How tall is Fagrifoss?

Fagrifoss is approximately 80 meters (262 feet) tall. It cascades over volcanic rock in a remote highland area near the Laki craters.

What does Fagrifoss mean?

'Fagrifoss' translates to 'Beautiful Falls' in Icelandic. The waterfall is a multi-stream cascade over volcanic rock.

Do I need a 4x4 to reach Fagrifoss?

Yes, Fagrifoss is accessed via highland F-roads only. A 4x4 vehicle is required. The road is typically only open in July and August.

How close is Fagrifoss to the Laki craters?

Fagrifoss is very close to Lakagígar (Laki craters) on the same F-road system. Many visitors combine both attractions in the same trip.

Is Fagrifoss free to visit?

Yes, there is no entrance fee. The area is remote with no facilities, so bring everything you need including food, water, and fuel.

Fagrifoss Waterfall

'Beautiful Falls': an 80-meter cascade over volcanic rock near the Laki craters, deep in the highlands.

Last reviewed March 3, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel TeamEditorial policy

Region

South Iceland (Highlands)

Remote highland F-road. 4x4 required. Rarely visited.

Fagrifoss, meaning 'Beautiful Falls,' is an 80-meter cascade near Lakagígar (Laki craters) that tumbles over volcanic rock in one of Iceland's most remote highland settings. Few people make the trip, so you will often have it to yourself. The surrounding landscape still shows the effects of the 1783 Laki eruption.

Sources and last reviewed

Last reviewed: 2026-03-03

This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Highland F-road access only; 4x4 required. No services nearby. Inform someone of your travel plans.

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

Official sources to check

Best for

Solitude + volcanic terrain

Rarely visited; you may have it entirely to yourself.

Access

F-road only (4x4 required)

Remote highland road near the Laki craters.

Pro tip

Combine with Laki

Visit the Laki craters on the same highland trip.

What to Expect at Fagrifoss

An 80-meter cascade over dark volcanic rock
Complete solitude in a remote highland setting
Volcanic landscape from the Laki eruption

Nearby Attractions to Fagrifoss

Lakagígar (Laki craters) volcanic row
Kirkjubæjarklaustur (nearest town for services)
Vatnajökull National Park

How to Get to Fagrifoss

Located near Lakagígar in the South Iceland highlands
Access via F-road from Route 1 near Kirkjubæjarklaustur
4x4 vehicle absolutely required; river crossings possible
No facilities at the site, so bring all supplies
Allow extra time for slow highland driving

Best Time to Visit Fagrifoss

July–August: best window when F-roads are open
Road is closed most of the year due to snow
Check road.is for current F-road status before departure
Midnight sun allows flexible visit timing
Weather in the highlands can change rapidly

Planning help

Fagrifoss FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

Back to all waterfalls