Dettifoss Travel Guide

Free Guide: Discover Dettifoss, Europe's most powerful waterfall, nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of North Iceland and an unforgettable natural wonder.

Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play Download the Free PDF guide
Dettifoss

A brief summary of Dettifoss

Discover Dettifoss, Europe's most powerful waterfall, nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of North Iceland and an unforgettable natural wonder.

Nestled in the rugged landscapes of North Iceland, Dettifoss is Europe’s most powerful waterfall, captivating visitors with its breathtaking beauty and thundering waters. With a drop of 44 meters and a width of 100 meters, this natural wonder is surrounded by stunning scenery, making it an unforgettable destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The roar of the water and the mist that rises create an enchanting atmosphere that feels almost otherworldly. Accessible via well-maintained paths, Dettifoss invites you to explore its surroundings, ensuring a memorable experience that showcases the raw power of Icelandic nature.

4.8 Excellent · 1,540 Google reviews
Address
671

Getting there

Car

If you are driving from Akureyri, head east on Route 1 (Ring Road) for approximately 90 kilometers until you reach the junction for Route 864. Turn left onto Route 864 and continue for about 30 kilometers. You will reach a fork in the road; take the left fork to stay on Route 864, which will lead you directly to Dettifoss. There is no entrance fee for visiting the waterfall, but be prepared for potential gravel roads as you approach the site.

Public Transportation

For those using public transportation, take a bus from Akureyri to Egilsstaðir. From Egilsstaðir, you can catch a local bus that goes towards Dettifoss. Please check the schedules in advance, as public transport may have limited service. Once you arrive at the nearest bus stop, it is approximately a 30-minute walk to the waterfall. Ensure to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for varying weather conditions.

Taxi Service

If you prefer a more direct route without driving, consider hiring a taxi from Akureyri or Egilsstaðir to Dettifoss. This option can be more expensive, costing around 20,000 to 30,000 ISK for a one-way trip, but it offers comfort and convenience. Make sure to negotiate the fare or confirm the meter before starting your journey.

Discover more about Dettifoss

Overview

Dettifoss, located in North Iceland, is often celebrated as Europe’s most powerful waterfall. With a staggering drop of 44 meters and a width of about 100 meters, the sheer volume of water cascading over the edge creates a mesmerizing sight that draws thousands of visitors each year. The waterfall is situated within the Vatnajökull National Park, a protected area known for its dramatic landscapes, including glacial rivers, rugged cliffs, and volcanic terrains. The journey to Dettifoss is as captivating as the destination itself, with scenic vistas and diverse wildlife along the way. As you approach, the sound of rushing water grows louder, and the mist rising from the falls adds to the enchanting atmosphere. The surrounding area offers several vantage points for viewing, allowing you to take in the grandeur of the falls from different perspectives. Whether you are an avid photographer capturing the perfect shot or a traveler seeking tranquility in nature, Dettifoss provides a unique backdrop that highlights the stunning beauty of Iceland. The experience is enhanced by the changing seasons, with the falls offering different charms throughout the year—frozen in winter, vibrant in summer, and surrounded by fall foliage in autumn. It’s a destination that promises both adventure and serenity, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the natural wonders of Iceland.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Explore Dettifoss on the map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Dettifoss, mapped for you.

Get your free copy of our complete guide to Dettifoss, delivered straight to you.

Everything on this page, from opening hours and how to get there to Eve’s tips and the best time to go, in one PDF you can read offline, print or share.

Already have an account? Sign in

By clicking Create account, you accept the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Unlock the best of Dettifoss

Skip-the-line tickets, guided tours with entry, and walking tours of the area, booked in a few clicks.

See all tours and tickets

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

More to explore near Dettifoss

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery.

Activate your presence Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Explore more

Northeastern Region
More of the region

Explore more of Northeastern Region

Explore the Northeastern Region of Iceland: A land of dramatic landscapes, geothermal wonders, and unforgettable natural beauty. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Explore Northeastern Region
Iceland
More of the country

Explore more of Iceland

Discover Iceland, where glaciers meet volcanoes, Northern Lights dance in the skies, and natural wonders await at every turn.

Explore Iceland
The Evendo app on two phones

Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Northeastern Region, Iceland

Discover the best of Northeastern Region, Iceland with Evendo - a 100% free app-based travel guide covering top attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more.

  • Detailed information on top attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, and experiences
  • Stunning images and rich descriptions
  • Local tips and curated advice
Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play
More about the Evendo app

Explore Northeastern Region, Iceland like never before with Evendo. Your all-in-one travel guide app for attractions, landmarks, restaurants, hotels, tours, and more.

  • Interactive maps and easy navigation
  • Contact details and booking options
  • Travel essentials and historical information
  • Near me feature for nearby attractions and services
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases

Welcome to Evendo, your ultimate travel companion for exploring the enchanting Northeastern Region of Iceland. With Evendo, you can effortlessly discover the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, and experiences that this magical region has to offer. Imagine standing in awe at the majestic Dettifoss waterfall, exploring the surreal landscapes of Lake Mývatn, or relaxing in the soothing waters of the Mývatn Nature Baths. Evendo provides you with detailed information, stunning images, local tips, maps, and contact details for all these sites, making your trip planning a breeze.

But that's not all. Evendo goes beyond just providing information. You can easily book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly through the app, saving you time and hassle. No more endless searches for things to do and how to get there. With Evendo, you have everything you need in one place. Fancy a taste of Icelandic cuisine? Discover top restaurants like Vogafjós Farm Resort and Rub 23, complete with reviews and recommendations. Interested in historical sites? Evendo will guide you to the Húsavík Whale Museum and the Akureyri Church.

Evendo is not just a travel guide; it's your personal tour operator. The app features essential travel information, curated local tips, and an easy navigation system to ensure you get the most out of your visit. Utilize the 'Near me' feature to find attractions and services around you, no matter where you are. Best of all, Evendo is 100% free to use, with no in-app purchases or hidden costs. And when your adventure in Northeastern Region ends, remember that Evendo covers over 7,000 destinations worldwide, so your next journey is just a tap away.

Get the latest from Evendo

Hand-picked travel deals, new destination guides and trip ideas, straight to your inbox.