Háifoss

At the edge of Iceland’s southern highlands, about a 2-hour drive from Reykjavík. Search in navigation: Háifoss Road conditions can be dangerous. Drive carefully Háifoss is Iceland’s third-highest waterfall, located near the Hekla volcano. Together with the nearby Granni waterfall, it creates a rare double waterfall landscape. The best time to visit is during summer (mid-June to September). It is a hidden gem with incredible photography opportunities and far fewer crowds compared to the Golden Circle. The road to Háifoss includes sections of F-roads (highland roads), which require a 4WD vehicle. After recently watching *Stranger Things* filming locations in Iceland, I thought it was the perfect time to share this travel guide. Location & Overview Háifoss is located on the edge of Iceland’s interior highlands, near the Þjórsárdalur valley in southern Iceland. The landscape here is wild and remote, with strong winds and changing road conditions, making it ideal for adventurous self-drive travellers. Recommended Vehicle A 4WD vehicle is strongly recommended for better ground clearance and handling. A regular car may be able to reach the area in good weather conditions, but gravel roads, potholes, and muddy sections can make the journey challenging. Best Time to Visit The best time to visit is from June to September, when roads are generally more stable and there is less snow. Outside of this period, roads may be closed or covered with heavy snow, so always check road conditions before travelling. Navigation Tips Simply search for **Háifoss** in your map app. It is recommended to download offline maps in advance, as mobile reception can be weak in remote highland areas. Driving Route Highlights 1. From the Golden Circle or Iceland’s South Coast, take the main roads towards the Þjórsárdalur area. 2. As you approach the mountains, you will enter gravel roads. The surface can be rough, so drive slowly and carefully. 3. Follow the signs towards Háifoss and continue towards the canyon area. 4. There is a parking area near the end of the road, then you will need to walk to the viewpoint. Walking Section From the parking area to the cliffside viewpoint, it takes around 10–15 minutes on foot. Some sections are close to the canyon edge, and the wind can be extremely strong. Walk carefully and avoid getting too close to the edge. Safety & Packing Tips 1. Bring a windproof jacket and warm layers. 2. Wear hiking boots or shoes with good grip. 3. Carry spare batteries or a power bank for your phone or camera. 4. Avoid standing on loose rocks or slippery grass. 5. Avoid flying drones in strong winds.