Best for
Cave behind the falls
Do not assume the final approach is safe or open.
Fardagafoss Waterfall
A 25-meter waterfall near Egilsstaðir in East Iceland with a walk-behind cave and a treasure legend, reached by a moderate hike with valley views.
Region
East Iceland
Moderate hike required. Bring waterproof layers.
Quick Answer
A waterfall near Egilsstaðir, reached by a moderate 2 km hike with views over the Fljótsdalshérað valley. A cave lies behind the waterfall; the final approach can be difficult, and access should not be assumed.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
Moderate hike with some steep sections. Can be slippery near the falls. This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Check official forecasts before you hike.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
Official sources to check
Access
Moderate hike (2 km)
Some steep sections. Trail starts near Egilsstaðir.
Pro tip
Bring a headlamp
Useful for exploring the cave behind the waterfall.
What to Expect at Fardagafoss
- A cascade with a cave behind it and a more demanding final approach
- Views over the Fljótsdalshérað valley along the trail
- Spray and mist near the falls; waterproof gear recommended
Nearby Attractions to Fardagafoss
- Egilsstaðir (largest town in East Iceland)
- Lagarfljót lake (home of the Icelandic Worm Monster legend)
- Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss (further south along the lake)
How to Get to Fardagafoss
- Located about 5 km from Egilsstaðir in East Iceland
- Trailhead is well-signed from the road
- The hike is approximately 2 km one way
- Allow 1.5–2 hours round trip including time at the falls
- No special vehicle required; a regular car is fine to the trailhead
Best Time to Visit Fardagafoss
- May to September: Trail is clear and daylight hours are long
- Spring snowmelt brings the strongest water flow
- Summer has the best hiking conditions and warmest weather
- Avoid winter visits; the trail can be icy and dangerous
- Morning visits tend to be quieter with softer light
The official East Iceland trail account starts the marked route beside Áningarsteinn on Road 93. It distinguishes the generally easy approach from the harder final section. Its story mentions two different waterfalls called Gufufoss; use the river names, Miðhúsaá and Fjarðará, to avoid confusing them.
Planning help
Fardagafoss FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
How tall is Fardagafoss?
Fardagafoss is approximately 25 meters (82 feet) tall. It sits near Egilsstaðir in East Iceland and is reached by a moderate 2 km hike.
Can you walk behind Fardagafoss?
There is a cave behind the waterfall, but do not assume you can safely enter it. Visit Austurland describes the final part of the marked approach as challenging. Stay on the permitted route and turn back if the footing or water makes the last section unsuitable.
What is the treasure legend of Fardagafoss?
Visit Austurland tells of a giantess who hid a cauldron of gold in a pothole at Gufufoss farther down the Miðhúsaá. This is folklore, not an invitation to search the river. A separate part of the story imagines a tunnel to another Gufufoss, on the Fjarðará in Seyðisfjörður.
How difficult is the hike to Fardagafoss?
The hike to Fardagafoss is moderate, covering about 2 km one way. There are some steep sections along the trail, and the path near the waterfall can be slippery. The trail has views over the Fljótsdalshérað valley.
When is the best time to visit Fardagafoss?
The best time to visit Fardagafoss is from May to September when the trail is clear of snow and daylight hours are long. The waterfall is most impressive during spring snowmelt. Winter visits are not recommended due to icy trail conditions.
Country reference: Iceland statistics.