One thing you’ll notice when you start your trip is the sheer number of waterfalls everywhere you look. Iceland is home to over 10,000 waterfalls, many of which are unnamed and hidden in the wilderness. However, you’ll find many that are easily accessible or can be accessed with a beautiful hike. Háifoss is one of those waterfalls that is only accessible for part of the year.
About Háifoss
Háifoss, or “High Waterfall” in English, was once thought to be Iceland’s highest waterfall at 122 metres when it was discovered. However, it has now fallen to the fourth position behind Morsárfoss, Glymur, and Hengifoss. The waterfall is fed by Fossá, a tributary of Þjorsá, the longest Icelandic river.
When visiting Háifoss waterfall, one of the first things you will notice is that the waterfall has a neighbour. The neighbouring waterfall is called Granni, which means “neighbour” in Icelandic. Both waterfalls are easily seen from the same vantage point and can be included in the same picture.
Another notable feature of the Háifoss area is the presence of Hekla in the background. This explosive, dangerous volcano has a long history in the country and has become known as the “Gateway to Hell.”
The Folklore Behind Háifoss
Many locations throughout Iceland have folklore stories associated with them that give insight into how the area was formed or explain its appearance. Háifoss in Iceland is no different. The story surrounding this valley and waterfall follows an ogress who lived on the fish she caught in the waterfall.
Travelers visited Háifoss with a teenage boy who entertained himself by throwing rocks into the river, a seemingly harmless activity. However, that night, the ogress visited their tent and attempted to pull the boy from the tent. His companions pulled in the other direction, ultimately leading to the ogress letting go. The boy was confined to bed, recovering for a month.
Without the presence of his companions, the teenage boy would likely have become food for the ogress with a much different outcome.
How to Get There
When driving the Ring Road, you can get to Háifoss through Selfoss. From the town, drive Route 30 until you reach Route 32, about 18 kilometres down the road. When you reach a small gravel road numbered 332, turn north to reach the waterfall. This gravel road can be rough with many potholes, so a higher clearance car is recommended to avoid unnecessary damage. After driving several kilometres on this rough gravel road, you will reach a parking lot.
It’s important to note that although Háifoss is not located on an F-road, a 4×4 with higher clearance is recommended. This road is only open at certain times of the year, typically corresponding with the opening and closing of the F-roads. Checking Iceland’s road condition website (road.is) is recommended before planning to visit this waterfall.
Hiking Háifoss
Upon arriving at Háifoss, you will find the viewpoints for the two waterfalls a short walk from the parking lot. You can then follow the trail along the upper edge of the canyon to get different perspectives of the waterfalls, ideal for taking photos. For those more adventurous visitors, a hike to the bottom of the canyon offers impressive views of Háifoss.
Tips for Visiting Háifoss
When hiking Háifoss, it’s vital to be properly prepared with appropriate hiking gear, especially if you intend to hike down to the bottom of the valley. Don’t forget layers and rain gear.
Iceland can be extremely windy. Since the hiking trail for Háifoss is along the edge of the canyon, use caution to avoid falls or injuries.
Always follow the principle of leaving no trace. Be prepared to take any trash with you when you leave, as there are no trash cans onsight. Pack out whatever you take in.
Other Nearby Locations
If you’re adding Háifoss to your Iceland trip, you’ll find plenty of other nearby sites you can add to your itinerary. As you drive along Route 32, you will find a pull-off that leads to another parking lot. Here, you will find Hjalparfoss, a double waterfall surrounded by basalt columns.
Another popular destination in the area is Gjáin, a beautiful valley filled with greenery and waterfalls that almost seems out of place for Iceland. This location requires a 4×4 vehicle with decent clearance as it requires driving down a rough gravel road.
Enjoy the Waterfall Hunt
Whether you’re looking for a waterfall off the beaten path or you’re on a quest to check them all off, Háifoss is one that should not be missed. Although it doesn’t hold the distinction of the highest waterfall, it is still an impressive sight and worth the hike.
As you plan your itinerary, getting around is one of the most important elements of your journey. When you book the best campervan rental, you can enjoy the freedom to explore at your pace while adding the best waterfalls to your trip.
