Matkaopas: Folaldafossin vesiputous

Folaldafoss waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland, with an impressive drop of about 65 feet (approximately 20 meters). Its mountainous location makes it a picturesque destination for any visitor.

Some of the best ways to experience the majesty of the Folaldafoss waterfall include taking a 10-day self-drive tour of the ring road or booking a comprehensive Icelandic waterfall tour.

The Folaldafoss waterfall is fed by the Berufjardara river, a cold-water channel winding south from the Fossarfell mountain into the Berufjordur fjord's waters. It's one of several breathtaking waterfalls in the Eastfjords region of Iceland.

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Alexander Grebenkov No edits made.

Visiting Folaldafoss Waterfall

One of the benefits of visiting the Folaldafoss waterfall is that you're unlikely to run into large crowds. The natural wonder is located along a remote stretch of road called the Oxi Pass, also known as Axarvegur. The waterfall is truly one of Iceland's hidden gems.

The Oxi Pass road is unpaved and set against dramatic cliffs and vast stretches of scrub-covered highlands, making it an ideal destination for the most adventurous travelers. For those bold spirits looking to get some peaceful hiking or off-the-beaten-track exploring, the Folaldafoss waterfall is a perfect destination.

Anyone planning to keep driving north along the Oxi Pass can also visit the Haenubrekkufoss waterfall. No matter where on the path you plan to go, you'll be surrounded by the breathtaking nature of Iceland.

Getting to Folaldafoss Waterfall

Visitors can travel to the Folaldafoss waterfall by renting a car in Reykjavik and driving along the South Coast into East Iceland. The Folaldafoss waterfall is just off the Ring Road, a short drive down Route 939, also called the Oxi Pass. 

A memorial plaque attached to a sizeable arrow-shaped stone is one of the most reliable landmarks to look for when driving to the Folaldafoss waterfall. This plaque commemorates the efforts of Hjalmar Gudmundsson, the man responsible for constructing the Oxi Pass road.

Upon reaching the Folaldafoss parking and rest area, you can take a short hike south, following the gravel trail, to get to the base of the Folaldafoss waterfall. This place is a fantastic spot for taking pictures of the waterfall and its surrounding cliffsides. 

If you'd prefer, you can also view the waterfall from the roadside, as it's visible from the parking area. This is an excellent option for travelers visiting multiple sites in one day.

Attractions Near Folaldafoss Waterfall

After visiting the Folaldafoss waterfall, travelers can drive south along the Ring Road to explore the Mulafoss waterfall and the black-sand beach of Ulfseyjarsandur. 

Those looking to get some rest will appreciate that the coastal town of Djupivogur is only about 15 miles (about 24.5 kilometers) south of the waterfall.

The Folaldafoss waterfall is located within the Eastfjords region, a place much appreciated for its natural beauty. Some of the most popular East Iceland attractions in this area include another Eastfjords waterfall, the Hengifoss waterfall, the Hallormsstadaskogur National Forest, and the beautiful Vatnajokull National Park.