Basic Information
Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon is a stunning natural wonder located in southern Iceland. The canyon is approximately 2 kilometers long and over 100 meters deep, with a river running through the bottom of it, making it a truly awe-inspiring sight to behold. The canyon was formed over millions of years by erosion caused by the Fjaðrá River, which still flows through it today.
The canyon is located near the town of Kirkjubaejarklaustur and is a popular destination for tourists visiting Iceland. It’s easy to see why: the canyon’s walls are sheer and steep, with winding paths leading to its base. From the viewing platform at the top of the canyon, visitors can see the winding river below and the surrounding landscape, which includes lush green hills and jagged mountain peaks in the distance.
Visiting Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon
Visitors to Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon can choose to simply admire the view from the top, or they can hike down into the canyon itself. The hike is listed as easy. You can hike to the viewing point in just a few minutes, but there is also an option to hike along the canyon to see the waterfall at the end of the canyon. Hikers are treated to breathtaking views of the canyon walls rising up on either side of them, with the river rushing by below.
Another way to experience Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon is by hiking down by the river. This is a popular activity for those looking for a more adventurous way to see the canyon. You will have to wade the river to get inside the canyon. You will take inn the stunning views from a unique perspective.
Formation of Fjaðrárgljúfur
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is believed to be 2 million years old and is approximately 2 km long while nearly 100 meters deep. The canyon was formed by the erosion of the Fjaðrá River, which flows through it, over millions of years.
The Fjaðrá River originates from the Vatnajökull glacier, the largest glacier in Iceland. The glacier melts, and the water runs down to form several tributaries, one of which is the Fjaðrá River. The river flows down a steep slope, creating a rapid flow of water, which carves away at the surrounding rocks and soil.
The formation of Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the geology of the area and the glacial melting that feeds the river. The canyon was formed during the last ice age, about 2 million years ago, when a massive glacier covered the region. As the glacier began to melt, it left behind a vast amount of sediment and debris, which the Fjaðrá River has since eroded away over time.
The erosion of the river has exposed layers of volcanic rock, basalt columns, and sedimentary deposits that have been shaped by the forces of nature over millions of years. The canyon is also home to several waterfalls, which are formed by the Fjaðrá River cascading over the rocks.
Justin Bieber "I'll show you": The Most Popular Destination to Shoot
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is close to Kirkjubæjarklaustur, South East of Iceland. This canyon was not a popular tourist destination, until the year when Justin Bieber shot his video here. Yes, Justin Bieber’s “I’ll Show you” video starts with the gorgeous shots of the serpent-like shaped edge. Check out the video to see how stunning this place looks. Speculations are there, that with that video a spike in the tourists was seen and till now, this has become one of the best places to visit in Iceland. Justin Bieber also shot a few parts of the video in the South-Iceland, during the year 2015.
How to Reach Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon?
The easiest way to get to Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon is by car. The canyon is located about 150 kilometers east of Reykjavik, near the town of Kirkjubaejarklaustur, so you’ll need to rent a car or hire a tour guide to take you there. Once you reach the canyon, you’ll need to park your car in the designated parking lot and then walk about 1.5 kilometers to reach the canyon’s viewing area. The walk is relatively easy and takes about 15-20 minutes.
If you don’t want to drive yourself, there are several tour operators that offer day trips to Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon from Reykjavik. These tours typically include transportation to and from the canyon, as well as a guide who can provide you with information about the canyon’s geology and history. Some tours may also include stops at other nearby attractions, such as the Skaftafell national park or the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.
In summary, Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Iceland. Its stunning natural beauty and unique geological features make it a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you choose to admire the view from the top, hike down into the canyon, or kayak down the river, the experience of seeing Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon up close is one that you’ll never forget.
Gallery
Map of Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
Interesting locations in the area
Locations
Activities
Hotels & Restaurants
- Magma Hotel
- Fosshotel Nupar
- Eldhraun Holiday Home
- Hunkubakka Guesthouse
- Systrakaffi
- Cafe Munkar
