Hjálparfoss Tours

Located at the confluence of the Þjórsá and Fossá rivers, Hjálparfoss waterfall cascades over a 31-foot (10-meter) basalt cliff. The lava-strewn landscape that surrounds the waterfall is courtesy of the nearby Hekla volcano, one of Iceland’s most active volcanoes. During the warmer months, spot Icelandic horses grazing in the surrounding grasslands.

The Basics
If you’re a pop culture fan, book a Game of Thrones tour that stops at filming locations such as Þórufoss waterfall and Þingvellir National Park, as well as other south Iceland landmarks such as Hjálparfoss. The waterfall is also a staple of Super Jeep tours of the Icelandic highlands, which typically include time to take a dip in geothermal pools, walk across the lava fields of Hekla volcano, and marvel at Ljótipollur, a turquoise lake created by a volcanic explosion.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Hjálparfoss is accessible with any vehicle, though a 4x4 is advised during the winter.
• This waterfall is a hidden gem, so chances are you’ll only share the scene with a few people or have it completely to yourself.
• There’s a parking lot near the waterfall with a view. For a closer look, follow the path down to the base of the falls.

How to Get There
Hjálparfoss is located in Thjórsádalur Valley, about 76 miles (122 kilometers) from Reykjavík and 19 miles (30 kilometers) from the Secret Lagoon. Despite being situated in the Icelandic highlands, the falls, which are down a gravel road off Route 30, are relatively easy to access. If you don’t want the hassle of navigating Iceland’s roads, opt for a tour that includes round-trip transport.

When to Get There
During springtime, the landscape surrounding Hjálparfoss blooms with purple nootka and Alaskan lupine. Pack a picnic and visit the falls during lunchtime before snapping some photos and exploring the grasslands.

What to Do Near Hjálparfoss
As well as attracting fewer crowds than other Iceland landmarks, Hjálparfoss is close to some of the Golden Circle’s top attractions—Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir hot spring area, and Þingvellir National Park to name a few. Outside of the circle, Iceland’s highlands boast an abundance of waterfalls, including Þjófafoss and Háifoss—one of the tallest waterfalls in the country.