Your Guide to Visiting Fagrifoss Waterfall by Car

Iceland is filled with famous waterfalls that draw crowds from around the world, but some of its most rewarding sights are found off the beaten path. Fagrifoss, whose name translates to "Beautiful Waterfall," is one such hidden gem. Located in the Icelandic Highlands, reaching this stunning cascade requires a bit more effort than a simple drive along the Ring Road. It’s an adventure perfectly suited for a self-drive tour with a capable 4x4 rental vehicle.

This guide provides all the necessary information for a successful and safe trip to Fagrifoss. We’ll cover the driving route, what to expect at the waterfall, essential safety precautions, and why a self-drive approach is the best way to experience this remote wonder.

What Makes Fagrifoss a Unique Destination?

Fagrifoss is not your typical Icelandic waterfall. It’s a powerful, two-tiered cascade on the Geirlandsá river, surrounded by dramatic basalt columns and lush green moss. Its remote location in the Highlands means it sees far fewer visitors than its counterparts on the South Coast, offering a more serene and personal experience with nature.

The journey to Fagrifoss is as much a part of the adventure as the waterfall itself. It involves navigating an F-road, which includes unbridged river crossings. This challenge is what keeps the area pristine and makes the final view of the powerful falls so much more satisfying.

Getting There: The Adventure of the F-Roads

Starting Your Journey

The route to Fagrifoss begins from the Ring Road (Route 1) near Kirkjubæjarklaustur in South Iceland. From there, you will turn onto F-road F206, also known as Lakagígar road. This is the only road that leads to the waterfall.

It is critical to understand that F-roads are highland gravel tracks, not paved highways. They are rough, uneven, and only open during the summer months, typically from late June to early September, depending on weather and road conditions.

The Importance of a 4x4 Vehicle

You cannot legally or safely drive on F-roads with a 2WD vehicle. A 4x4 or AWD vehicle with high ground clearance is mandatory for this journey. The road to Fagrifoss includes several river crossings, which can be dangerous without the right vehicle and knowledge. At Holdur Car Rental, we provide a  range of suitable 4x4s designed to handle these challenging conditions, ensuring your safety and peace of mind.

Always check the road conditions on umferdin.is before you depart. Conditions on F-roads can change quickly, and closures are common.

Navigating the River Crossings

The drive on F206 to Fagrifoss involves at least one significant river crossing. The depth and speed of the river can vary greatly depending on recent rainfall and glacial melt. Here are some essential safety tips for crossing rivers:

• Assess the water: Don't rush into a river crossing. Instead, stop your vehicle at a safe distance to assess the terrain, current, and depth.
• Follow the tracks: Look for the tracks of vehicles that have crossed before you. This usually indicates the safest and shallowest path.
• Drive slowly and steadily: Drive diagonally across the river, angled slightly downstream. This lessens water resistance against your vehicle's front. Maintain a steady speed and do not stop mid-river.
• Never cross alone: It's always best to travel with another vehicle when exploring the Highlands. If that's not possible, wait for another car to arrive and cross together.

The turn-off for Fagrifoss is located about 24 kilometers (15 miles) down F206. A small sign marks the spot. From there, it's a short drive and walk to the viewpoint.

Experiencing Fagrifoss: Viewpoints and Photography

Once you park your car, a short walk will bring you to the main viewpoint overlooking Fagrifoss. The sight is magnificent. The Geirlandsá river plunges dramatically into a deep canyon, with the twin cascades framed by dark, geometric basalt formations.

Viewing the Waterfall

There are a few different spots to view the falls. The main vantage point from the western side of the canyon provides a classic, panoramic view. Be extremely careful, as there are no barriers or fences, and the cliff edges can be unstable and slippery, especially when wet. Do not get too close to the edge.

For the more adventurous, it's possible to hike down into the canyon for a different perspective, but this requires caution and sturdy footwear. The terrain is steep and can be treacherous.

Photography Tips

Fagrifoss is a photographer's dream. The contrast between the white water, green moss, and dark rock creates a stunning visual.

• Use a wide-angle lens: This will help you capture the full scale of the waterfall and its surrounding canyon.
• Bring a tripod: A tripod allows for long-exposure shots, which create a smooth, silky effect on the water and are particularly effective in the low light of an overcast day.
• Consider a polarizing filter: This can reduce glare from the water and wet rocks, making the colors of the moss and stone appear more vibrant.

Best Time to Visit Fagrifoss

The window for visiting Fagrifoss is limited to the summer months when F-road F206 is open. This is typically from late June to early September. Visiting outside this period is not possible due to snow and hazardous road conditions.

Within this summer window, planning your visit for a day with clear weather is ideal, as rain can make the roads and river crossings more challenging. An early start will give you plenty of daylight for the drive and for enjoying the waterfall without feeling rushed.

What to Pack for Your Fagrifoss Trip

A trip into the Icelandic Highlands requires more preparation than a drive along the South Coast. Here’s what you should have with you:

• Clothing: Wear waterproof and windproof outerwear, even on a sunny day. The weather can change in an instant. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential.
• Food and Water: There are no shops or services along F206. Pack enough food and water for the entire day.
• Navigation: While the route is straightforward, having a GPS device or a reliable offline map on your phone is a good idea. A physical map is a reliable backup.
• Safety Equipment: Ensure your rental car has a spare tire and the tools to change it. A first-aid kit is always recommended. Make sure your phone is fully charged.

Nearby Attractions and Extending Your Adventure

The journey to Fagrifoss puts you in a prime location to explore other wonders of the Icelandic Highlands.

Lakagígar Craters

F-road F206 continues on to the historic Lakagígar (Laki Craters), the site of a monumental volcanic eruption in 1783-1784. This series of craters stretching over 25 kilometers is a geological marvel. A trip here requires a full day and a well-equipped 4x4.

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Located closer to the Ring Road, near Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Fjaðrárgljúfur is a majestic canyon carved by the Fjaðrá river. It’s easily accessible and offers stunning views from its well-maintained walking paths. It makes for a great stop either before or after your Fagrifoss adventure.

Responsible and Safe Tourism in the Highlands

The Icelandic Highlands are a fragile ecosystem. It is vital to treat the area with respect to preserve its natural beauty.

• Stay on the Road: Off-road driving is illegal in Iceland and causes irreparable damage to the delicate landscape. Always stay on marked roads and tracks.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you pack in. Do not leave any trash behind.
• Respect the Dangers: The Highlands are a wild and remote area. Be aware of your surroundings, respect weather warnings, and do not take unnecessary risks, especially near cliff edges or river crossings.

 

The Freedom of a Self-Drive Adventure

Exploring a remote location like Fagrifoss is an experience uniquely enabled by a rental car. A self-drive tour gives you the freedom and flexibility that organized bus tours simply cannot offer. You can set your own pace, stop for photos whenever you wish, and spend as long as you like soaking in the incredible view of the waterfall.

Having a reliable 4x4 rental vehicle is not just about convenience; it's about safety. It empowers you to confidently navigate challenging terrain and access parts of Iceland that remain unseen by many. Your car becomes your basecamp, carrying your supplies and offering a warm shelter from the unpredictable Icelandic weather.

Fagrifoss offers a true taste of Icelandic adventure. It's a journey that rewards preparation and a spirit of exploration with an unforgettable view of one of the country's most beautiful and secluded waterfalls. With the right vehicle and a careful plan, you can create a travel memory that stands apart from the rest.

Search for a 4x4