A spectacular panoramic view of this magnificent canyon on the southeast coast of Iceland will leave you breathless. The canyon itself is a deep ravine with a bend that offers even more fantastic panoramic views. The river creates beautiful cascades and small waterfalls as it winds through the canyon. One of Iceland’s highest waterfalls, Hangandifoss (117 metres), flows majestically down to its pool at the bottom of the canyon. The hike is moderate and well worth the trip along narrow paths on high cliffs with overgrown birch bushes and numerous viewpoints of the winding river below. This location has a timeless presence, and even in cloudy weather, it creates a mesmerising display of cascades and mist along the rugged cliffs, weathered and grand. A captivating location, just like a fairytale.
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Accessibility
From route no 1, there are 3 kilometres until you reach the parking lot. From there, it is a 600-meter-long hike towards the first viewpoint and then 1.2 kilometre further to the main viewpoint. The hike ranges from easy to moderately difficult and should only be done with minimum equipment. If you hike along the river, you must wade across the river.
Services nearby
There are many hotels and lodgings options within 50 kilometres from this location. 15 kilometres away is a gas station and restaurant. Nearest hospital is in Höfn, 94 kilometres away.
Permits
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Basecamp and facilities
There is a small/medium parking lot 3 kilometres from the main road. For bigger basecamps, you could use the enormous parking lot at Fjallsárlón, 6.5 kilometres away. There are no facilities at this location and phone coverage is excellent.
Risk factors
The hike to the various viewpoints ranges from easy to moderate difficult. The path winds along dangerous cliffs with a high drop in some parts. Loose rocks and debris can add to the instability of the trail. If you hike through the canyon at the riverbank, you must wade and beware of loose rocks and instability from above.
Visitors
Múlagljúfur used to be a hidden gem in Iceland with few or no visitors. In recent years, the canyon has become more popular among hikers that hike to the top to get a glimpse of this spectacular place. The canyon and its trail could be managed with extra staff and or with park rangers.
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