Best for
Basalt + blue-white water
Dark basalt columns against churning glacial water.
Aldeyjarfoss Waterfall
A 20-meter waterfall framed by basalt columns in North Iceland's highlands, reached by a 4x4-only road.
Region
North Iceland (Highlands)
Highland road access. 4x4 required. One of Iceland's most photogenic.
Quick Answer
At Aldeyjarfoss, the Skjálfandafljót river plunges 20 meters between basalt column walls into a pool of churning blue-white water. It sits on the highland road south of Goðafoss, and the contrast between dark geometric rock and glacial water has made it one of Iceland's most photographed waterfalls.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Highland road requires 4x4. Cliff edges are unfenced, so stay well back. The river is extremely powerful.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
Official sources to check
Access
Highland road (4x4 only)
About 40 km south of Goðafoss on Route 842/F26.
Pro tip
Visit at midnight sun
June/July evening light works well for photos of the basalt.
What to Expect at Aldeyjarfoss
- Basalt column walls surrounding the falls
- Churning blue-white glacial water in a deep pool
- Remote highland setting with few other visitors
Nearby Attractions to Aldeyjarfoss
How to Get to Aldeyjarfoss
- Located on Route 842/F26, south of Goðafoss
- About 40 km from the Ring Road on unpaved highland road
- 4x4 vehicle required; the road can be rough
- Short walk from parking area to viewpoint (10 min)
- No facilities, so bring water and supplies
Best Time to Visit Aldeyjarfoss
- June–September: highland road is open
- Road is closed October–May due to snow
- Midnight sun (June–July) gives long evening light for photos
- Summer weekdays tend to be quieter
- Check road.is for current highland road status before driving
Before setting out, note the road change: Visit North Iceland’s directions continue from 842 onto F26. Check Umferðin for the day’s conditions and confirm your rental’s permission for the final section.
Planning help
Aldeyjarfoss FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
How tall is Aldeyjarfoss?
Aldeyjarfoss is 20 meters (66 feet) tall. It is known for the contrast between the white-blue water and the dark basalt column walls surrounding it.
Do I need a 4x4 to reach Aldeyjarfoss?
The approach described by Visit North Iceland follows Road 842 and then a few kilometres of F26. Use a vehicle permitted for that road and check the current road status and rental terms. Reaching the end of Road 842 does not mean the drive stays off F-roads.
How far is Aldeyjarfoss from Goðafoss?
Aldeyjarfoss is about 40 km south of Goðafoss on the highland road (Route 842/F26). The drive takes roughly 45 minutes on the unpaved road.
Is Aldeyjarfoss free to visit?
Yes, there is no entrance fee. The waterfall is in a remote highland area with no facilities, so bring your own supplies.
When is the best time to visit Aldeyjarfoss?
June through September when the highland road is open. The midnight sun in June/July allows late-evening photography.
Why is Aldeyjarfoss so photogenic?
The contrast of dark basalt columns, blue-white churning water, and the geometric patterns in the rock make it one of Iceland's most photographed waterfalls.
Is Aldeyjarfoss safe to visit?
The cliff edges are unfenced and the water is extremely powerful. Stay well back from edges. The Skjálfandafljót river is one of Iceland's most powerful glacial rivers.
How much time do I need at Aldeyjarfoss?
Plan 30–60 minutes at the waterfall. The short walk from parking to the viewpoint takes about 10 minutes. Factor in significant drive time on the highland road.
Country reference: Iceland statistics.