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Fjaðrárgljúfur is a breathtaking canyon located in southeastern Iceland, not far from the village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. This deep and narrow gorge, carved by glacial meltwaters over thousands of years, stretches about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) long and plunges approximately 100 meters (330 feet) deep, showcasing steep moss-covered cliffs and a winding river that flows through the valley floor.
The lush green walls and serpentine river make Fjaðrárgljúfur a fairy-tale-like landscape that feels both serene and dramatic.
The canyon gained wider fame after appearances in popular culture, including the TV series Game of Thrones and music videos. Visitors can enjoy walking trails along the canyon rim that offer panoramic viewpoints, including the beautiful hidden waterfall Mögárfoss. The trails are accessible for most visitors, making the canyon a popular stop on South Iceland tours and the Ring Road.
Good to know
Scenic beauty
Fjaðrárgljúfur offers a captivating mix of natural colors and textures, with steep mossy cliffs, the flowing glacial river, and seasonal flowers. The canyon is stunning year-round, with vibrant greens in summer and snow-dusted contrasts in winter, perfect for photography and nature lovers.
Accessibility
There are two parking areas serving Fjaðrárgljúfur: one larger lot at the base of the canyon requiring a moderate uphill hike of about 900 meters (0.55 miles) to the main viewpoint, and a smaller upper lot very close to the viewpoint with a much shorter and easier path of about 350 meters (0.2 miles). Both roads are generally in good condition, though the upper road is unpaved.
Cost
Visitors must pay a parking fee of 1086 ISK (approximately 8 EUR/USD), payable via the Parka app or on-site payment systems.
Crowd level
Fjaðrárgljúfur has become increasingly popular and can be busy during peak season, especially midday when tour buses arrive. Early morning, late evening, or off-season visits offer a calmer experience. The site is large enough to accommodate visitors comfortably while preserving the natural environment.