Your Guide to Iceland’s Most Stunning Canyons
Discover Iceland’s most stunning canyons, top 5 must-visits, travel tips, and how to explore them safely by road
Discover Iceland’s top 5 awe-inspiring canyons. This travel guide will help you plan unforgettable canyon adventures in the land of fire and ice.
Why Iceland’s Canyons Are Definitely Worth a Visit
Iceland’s canyons are not only geological formations, they also offer glimpses into the island’s geologic past and offer some of the most photogenic scenery in the world. From narrow gorges with crystal-clear rivers to massive valleys carved by glacial floods, each canyon tells a story. Pair your canyon visits with the best scenic roads in Iceland for an epic road trip experience.
The 5 Most Stunning Canyons to Visit in Iceland
Iceland’s rugged landscape has an abundance of canyons so the ones that stand out are really quite spectacular. Here are the top 5 amazing canyons to visit in Iceland:
1. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
Fjaðrárgljúfur is one of Iceland’s most iconic canyons, known for its serpentine shape and steep moss-covered walls. Formed over 2 million years ago, it stretches around 2 kilometers and reaches depths of 100 meters.
Location: Southeast Iceland, near the Ring Road, close to the village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
How to Get There: Easily accessible via a short detour off Route 1. A 4x4 is recommended in winter.
Time to Visit: 1–2 hours is enough for a scenic hike and panoramic views from the top.
2. Stuðlagil Canyon
Famous for its striking basalt column formations and turquoise glacial river, Stuðlagil Canyon is a hidden gem in East Iceland. It remained relatively unknown until recent years due to a dam redirecting the river flow, revealing its beauty.
Location: Jökuldalur Valley, East Iceland.
How to Get There: Access from Ring Road via Route 923. A 4x4 is ideal for reaching the eastern parking area.
Time to Visit: Plan for 2–3 hours to hike and photograph the canyon from different viewpoints.
3. Ásbyrgi Canyon
Ásbyrgi is a horseshoe-shaped canyon steeped in lore and legend, said to be formed by Sleipnir, Odin’s eight-legged horse. It's a lush, forested oasis in North Iceland’s otherwise barren landscape.
Location: Part of Vatnajökull National Park in North Iceland.
How to Get There: Reachable via Route 85, no 4x4 needed in summer.
Time to Visit: Half a day or more; perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking.
4. Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon
One of Iceland’s longest and most dramatic canyons, Jökulsárgljúfur is carved by the powerful Jökulsá á Fjöllum river. It’s home to several waterfalls, including Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall.
Location: Northeastern Iceland, within Vatnajökull National Park.
How to Get There: Accessible from Dettifoss road (Route 862 or 864). Summer access only.
Time to Visit: Spend at least 3–4 hours exploring the canyon and nearby waterfalls.
5. Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge
A narrow, magical gorge hidden in the cliffs of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Rauðfeldsgjá offers a short but unforgettable adventure. You can walk inside the gorge, where moss-covered walls rise dramatically above.
Location: Near Arnarstapi on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
How to Get There: Easy access from Route 574. No 4x4 required in summer.
Time to Visit: 1 hour is enough for the walk into the gorge and back.
What is the Best Time to Visit Iceland’s Canyons?
The summer months (June to August) offer the best weather and accessibility. Trails tend to be dry, visibility is high, and roads to remote canyons are usually open. Spring and fall can also be beautiful, but some areas may be closed due to snow or flooding. Winter visits are possible but require extra caution, proper gear, and often a 4x4 vehicle.
Safety Tips When Driving in Iceland
Exploring Iceland’s canyons means driving through some remote and rugged areas. Always check road and weather conditions before setting out.
Make sure to review these important tips for driving in Iceland to stay safe on your adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a trip to Iceland is going to bring up a lot of questions. We’ve compiled a list of the most common questions about visiting Iceland’s canyons:
What is Iceland’s most famous canyon?
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is arguably the most famous, thanks to its otherworldly beauty and appearances in music videos and social media. It’s one of the top natural attractions in South Iceland.
Can I get to Iceland’s canyons without a 4x4?
Some canyons, like Fjaðrárgljúfur and Rauðfeldsgjá, are accessible by regular car in summer. However, others, such as Stuðlagil or Jökulsárgljúfur, may require a 4x4 vehicle, especially in poor weather or off-season.
Are Iceland’s canyons accessible year-round?
While many canyons are open year-round, access can be limited in winter due to snow and icy conditions. Always check the forecast and road conditions before planning your visit in the off-season.
Iceland Canyons: A Breathtaking Experience
From mythical valleys to basalt gorges, Iceland’s canyons are a must-see for any nature lover. Whether you’re road-tripping the Ring Road or exploring Iceland’s hidden gems, these landscapes will leave you in awe.
