Hengifoss – Iceland’s Majestic Red‑Striped Waterfall in East Iceland
Discover the towering beauty of Hengifoss, a 128‑meter cascade that drops into a rugged canyon near Egilsstaðir. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a photography enthusiast, or simply chasing the wild heart of Iceland, Hengifoss is a must‑see stop on any East Iceland itinerary.
1. Introduction
Imagine standing at the edge of a canyon and watching a 128‑meter sheet of water thunder down over layers of vivid red rock. The mist kisses your face, the roar fills the valley, and the sky above the East Icelandic landscape stretches endless and pure. That’s the moment you experience at Hengifoss, one of the country’s tallest and most photogenic waterfalls. Nestled just a short drive from the town of Egilsstaðir, this natural masterpiece combines dramatic height, striking geology, and a sense of remote tranquility that makes it a highlight for anyone exploring Iceland’s lesser‑known east coast.
2. About Hengifoss
A Brief Description
Hengifoss (pronounced “HENG‑i‑foss”) plunges 128 meters (420 feet) over a cliff of basaltic rock, creating a powerful cascade that feeds the Hengifossá river. What sets this waterfall apart is the striking red‑tinged strata that run horizontally through the surrounding cliffs. These layers are the result of ancient volcanic activity and subsequent sedimentation, giving the waterfall a unique, almost painted‑like appearance that changes hue with the shifting Icelandic light.
History & Significance
The name “Hengifoss” translates roughly to “the hanging waterfall,” a nod to the way the water seems to cling to the sheer rock face before dropping into the gorge below. While the waterfall itself has existed for millennia, it only entered the modern travel narrative in recent decades as Iceland’s tourism boom turned attention toward the east’s hidden gems. Today, Hengifoss is celebrated not just for its size—making it one of the tallest waterfalls in the country—but also for its geological storytelling, offering a visual lesson in Iceland’s volcanic past.
Why It Matters
- Geological showcase: The red layers are a rare visual record of volcanic eruptions and sediment deposits.
- Photographic hotspot: Photographers flock here for sunrise and sunset shots that capture the waterfall’s golden glow against the red cliffs.
- Cultural touchstone: Local folklore often references the “hanging” nature of the falls, linking the natural feature to Icelandic storytelling traditions.
3. How to Get There
Getting to EgilsstaĂ°ir
The nearest urban hub is EgilsstaĂ°ir, the gateway town of East Iceland. The town is reachable by:
| Mode of Transport | Details |
|---|---|
| Car | Take the Ring Road (Route 1) from Reykjavik – the drive is roughly 650 km and takes about 8 hours, passing stunning fjords and highland vistas. |
| Domestic Flight | Flights from Reykjavik’s KeflavĂk Airport land at EgilsstaĂ°ir Airport (EGS) in about 1 hour. |
| Bus | Several scheduled buses connect Reykjavik, Akureyri, and other towns to EgilsstaĂ°ir. |
From EgilsstaĂ°ir to Hengifoss
- Head east on Route 1 toward the village of Hengifoss (the road sign reads “Hengifoss – 30 km”).
- Turn onto Road 862 (the local road that leads directly to the waterfall parking area). The turn is well‑marked and the distance from Egilsstaðir to the trailhead is approximately 30 kilometers (about a 30‑minute drive).
- Parking: A modest, free parking lot sits at the trailhead. From there, the official hiking path to the waterfall begins.
Coordinates for navigation: 65.095154, -14.889661 – paste these into any GPS device or smartphone map for precise location.
4. Best Time to Visit
| Season | Conditions | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Late Spring (May‑June) | Snow melt raises river flow; trail may still have some lingering snow patches. | The waterfall is at its most powerful, and the surrounding valley bursts into vibrant green. |
| Summer (July‑August) | Long daylight (up to 22 hours), trail fully clear, comfortable temperatures (10‑15 °C). | Ideal for photography, especially golden‑hour shots; the red strata contrast sharply with bright summer skies. |
| Early Autumn (September‑October) | Cooler air, fewer tourists, early autumn colors begin to appear. | Soft lighting and a quieter atmosphere make for a peaceful experience. |
| Winter (November‑April) | Snow and ice may cover the trail; daylight limited to 4‑6 hours. | For the adventurous, a frozen waterfall offers a dramatic, otherworldly scene, but requires proper gear and experience. |
Recommendation: Most travelers find July and August to be the sweet spot for accessibility, weather, and photographic opportunities.
5. What to Expect
The Trail Experience
The official path to Hengifoss is a well‑maintained gravel trail that winds through birch woods and open moorland before opening onto the canyon rim. Expect a moderate hike that rewards you with progressively better views of the waterfall as you ascend. The trail is suitable for most fitness levels, though sturdy walking shoes and a light rain jacket are advisable—Icelandic weather can change in minutes.
The Viewpoint
When you reach the viewing platform, the full height of Hengifoss unfolds before you. The water thunders down the cliff, creating a mist that catches the sunlight and produces fleeting rainbows. The surrounding basalt cliffs display alternating bands of dark volcanic rock and bright red sediment, a geological palette that changes tone from deep rust in the early morning to a warm amber at sunset.
Wildlife & Soundscape
Birdsong fills the air—golden plovers and arctic terns are common during the summer months. The constant roar of the waterfall provides a natural white‑noise backdrop, making the experience both invigorating and meditative.
6. Nearby Attractions
While Hengifoss steals the spotlight, the surrounding area offers several other natural wonders within walking distance:
| Distance | Attraction | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 0 km | Hengifoss | The main 128‑m waterfall. |
| 0.7 km | Unnamed Waterfall #1 | A smaller cascade that feeds into the same river system. |
| 0.7 km | Unnamed Waterfall #2 | Another picturesque fall, perfect for a quick photo stop. |
| 0.7 km | Unnamed Waterfall #3 | A quiet, less‑visited waterfall offering a serene setting. |
| 1.2 km | Unnamed Waterfall #4 | Slightly farther out, this fall provides a broader view of the canyon. |
Tip: The exact names of these nearby waterfalls are often omitted from guidebooks, but the trail signage will point you toward each one. Feel free to explore them at your own pace—each offers a unique angle on the canyon’s geology and a chance to capture different lighting conditions.
For more detailed information, you can visit the Hengifoss Wikipedia page, which includes maps and additional context about the surrounding area.
7. Travel Tips
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Dress in layers | Even in summer, temperatures can drop, especially near the waterfall’s mist. A moisture‑wicking base, insulating mid‑layer, and waterproof outer layer work best. |
| Footwear | Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support are essential. The trail can be wet and slippery near the water’s edge. |
| Timing | Arrive early (before 9 am) in peak season to avoid crowds and capture the soft morning light. |
| Photography | Bring a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water and enhance the red rock colors. A tripod is useful for low‑light shots during sunrise or sunset. |
| Safety | Stay on marked paths. The canyon edges are steep, and the rocks can be slick from spray. |
| Food & Drink | Pack a snack and water. There are no shops at the trailhead, and the nearest café is in Egilsstaðir. |
| Respect the environment | Take all trash with you, stay on the trail to protect fragile mosses, and avoid climbing on the waterfall’s rocks. |
| Parking | The parking lot fills quickly in summer. If it’s full, a short walk up the road usually leads to additional spaces. |
| Mobile coverage | Coverage can be spotty near the canyon; download offline maps beforehand. |
| Travel insurance | Consider a policy that covers outdoor activities, especially if you plan to visit in winter. |
Final Thought
Hengifoss isn’t just a waterfall; it’s a living gallery of Iceland’s volcanic history, a photographer’s dream, and a peaceful retreat for anyone seeking the raw beauty of the East. With its towering 128‑meter drop, vivid red cliffs, and easy accessibility from Egilsstaðir, it deserves a top spot on your Iceland itinerary. Pack your boots, charge your camera, and let the mist of Hengifoss refresh both body and soul.
Happy travels, and may your Icelandic adventure be as unforgettable as the roar of Hengifoss itself!
