About Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon
Jökulsárgljúfur is one of Iceland's largest and most impressive river-canyon systems. It follows the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river from the Dettifoss area north towards Ásbyrgi. The canyon landscape was shaped over thousands of years by the glacial river and enormous glacial outburst floods from Vatnajökull. Deep canyon walls, waterfalls, volcanic formations and extensive erosion features characterise the area. Jökulsárgljúfur forms part of Vatnajökull National Park and is one of Iceland's finest examples of a landscape shaped by water, ice and volcanic activity.
Geological feature
Large river canyon shaped by a glacial river and catastrophic floods
Geology
Jökulsárgljúfur was shaped by Jökulsá á Fjöllum together with enormous glacial outburst floods from Vatnajökull. Erosion cut deep canyons through lava layers and volcanic formations, exposing the complex geological history of the area.
Visit tips
The area is extensive, so it is best explored through individual destinations and hiking routes. Conditions outside summer can change quickly, so check weather and road conditions.