As far as epic views go, Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon easily ranks among the most insanely beautiful spots in all of Iceland!
If you’re planning a road trip along the South Coast, this is one place you don’t want to miss.
This beautiful canyon has become a must-see, partly thanks to Instagram, but also because of the “Fjaðrárgljúfur-Game of Thrones” connection, which put it on the map for fans of the show.
Since then, it’s been attracting visitors from all over.
With its dramatic mossy cliffs and winding river below, it’s easy to see why so many travelers are drawn to this once-hidden gem.
If you’re wondering how to visit, where to stay, and what you need to know before you go, it’s all right here.
Let’s get into it!
Table of Contents:
- Fjaðrárgljúfur Pronunciation
- Where is Fjaðrárgljúfur, Iceland?
- Best Time of Year to Visit
- Distance from Reykjavík to Fjaðrárgljúfur
- Fjaðrárgljúfur Parking and Restrooms
- Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon Hike
- Fjaðrárgljúfur Drone Rules: Can You Legally Fly Here?
- Dining and Accommodation
- Nearby Attractions
- Protecting the Surrounding Environment
- Iceland Maps + Guidebooks
Fjaðrárgljúfur Pronunciation
Fjaðrá means ‘feather’, so essentially Fjaðrárgljúfur is translated to ‘feather canyon.’
This word definitely trips people up (it’s even tricky for Icelanders to pronounce), so you will be forgiven if it’s not perfect! 😉
If you can get close to ‘Fya-th-rour-glue-vur,’ you’re good to go.
Interested in learning how to pronounce more words in Icelandic? Watch this video for a few pointers.👇
Where is Fjaðrárgljúfur, Iceland?
South Iceland is jam-packed with incredible places to see.
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is located in Southeast Iceland, in Skaftárhreppur County, just off the Ring Road. And it’s one of those incredible places!
It’s just under an hour’s drive or 42 miles (68km) from the charming little town of Vík.
This fairytale canyon looks like it could’ve been the set for Land Before Time and it’s an amazing place to walk around, take epic photos, and explore.
And the best part? Fjaðrárgljúfur is just one of many unforgettable stops along Iceland’s iconic Ring Road.
If you’re gearing up for the road trip of a lifetime, make sure you’re fully prepared with the best guide and digital map out there.
Get your hands on the my 👉 Iceland Ring Road Map + Guide for all the insider tips, must-see spots, and everything you need to plan the road trip of a lifetime!
Best Time of Year to Visit
While it’s spectacular to see the Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon winter landscapes, I recommend visiting between May and October.
Iceland in winter is undeniably beautiful, but limited daylight hours can significantly cut into your sightseeing time.
Plus, heavy snowfall can lead to road closures and the trail to the canyon could be closed from November to March.
Always check road conditions and travel warnings before heading out for the day.
Pro tip: If you want to avoid the crowds, I suggest going early in the morning or later in the evening.
If you’re wondering when the best time to visit Iceland is, check out this video.👇
Distance from Reykjavík to Fjaðrárgljúfur
The drive from the capital to Fjaðrárgljúfur will take you roughly three and a half hours via Hringvegur (Route 1).
The canyon is about 6 miles (10km) before you reach the tiny village of Kirkjubaejarklaustur. So, you’ll need to turn left onto Route #206.
Continue for a couple of miles, and you will reach the parking area for the canyon.
Fjaðrárgljúfur Parking and Restrooms
The main parking lot is small, but there’s overflow parking further down the road.
Parking at Fjaðrárgljúfur is paid and can be handled through the Parka app.
It costs 1,000 ISK (about $7) per vehicle, and the area is monitored with digital surveillance.
I recommend downloading the Parka app ahead of time to make the process easier.
There are also toilets available on-site, with a donation box to help with maintenance.
Find out more about my go-to apps for Iceland here.👇
➡️ READ: The 13 Best Apps for Iceland You Can’t Travel Without!
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon Hike
This feels more like a scenic walk than a full-on hike, and it’s doable for just about anyone. The route takes about an hour to complete.
On the Fjaðrárgljúfur hike, you’ll notice that some areas are roped off to protect the fragile vegetation and for your own safety.
If you’re chasing the best hiking trails around Iceland, here are my top picks.👇
➡️ READ: What Are the Best Hikes in Iceland? 13 Trails You Need to Explore!
Fjaðrárgljúfur Viewpoint
You can explore the canyon from both below, via the bridge, or from above, along the trail that follows the edge of the canyon for some incredible views of two beautiful waterfalls.
Just a heads-up: Take note though that walking along, or down to the river is not allowed.
Fjaðrárgljúfur Waterfall: Mögáfoss
Water from the Mögá river flows over the western wall of the canyon, creating a 115-foot fall cascade.
It’s especially stunning from above, where you really get to see how it fits into the dramatic landscape of the canyon.
A beautiful waterfall, tucked into one of Iceland’s most photo-worthy spots!
And since Iceland definitely isn’t short on waterfalls, I’ve put together a roundup of my top favorites below.👇
➡️ READ: Chasing Waterfalls in Iceland: Discover The Top 10 Breathtaking Waterfalls In Iceland
Fjaðrárgljúfur Drone Rules: Can You Legally Fly Here?
There are areas in Iceland where flying a drone is either restricted or regulated.
At Fjaðrárgljúfur, you’ll need special permission to fly a drone.
These regulations can change over time, so I highly recommend checking the Icelandic Transport Authority website for the most up-to-date drone rules before flying anywhere in Iceland.
Dining and Accommodation
There’s no need to drive far for a good night’s sleep or a hearty Icelandic meal. Here are some lovely nearby spots where you can grab a bite or settle in for the night – just a short distance from the canyon.
Hunkubakkar Guesthouse: With a beautiful setting and scenic views, this guesthouse offers bright, comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast every morning. You can also unwind with a drink at the on-site bar.
Make a booking. 👉 Hunkubakkar
Hotel Laki: This modern hotel with spacious rooms is conveniently located 1 hour away from Skaftafell National Park and 15 minutes drive from Fjaðrárgljúfur. The restaurant serves traditional Icelandic dishes.
Make a booking. 👉 Hotel Laki
Farmhouse Lodge in Vík í Mýrdal: The rooms here are cozy, and there’s a lovely garden terrace where you can sit and enjoy the views. Booking accommodation that includes breakfast in Iceland is a smart hack because finding a restaurant that serves an early breakfast is rare! At the Farmhouse Lodge, a continental breakfast is served daily.
Make a booking. 👉 Farmhouse Lodge
Camping: Kleifar-Mörk Camping Ground is about 1.5 miles from Kirkjubæjarklaustur. It’s close enough to the village to get the supplies you need, but still out in beautiful nature. The campsite has running water, toilets, and a soccer pitch if you want to practice your dribbling skills!
Camping is a great way to stay close to nature, but if you really want freedom to roam (without sacrificing comfort), a camper van from Happy Campers is the way to go.
Their camper vans have a built-in kitchen, Wi-Fi and their vehicles are suitable for Iceland’s rugged terrain. I also love that they have budget-friendly options.
💥 Sign up for my email list and get a VIP discount when you book with Happy Campers!
More Dining Options in Kirkjubæjarklaustur
While these hotels and guesthouses also have onsite restaurants, you’ll find even more places to eat in the nearby village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
Kjarr Restaurant: This restaurant serves soups, cakes, seafood and pasta. The focus is on fresh high-quality ingredients. In 2024 it also received a TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Award.
Kaffi Munkar: Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the prices are reasonable and they serve stew, pizza, soup and vegan options.
When great food and comfy stays are just down the road from Fjaðrárgljúfur, it makes your whole trip easier!
Nearby Attractions
If you’re already in the area, you may as well make the most of it, right? There are some seriously cool spots just a short drive away worth seeing.
Systrastapi Rock
Also known as’ ‘Sister’s Rock,’’ this rock hill is said to be the burial place of two nuns who were a little too into ‘breaking the rules’ during their time at the convent.
It is believed that one sister was innocent (after being burned at the stake that is!) and apparently her burial site still blooms with flowers while the other sister’s doesn’t.
You can even climb the rock by using a rope that’s attached to the side.
Laki Craters
This series of craters is only 20 miles (32.6 km) from Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
It’s one of my favorite hikes, but you do need a 4×4 vehicle to get there.
Find out more about the Laki Craters and Iceland’s Highlands right here.👇
➡️ READ: The Highlands of Iceland: Your Ultimate Guide To Explore Like A Pro
Waterfalls
If I’m out and about, just show me a waterfall and I’ll be happy!
I don’t know what it is, maybe the sound of the water crashing down, the mist in the air, or its sheer power that just takes my breath away.
And of course, I’m happy to report that you’ll find a few in this area too. ☺️
Other than Mögáfoss at the canyon, there’s also Fagrifoss, Stjórnarfoss, Systrafoss and Foss á Síðu nearby. If you’re visiting Systrastapi Rock, then you can also pass Rauðárfoss waterfall.
These are just a few, but if you’re looking for a list of my top 10 favorite waterfalls in Iceland, look no further!👇
➡️ READ: Chasing Waterfalls in Iceland: Discover The Top 10 Breathtaking Waterfalls In Iceland
Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck
This plane wreck is about an hour away. A US Navy plane crash-landed here in 1973 and now it’s one of Iceland’s most hauntingly beautiful photo spots.
To find out more about how to visit this plane wreck, this post has all the details.👇
➡️ READ: Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck: How to Get There, When to Go & Essential Tips
Skaftafell National Park
Only an hour away from Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, Skaftafell National Park is one of the most beautiful areas of the country.
There’s hiking, ice cave tours, waterfalls, forests and more.
It’s a must-see if you’re traveling the Ring Road.
Head on over to the full blog post all about it here.👇
➡️ READ: Skaftafell National Park: Expert Tips on Where to Hike, Amazing Sites & More
Vík, Jökulsárlón + Other South Coast Attractions
Iceland is known for its quaint little villages, and Vík is one of those postcard-perfect places that’s absolutely worth a visit!
Jökulsárlón, the glacier lagoon, is honestly one of my favorite places in the world. It’s an hour and a half away, but you can’t leave Iceland without seeing it!
Visit Fjaðrárgljúfur and the other main attractions in the South Coast with this tour.👇
➡️ TAKE A TOUR: Private South Coast Tour to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Protecting the Surrounding Environment
As I mentioned earlier, some areas around Fjaðrárgljúfur will be roped off.
Please respect these barriers because trampling the vegetation has led to the routes being closed in the past.
Respecting the barriers helps keep Fjaðrárgljúfur open and beautiful for everyone to enjoy.
Keen on exploring more canyons around Iceland?
Take a look at what you can expect at Múlagljúfur Canyon.👇
Iceland Maps + Guidebooks
You’ve got Fjaðrárgljúfur on your list of places to see…
Now what?
How do you make it part of a bigger, unforgettable trip?
You want to see the canyon, waterfalls, black sand beaches, maybe even a glacier or two… but where do you even begin planning a route that actually makes sense?
How long do you need? And how do you avoid backtracking or wasting time on detours that don’t live up to the hype?
That’s where my 👉 Iceland Maps + Guidebooks come in.
They’re region-specific and include a digital map of everything from major sites to practical stops like gas stations, grocery stores, and clinics.
For instance, my Iceland Ring Road Map + Guide is designed to help you map out the ultimate Iceland road trip, one that includes stops like Fjaðrárgljúfur and all the other bucket-list places along the way.
You’ll get the routes, how long to spend at each attraction, pro tips, nearby accommodations, and hidden gems you won’t find on a generic travel blog.
So instead of piecing together information from a hundred sources, hoping it works out, I’ve done it all for you.
Fjaðrárgljúfur is just one magical piece of the puzzle, and this 👉 Iceland Ring Road Map + Guide helps you see how it all fits together.
Happy Planning!
