How tall is Þjófafoss?

Þjófafoss is approximately 5 meters (16 feet) tall. It is not especially high, but it is wide: it spans the Þjórsá, Iceland's longest river.

Why is it called Thief's Falls?

Þjófafoss means 'Thief's Falls' in Icelandic. According to medieval accounts, outlaws (thieves) were drowned here as a form of execution. The waterfall served as a site of punishment in earlier centuries.

How do I get to Þjófafoss?

Þjófafoss is located in South Iceland near the Merkurhraun lava field. It is accessible via a gravel road off Route 32. A regular car can manage in summer, but a 4x4 offers more comfort on the gravel sections.

Can I see Mount Búrfell from Þjófafoss?

Yes. Mount Búrfell rises directly behind the waterfall, and the wide falls with the mountain backdrop photograph well.

When is the best time to visit Þjófafoss?

Þjófafoss is accessible year-round, though summer has the easiest driving conditions on the gravel road. The waterfall flows in all seasons, with higher water volume in spring and early summer from glacial melt.

Þjófafoss (Thief's Falls)

A wide 5-meter waterfall on Iceland's longest river, the Þjórsá, with Mount Búrfell behind it and a grim medieval history as an execution site.

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

Region

South Iceland

Gravel road access. Year-round. Mountain views.

A wide waterfall on the Þjórsá river (Iceland's longest) near the Merkurhraun lava field. Named because outlaws were allegedly drowned here as punishment in medieval times. Mount Búrfell rises directly behind the falls.

Sources and last reviewed

Last reviewed: 2026-03-03

This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. River banks can be slippery and the current is strong; stay back from the edge and check road conditions before driving gravel roads.

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

Official sources to check

Best for

History + mountain views

Wide cascade with Mount Búrfell rising behind it.

Access

Gravel road

Off Route 32. Regular car possible in summer, 4x4 recommended.

Pro tip

Combine with Háifoss

Nearby Háifoss and Gjáin are worth adding to your route.

What to Expect at Þjófafoss

A wide, powerful cascade across the Þjórsá river
Mount Búrfell rising directly behind the falls
Quiet location near the Merkurhraun lava field

Nearby Attractions to Þjófafoss

Háifoss (122m waterfall, one of Iceland's tallest)
Gjáin (lush canyon with small waterfalls)
Þjórsárdalur valley and Stöng Viking ruins

How to Get to Þjófafoss

Located in South Iceland near the Merkurhraun lava field
Access via gravel road off Route 32
About 2 hours drive from Reykjavik
Regular car possible in summer, 4x4 recommended
Short walk from the parking area to the viewpoint

Best Time to Visit Þjófafoss

Accessible year-round, though gravel road is best in summer
Spring and early summer bring higher water volume from glacial melt
Morning and evening light suits photos of Mount Búrfell
Winter visits are possible but check road conditions first
Fewer crowds than the main South Coast waterfalls

Planning help

Þjófafoss FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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