Dettifoss Travel Guide
North Iceland's Dettifoss Waterfall is the most powerful fall in Europe, depending on the time of year. The natural wonder is regularly visited on Diamond Circle tours and should not be missed when visiting the region.
Tucked within the rugged landscapes of Vatnajokull National Park, Dettifoss Waterfall is a true force of nature. Known for its sheer power and dramatic surroundings, this nearly 150-foot waterfall is a perfect stop on most Diamond Circle tours, located near Lake Mývatn and Akureyri in Northeast Iceland.
Whether you’re drawn to its raw energy, the surrounding volcanic terrain, or the nearby natural wonders, Dettifoss promises an unforgettable adventure. Keep reading to learn more about Dettifoss and gain some useful tips to help you plan your trip.
Key Takeaways:
- Dettifoss is one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls – Located in Vatnajokull National Park in North Iceland, the falls drop 150 feet (45 meters) into Jokulsargljufur Canyon, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle.
- There are multiple ways to reach Dettifoss, but road conditions vary – Route 862 (west side) is paved and suitable for all vehicles, while Route 864 (east side) offers a closer view but requires a 4x4 and is often closed in winter.
- Nearby attractions make Dettifoss a must-visit stop – Travelers can also explore Godafoss Waterfall, Lake Myvatn, Akureyri (the capital of the North), and Husavik, Iceland’s whale-watching hub.
- The best time to visit is during summer (June–September) – Roads are more accessible, and hiking trails are safer. However, winter offers stunning frozen landscapes, but access can be difficult.
- Guided tours and self-drive options make visiting easier – Travelers can visit Dettifoss via a Ring Road self-drive tour or a guided 4x4 tour, which ensures a safe and informative experience.
The Geography of Dettifoss Waterfall
The Jokulsa a Fjollum River feeds the Dettifoss waterfall. River water originates from the Vatnajokull Glacier and flows over the falls at 6,800 cubic feet per second (193 cubic meters per second) creating a thunderous impact. The sediment-rich glacial runoff gives the water a greyish-white color.
The falls are 330 feet (100 meters) wide, and water plummets 145 feet (45 meters) into Jokulsargljufur Canyon. The canyon is in the northern part of Vatnajokull National Park, which means Dettifoss is protected from human impact so future generations can enjoy it.
The surrounding terrain consists of basalt columns shaped over thousands of years by volcanic eruptions, glacial floods, and erosion. This rugged landscape provides the perfect backdrop for the powerful river and Dettifoss Waterfall.
The Selfoss Waterfall and Hafragilsfoss Waterfall are nearby, and the Selfoss waterfall can even be accessed by the same hiking trail as other shorter hiking paths in the area.
How to Get to Dettifoss Waterfall
Although remote, getting to the Dettifoss Waterfall isn’t too difficult if you know the best route. If you plan on renting a car, route 862 is your best option from the west. The road is paved and suitable for all vehicles.
Route 864 takes you to the east side of the falls. This gives you a closer view of Dettifoss, but you’ll need a four-wheel drive to traverse the gravel road. This route is usually closed in winter.
The Dettifoss waterfall isn’t part of a larger settlement, but it’s located on the region’s Diamond Circle, which is a popular route for touring Northeast Iceland.
The charming towns and amazing geographic features along the route make the trip well worth it.
The Diamond Circle is also on the Ring Road, a highway that circles the island. Two routes connect the Ring Road to Dettifoss. However, navigating those routes in winter can be difficult due to snow and ice. If you want a more laid-back experience, it’s best to join a guided tour.
Consider a self-drive tour of the Ring Road to explore Dettifoss and the unforgettable sights in North Iceland.
Surrounding Sites
Akureyri
The most prominent town near Dettifoss is Akureyri, also called “the capital of the North.” With a population close to 20,000, it’s the largest Icelandic town outside Reykjavik and the capital area. There are plenty of things to do in Akureyri, like take in the surrounding mountains, see some of Iceland’s famous puffins, or grab a bite at one of the best restaurants in Akureyri.
Husavik
If you want to add whale-watching to your Dettifoss trip, Husavik is the place to go. This quaint coastal village is known for some of the best whale-watching in Europe. Tour operators usually have a 100% success rate during the summer months. Common species seen are humpback and minke whales.
Lake Myvatn
Between Akureyri and Dettifoss is beautiful Lake Myvatn, where you can see Iceland’s diverse wildlife up close. The lake is spotted with small islands and is perfect if you’re in the mood for birdwatching. Lake Myvatn is also known for its unique geologic features like pseudocraters and basalt pillars.
Godafoss Waterfall
Visit Godafoss Waterfall between Akureyri and Myvatn to experience a bit of Icelandic history. In 1000 AD, Iceland’s lawspeaker marked the country’s shift from its belief in the Old Norse Gods to Christianity by throwing idols into the waterfall.
Plan Your Visit
Ready to make Dettifoss waterfall part of your Iceland adventure? Below are some tips for planning, along with guided tour options.
Parking is on the west side of the falls via Route 862. There are also toilets and walking paths on this side. Both sides of the falls have viewing decks.
If you’d like to get some hiking in during your visit, the Dettifoss to Asbyrgi Trail is nearby. This 20-mile (32 km) hike is perfect for multi- and single-day excursions.
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