Hrafnabjargafoss; One of the Most Impressive Waterfalls in Iceland

Iceland is full of waterfalls, with a few considered as some of the most impressive water displays you’ll ever see. One of these sights that will simply take your breath away is Hrafnabjargafoss.

Unfortunately, not many people know about this incredible place. That’s why we wrote this article to give you the local lowdown on what makes Hrafnabjargafoss so special and why it deserves to be on your Iceland trip itinerary.

What Makes Hrafnabjargafoss Waterfall So Special?

Hrafnabjargafoss is one of several waterfalls in Iceland that form from the Skjalfandafljot River. Three of the most famous ones include Godafoss, Aldeyjarfoss, and the waterfall of the hour, Hrafnabjargafoss. Hrafnabjargafoss Waterfall is a gigantic waterfall that is essentially cut in half by a huge rock.

The powerful waters rush over the 9000-year-old cliffs of the Badardalshraun Lava Field into what can only be described as a big rock bowl, whereafter it’s funneled through a small arch and flows further downstream to the rest of the falls. Needless to say, Hrafnabjargafoss is a breathtaking sight that you will never forget.

Where is Hrafnabjargafoss Waterfall?

Hrafnabjargafoss can be found at the Skjalfandafljot River in North Iceland. The nearest towns are Akureyri (referred to as the capital city of the north) and Myvatn. Akureyri is about 77 kilometers from Hrafnabjargafoss, which is about an hour and 15 minutes’ drive, and Myvatn is 87.5 kilometers or a 1.5-hour drive away. Since Hrafnabjargafoss is also located so conveniently close to the Ring Road, it makes for a great stop along a road trip.

How to Get to Hrafnabjargafoss Waterfall

You will have two main options if you want to visit Hrafnabjargafoss Waterfall:

Go on a Tour

Whilst the only way to specifically visit just Hrafnabjargafoss will be by special request on a customized private tour, there are numerous other tour operators offering tour packages that include a number of attractions, which include Hrafnabjargafoss. Most of these tours will depart from Akureyri.

Drive Yourself

This will always be our preferred method of exploring the island. It’s much more convenient and the drive to Hrafnabjargafoss is very simple. If you drive from Akureyri, get onto the Ring Road and head east. Turn right onto Route 844. Continue on this road onto Route 842 and then onto the F26. You will pass Aldeyjarfoss Waterfall and eventually reach Isholsvatn Lake where the trail will lead you straight to the waterfall.

How Long is the Hrafnabjargafoss Hike?

The trail leading to the falls is nothing to worry about, and not even something one can really call a hike, but rather a short walk. The route is easy and the trail well-maintained. It’s an out-and-back trail that totals a mere kilometer to the waterfall and back and shouldn’t take you any longer than 17 minutes, depending on your pace.

The Best Time to Visit Hrafnabjargafoss Waterfall in Iceland

Hrafnabjargafoss is one of the few waterfalls in the country that you should only put on your Iceland itinerary during the warmer months here on the island. That’s because the north is notorious for its extreme cold and harsh weather conditions.

And except for sudden road closures occurring all the time due to these conditions, certain roads are kept closed throughout as a standard annual arrangement during the colder months. So, unless you’re planning on touring in a Super Jeep or something, it will be nearly impossible for you to reach Hrafnabjargafoss.

Other Things to Do and See Around Hrafnabjargafoss

There are plenty more to see and do near Hrafnabjargafoss. This is what you can look forward to:

• Aldeyjarfoss Waterfall

• Gullfoss Waterfall

• Hiking Landmannalaugar

• Myvatn Nature Baths

• Svartifoss Waterfall

Is Hrafnabjargafoss Worth it?

Hrafnabjargafoss is a powerful waterfall set in a beautiful landscape. There is a very good reason why the waterfall is such a favorite amongst photographers, and why it is considered to be one of the waterfalls on the island not to be missed.

The best would be to rent a campervan in Reykjavik and take on a Ring Road road trip with Hrafnabjargafoss as one of the stops along the way. This is an incredibly easy and affordable way to properly explore the country and everything it has to offer, including our heavenly Hrafnabjargafoss.