Háifoss

Háifoss is one of Iceland’s most dramatic canyon waterfalls and a standout stop in inland South Iceland near Hekla. If you want a raw, highland-edge landscape without the busiest crowds, this viewpoint delivers a huge “wow” moment in a short visit.

Planning your route? Read our driving in Iceland guide, explore the Iceland travel guide, or browse day tours in Iceland if you want a guided option on your travel days.

What makes Háifoss special

Háifoss drops into a steep volcanic canyon, creating a powerful wide-angle scene that feels far from the Ring Road. The viewpoint is especially striking because you can often see two waterfalls in one frame: the main fall (Háifoss) and the slimmer neighbor (Granni).

The Fossá river pours into a rugged canyon in Þjórsárdalur and forms two waterfalls in the same gorge: Granni (“neighbor”) and the taller Háifoss (“high waterfall”). From the viewpoint you can often see both falls in one panoramic frame.

Be safe at the canyon edge

This is a cliff-edge viewpoint with no safety barriers. Wind can be strong, the ground can be slippery after rain, and the edge is unforgiving. Keep children close, stay well back from the rim, and avoid stepping onto wet grass or loose gravel near drops.

How to get to Háifoss

Háifoss is reached by driving inland through Þjórsárdalur. The final approach includes gravel and can feel slower than the distance suggests.

Road conditions

Always check road.is before you go, especially outside peak summer or after heavy rain.

Do you need a 4x4?

A 4x4 or higher-clearance vehicle is recommended. In good summer conditions some visitors manage without one, but the drive is noticeably more comfortable and safer with higher clearance.

Viewpoints and hikes

Main viewpoint (best for most visitors)

The standard viewpoint is a short walk from the parking area and gives you the classic panorama of Háifoss and Granni. Take your time, keep a safe distance from the edge, and enjoy the canyon scale.

Longer hiking options

If you’re a confident hiker in good conditions, you can build a longer day in Þjórsárdalur with additional trails and nature stops. Always plan for changing weather and bring proper footwear.

Best time to visit Háifoss

The most reliable season is usually summer, when roads are generally more accessible and daylight is long. Late spring and early summer can be great for waterfall flow. In shoulder seasons, conditions can change quickly, so it becomes more of a “check-and-go” destination rather than a guaranteed stop.

What to bring

• Windproof jacket: canyon edges can be windy even on calm days elsewhere.
• Sturdy shoes: uneven ground and gravel paths.
• Water and snacks: there are no services at the site.
• Warm layer: inland weather can shift fast.

What to see nearby

Háifoss is a perfect anchor stop for a full day in Þjórsárdalur. Combine it with nearby highlights to get variety: waterfalls, green ravines, volcanic landscapes, and Icelandic history.

Hjálparfoss

A beautiful double waterfall framed by basalt columns and an easy stop to add on the same day.

Gjáin canyon

A lush ravine filled with small waterfalls and mossy lava formations. It’s one of the most memorable “hidden-feeling” nature spots in inland South Iceland.

Read: Gjáin canyon day-trip guide

The Commonwealth Farm at Stöng (Þjóðveldisbærinn)

A reconstructed turf farm based on the excavated site at Stöng. A great cultural add-on when you’re already exploring Þjórsárdalur.

Visitor info: Þjóðveldisbærinn (official website).

Day tours for your Iceland travel days

If you want to keep your trip flexible, it often works well to mix self-drive days (like Háifoss) with a few guided experiences on other days. Browse current availability here:

See all day tours in Iceland

Frequently asked questions about Háifoss