Fossabrekkur Waterfalls Travel Guide

The Fossabrekkur waterfalls are a scenic, hidden gem in South Iceland situated at the bottom of the Hekla volcano, where two rivers meet.

This epic 14-day self-drive tour of the complete Ring Road of Iceland and this unforgettable 7-day self-drive tour of West and South Iceland are itineraries with the flexibility for a detour to visit the Fossabrekkur waterfalls in South Iceland. They can also be seen by those who choose to rent a car during their trip to Iceland.

The Fossabrekkur waterfalls consist of many small falls. You'll find unique vegetation along the riverbank and streams lined with sand and volcanic ash. These lesser-known waterfalls remain almost untouched, creating a picturesque and serene landscape.

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Photo above from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Bromr.

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Facts About the Fossabrekkur Waterfalls

The Fossabrekkur waterfalls are located in South Iceland and are an off-the-beaten-track destination. Few tourists know about the falls, so you might be able to visit this tranquil attraction without anyone around.

Visit the waterfalls in the summer months, between June and August, because the road to get there is more difficult to pass during the winter months. If you're traveling to Landmannalaugar in the summer, the Fossabrekkur waterfalls are the perfect location to stop at before or after. 

The falls are at the base of one of the many volcanoes in Iceland, the Hekla volcano. Take your time to enjoy the beautiful natural landscape of creeks and rivers surrounded by lush green terrain.

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Getting to Fossabrekkur Waterfalls

After leaving Reykjavik, follow the Ring Road east for around 54 miles (87 kilometers). Turn left onto road 26, and head 29 miles (46 kilometers) northeast. The sign to Fossabrekkur is by Burfell mountain. 

The Fossabrekkur waterfalls are 32 miles (51 kilometers) from Hella and 47 miles (75 kilometers) from Selfoss. Travelers can base themselves in one of these scenic South Iceland towns and enjoy an easy day trip to the Fossabrekkur waterfalls.

What to see on a trip to Fossabrekkur Waterfalls

If you leave the Fossabrekkur waterfalls and want to continue the adventure, follow Landmannaleid or the F225. This highland road will take you to the Fjallabak nature reserve.

Keep following the F225 and then turn right onto the F208. Landmannalaugar is a region of rhyolite mountains where you'll find hot springs and many hiking trails. The Laugavegur hiking trail is one of Iceland's most famous multi-day treks, connecting Landmannalaugar with the Thorsmork nature reserve.

Other waterfalls in the area

There are many Icelandic waterfalls nearby which you could also visit. Haifoss waterfall is in the Fossardalur valley, approximately 19 miles (31 kilometers) from the Fossabrekkur waterfalls. Haifoss waterfall is the third-largest waterfall in Iceland. Due to the rough gravel road, you'll need a 4x4 vehicle to get there. 

You can visit another lovely waterfall that sits right next to Haifoss. Granni waterfall, which translates to "neighbor," is a spectacle with a massive spray where the water hits the rocks. On a clear day, you can expect to see rainbows in the mist. If you find the right angle, you should be able to photograph both waterfalls together.