Best for
Window rock formations
Natural arches and holes carved by centuries of water flow.
Gluggafoss (Window Falls)
'Window Falls': a roughly 40-metre cascade where water flows through natural arches and holes carved into the cliff face, near Eyjafjallajökull volcano.
Region
South Iceland
Window-like rock openings; use the open visitor route.
'Window Falls': water falls through natural 'windows' (holes) in the rock face. Located in the Fljótshlíð area near the Eyjafjallajökull volcano. The river has carved arches through the cliff over centuries.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. The area near Eyjafjallajökull can be affected by volcanic activity, so check official alerts before visiting.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
Official sources to check
Access
Easy
Short walk from the road in the Fljótshlíð area.
Pro tip
Explore the arches
Walk around to see the windows from different angles.
What to Expect at Gluggafoss
- Water cascading through natural window-like holes in rock
- Multiple drops totaling about 40 metres
- Rock arches and holes carved over centuries
Nearby Attractions to Gluggafoss
- Eyjafjallajökull volcano and glacier
- Seljalandsfoss (walk-behind waterfall)
- Þórsmörk valley (hiking destination)
How to Get to Gluggafoss
- Located in the Fljótshlíð area of South Iceland
- Turn off Route 1 onto Route 261 toward Fljótshlíð
- About 120 km east of Reykjavik
- Short walk from the roadside to the waterfall
Best Time to Visit Gluggafoss
- Year-round access via paved roads
- Spring and summer for strongest water flow from snowmelt
- The window formations are visible in any season
- Less crowded than nearby Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss
- Good light for photography in morning and evening
The windows have changed within living memory
Visit South Iceland’s account distinguishes the softer upper tuff from the lower basalt ledge. It describes major changes after Hekla’s 1947 eruption, when pumice carried by the river is thought to have accelerated erosion. An old photograph of the openings may therefore show a different arrangement from the one visible today.
Parking follows the calendar day
Parka’s Gluggafoss page, checked September 10, 2026, lists paid parking valid until midnight, with online payment available up to 24 hours after departure. The lot’s 24-hour opening does not allow an overnight stay. The base tariff was not exposed in the page text; use the displayed vehicle-category price when paying.
Planning help
Gluggafoss FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
How tall is Gluggafoss?
Visit South Iceland describes Gluggafoss as about 40 metres high. The river has cut openings through the softer upper rock, above a basalt ledge. Published measurements vary, so treat the height as approximate.
Why is it called Gluggafoss (Window Falls)?
The name Gluggafoss means 'Window Falls' in Icelandic. The river has carved natural arches and holes through the cliff face, and the water flows through these 'windows' on its way down.
Is Gluggafoss also known as Merkjárfoss?
Yes, Gluggafoss is also known as Merkjárfoss, named after the Merkjá river that feeds it. Both names are commonly used.
Is Gluggafoss free to visit?
Parking is paid. Parka’s site-specific instructions say the fee lasts until midnight and online payment can be made up to 24 hours after leaving. Check the vehicle category and current tariff; overnight stays are prohibited.
How much time do I need at Gluggafoss?
Plan about 30–45 minutes for the visit, including walking to the various viewpoints to see the window formations and the main cascade.
When is the best time to visit Gluggafoss?
Gluggafoss is accessible year-round. Spring and summer have the strongest water flow from snowmelt. The window formations are visible in any season.
Country reference: Iceland statistics.