south iceland
Fjaðrárgljúfur
About Fjaðrárgljúfur
Fjaðrárgljúfur is a dramatic 2 km long canyon in southern Iceland, reaching depths of up to 100 meters. The winding canyon was carved by glacial meltwater at the end of the last Ice Age about 9,000 years ago. A trail along the rim provides stunning views of the serpentine gorge with its mossy walls and the Fjaðrá river far below. The canyon surged in popularity after appearing in a Justin Bieber music video, leading to temporary closures to protect the fragile vegetation.
📖 History
The canyon was carved by glacial meltwater at the end of the last Ice Age, approximately 9,000 years ago. It gained widespread global attention in 2019 when Justin Bieber filmed his music video 'I'll Show You' here, causing such a surge of visitors that the site was temporarily closed. The canyon walls are thick with moss and the river running at the bottom is crystal clear glacial water.
✈️ Why Visit
Short hiking trail offers stunning viewpoints above the serpentine canyon
💡 Did You Know?
The canyon is about 9,000 years old and gained fame after a Justin Bieber music video
Key Facts
Depth up to 100 meters, length about 2 km
Carved by glacial meltwater approximately 9,000 years ago
Featured in Justin Bieber's music video in 2015
Temporarily closed due to visitor pressure in 2019
Viewpoint trail runs along the canyon rim
🕐 Best Time
May–September (may close temporarily for environmental protection)
🚗 Access
Off Route 1 near Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Short drive on gravel road to parking area.
⏱ Duration
30–60 minutes
📍 GPS Location
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