South Iceland
Múlagljúfur Canyon
About Múlagljúfur Canyon
A remote canyon with three hidden waterfalls in the highlands near Vatnajökull glacier. Shaped by volcanic activity, glacial erosion, and the forces of wind and water over millennia, this natural attraction draws visitors who come to witness landscapes found nowhere else. The area provides excellent opportunities for photography, hiking, and connecting with Iceland's pristine wilderness. Few places in Iceland feel as remote as Múlagljúfur. To reach it requires a 4x4 drive deep into the highlands, then a hike down into a narrow canyon where three waterfalls cascade down moss-covered cliffs. The largest, Hangandifoss, plunges nearly 30 metres into a turquoise pool. Near the canyon floor is Strutslaug, a natural hot spring hidden among the rocks. The canyon sees perhaps a few dozen visitors per summer — most of Iceland's tourists will never know it exists. This is wilderness in its truest form. Visitor Information: This site is located in Southeast Iceland, Iceland. As a natural wonder, it provides visitors with a distinctive experience of Iceland's remarkable natural and cultural heritage. What to Expect: - A unique natural wonder experience in one of Iceland's most scenic regions - Opportunities for photography and exploration - Connection to Iceland's natural landscape and cultural heritage - Accessible during the main tourist season (June-September) - Can be combined with other nearby attractions in Southeast Iceland Best Time to Visit: The site is most accessible during summer months (June-August) when daylight hours are longest and weather is mildest. However, each season offers its own unique character — winter brings possible Northern Lights, while spring and fall offer fewer crowds. Nearby: Explore other attractions in Southeast Iceland to make the most of your visit to this beautiful region of Iceland.
🐉 The Ice Giant of Vatnajökull
Beneath Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier, volcanoes sleep fitfully, and local legend holds that a great ice giant (jötunn) is imprisoned beneath the ice. When the giant stirs in anger, volcanic eruptions melt the ice from below, causing catastrophic floods (jökulhlaups) that reshape the landscape. These floods are very real — they have destroyed bridges, farms, and roads throughout history. The legend of the ice giant reflects how Icelanders have processed the terrifying reality of subglacial volcanism through storytelling, transforming unpredictable natural forces into characters in an ongoing saga between fire and ice.
📖 History of Múlagljúfur Canyon
This site in Southeast Iceland has captivated visitors and locals alike throughout Iceland's history. The natural formations here were shaped over thousands of years by the forces of volcanism, glaciation, and erosion. Early settlers recognized the unique beauty of this place, and it features in various historical accounts and folklore. Iceland's natural wonders have been described by travelers since the medieval period, with some of the earliest written accounts appearing in the sagas and geographic treatises of the 12th and 13th centuries. Today, This site continues to draw visitors from around the world who come to witness the extraordinary landscapes that make Iceland one of the most geologically diverse places on the planet.
✈️ Why Visit
Three hidden waterfalls, a secret hot spring, and total wilderness — one of Iceland's most remote and pristine canyons.
💡 Did You Know?
Múlagljúfur has a natural hot spring (Strutslaug) hidden on the canyon floor where you can bathe surrounded by waterfalls.
Key Facts
3 waterfalls: Múlafoss, Hangandifoss, Strutslaug
Natural hot spring for bathing
4x4 and river crossings required (F208)
Steep, unmarked descent into canyon
Very few visitors — true backcountry
💎 Hidden Gems
Off-Peak Visit
Visit this attraction during shoulder season (May or September) for a perfect balance of access and solitude.
You'll experience the site without summer crowds while still having good weather and daylight.
Local Flora
Look for the native Icelandic plants growing in the area — Arctic thyme, moss campion, and various lichens.
These resilient plants have adapted to survive harsh conditions and add subtle beauty to the landscape.
Changing Light
this attraction looks dramatically different depending on the time of day and weather conditions.
Cloud shadows, rain showers, and low-angle sunlight can transform the landscape within minutes — Iceland's famous "four seasons in one day."
🕐 Best Time
Summer (June-August) offers 24-hour daylight; winter for Northern Lights
🚗 Access
Accessible by car on paved or gravel roads. Some require short hikes.
⏱ Duration
1-2 hours
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit?▾
Summer (June-August) offers the best weather and longest daylight hours. However, each season offers unique beauty.
Is this place wheelchair accessible?▾
Accessibility varies by location. Major tourist sites often have paved paths, while more remote areas may require hiking.
Do I need to book in advance?▾
Most natural attractions in Iceland are open access and free. No booking is needed unless it involves a guided tour.
📍 GPS Location
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