Hike to a waterfall through the national park where continents drift apart

In Þingvellir National Park you can experience the impressive Almannagjá fissure, created by the drifting apart of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Hike along the path through the gorge and let yourself be captivated by the dramatic backdrop of the fault escarpments. On this short but intense hike you’ll also discover the imposing Öxarárfoss waterfall, a popular photo spot with an unusual history: its water was artificially diverted over the rocks here and offers a spectacular sight.

The hike starts at the national park visitor centre. The trail is well signposted and leads directly through the Almannagjá fissure to the Öxarárfoss waterfall. The route is easy and suitable for a leisurely walk of around 1.5 to 2 hours, especially if you stop at all the sights along the way. In winter the paths can be icy, so suitable shoes or ice cleats are advisable. The tour offers deep insights into the geological forces that shape Iceland and is particularly pleasant to explore in summer.