south-iceland · Iceland
Affall
Affall is a lowland river in Rangárþing eystra flowing between the eastern and western districts of Landeyjar in South Iceland. The river passes through wetlands and shallow lagoons that support rich birdlife, making the area a rewarding destination for birdwatching. Historically, Affall carried glacial sediment due to its connection with Markarfljót. After engineering works on the Markarfljót outwash plains altered the water flow, the river gradually became clearer and now behaves more like a typical lowland freshwater river. Affall also supports fish populations, including sea trout and Arctic char, and efforts have been made to establish salmon in the river with some success.
About Affall
Affall is a lowland river in Rangárþing eystra flowing between the eastern and western districts of Landeyjar in South Iceland. The river passes through wetlands and shallow lagoons that support rich birdlife, making the area a rewarding destination for birdwatching. Historically, Affall carried glacial sediment due to its connection with Markarfljót. After engineering works on the Markarfljót outwash plains altered the water flow, the river gradually became clearer and now behaves more like a typical lowland freshwater river. Affall also supports fish populations, including sea trout and Arctic char, and efforts have been made to establish salmon in the river with some success.
History & Background
Historically, Affall carried glacial sediment from its connection to Markarfljót and once flowed as a grey, sediment-rich river typical of glacier-fed systems. After river engineering works and changes to water flow across the Markarfljót outwash plains, the character of Affall gradually changed. The river became clearer and now behaves more like a lowland freshwater river. Today, Affall reflects the long interaction between natural river systems, land use in Landeyjar, and the evolving hydrology of the South Iceland lowlands.
Did You Know?
- ✔Iceland is home to the Arctic fox, the only native land mammal
- ✔Over 300 species of birds have been recorded in Iceland
- ✔The surrounding waters are rich in marine life including whales and seals
Tours Near Affall
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
Glacier Adventure at Sólheimajökull Private Tour
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2 hour Round Trip in Vestmannaeyjar on a RIB Boat
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Diamond Beach & Jökulsárlón Floating Glacier Guided Day Tour
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Book NowAbout Affall
Affall is a wildlife area in south-iceland, offering visitors the chance to encounter Iceland's remarkable natural fauna. Iceland is home to diverse wildlife including seabirds, Arctic foxes, and marine mammals.
Private Tour: South Coast of Iceland by SUV or Van from Reykjavik
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Fast-Paced Glacier Snowmobile Adventure from Gullfoss
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Private Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik
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Book NowHistory & Background
Historically, Affall carried glacial sediment from its connection to Markarfljót and once flowed as a grey, sediment-rich river typical of glacier-fed systems. After river engineering works and changes to water flow across the Markarfljót outwash plains, the character of Affall gradually changed. The river became clearer and now behaves more like a lowland freshwater river. Today, Affall reflects the long interaction between natural river systems, land use in Landeyjar, and the evolving hydrology of the South Iceland lowlands.
Story & Folklore
Flowing quietly across the lowland plains of Landeyjar in Rangárþing eystra, Affall has long shaped the wetlands and shallow lagoons that support rich birdlife in the area. These calm waters create an important habitat for nesting and migratory birds, making the river a peaceful destination for nature watchers exploring South Iceland’s coastal lowlands. In earlier times, Affall carried glacial sediment from nearby Markarfljót and flowed with a cloudy, gray color typical of glacier-fed rivers. After changes to water flow across the Markarfljót outwash plains, the river gradually became clearer and more typical of a lowland freshwater system. Today, Affall remains closely connected to the surrounding farmland and wetlands, reflecting the long relationship between local communities, shifting rivers, and the dynamic landscape of the South Iceland plains.
Why Visit
A great spot for observing Iceland's unique wildlife in their natural habitat.
Did You Know?
Affall was once glacially colored by sediment from Markarfljót, but today it flows as a much clearer river after major hydrological changes on the surrounding outwash plains.
The Changing River of the Landeyjar Plains
Flowing across the wide lowland fields of Landeyjar, Affall has long been part of the everyday landscape of farms and wetlands in the area. The river winds through shallow ponds and marshy ground that support a rich variety of birdlife, making it an important natural feature in this quiet agricultural region. Over time, Affall has become known locally as a peaceful place where water, farmland, and wildlife meet along the South Iceland plains.