Your Guide to Visiting Dettifoss Waterfall in Iceland

Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, your complete guide on how to get there, when to visit, which side to see, where to stay & safety tips.

Dettifoss is one of the most powerful and dramatic waterfalls in Europe, located in the wild, rugged northeastern highlands of Iceland. If you're planning a trip, this guide will help you understand what to expect, how to get there, where to stay, and when’s the best time to visit so you can make the most of this unforgettable natural wonder.

Facts About Dettifoss Waterfall

Here are some interesting facts about one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls:

• Dettifoss waterfall is located within Vatnajökull National Park in Northeast Iceland
• The waterfall is fed by the Jökulsá á Fjöllum River, which flows from the Vatnajökull Glacier
• Dettifoss towers 44 meters (144 feet) high and stretches to an impressive 100 meters (330 feet) wide
• With an average water flow of 193 m³/s, Dettifoss ranks as Iceland’s second-largest waterfall by volume, just behind Urriðafoss
• Dettifoss is often considered to be Europe's most powerful waterfall
• According to the World Waterfall Database, Dettifoss is the top-rated waterfall in Iceland, ranking #13 globally among the Top 100 Waterfalls in the World
• The name Dettifoss comes from the Icelandic words detta (“to fall”) and foss (“waterfall”), literally translating to “the collapsing waterfall”
• Dettifoss gained international fame after featuring in the opening scene of Ridley Scott’s 2012 sci-fi film, “Prometheus”

Why is Dettifoss Waterfall so Special

Dettifoss is just any waterfall, it is the most powerful waterfall in Europe, in terms of volume. With plumes of spray, thunderous roar, and sheer cliffs framing dark basalt rock, it is raw nature at its most dramatic. The water cascading into the rugged Jökulsárgljúfur canyon creates a thick mist. Standing before this waterfall you can feel the power and see the raw elements of nature at work. For photographers, nature lovers, and adventurers, Dettifoss provides unforgettable views, scale, and energy.

Where is Dettifoss Located in Iceland?

Dettifoss sits in the northeastern part of Iceland, within Vatnajökull National Park. It is part of the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon, fed by the glacier rivers from Vatnajökull. If you're exploring the Diamond Circle in Iceland, Dettifoss is one of the key highlights along the route, along with Ásbyrgi Canyon, Húsavík, and Lake Mývatn. From this remote area, you’ll get vast landscapes, fewer crowds, and dramatic volcanic geology.

How to Get to Dettifoss

Getting to Dettifoss is possible by car or via organized tours. From Reykjavík, it is about a 6 to 7 hour drive to the eastern approach or a bit shorter if you’re coming from northern towns such as Akureyri. From Akureyri, you’ll still have a good few hours of driving through the highlands.

There are two main roads to reach Dettifoss: the western side via Road 862, and the eastern side via Road 864. Once you arrive at the parking area, there are hiking trails from each viewpoint, so plan some walking time.

Road 862 (West Side Road) 

Road 862 runs along the west side of the canyon. It tends to be better maintained, less steep, and often more accessible in varied weather. The drive offers beautiful views across lava fields and river valleys. The trail from the west parking area to the viewpoint is relatively short, typically a walk of about 10 to 20 minutes over well-marked paths, but expect wet, possibly slippery, ground and some uneven terrain.

Road 864 (East Side Road)

Road 864 approaches Dettifoss from the east. It is an unpaved gravel road and is more challenging, especially in bad weather or winter. A 4x4 vehicle is needed if you take this route. The scenery here is more rugged and dramatic, with fewer visitors. From the east parking area it’s a somewhat longer hike of about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on weather conditions and the state of the trail, over more uneven terrain.

How Long is the Hike to Dettifoss

Walking from either side takes under an hour round trip from parking lot to viewpoint and back, but this depends on your pace and how much time you spend soaking in the views. If you like photography, expect to linger. The west side trail is shorter and more accessible; the east side gives broader panorama but requires more effort. Make sure your footwear is sturdy and waterproof. 

Which Side of Dettifoss is Better: East or West Viewpoint?

Which side is “better” depends on what you’re after:

• Accessibility: The west side (Road 862) is easier to reach, especially in less favourable weather.
• Views & Drama: The east side gives sweeping perspectives over the canyon, with vistas that are more open and dramatic. For example, the iconic view used in Prometheus is said to be from the east side.
• Crowds: The west tends to draw more visitors because it's more accessible, especially for those with less time or less capable vehicles. The east side tends to feel wilder, more remote.

If you’re after easier access and a shorter walk, the west side might suit you best. If you want expansive views, solitude, and don’t mind driving a tougher road or hiking a bit more, go east.

When is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Dettifoss?

Weather, road access, daylight hours, and crowd levels all vary greatly by season in this part of Iceland. Your experience of Dettifoss will depend heavily on when you go.

In the Summer

Summer (June–August) is the best time for ease of access. Roads are more reliably open, trails tend to be drier or at least manageable, and daylight can last well into the evening. If you're planning to visit Iceland in the summer, taking advantage of the long sunsets and soft lighting, the extended ‘golden hour’ which is perfect for photos, is a huge bonus. Expect more tourists, but also more services (cafés, accommodations, guided tours) in the region.

In the Winter

Winter offers a very different experience. The landscape becomes stark, snow and ice can transform Dettifoss into a frozen wonderland. However, many roads, especially the East Side Road (Road 864), can be closed or treacherous. If you plan a winter trip in Iceland, be prepared for short daylight hours, icy paths, possible snowstorms, and limited services. For those willing, though, the quiet, snow-dusted scenery can be breathtaking.

Where to Stay Near Dettifoss

If you want to stay close to Dettifoss to soak in the scenery, there are several good options:

• Hljóðaklettar Camping is a short drive away and offers basic, but scenic, campground facilities.
• Myvatn area has several campgrounds and guesthouses with more amenities, making it a good base.
• Akureyri is further away but has full services (hotels, restaurants, etc,) and is a good option if you're combining Dettifoss with other northern Iceland highlights.

Driving & Safety Tips for Travelers

Visiting Dettifoss safely requires some preparation:

• Wear proper footwear with good grip, and bring waterproof layers. Terrain near the waterfall is wet, slippery, and there are no guardrails in many places.
• Stay on marked trails. Respect signage; paths can look easy but quickly become dangerous near cliffs or river edges.
• Check road conditions and weather forecasts before you set out. Especially in winter, road closures are common.
• If you’re driving, a 4x4 is strongly recommended for gravel roads like Road 864, and absolutely essential in winter.

FAQs About Dettifoss

Here are some of the most common questions (and answers) that may come up when planning your visit to Dettifoss:

How much time do you need to spend at Dettifoss?

Plan for at least 1–2 hours at the waterfall itself to allow for walking from the parking area, taking in different viewpoints, enjoying the sound and spray, taking photos, and perhaps even having a snack. If you're combining this stop with other sites on the Diamond Circle, factor in more time for driving.

Do you need to hike to access Dettifoss?

Yes, to some degree. This is not a full on, all-day sort of hike but, from both viewpoints there is a walking trail from the parking lot to the viewing platforms. Neither is a long trek, but the ground may be uneven or slippery, especially near the water.

Do you need to pay to park at Dettifoss waterfall?

There is typically a parking fee, especially in peak tourist season. Facilities are basic but maintained. It's best to check current local info as fees may change.

Can you see Dettifoss and Selfoss waterfall in one day?

Yes, it is possible. The two waterfalls are quite close in proximity, and many visitors combine them. By starting early and accounting for road and weather conditions, you can visit both in one day, especially if using the east road side as a base.

Dettifoss Waterfall: Final Thoughts

Dettifoss is one of Iceland’s must-see waterfalls: a place where nature’s raw power is on full display, and where every visit feels like stepping into something primeval. Whether you come in summer or winter, from the east or west, it will leave an impression.

If you’re planning your trip, don’t forget to rent a car in Iceland so you have full flexibility to explore remote roads, adjust for weather, and linger at the viewpoints that move you.