west-iceland · Iceland
Almannagjá Gorge — Þingvellir Rift
Almannagjá is a massive rift valley gorge in Þingvellir National Park where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are visibly pulling apart. A walking path leads through the gorge, offering a unique chance to walk between two continents.
About Almannagjá Gorge — Þingvellir Rift
Almannagjá is a massive rift valley gorge in Þingvellir National Park where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are visibly pulling apart. A walking path leads through the gorge, offering a unique chance to walk between two continents.
Did You Know?
- ✔Rift valley gorge
- ✔Between tectonic plates
- ✔Up to 40 metres deep
- ✔Easy walking path
- ✔Historic Viking route
- ✔In Þingvellir National Park
Tours Near Almannagjá Gorge — Þingvellir Rift
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
Private Silfra Snorkeling 6 p. group - Meet on Location - with Underwater Photos
From $899
Book Now
Private Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 2 Day Tour & Glacier Hike
From $7240
Book Now
Private 2-Day Glacier Lagoon, Ice Cave and Northern Lights
From $7400
Book NowAbout Almannagjá Gorge — Þingvellir Rift
Almannagjá is located in the heart of Þingvellir National Park, accessible from the main parking area (P1). A walking path descends into the gorge and leads to Öxarárfoss waterfall and the historic Alþingi assembly site. The gorge walls reach up to 40 metres high in places, with dramatic basalt cliffs and fissures. The walk is easy and family-friendly, taking about 15-20 minutes one way.
Reykjavík All In One Food Tour - Eat, Drink & Explore with Locals
From $207.37
Book Now
Glacier Adventure at Sólheimajökull Private Tour
From $385.11
Book Now
Reykjavik Private Northern Lights Tour with Pro Photographer
From $1647.1
Book NowStory & Folklore
Almannagjá ('Everyman's Gorge') was the main route to the Alþingi (parliament) site in Viking times. As visitors walked through the gorge, they were symbolically entering the sacred assembly grounds. The gorge continues to widen by about 2 cm per year as the tectonic plates drift apart.
Why Visit
Walk through a dramatic rift valley between two continents at Iceland's most historic site.
Did You Know?
The tectonic plates at Þingvellir drift apart by about 2 cm per year, slowly tearing Iceland in two.