Nauthúsafoss Waterfall

Nauthúsafoss Waterfall: a waterfall in a gorge

Nauthúsafoss is a magnificent waterfall that lies at the end of the gorge of the same name. This lesser-known waterfall will reward you with its tranquil beauty and the authentic charm of Icelandic nature. Even if you don’t make it to the waterfall because of the depth of the river, the journey through the gorge is an experience in itself.

Journey through the Nauthúsagil Gorge

Hiking to Nauthúsafoss is not too strenuous and takes about 30-45 minutes walking from the car park. However, the terrain is slightly uneven and tends to be muddy and slippery on rainy days.

For the first 10 minutes you are still outside the gorge, around the river, and the road is dry. After that, you go between high rocks and the terrain gets worse.

Next 10 minutes will test your endurance and stamina. If you can hold on, you’ll reach the heart of the canyon, from where the journey gets more adventurous.

Here, your option of not getting your shoes wet ceases and it’s up to you whether you decide to continue or turn around. Unfortunately, we hadn’t counted on the high water, so we didn’t have any spare shoes. We therefore had to turn around, which was very unfortunate. Next time we will definitely prepare better for this place.

Keep in mind that you are walking along the river, so you are climbing on rocks protruding from the river. If the water is deeper, you go across the water. If you want to get to the waterfall, wear rubber boots or change shoes in the car.

When you go here from October to May, count on thousands of icicles that will accompany you all the way through the gorge.

How to get to Nauthúsafoss Waterfall?

Nauthúsafoss can be reached comfortably by car. Ideally, you can drive from nearby Seljalandsfoss, which takes about 15 minutes; from Reykjavík, you’re here in about 1.5 hours. Follow the main Ring Road, from which you turn off onto Route 32 after some time. This will take you to the car park at the entrance to the gorge.