Is Eldgjá really the world's largest volcanic canyon?

Yes, Eldgjá is considered the largest volcanic canyon (fissure) in the world, stretching approximately 40 km long, up to 600 meters wide, and 150 meters deep in places. It was formed during the 934 AD eruption.

How significant was the 934 AD eruption?

The 934 AD Eldgjá eruption was one of the largest volcanic events in recorded history. It produced approximately 18 cubic km of lava and released enough sulfur dioxide to cause measurable climate cooling across the Northern Hemisphere.

How do you get to Eldgjá?

Eldgjá is accessed via highland F-roads (F208), requiring a 4x4 vehicle. The roads are typically open from late June to September. A popular hiking trail leads from the parking area to the Ófærufoss waterfall within the canyon.

Ófærufoss is a two-tiered waterfall within the Eldgjá canyon. A natural stone bridge that once spanned the upper falls collapsed in 1993. The waterfall is reached via a moderate 4 km round-trip hike from the parking area.

When is the best time to visit Eldgjá?

July and August are best, when highland roads are open and weather is most favorable. The F208 typically closes with the first autumn snow. Check road.is for current conditions before driving.

Eldgjá: the World's Largest Volcanic Canyon

The world's largest volcanic canyon: a 40 km fissure created by the 934 AD eruption, one of the most powerful in recorded history, with the Ófærufoss waterfall within.

Last reviewed March 3, 2026By the Iceland.org travel deskEditorial policy

Region

Highlands

F-road access. Summer only.

Eldgjá ("Fire Canyon") is a volcanic fissure that stretches 40 km across the highlands, carved by an eruption in 934 AD that ranks among the largest in human history. The eruption produced enough lava to cover about 780 square km and released sulfur that cooled the Northern Hemisphere's climate for years. Within the canyon is the Ófærufoss waterfall.

Sources and last reviewed

Last reviewed: 2026-03-03

This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Highland F-roads can close without notice. Check road.is and carry emergency supplies.

Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.

Official sources to check

Length

40 km

World's largest volcanic canyon.

Historic eruption

934 AD

One of the largest eruptions in recorded history.

Access

4x4 via F208

Highland road. Open late June–September.

What to Expect at Eldgjá

Volcanic fissure/canyon classification: 40 km long, up to 600 m wide and 150 m deep; the world's largest volcanic canyon
934 AD eruption: one of the largest in recorded history; ~18 km³ of lava covering 780 km²; sulfur caused Northern Hemisphere cooling
Part of the Katla volcanic system: the fissure extends from Katla's caldera northeastward into the highlands
Ofaerufoss waterfall: two-tiered cascade within the canyon; natural stone bridge collapsed in 1993
4 km round-trip hike from parking area to Ofaerufoss on marked trail across highland terrain
Visible geological features: columnar basalt walls, tephra layers from the 934 eruption, and moss-covered lava flows
No facilities at the canyon; carry all food, water, and supplies; nearest services in Kirkjubaejarklaustur

Nearby Attractions

Landmannalaugar colorful mountains
Laki crater row
Kirkjubæjarklaustur village
Fjallabak Nature Reserve trails
Lakagígar volcanic craters
Skaftá river gorge and bridges

How to Get There

Access via F208 highland road from either the Landmannalaugar direction or from Route 1 near Kirkjubaejarklaustur
4WD vehicle with high clearance required; F208 includes rough terrain and potentially shallow river fords
From Kirkjubaejarklaustur: ~70 km on F208 to the Eldgja parking area (allow 2+ hours)
Parking area has a signed trailhead for the 2 km walk to Ofaerufoss waterfall
Guided tours available from Kirkjubaejarklaustur and as part of multi-day highland itineraries
No public transport or fuel on F208; carry spare fuel, food, and emergency supplies

Best Time to Visit

Late June to September: F208 highland road typically open only during this window
July and August: most reliable road conditions and warmest highland weather for hiking
F208 opening depends on snowmelt, so check road.is daily before departure
September: road may close early with first snowfall; conditions deteriorate quickly in autumn
Combine with Landmannalaugar if approaching from the north on F208 for a full highland day trip
Winter: completely inaccessible; all highland F-roads closed from October through May/June

Planning help

Eldgjá FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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