Was Gjáin used in Game of Thrones?

Yes, Gjáin was used as a filming location for Game of Thrones, specifically for scenes featuring the Children of the Forest. The lush, moss-covered landscape provided a perfect otherworldly setting.

Is Gjáin free to visit?

Yes, Gjáin is free to visit. There is no entrance fee. However, the access road can be rough and may require a capable vehicle.

How much time do I need at Gjáin?

Plan at least 1–2 hours to explore Gjáin properly. The area has multiple waterfalls, pools, and lava formations to discover, and the atmosphere invites you to linger.

Is Gjáin safe to visit?

The moss-covered rocks at Gjáin can be extremely slippery, especially when wet. Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip and take care near the water. The access road is rough and may require a 4x4 in poor conditions.

Gjáin Waterfall Oasis Iceland: Complete Visitor Guide

Q: What is Gjáin?

Gjáin is a hidden lush oasis in Þjórsárdalur valley, sometimes called Iceland's 'Garden of Eden.' Multiple small waterfalls cascade through mossy lava formations, creating a magical, otherworldly landscape.

A hidden lush paradise in Þjórsárdalur valley with multiple cascades through mossy lava formations — Iceland's 'Garden of Eden' and a Game of Thrones filming location.

Last reviewed February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel TeamEditorial policy

Region

South Iceland

Hidden gem. Rough road access; slippery moss-covered rocks.

A hidden lush oasis in Þjórsárdalur valley, sometimes called Iceland's 'Garden of Eden.' Multiple small waterfalls cascade through mossy lava formations. Used as a Game of Thrones filming location (Children of the Forest). Near the Viking farmstead Stöng.

Sources and last reviewed

Last reviewed: 2026-02-01

This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Moss-covered rocks at Gjáin are extremely slippery—wear sturdy boots and take care near water. Check road conditions before driving.

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

Official sources to check

Best for

Lush moss + cascades

Multiple waterfalls in a magical moss-covered setting.

Access

Rough road + walk

Rough road access; short walk to the oasis. Slippery rocks.

Pro tip

Visit Stöng too

Combine with the nearby Viking farmstead for a half-day trip.

What to Expect at Gjáin

Multiple small waterfalls cascading through lava formations
Lush moss covering rocks and terrain—incredibly green in summer
Slippery surfaces everywhere—sturdy boots essential

Nearby Attractions to Gjáin

Stöng (reconstructed Viking farmstead)
Háifoss (Iceland's second-tallest waterfall)
Þjórsárdalur valley (scenic landscapes)

How to Get to Gjáin

Located in Þjórsárdalur valley in South Iceland
Turn off Route 32 onto a gravel road toward Stöng
Rough road—a capable vehicle is recommended
Short walk from the parking area to the oasis

Best Time to Visit Gjáin

June to September for the best access and greenest moss
Summer offers the longest daylight for exploring
Road may be impassable in winter and early spring
Weekday visits tend to be less crowded
Check road conditions before driving—gravel road can be rough

Planning help

Gjáin FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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