Hengifoss Waterfall

A Geological Masterpiece in East Iceland

Hengifoss is not just a tall waterfall. It is a window into millions of years of volcanic history, displayed in a cliff face that reads like the pages of a geological textbook. At 128 metres, it ranks as Iceland's third tallest waterfall, surpassed only by Morsarfoss and Glymur. But what sets Hengifoss apart is not its height alone — it is the vivid red clay bands that stripe the surrounding basalt, creating a visual effect unlike anything else in the country.

The waterfall is fed by the Brekkuselslaekur stream and drops into a narrow amphitheatre carved into the eastern slopes above Lake Lagarfljot, roughly 35 kilometres south of the town of Egilsstadir in East Iceland.

The Hike

The trail begins at a car park off Route 931, on the western shore of Lake Lagarfljot. From the car park, the path climbs steadily through open hillside with sweeping views over the lake and the Fljotsdalur valley below. The terrain is mostly well-maintained, with sections of boardwalk and steps on the steeper parts, though it can become muddy and slippery in wet conditions.

About 1.2 kilometres in, roughly 30 minutes from the start, the trail reaches Litlanesfoss. This 30-metre waterfall is framed by tall, perfectly formed hexagonal basalt columns that flare outwards on either side of the cascade. It is a striking sight in its own right and many visitors consider it a highlight equal to Hengifoss itself.

From Litlanesfoss, the trail continues uphill for another 1.3 kilometres, gaining elevation through a series of switchbacks. As you climb higher, the red clay bands in the cliff face become increasingly visible. The final approach brings you to a viewpoint at the base of the gorge, where Hengifoss drops the full 128 metres in a single cascade against the layered cliff.

The Geology

The cliff surrounding Hengifoss preserves a record of volcanic activity spanning the Tertiary Period, approximately 5 to 6 million years ago. Each dark basalt layer represents a separate lava flow. Between these eruptions, warm and damp conditions allowed soil to form on the cooled basalt surface. When the next eruption buried this soil under fresh lava, the iron-rich clay oxidised and turned red.

This cycle repeated over millions of years, producing the alternating bands of dark basalt and bright red clay that make Hengifoss so visually distinctive. Scientists have also found fossilised conifer trunks and lignite — compressed peat resembling brown coal — within these layers, evidence that Iceland once supported forest cover in a much warmer climate than it has today.

Practical Information

The car park charges a parking fee of 1,000 ISK, payable online. There are toilets at the trailhead, and a food truck operates during the summer months serving coffee, waffles, and soup. The trail itself is free to access.

From Egilsstadir, follow Route 931 south along the eastern shore of Lake Lagarfljot. The drive takes approximately 30 minutes on a well-maintained road. The trailhead is clearly signposted. Sturdy hiking boots are recommended, and bring a waterproof layer regardless of the forecast — weather in East Iceland changes quickly. In winter, the trail may be icy or snow-covered, so check conditions locally before setting out.