It’s no secret that Iceland is home to some of the most incredible natural landscapes on the planet, attracting over two million visitors every year. And while popular sites like the Golden Circle and the Blue Lagoon draw massive crowds, lesser-known hidden gems like Múlagljúfur Canyon are just as worthy of a spot on your Iceland bucket list.
About Múlagljúfur Canyon
Múlagljúfur Canyon is a lesser-known location on Iceland’s southern coast, with towering cliffs and moss-covered walls. this gorge was carved by powerful glacial waters that can be seen flowing over the canyon walls in the form of waterfalls like Hangandifoss and Múlafoss.
It really does look and feel like discovering an untouched, hidden oasis. It is a favorite among local hikers, with a few trails to explore that vary in difficulty and length. Although the area is still relatively unknown by tourists, with views like you will see at Múlagljúfur Canyon, the location won’t stay hidden for long.
Where is Múlagljúfur Canyon?
Múlagljúfur Canyon is located off Iceland’s Ring Road, making it easy to access for those exploring the South Coast in Iceland. It’s between the towns of Vik and Hofn, either of which makes a great place to stay the night.
It’s also nearby to many popular Icelandic attractions, such as the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and its famous Diamond Beach. Skaftafell National Park is less than an hour drive away, which is home to the Vatnajökull glacier, one of the biggest glaciers in Europe. It’s a very popular place for hiking, camping and sightseeing.
The Location Map of Múlagljúfur Canyon
How to Get to Múlagljúfur Canyon
The best way to reach Múlagljúfur Canyon is by driving yourself. It’s actually one of the only practical ways to get there as it’s not a very popular tourist destination yet, and therefore, there are limited tour options available. Additionally, renting a car enables you to visit other Iceland attractions in the area, and create a customized itinerary based on your group’s preferences.
Renting a car is highly recommended, and for this route, a 4×4 SUV is ideal. The final stretch includes a gravel road that can be rough and uneven, especially after rainy weather, so a vehicle with high clearance will make the journey smoother and safer.
To reach the canyon, head southeast out of Reykjavik on Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1) and follow it east until you see the turnoff near Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon. The gravel road here isn’t marked with large signs, so using GPS or Google Maps is highly recommended.
You will need to enter the coordinates 63.988824, -16.395735 to locate the road. After turning off, follow the gravel road for a short distance until you reach the designated parking lot. Here, you’ll find the start of the hiking trail that leads to Múlagljúfur Canyon.
From the parking area, the trail to the canyon begins as a clearly marked path but can get a bit challenging as you move closer to the gorge. You use apps like AllTrails, where you can download the trail map so you don’t get lost.
There are actually a few different canyon hikes you can do — a shorter and a longer one, depending on how close you want to get. Regardless, you will find some incredible viewpoints overlooking the canyon and its waterfalls. The hike is a moderate one, with some steep sections and loose gravel, so sturdy hiking boots are essential.
How Long is the Hike? Is it Difficult?
Depending on how far you go, the hike to Múlagljúfur Canyon is about 6km (4 miles) out and back. This takes between 2 and 2.5 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop to take in the views.
While it’s not overly long, the trail does have some tricky areas, with narrow paths and steep drops, so it’s best suited for hikers who are comfortable on uneven terrain. That said, there is a shorter version that will take you to the first viewpoint, which is less than 4km (2.5 miles), and takes between 1.5 to 2 hours.
The hike is classified as moderate due to the elevation changes and rocky paths. However, with the right preparation, including good hiking boots and layers for Iceland’s unpredictable weather, it’s a manageable and rewarding trail.
How Long Should You Spend at Múlagljúfur Canyon?
The time you should spend at Múlagljúfur Canyon will depend on how far you choose to hike. If you decide to stop at the first vantage point, then you should give yourself around 2 hours. However, if you want to get up close to the Múlafoss waterfall, then leave at least 3 hours just so you have some buffer time.
What is the Best Time to Visit?
Although Múlagljúfur Canyon is accessible year-round, the best time to visit is between May and September. These summer months in Iceland offer more stable weather, with longer daylight hours, milder temperatures, and reduced risk of slippery trails or challenging road conditions. Visiting in summer also gives you the chance to experience the lush, green moss that covers the canyon walls, which is one of the most magical parts of this location.
What Weather and Road Conditions to Expect
Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s very important that you check the forecast each morning before you start driving. Summer has milder temperatures, but you may still encounter rain, fog, or strong winds. Always check road and weather updates, which provide current information on road closures, weather alerts, and general travel conditions.
Safe Travel Tips for Visiting Múlagljúfur Canyon
To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Múlagljúfur Canyon, keep these travel tips in mind:
- Make sure that you choose the right rental car. Iceland’s rugged terrain and gravel roads can be challenging, so renting a 4×4 vehicle is the best choice, especially for reaching off-the-beaten-path locations like Múlagljúfur Canyon.
- Stay up-to-date on road conditions. Checking road.is before you set out can save you from any surprises since road conditions can change quickly, especially in Iceland’s more remote areas.
- Check weather forecasts daily. Iceland’s weather can shift suddenly, so stay informed by consulting vedur.is as this is the most reliable source for Iceland weather. High winds, rain, or fog can impact visibility and trail conditions, so be prepared for anything.
- Bring the proper gear with you. Hiking boots with good traction, waterproof clothing, and layers are essential for Iceland’s unpredictable weather. Even in summer, temperatures can vary greatly, and weather conditions can shift quickly.
- Give yourself extra time in case of unexpected delays. There is a good chance you will end up wanting to spend more time in the canyon since it’s so beautiful, and it’s easy to lose track of time while you’re exploring around.
Is Múlagljúfur Canyon Worth It?
Múlagljúfur Canyon is definitely worth visiting, especially in the summer. It’s a destination that is still relatively untouched, which offers the chance to experience Iceland’s raw beauty away from busier tourist hotspots. With its towering Iceland waterfalls, secluded trails, and incredible views, the canyon is an unforgettable stop along the south coast. Although it requires a bit of hiking and careful planning to reach, it’s definitely with the effort.
Final Thoughts on Múlagljúfur Canyon
Múlagljúfur Canyon is an escape into Iceland’s wilderness, with views and experiences that are truly one-of-a-kind. For visitors exploring the south coast the canyon is a great stop to take a break from the Ring Road and experience something unique that many tourists miss. When planning your trip, book your rental car online with Hertz Iceland. With reliable transportation and this guide in hand, you will be all set to make Múlagljúfur Canyon one of the most memorable stops on your Icelandic adventure.
