Best for
History + mountain views
Wide cascade with Mount Búrfell rising behind it.
Þjófafoss (Thief's Falls)
A wide 5-meter waterfall on Iceland's longest river, the Þjórsá, with Mount Búrfell behind it and a grim medieval history as an execution site.
Region
South Iceland
Gravel road access. Year-round. Mountain views.
A wide waterfall on the Þjórsá river (Iceland's longest) near the Merkurhraun lava field. Named because outlaws were allegedly drowned here as punishment in medieval times. Mount Búrfell rises directly behind the falls.
Sources and last reviewed
Last reviewed: 2026-03-03
This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. River banks can be slippery and the current is strong; stay back from the edge and check road conditions before driving gravel roads.
Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.
Official sources to check
Access
Gravel road
Off Route 32. Regular car possible in summer, 4x4 recommended.
Pro tip
Combine with Háifoss
Nearby Háifoss and Gjáin are worth adding to your route.
What to Expect at Þjófafoss
- A wide, powerful cascade across the Þjórsá river
- Mount Búrfell rising directly behind the falls
- Quiet location near the Merkurhraun lava field
Nearby Attractions to Þjófafoss
How to Get to Þjófafoss
- Located in South Iceland near the Merkurhraun lava field
- Access via gravel road off Route 32
- About 2 hours drive from Reykjavik
- Regular car possible in summer, 4x4 recommended
- Short walk from the parking area to the viewpoint
Best Time to Visit Þjófafoss
- Accessible year-round, though gravel road is best in summer
- Spring and early summer bring higher water volume from glacial melt
- Morning and evening light suits photos of Mount Búrfell
- Winter visits are possible but check road conditions first
- Fewer crowds than the main South Coast waterfalls
Planning help
Þjófafoss FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.