Visiting Dettifoss from the West Side or East Side?
Are you heading to Iceland and thinking of visiting Dettifoss? You are in the right place. The stunning Dettifoss watefalls can be visited from both the west side via Road 862 and the east side via Road 864. Below is a guide to Dettifoss based on my own recent travels to Iceland and the Ring Road. We will cover the differences between the west side and east side of Dettifoss as well as a guide to visiting Dettifoss and its surrounding attractions.
Why Visit Dettifoss Waterfalls in Iceland?
After a recent visit to Iceland, covering many a waterfall along the Ring Road, I can safely say Dettifoss in Northeast Iceland were perhaps the most memorable of all waterfalls, purely for the sheer power and water surge you will witness here.
Dettifoss is known as the most powerful waterfall in Europe. It stands surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of Jökulsárgljúfur canyon in Vatnajökull National Park.
The Dettifoss waterfalls have an average water flow of 193 cubic meters per second (6,816 cubic feet per second) – the strongest in Europe. This water plunges 44 meters (144 feet) into the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon which spanning a width of 100 meters (330 feet). Just the immensity and share scale of these falls, make it a natural spectacle worth visiting in Iceland!
Where is Dettifoss located?
Dettifoss is located in northeastern Iceland, within Vatnajökull National Park. It’s part of the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon, which is carved by the river Jökulsá á Fjöllum.
If you are traveling along the Ring Road of Iceland, from Reykjavik it is 6h 20 min by car or campervan. I would recommend a trip to Dettifoss as part of a multi day trip across Iceland, given its distance from the main international airport in Iceland.
Dettifoss is roughly halfway between the towns of Húsavík and Egilsstaðir and is often visited by those enroute the Golden and the Diamond Circle routes.
The Diamond circle is in fact considered the northern equivalent to the much more famous Golden Circle route, but is less typically a lot less crowded and provides a more rugged, off the beaten path experience.
How to get to Dettifoss from the West and East sides?
When it comes to visiting Dettifoss, there are in fact 2 routes through which it can be reached.
From the east side Dettifoss is reached via (Route 864) and from the west side Dettifoss is reached via (Route 862).
Is Visiting Dettifoss better from the West Side or East Side?
The east side and west side approach to Dettifoss each have their pros and cons.
Dettifoss from the West Side via Roud 862
The west side is the more commonly used of the two routes. It is popular among tourists due to its paved roads, better parking, and more developed paths to reach Dettifoss viewpoints.
You’ll also find the walk to the viewing areas much more easier than the east side, generally making it more tourist-friendly.
Road 862 Road Conditions for Dettifoss’ West Side
In my opinion the west side (Road 862) has better infrastructure, and is easier drive of the two. As Road 862 is a paved and not an F road. This means its accessible to all vehicles and is typically open for most parts of the year other than winter – when its best to check for road closure updates ahead of planning a trip to Dettifoss. Route 862 stays open longer into the year. Whichever season you are planning to visit, its best to check road closures in advance of driving to Dettifoss. I recommend checking the official Iceland Road closure updates here and well as on Googlemaps or Waze.
Dettifoss from the East side via Road 864
On the east side, the road is mostly gravel and a lot rougher, nonetheless this side has its own drawcard if you ask me – upon approach to the waterfalls you are rewarded with a closer and more dramatic view of Dettifoss, which is surreal and breathtaking. So if you prefer convenience and a more straightforward visit, the west side is better. However, if you’re up for a more rugged, adventurous experience, the east side might suit you.
Road 864 Road Conditions for Dettifoss’ East Side
The east approach via Road 864 on a gravel road, this can be more challenging, especially for smaller cars. Given that Route 864 is a gravel road, this road is not recommended for smaller cars or those uncomfortable with driving on gravel. Further, Route 864 is only open in summer months from June to September. As such, this route is not an option outside of the summer months most of the time.
Transport Options to get to Dettifoss?
As of 2024, there are no direct public transportation options to Dettifoss, so renting a car or campervan is the best way to get there. However there are some organized tours from Akureyri and Húsavík that include Dettifoss as part of their itineraries, so definitely worth looking into these if you don’t want to drive around Iceland to Dettifoss.
Hiking to the Dettifoss viewpoint – Is the east or west side better?
The hike to Dettifoss is much easier on the west side. The path is well-marked and only about a kilometer (0.6 miles) from the parking lot to the waterfall. It’s a straightforward walk that’s suitable for most people. On the east side, the hike is longer and the terrain is rougher, but the payoff is a more dramatic and up-close view of the waterfall. If you’re looking for an easier, family-friendly hike, the west side is better. But if you’re after a more rugged adventure, the east side offers a rewarding hike with fewer crowds and a closer view.
Parking at Dettifoss – Is the East or West side better?
Both the east and west sides of Dettifoss have parking lots and parking at both is free. I would say parking was not really a concern at Dettifoss unlike some of the other more well known waterfalls in Iceland such as Selfoss.(insert link), however the west side is definitely better equipped.
Further, the west side parking for Dettifoss lot is closer to the actual waterfall. There are also marked paths and viewing platforms, making it easy to navigate.
Parking on the east side of Dettifoss is more basic, and the walk to the falls is longer.
If you’re looking for convenience, or have mobility issues then the west side parking is preferable. However, if you’re up for a bit more adventure and don’t mind the rougher terrain, the east side definitely offers a better experience and view in my opinion!
Visiting Dettifoss – My Honest Experience
By the time we visited Dettifoss, we had been in Iceland a good few days and seen our fair share of waterfalls, including some of the more famous falls such as Gulfoss and Seljalandsfoss, however what made Dettifoss so memorable and why I think its so unique is the sheer strength and power of the falls on display.
The walk up the viewing area was itself stunning and we could hear the growing roar of the falls as we approached. We were lucky as the sun was out, allowing us to witness a rainbow over the waterfalls, caused by the intense water spray.
On the west side, there are several viewing platforms to move between and observe the falls and I recommend moving around to get the best shots. I can’t promise you will remain dry in all of them, we soon found the sheer force definitely sends up quite a lot of water if you’re on lower viewing platforms!
Overall, we stayed at the waterfalls for about 90 minutes which was enough time to get to the falls and wander across the different viewing platforms and get pictures.
Which is better, Dettifoss or Goðafoss?
With Iceland having so many waterfalls, its easy to start comparing and contrasting these. Dettifoss and Godafoss are very similar, nonetheless Dettifoss and Goðafoss are both worth seeing for their own charm, given they offer very different experiences. Dettifoss is known for its sheer power – it’s the most powerful waterfall in Europe, and standing near it feels like witnessing nature at its most raw and untamed. Goðafoss waterfall, on the other hand has a more relaxed and picturesque vibe, known for it horseshoe-shaped cascade. If you’re after raw, dramatic power, Dettifoss is the better choice. But if you’re looking for something a bit more serene and beautiful, Godafoss is my recommendation.
Is Dettifoss worth a visit?
Absolutely – 100%. I found the view of Dettifoss to be breathtaking and one of the most dramatic and surreal of Iceland’s natural highlights. The immense power of the waterfall is something you can’t quite grasp until you see it in person – the thundering sound, the spray, and the sheer force. To optimise your itinerary, I suggest combining a visit to Dettifoss with Selfoss and Hafragilsfoss both of which are nearby and worth a visit.
When is the best time to visit Dettifoss Waterfalls?
The best time to visit Dettifoss is typically in the summer or fringe months from June to September. This is because June to September is when Dettifoss is typically open to access from both the east and west sides. The west side Route 862 to Dettifoss is open from April to December typically given its a paved road.
However the east side route 864 is only open in summer months from June to September. If you are visiting outside out these summer months, the west wide route 862 to Dettifoss is your only option.
What is there to see and do near Dettifoss Waterfalls
With so many places to see around the Diamond route and Ring Road, a trip to Dettifoss can easily be combined with the some of the other popular attractions nearby.
Godafoss Waterfall
Godafoss waterfalls are located in north Iceland, a sort drive from Dettifoss. These are located along the main ring road by Sprengisandur highland road junction. They are also named the ‘Waterfall of the Gods’ for their alluring views. The waterfalls are about 12m (39 feet) high and 30m (98 feet wide), plunging in 4 different segments. The yare famous for their unique horseshoe shape.
Distance from Dettifoss: 145km (90miles), taking about 90 mins to 2 hours.
Hafragilsfoss Waterfall
Hafragilsfoss is a 27-meter (89 feet) high waterfall located south of Dettifoss. These are, set within the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon with I highly recommend visiting for its own worth! The dramatic landscapes and connects to the Northern Volcanic Zone in Iceland. Hafragilsfoss falls are smaller than Dettifoss, however the falls have a spectacular views from above, surrounded by steep cliffs and rugged terrain.
Distance from Dettifoss: 2km (1.2miles), taking about 5 mins by car, or a short 30 to 40 minute hike.
Selfoss Waterfall
Selfoss is located just upstream from Dettifoss and features a wide, semicircular waterfall about 10 meters (33 feet) high. The falls are famous for its multiple small cascades,and are more serene waterfalls compared to the thundering power of Dettifoss. The hike to Selfoss from Dettifoss is easy, and the east side provides particularly close and intimate views of the falls.
Distance from Dettifoss: 1km (0.6miles), taking about 5 mins by car, or a short 20 to 30 minute hike.
Lake Myvatn
Lake Myvatn is located close to DEttifoss and is known for its otherworldly landscape and geothermal activity. It is also home to the Myvatn Nature baths which we did not go to, but are toured as something similar to the Blue lagoon, but less crowded. The lake also has nearby, Dimmuborgir lava fields and a bubbling geothermal area which is fascinating and worth checking out.
Distance from Dettifoss: 66km (41miles), taking about 1 hours by car
If you have time, combining Selfoss and Hafragilsfoss with Dettifoss is entirely possible in a 1 day itinerary.
Tips for Visiting Dettifoss
- Check Road Conditions: We learnt this quickly on our campervan trip across Iceland. Even through we were traveling in summer, you will find that the weather can change very quickly in Iceland, sometime experiencing all seasons in a day. Therefore its best practise to check weather and road conditions and closures before setting off. This is , especially so in winter and early spring, as roads (especially Road 864) can be impassable due to snow.
- Plan to walk: To reach the viewing platforms for Dettifoss from both West side and east side require a walk/ hike to reach the falls. The west side has a shorter, easier trail, while the east side path is more rugged. I would recommend wearing some sturdy shoes for the rocky terrain.
- Make the most of this area by combining Dettifoss with Other Attractions: The best way to make the most of a road trip in northern Iceland visiting Dettifoss is to also visit the nearby waterfalls like Selfoss and Hafragilsfoss as part of your day or days of exploration. You can even hike between Selfoss and Dettifoss which takes about 30 mins or so, with the entire 2.5km loop taking about 1 hour there are back, not including time at the falls .
- Arrive Early or Late: Dettifoss can get busy during peak summer months from June to September, so if you’re looking to avoid larger crowds plan on arriving early in the morning or late in the evening. With the sun setting late as midnight in summer, evening are a great time to explore with fewer number of people!
- Be Prepared for Water Spray: You will get sprayed at plenty of waterfalls in Iceland, but given Dettifoss is the most powerful, it also generates a lot of mist and spray, especially when the wind shifts. Be prepared to get wet if you stand too close, to protect your camera gear.I recommend wearing water resistant layers with pockets to protect any phone and cameras. .
FAQs
What is the best road to Dettifoss?
The best road to Dettifoss depends on which side you plan to visit. If you’re headed to the west side, take Road 862, which is fully paved and easily accessible. This is the recommended route for most visitors, especially those driving regular cars or campervans. If you want to explore the east side, you’ll need to take Road 864, but keep in mind that it’s a gravel road and can be quite rough. Road 862 is open longer into the year, whereas Road 864 is typically closed during winter due to snow and difficult driving conditions.
What is the Ring Road in Iceland
Ring Road of Iceland, which is the name of the main road that circles the entire country and provide the perfect circular route on which to cover many amazing sites in Iceland, including Dettifoss
Are you heading to Iceland? Check out our other posts on Iceland here:
