Fagrifoss Waterfall
Fagrifoss (meaning “beautiful waterfall”) is an 80-meter waterfall located in southeastern Iceland, in the village of Lakagígar in the region of Suðurland – 180 km east of the capital Reykjavík.
The waterfall is located along the Geirlandsá River, 24 km northwest of the village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur and about 30 km from the Laki Craters in Vatnajökull National Park, and is considered one of Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls.
The area around Fagrifoss is almost uninhabited, with less than two residents per square kilometer. The nearest larger community is the aforementioned Kirkjubæjarklaustur. The area around Fagrifoss consists mainly of grasslands.
The Journey to Fagrifoss Hike
The journey to Fagrifoss is an adventure in itself. Visitors must navigate through the rugged Icelandic Highlands, crossing small rivers and traversing rocky terrain. One of the most challenging obstacles is the crossing of the Geirlandsá River, which can be difficult depending on water levels. Some visitors opt to park their vehicles before the river and cross on foot, carefully hopping from rock to rock
Access to the waterfall is via the F206 dirt road, which also includes a rather difficult ford crossing, for which a 4×4 vehicle is required. In case of heavy rain, crossing the river may not be possible.
Here are the key details about the Fagrifoss hike.
Getting There

- Fagrifoss is about a 40-60 minute detour off Route 1, turning onto Route 206 (Holtsvegur) near Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
- A 4×4 vehicle approved for F-roads is required to reach the trailhead, as the F206 (Lakavegur) road is rough with river crossings.
- The drive from Reykjavik takes around 4-4.5 hours, while it’s 1.5-2 hours from Vik.
Hike Details

- The hike to Fagrifoss is an easy 1 km (0.6 miles) round-trip on a marked trail.
- The terrain consists of large rocks, dirt, mud, loose rocks, and grass.
- There is no significant elevation gain.
- You’ll need to cross a small river on foot to reach the trailhead if driving conditions don’t allow fording it.
- The trail follows along the deep gorge of the Geirlandsá river, offering scenic views before reaching the waterfall.
Viewing areas

- There is a viewing platform near the waterfall to protect vegetation and allow for safe viewing.
- The platform offers great vantage points to photograph Fagrifoss
- Drones are permitted at the time of writing (2024), allowing for aerial shots of the isolated waterfall.
The Fagrifoss hike is a relatively easy but adventurous journey through the Icelandic Highlands, rewarding visitors with the stunning sight of this beautiful, segmented waterfall amidst a raw and desolate landscape.
Best time to visit Fagrifoss Waterfall
The best time to visit Fagrifoss is during the summer months, from mid-June to September, when the weather is more favorable and the days are longer. However, it’s essential to check road conditions and river levels before embarking on the journey, as they can vary greatly depending on the season and weather.
Nearby attractions
While Fagrifoss is undoubtedly the main attraction in the area, visitors can also explore other nearby natural wonders. The Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon, with its striking rock formations and winding paths, is a must-visit destination in the vicinity. Additionally, the hike to Ófærufoss, another beautiful waterfall in the Highlands, offers a rewarding experience for those seeking more adventure
Conclusion
While Fagrifoss is not a mainstream tourist attraction due to its remoteness and accessibility issues, it remains a hidden gem for those willing to make the adventurous journey, rewarding visitors with a stunning waterfall experience amidst the rugged Icelandic Highlands