Best for
Twin falls in a canyon
Háifoss and Granni drop side by side into the same gorge.
Háifoss Waterfall
A tall waterfall in Iceland at 122 meters, dropping into a highland canyon alongside its neighbor Granni.
Region
South Iceland (Highlands)
Remote highland location. Rough road, high clearance needed.
Quick Answer
Háifoss is a tall waterfall in Iceland, dropping 122 meters into a canyon on the Fossá river in the Þjórsárdalur valley. The smaller Granni waterfall falls into the same canyon beside it. Getting there means a rough gravel road, so few visitors make the trip and the viewpoint is rarely crowded.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Cliff edges are unfenced and winds can be strong. Check road conditions and weather before driving the highland road.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
Official sources to check
Access
Rough road (4x4 recommended)
30–45 min on gravel from the main road.
Pro tip
Go in June
Meltwater flow peaks in early summer.
What to Expect at Háifoss
- A 122-meter freefall into a deep, colorful canyon
- Granni waterfall visible right next to Háifoss
- Remote, uncrowded highland setting with no facilities
Nearby Attractions to Háifoss
- Granni waterfall (adjacent twin falls)
- Þjórsárdalur valley and Stöng Viking ruins
- Gjáin canyon (lush oasis nearby)
How to Get to Háifoss
- Located in the Þjórsárdalur valley, South Iceland highlands
- About 120 km east of Selfoss via Route 32 then gravel road
- High-clearance vehicle strongly recommended
- Last section is rough gravel: 30–45 minutes from the main road
- No facilities at the site, so bring water and supplies
Best Time to Visit Háifoss
- June–September: road is accessible, best conditions
- Early summer has the highest meltwater flow
- Road is typically closed October–May due to snow
- Midnight sun in June/July allows late-evening visits
- Check road.is for current highland road status
Viewpoint stop or a walk from Stöng?
The parking area above Háifoss and the walk from Stöng are different visits. Visit South Iceland describes a route along the Fossá from Stöng of 6 km each way: allow for a 12 km return walk if you start there. Check local route conditions and carry a map before setting out; that distance is not the short walk from the upper car park.
Planning help
Háifoss FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
How tall is Háifoss?
Háifoss is 122 meters (400 feet) tall, a tall waterfall in Iceland. It drops into a deep canyon on the Fossá river.
What is Granni waterfall?
Granni is a smaller waterfall right next to Háifoss, falling into the same canyon. The pair are often photographed together.
Do I need a 4x4 to reach Háifoss?
Yes, high clearance is strongly recommended. The road is rough gravel (sometimes classified as highland/F-road). Check current road conditions before setting out.
Is Háifoss free to visit?
Yes, there is no entrance fee. The waterfall is in a remote area with no facilities, so bring your own food and water.
When is the best time to visit Háifoss?
June through September when the access road is open. Water flow is highest in spring and early summer from glacial melt.
How much time do I need at Háifoss?
Plan 30–60 minutes at the viewpoint. Add drive time; the rough road from the main road takes about 30–45 minutes.
Is Háifoss safe to visit?
The cliff edges at the viewpoint are unfenced. Stay well back from edges, especially in wind. The canyon is deep and a fall would be fatal.
Where exactly is Háifoss?
Háifoss is in the Þjórsárdalur valley in the South Iceland highlands, about 120 km east of Selfoss. The Fossá river feeds into the Þjórsá, Iceland's longest river.
Country reference: Iceland statistics.