Best for
Scenic drive highlight
A natural stop on the road to Seyðisfjörður.
Gufufoss (Steam Falls)
'Steam Falls': a powerful waterfall right beside Route 93, the mountain road from Egilsstaðir to Seyðisfjörður.
Region
East Iceland
Roadside stop on Route 93. Easy access year-round.
Quick Answer
'Steam Falls': a powerful 45m waterfall on the road to Seyðisfjörður. Visible from Route 93 and easily reached from a small parking area, it makes a natural stop on the drive from Egilsstaðir to the ferry port.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Route 93 crosses a mountain pass that can be closed in winter, so check road conditions before driving.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
Official sources to check
Access
Very easy
Visible from Route 93 with a small parking area.
Pro tip
Catch the ferry day
If heading to the Smyril Line ferry, allow time for photos.
What to Expect at Gufufoss
- A cascade that throws up mist and spray
- Mountain scenery surrounding the falls
- Easy viewing from the roadside parking area
Nearby Attractions to Gufufoss
- Seyðisfjörður (colorful town and ferry port)
- Egilsstaðir (regional hub with services)
- Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss (nearby waterfalls)
How to Get to Gufufoss
- Located on Route 93 between Egilsstaðir and Seyðisfjörður
- About 15 minutes drive from Egilsstaðir
- Small parking area right beside the road
- Visible directly from Route 93; hard to miss
Best Time to Visit Gufufoss
- Year-round access via Route 93 (weather permitting)
- Summer has the best driving conditions and light
- Winter may bring road closures over the mountain pass
- The waterfall is powerful in all seasons
- Check road.is for Route 93 status in winter months
For a longer waterfall walk, start in Seyðisfjörður
A roadside Gufufoss stop and the town’s Fossastígur hiking trail are different outings. Visit Austurland describes the latter from central Seyðisfjörður toward Fjarðarsel, with an optional extension along Fjarðará toward Neðri Stafur. Its published June–September route choices span two to four kilometres and roughly 2.5–4 hours.
The Fjarðarsel power-station visit requires advance arrangement. Do not assume you can add it spontaneously to a short stop before your ferry departure.
Planning help
Gufufoss FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
How tall is Gufufoss?
Published height claims conflict, and this guide has not established an authoritative measurement. It is a powerful waterfall on the road between Egilsstaðir and Seyðisfjörður.
What does Gufufoss mean?
Gufufoss means 'Steam Falls' in Icelandic, likely named for the mist and spray generated by the powerful cascade hitting the rocks below.
Is Gufufoss free to visit?
Yes, Gufufoss is free to visit. It is visible from Route 93 and easily accessible from a small parking area along the road.
How much time do I need at Gufufoss?
A quick 15–20 minute stop is usually sufficient to view and photograph the waterfall. It is easily accessible from the roadside parking area.
When is the best time to visit Gufufoss?
Choose a day when Route 93 over Fjarðarheiði is open and suitable for your journey. Do not treat year-round road service as a guarantee that the pass is open. If you are driving to the ferry, check road and weather conditions before adding a waterfall stop.
Can I visit Gufufoss on the way to the Seyðisfjörður ferry?
Yes. Gufufoss is right alongside Route 93 on the drive from Egilsstaðir to the Smyril Line ferry port in Seyðisfjörður, so it's an easy stop.
Country reference: Iceland statistics.