Guide To Dettifoss Waterfall in Iceland

If you're seeking adventure, look no further than Dettifoss, which holds the title of the most powerful waterfall in Europe and a true gem in the Land of Ice and Fire. Out of Iceland's 10,000+ waterfalls, Dettifoss stands out as a must-visit for any intrepid explorer. Nestled along the famous Diamond Circle route, this natural wonder promises a breathtaking experience. In this guide, you'll find everything you need to know.

What Makes Dettifoss Waterfall Unique?

Dettifoss Waterfall is one of the most mesmerizing waterfalls in Iceland, with a force unlike any other. Located in North Iceland, this massive waterfall was featured in the opening scene of the sci-fi film Prometheus (2012), and it's easy to see why.

Dettifoss has an astonishing average water flow rate of 193 cubic meters (6,815 cubic feet) per second, creating a persistent roar that can be heard long before you reach it. The mist from the falls, combined with ground-shaking vibrations, makes it an unforgettable experience. So, is Dettifoss the most powerful fall in Iceland?

Absolutely! In fact, it's the most powerful waterfall in all of Europe. If you plan to visit this mighty waterfall, you should definitely bring waterproofs, as the spray will drench you if you're not prepared. Witnessing this waterfall up close is an awe-inspiring moment that will leave you speechless!

What Does Dettifoss Mean?

The name Dettifoss literally translates to 'collapsing waterfall,' with 'foss' meaning 'waterfall' in Icelandic and 'detta' meaning 'fall.' You'll hear 'foss' frequently while exploring Iceland. Unlike many of our other famous waterfalls, the name Dettifoss does not have an interesting legend attached to it. However, the sheer power and beauty of this waterfall is more than enough to make up for the lack of a story.

How Was Dettifoss Formed?

Dettifoss Waterfall was formed through a dramatic combination of glacial activity and volcanic eruptions over thousands of years. It's fed by the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river, which originates from Vatnajökull, which is one of the most spectacular glaciers in Iceland, and it's also the largest glacier in Europe. 

Around 8,000 years ago, as the Ice Age ended, glacial meltwater from the retreating ice flowed into the river. Catastrophic jökulhlaups (rapid floods caused by volcanic eruptions beneath the glacier) further amplified this runoff, carving out the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon and dislodging massive basalt columns.

Geological studies show that the current form of Dettifoss waterfall was shaped by these powerful volcanic and glacial events between 2,000 and 9,000 years ago.

How High is Detifoss Waterfall?

As you can imagine, the interplay between glacial activity and volcanic eruptions gave Dettifoss its remarkable form. Dettifoss fall height reaches an impressive 44 meters (144 feet), cascading over multiple knick points in the riverbed. Spanning 100 meters (330 feet) wide, it produces a thundering roar and mist visible from afar.

When is The Best Time of The Year to Visit Dettifoss?

The best time of the year to visit Dettifoss is during June, July, and August. These Icelandic summer months offer warm weather, more hours of daylight, and easier access, as some roads close in winter due to harsh conditions.

In winter, Dettifoss transforms into a breathtaking snowy landscape, resembling a scene from a Christmas card. While beautiful, it's much colder and less accessible. Summer, on the other hand, brings blooming flowers and lush green vegetation, making the area around the falls even more stunning. If you want the best of both worlds (beauty and accessibility), then summer is your best bet!

What is the Best Time of the Day to Visit Dettifoss?

The best time of day to visit Dettifoss is early morning or late afternoon. These times help you avoid the crowds and offer unobscured views of the falls. Plus, the soft morning or evening light enhances the waterfall's beauty. Just remember to check sunset times to avoid traveling in the dark!

How Much Time Should I Spend at Dettifoss?

Most visitors spend between 1 and 3 hours at Dettifoss, with the average visit lasting around 2 hours. This gives you plenty of time to explore the surrounding area, soak in the breathtaking views, and capture stunning photos of Dettifoss Waterfall.

If you're feeling adventurous, there's also the opportunity to hike to nearby waterfalls. For those wanting to extend their visit, Dettifoss Guesthouse, located just north of the falls, offers comfortable accommodations for an overnight stay.

The Hike To Dettifoss

The Dettifoss Waterfall hike offers two routes: East side and West side. The East side hike is a shorter 400-meter (1,312 feet) trail but features rocky terrain, requiring careful footing.

On the West side, the hike is longer at 800 meters (2,625 feet), with flatter terrain that's easier to navigate. However, be prepared for muddy and slippery conditions due to the waterfall spray. The East side is perfect for those seeking a shorter, more direct hike, while the West side offers a gentler path with a bit more distance.

For those of you wondering how long is the hike to Detifoss Fall, the answer is that each way would take you round about 10 minutes to complete.

Where is Dettifoss Waterfall Located in Iceland?

Dettifoss Waterfall is located within Vatnajökull National Park in Northern Iceland. From Reykjavik to Dettifoss, it's about 520 kilometers (323 miles) and approximately 130 kilometers (81 miles) from Akureyri.

How To Get To Dettifoss Waterfall

To reach Dettifoss Waterfall, visitors have several transportation options, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Driving

If you are driving, then you can take one of two routes via the Ring Road from Akureyri. The road conditions on Route 862 (West Side) offer a paved road suitable for all vehicles, making it the most accessible option year-round. 

The hike from the parking area to the falls is a little longer, taking about 15 minutes. However, the west side has limited amenities, with only a basic pit toilet available. Route 864 (East Side) provides a different perspective of Dettifoss and is generally less crowded.

It features amenities like an information panel and a public toilet with running water, but the gravel road is only accessible in summer, with a tiny shorter, rockier hike of about 10 minutes.

Public Transport and Tours

Guided tours are ideal for those without a rental car, offering transportation and often a knowledgeable guide. These tours typically cover multiple attractions, including Dettifoss. However, they offer less flexibility in terms of timing and how long you can stay at the waterfall, as they follow a set schedule.

If you decide to opt for one of the many Dettifoss tours available and want to see some other interesting places along the way such as Godafoss, Myvatn, and more than we recommend you take the 9.5 hours long mini bus tour with Imagine Iceland Travel. This tour offers a great overview of the area and includes all transportation, entry fees, and guidance.

What to Expect When Visiting Dettifoss for the First Time

Visiting Dettifoss for the first time is an awe-inspiring experience you'll never forget. The sheer power of Europe's most powerful waterfall, combined with the stunning Icelandic landscapes, will leave you breathless. Whether you're hiking along its rugged trails or soaking in the views, Dettifoss promises an unforgettable adventure.

To really make the most of your trip, consider renting a campervan in Iceland. Since there is so much to see and do in the area, a campervan would really come in handy since it offers flexibility and convenience. You can also save on accommodation costs by camping overnight at one of the many nearby campsites around Dettifoss. Don't miss out on this ultimate experience!