Dettifoss, located in Vatnajökull National Park in northeast Iceland, is renowned as Europe’s most powerful waterfall. With a staggering drop of 44 metres (144 feet) and a width of 100 metres (328 feet), Dettifoss is a natural wonder that showcases the raw power of Iceland’s glacial rivers. The waterfall is fed by the glacial river Jökulsá á Fjöllum, which originates from the Vatnajökull Glacier, the largest in Europe. The sheer volume of water cascading over the edge—estimated at 500 cubic metres per second—creates a thundering roar and a mist that can be seen from miles away.
Visitors to Dettifoss can view the waterfall from both the east and west banks, each offering unique perspectives of the dramatic landscape. The surrounding area is marked by rugged terrain and volcanic rock formations, adding to the awe-inspiring atmosphere. Dettifoss is also a key stop on the Diamond Circle, a popular tourist route that includes other natural attractions such as Ásbyrgi Canyon and Lake Mývatn.
When you visit you can expect seeing rainbows in the mist on sunny days or a more mystical look in the moody light on rainy or foggy days.
Dettifoss Waterfall Facts
- Height: 44 meters (144 feet)
- Width: 100 meters (328 feet)
- Water flow rate: 400 cubic meters per second
- Location: Vatnajökull National Park, Northeast Iceland
- Claim to fame: Most powerful waterfall in Europe
- Formed by: Glacial meltwater from Vatnajökull Glacier
Dettifoss is on the list of waterfalls in Iceland made famous on the big screen. It has its big moment when it was used as the backdrop for the opening scene of the 2012 film Prometheus, further boosting its recognition worldwide. As you stand before its thundering cascades, you'll be awe-struck by the sheer volume and power of water rushing down into the canyon below.
How long to spend at Dettifoss?
Visitors usually spend around 1 to 2 hours at Dettifoss Waterfall, depending on how many viewpoints they wish to explore and whether they choose to hike between the east and west sides. If you plan to photograph the falls, allocate additional time to capture its beauty from different angles.
Formation and Geography of Dettifoss
Dettifoss was created by the relentless erosive power of the Vatnajökull Glacier's glacial meltwater, which feeds the Jökulsá á Fjöllum River. This river has cut its way over thousands of years through the rugged Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon and, in the process, not only Dettifoss but a number of other major waterfalls were created along its course, such as Selfoss and Hafragilsfoss.
This alone accounts for the enormous amount of sediment and debris that the river hosts, showing good grayish-brown coloration and adding to the rawness of this waterfall. So enormous is the power of Dettifoss that the force of the water does much in shaping the landscape around it, eroding rocks and wearing down the canyon into such dramatic formations that visitors see today.
West Side vs. East Side: Which Side of Dettifoss is Better?
Visitors can see Dettifoss from their viewpoint on either the west or east side, and both offer a different view and experience altogether. Which side of Dettifoss is better would really depend on what visitors are looking for when it comes to this visit.
Dettifoss West Side
For most visitors, the west side of Dettifoss is more accessible; access to the west side is via a paved road and hence quite easy for regular vehicles. A well-maintained trail leads right to the viewpoint, and this one does give quite a sensible close-up view of this mighty waterfall. In general, it's popular with those short on time or with people who just want an easy straight forward walk to the viewing area.
This side also boasts better infrastructure, with Dettifoss parking west close to the viewpoint; its proximity to the falls gives the possibility of making a quick visit easily, something that has accorded this spot popularity among travelers touring the region.
Dettifoss East Side
The east side of Dettifoss is a bit more rugged and adventurous. The access road to that side is on gravel, and visitors need to drive carefully, especially in bad weather or winter conditions. But again, the reward is that the view is much more dramatic and panoramic of the whole waterfall and big canyon beyond.
The east side of the fall allows you to get closer through the hiking trail leading up the falls, and the viewing platform with stunning views of the thunderous water. This side of Dettifoss makes for excellent photography spots because travelers can shoot the full scale of the waterfall; thus, it’s for visitors who want to be closer to nature.
Thet Dettifoss parking east is available, though a bit further away from the viewpoint. This translates to longer walks but with more scenic beauty along the way.
So, which side of Dettifoss is better?
Both sides offer incredible views, but if you're short on time or want easier access, the west side may be better. If you're seeking dramatic, wide-angle vistas and don’t mind a more rugged trek, the east side offers a superior view of the waterfall.
Now, if you're arriving in winter the west side is your only option as the east side is only open in the summer months from June to September.
Nearby Attractions
From Dettifoss, visitors should make it a point to see other natural attractions nearby within Vatnajökull National Park. Selfoss Waterfall (not to be confused with the town of Selfoss) is a small, beautiful waterfall situated just upstream from Dettifoss and can be reached by a short hike. Further down below, you will get another major waterfall, the Hafragilsfoss, offering great views over the Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon.
Other popular stops in the area include the Ásbyrgi Canyon, a horseshoe-shaped valley created by catastrophic flooding. The area contains great hiking trails and the opportunity to explore a beautiful natural wonder shaped by many of the same forces that created Dettifoss.
- Selfoss to Dettifoss: 1km (0.6miles), taking about 5 mins by car, or a short 20 to 30 minute hike.
- Mývatn to Dettifoss: 66km (41miles), taking about 1 hours by car
- Hafragilsfoss to Dettifoss: 2km (1.2miles), taking about 5 mins by car, or a short 30 to 40 minute hike.
- Goðafoss to Dettifoss: 145km (90miles), taking about 90 mins to 2 hours.
Map of Dettifoss & Surroundings
Staying Near Dettifoss
Accommodation near Dettifoss range from cozy guest houses to camping grounds, and this indeed shows the various categories of accommodation classes the place has for its guests. They also have towns nearby that include Húsavík, Mývatn, and Ásbyrgi, which have rooms available in guesthouses, hotels, and lodges for anyone who desires comfort during their stay.
This is well positioned for travelers who not only want to see Dettifoss but other nearby attractions here in Northeast Iceland. Camping around Dettifoss for campers is done in Ásbyrgi and Mývatn. These camping sites provide an excellent base for adventurers who want to explore the region and at the same time see, at their own pace, Iceland's breathtaking natural beauty.
Hotels near Dettifoss
Fosshotel Mývatn
- Location: Mývatn
- Overview: A modern hotel set in the stunning surroundings of Lake Mývatn, Fosshotel Mývatn offers spacious rooms with panoramic views of the lake and nearby volcanic landscape. It's an ideal base for exploring Dettifoss, the geothermal area of Hverir, and the Mývatn Nature Baths.
- Notable Features: Beautiful lake views, contemporary design, on-site restaurant serving Icelandic cuisine.
Hótel Laxá
- Location: Near Lake Mývatn
- Overview: Just a short drive from Mývatn, Hótel Laxá provides comfortable rooms with modern amenities, surrounded by serene nature. The hotel is known for its sustainable practices and eco-friendly approach.
- Notable Features: Eco-friendly, close proximity to Mývatn attractions, on-site restaurant with locally sourced ingredients.
Hótel Húsavík
- Location: Húsavík
- Overview: Located in the whale-watching capital of Iceland, Hótel Húsavík offers comfortable rooms and easy access to both Dettifoss and the attractions of the north. It’s a great option for travelers combining their visit to Dettifoss with whale-watching tours.
- Notable Features: Centrally located in Húsavík, close to whale-watching tours, modern amenities.
Guesthouses near Dettifoss
Eldá Guesthouse
- Location: Mývatn
- Overview: A charming, family-run guesthouse situated in the heart of Mývatn. Eldá Guesthouse provides a cozy and homely atmosphere for travelers, with easy access to local attractions like Dettifoss, the Mývatn Nature Baths, and Skútustaðagígar craters.
- Notable Features: Warm, family atmosphere, affordable rooms, close to hiking trails.
Stöng Guesthouse
- Location: Mývatn area
- Overview: Set in the peaceful countryside near Mývatn, Stöng Guesthouse offers traditional Icelandic hospitality and features comfortable rooms as well as on-site cottages for a more private experience.
- Notable Features: Quiet rural setting, cottages available, close to Dettifoss and Mývatn.
Camping near Dettifoss
Ásbyrgi Camping Ground
- Location: Ásbyrgi
- Overview: Set in the dramatic horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi Canyon, this camping ground offers a peaceful retreat for campers surrounded by towering cliffs and forested trails. It's an excellent base for exploring the canyon, Dettifoss, and the Jökulsárgljúfur area.
- Notable Features: Scenic location, access to hiking trails, basic amenities like showers and cooking areas.
Mývatn Camping Ground
- Location: Mývatn
- Overview: Located near Lake Mývatn, this well-equipped camping site is popular with nature lovers and adventure seekers. The campsite offers access to nearby geothermal areas and is a short drive to Dettifoss.
- Notable Features: Facilities include showers, cooking areas, and easy access to local attractions.
Vogar Camping Ground
- Location: Mývatn area
- Overview: A spacious campsite located near the Vogar Farm and close to many Mývatn attractions. It's a great option for travelers looking for a central location to explore Dettifoss and the geothermal features of the region.
- Notable Features: Farm setting, clean facilities, walking distance to Mývatn’s geothermal wonders.
Additional Options
Fosshótel Húsavík Camping
- Location: Húsavík
- Overview: For those looking to camp near Húsavík, this small campsite offers a convenient option close to the town center, with access to whale-watching tours and a short drive to Dettifoss.
- Notable Features: Close to Húsavík’s attractions, budget-friendly, and family-friendly environment.
Where is Dettifoss?
Dettifoss is located in Vatnajökull National Park, Northeast Iceland, along the Jökulsá á Fjöllum River. It is about 550 kilometers (342 miles) from Reykjavik, making it a long but rewarding journey for those traveling from the capital.
- West side GPS Coordinates: 65°48'57.9"N 16°23'14.0"W
- East side GPS Coordinates: 65°48'55.1"N 16°23'01.7"W
How to Get to Dettifoss?
From Reykjavík:
To reach Dettifoss from Reykjavík, take Route 1 (Ring Road) east toward Akureyri. Once you reach the Mývatn area, continue along Route 1 until you see signs for Dettifoss. Depending on whether you want to access the east or west side, you will follow signs for either Route 862 (west side, paved) or Route 864 (east side, gravel).
From Húsavík:
From Húsavík, head southeast on Route 85, then connect to Route 864 if you're heading to the east side of Dettifoss. If you're heading to the west side, continue on Route 85 until you reach Route 862.
From Mývatn:
From Mývatn, Dettifoss is just a short drive away, making it a popular day trip. Simply take Route 1 east and follow the signs for Dettifoss, choosing your route based on whether you wish to visit the west or east side.
Parking at Dettifoss
Parking is available on both the east and west sides of Dettifoss. Dettifoss parking west is closer to the waterfall and offers easier access with a shorter hike. Dettifoss parking east, while a bit farther from the falls still only about 5-10 minute walk, provides more dramatic views and a more immersive nature experience. Both parking areas are well marked, with clear paths leading to the viewing points.
From the parking lot to the viewpoint at Dettifoss, it is a 1 km walk (one way). From there you can walk the same way back to the parking lot.
Dettifoss in Winter
In winter, Dettifoss becomes an absolutely magical world of ice. There are snowy and icy conditions which can make it difficult for visitors to access the falls during winter months. Be sure to review the status of local roadways before making your way east as roads — particularly on this side of Dettifoss can close up in serious snow. If you can endure the cold, it’s worth seeing Dettifoss surrounded by snow and ice.