Mulagljufur Canyon Iceland – A Hidden Paradise for Nature Lovers
                     Guide to 
Mulagljufur 
Canyon: A hidden 
Ag neewm sp oitn o nS thoe turatvehler trail in 
Iceland, Mulagljufur Canyon 
deserves its status as a rising star 
along the Ring Road. Here’s 
everything you need to know about 
visiting the Canyon!
Websit www.firefly.
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About the 
CMúlagaljúfunr Canyyon,o a lesnser-known treasure in South Iceland, is gaining popularity as a premier hiking destination. Carved by the 
Fjaðrá River, the canyon is distinguished by its craggy black rock 
formations enveloped in lush green moss, adding a vibrant contrast to 
the stark landscape. The canyon features two majestic waterfalls, 
Hangandifoss and Mulafoss, which cascade from the charcoal cliffs, 
creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle.
The canyon’s proximity to natural wonders enhances its appeal. Not far 
from the canyon, you can explore renowned glacier lagoons like 
Fjallsárlón and Jökulsárlón, providing a comprehensive experience of 
Iceland’s unique geological features. These lagoons are known for their 
stunning blue waters and floating icebergs, making them a must-visit 
for anyone exploring the region .
Furthermore, Múlagljúfur is close to Skaftafell National Park, offering a 
gateway to more of Iceland’s rugged beauty, including additional 
hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking views .
This combination of dramatic waterfalls, proximity to glacier lagoons, 
and national parks makes Múlagljúfur Canyon not just a hiking spot but 
a full-fledged nature retrat, ideal for those looking to immerse 
themselves in Iceland’s natural splendor.
Where is Múlagljúfur 
cThae Mnuylagoljunfur? Canyon is nestled among the rugged landscapes of South Iceland. Situated just 
a few kilometers from the famous Ring Road (Route 1).
How to get to Mulagljufur 
Gceatting yto oMunla?gljufur Canyon isn’t difficult, but you’ll likely need a rental car! A higher chassis 
4×4 SUV is your best bet as you’ll need to navigate a short, gravel road for part of the journey.
Head south out of Reykjavik along the Ring Road (Route 1), following it in a counterclockwise 
direction. It takes just under five hours of driving to reach the gravel road along Route 1. Follow 
it for a few kilometers until you reach the parking lot.
These coordinates (63.9886667; -16.3971589) will help you find the gravel road because there 
isn’t any signage. You’ll see trail markers after you park, simply follow these and they’ll lead 
you down the trail to Mulagljufur Canyon.
How long is the hike to Mulagljufur Canyon? Is it 
Tdhei ffihike ctou múlltag?ljúfur Canyon is just under 5 miles and takes about 40 minutes to an hour one way and anywhere from 1.5 to 2 hOovuerrsa lrlo tuhned ttrreipk. through the canyon is considered moderate with about 1,200 feet of elevation gain.
The path through Múlagljúfur is less frequented compared to other popular hikes in Iceland, offering a more secluded and 
intimate experience with nature. Unlike well-trodden paths, the trail here is sporadically marked with stakes, many of which are 
worn down or minimally visible, necessitating good navigational skills or a reliable GPS to stay on track .
The terrain includes narrow pathways, overgrown bushes, and sections filled with loose rocks and stones. After rain, these 
sections can become particularly slick and muddy, adding to the challenge. Importantly, the hike involves river crossing 
Ttwhoe  sfitrrseta cmross.sing involves a small creek, easily stepped over, while the second crossing can become a bit more 
challenging, especially when swollen with rain or glacier melt. This second stream requires careful navigation to ensure 
Osavfeertay. ll, while the hike to Múlagljúfur Canyon is moderately demanding, it is immensely rewarding. Hikers are advised to 
wear sturdy boots and prepare for varying weather conditions. The natural beauty, coupled with the physical demands of 
the hike, makes it a memorable part of any Iceland adventure.
How long do you 
spend at Mulagljufur What is the best 
Canyon? time to visit?
Plan for at least three hours to hike The best time to visit Mulagljufur 
the entire trail and explore around 
Canyon is in the summer months, 
the beautiful waterfalls. You’ll want 
extra time to take pictures! from May to September. Although 
it’s technically accessible year 
round, the road to get to the 
parking area is treacherous in 
winter and the hiking trail can 
become difficult to find, buried 
A hiking map to Hangandifoss Waterfall in Mulagljufur beneath snow and ice. 
Canyon
What weather and road 
conditions are possibly 
encountered?
The road to Múlagljúfur Canyon is uneven and mostly 
made of gravel. It’s hard to find because there are no 
signs pointing to it from the highway.
In winter, the road can become very difficult to travel 
on. It might be blocked by snow and ice, or it could be 
flooded from nearby streams filled with melting snow. 
This makes it tough to visit the canyon during winter.
However, summer is a much better time to visit. The 
roads are easier to drive on, especially with a 4×4 
vehicle, which is recommended because of the rough 
terrain. The weather is also warmer in summer, 
making the trip more comfortable. Plus, there are 
more hours of daylight, giving you plenty of time to 
hike and explore the beautiful views of the canyon.
Safe travel tips for visiting 
Mulagljufur Canyon
Here are a few quick tips for making sure you stay safe 
while visiting Mulagljufur Canyon!
Choose the right 
cYoaur’.ll need a 4×4 vehicle to safely access Mulagljufur Canyon. The gravel 
road to reach it is uneven and you’ll want a higher chassis to avoid 
Crishkiencg ka nryo daadm.aigse .and vedur.is before 
hCheeackd rionagd  aonud tw.eather conditions before making your way to 
Mulagljufur Canyon. Snow and ice can make roads difficult to navigate in 
the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. Similarly winter weather can 
make the trail difficult to find and slippery.
Follow trail markers 
Cchloecske rloyad and weather conditions before making your way to Mulagljufur 
Canyon. Snow and ice can make roads difficult to navigate in the shoulder 
seasons of spring and fall. Similarly winter weather can make the trail 
difficult to find and slippery.
Be careful near cliff 
eThdegree asre.  dangerous cliff edges at Mulagljufur Canyon. Watch your footing 
when taking pictures of the beautiful canyon and waterfalls below.
Wear appropriate clothing and 
sWheoare asp!propriate clothing for your hike to Mulagljufur Canyon! That means 
multiple layers. Even in summer, Iceland can be colder than most expect.
Be sure to wear warm wool socks and sturdy hiking boots as well. The trail 
can be damp and muddy.
Is Mulagljufur Canyon 
worth it?
Yes, visiting Mulagljufur
 Canyon is absolutely worth 
it! Considering how close it 
is to the Ring Road, this is 
one landscape you can’t 
miss if you’re visiting 
Iceland in the summer 
months.
Contact 
UsTelephone
(+354) 522 00 22
Website
www.firefly.is
Email
[email protected]
Address
Flugvallarvegi 5, 101 Reykjavík 
Iceland