara canyon and river, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation of the Eastfjords region. It can be accessed via hiking trails or viewpoints near the town center of Reydarfjordur, providing visitors with opportunities to enjoy its natural beauty up close. 

Reydarfjordur itself is a picturesque coastal town nestled within the fjord, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and ocean. Budararfoss is a prominent feature of the landscape in this region.

Travelers can visit Reydarfjordur village and the Budararfoss waterfall during self-drive tours in Iceland. While no specific tour will take you to the waterfall, a self-drive tour with a rental car, like this eight-day summer tour of the Ring Road, offers a flexible itinerary.

How to Get to Budararfoss Waterfall in Reydarfjordur

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Tristan Ferne. No edits made.

Traveling to Budararfoss waterfall typically involves navigating the scenic landscapes of Iceland's Eastfjords region. Travelers usually start their journey from Reykjavik, from where visitors can embark eastward towards Reydarfjordur.

The most common mode of transportation is by an affordable rental car, with Route 1 (the Ring Road) serving as the main highway connecting Reykjavik to the Eastfjords region. Upon reaching East Iceland, a detour on Route 92 will take you directly to Reydarfjordur. The journey covers 410 miles (660 kilometers).

Upon reaching Reydarfjordur, you can then make your way to the Budara canyon, where Budararfoss waterfall is located. Depending on the specific trailhead or viewpoint chosen, you may need to park your vehicle and continue on foot along hiking trails leading to the waterfall. 

Hiking to Budararfoss

Photo from VisitAusturland. No edits made.

Hiking to Budararfoss and exploring the Budara canyon in Reydarfjordur offers an immersive experience of Iceland's stunning natural beauty. Along the trail, hikers are treated to panoramic views of the rugged landscapes, including towering cliffs, verdant valleys, and meandering streams.

The trailhead begins near the Icelandic Wartime Museum, a mile from the village center. From here, hikers follow the Budara river trail, crossing a bridge, walking along lush vegetation, and following parts of the river canyon. Budararfoss itself highlights the journey, with its graceful cascade plunging into a serene pool below. 

Features of Budararfoss Waterfall

Budararfoss waterfall is characterized by its graceful cascade, which flows down from the mountainside. The waterfall drops into a shallow pool below, surrounded by rocks and vegetation.

Unlike many waterfalls in Iceland, Budarfoss has no estimated height and width. Its height and width also vary depending on the season and rainfall, but it stands as an impressive natural feature in the Icelandic landscape.

The area around Budararfoss is also rich in wildlife, with opportunities for birdwatching and spotting native flora and fauna. Its location near the coast makes it a favorite spot for migrating birds in summer.

Geologically, Budararfoss is formed by the gradual erosion of the surrounding rock layers over thousands of years, creating the Budara canyon and the cascading waterfall within it. The waterfall's flow is fed by melting snow and glacial runoff from the surrounding mountains.

Above the waterfall, visitors can find a small dam for the local power station. 

Why Visit Budararfoss Waterfall?

Photo above from Flickr, Creative Commons, by Tristan Ferne. No edits made.

Budararfoss waterfall provides a quieter alternative to Iceland's famous sights. As a lesser-known destination, it’s perfect for those seeking solitude and a chance to connect with nature.  

The waterfall's rugged surroundings allow off-the-beaten-path exploration, ideal for travelers looking to discover Iceland's untouched landscapes. If you're seeking a serene and less touristy experience, Budararfoss waterfall is worth a visit.

Attractions to Visit in the Eastfjords Near Budararfoss

Near Reydarfjordur, visitors can explore several captivating attractions that showcase the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Eastfjords region in Iceland.

Within the same village of Reydarfjordur is the Icelandic Wartime Museum. This cultural attraction offers insight into Iceland's role during World War II and the strategic importance of the Eastfjords region. Housed in a former World War II hospital camp, the museum displays artifacts, photographs, and exhibits documenting Iceland's wartime history. 

Just a short drive from Reydarfjordur is Eskifjordur, a charming coastal village nestled between towering mountains and the sea. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque harborfront, lined with fishing boats and historic buildings, or explore the village's quaint streets.

Meanwhile, if you want to chase more waterfalls, Hengifoss is your best option. Hengifoss waterfall, an hour’s drive from Reydarfjordur, is Iceland’s third-tallest cascade at 420 feet (128 meters). Just like Budararfoss waterfall, visiting Hengifoss requires hiking.