Mjóifjörður and Klifbrekkufossar - a group of buildings by a body of water with snow covered mountains in the background
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Mjóifjörður and Klifbrekkufossar

4.8
·229 reviews·Fjordhur, Iceland

A series of seven stunning waterfalls cascading down a remote East Iceland fjord, offering a truly magical and serene escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Fewer crowds, better road conditions

CrowdLow
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Mjóifjörður and Klifbrekkufossar - a group of buildings by a body of water with snow covered mountains in the background

Mjóifjörður and Klifbrekkufossar

Best Time

Summer mornings

Fewer crowds, better road conditions

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A series of seven stunning waterfalls cascading down a remote East Iceland fjord, offering a truly magical and serene escape.

4.8
(229 reviews)

"It was absolutely breathtaking and looked a bit somehow like Rivendell from The Lord of the Rings."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 AWD Recommended

While not always essential in summer, AWD or 4x4 provides peace of mind on the steep, gravel road .

💧 Be Prepared to Get Wet

Hiking near the base might involve crossing streams; waterproof gear is a good idea .

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Klifbrekkufossar Waterfalls

Klifbrekkufossar Waterfalls

Mjóifjörður Fjord

A breathtaking series of seven cascading waterfalls, offering a truly magical and serene experience.

Scenic Fjord Drive

Scenic Fjord Drive

Mjóifjörður

The winding gravel road down into the fjord provides stunning panoramic views, making the journey as memorable as the destination.

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Planning Your Visit

Road Conditions & Vehicle Choice

The gravel road to Klifbrekkufossar can be steep and winding, especially the descent into Mjóifjörður. While AWD is recommended, many visitors report success in summer with careful driving. Check road.is for current conditions, especially outside of summer months, as winter can make it impassable.InstagramReddit

Embrace the Serenity

This is an underrated gem, often visited by few. Arriving when you can have the place to yourself allows for a truly immersive experience of its natural beauty and the profound silence of the Eastfjords.InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better road conditions
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light on falls
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Day 2 of our Iceland road trip 💚 #iceland #thingstodoiniceland #icelandtravel #icelandtravelguide #fyp #creatorsearchinsights
@kandktravel
108.5K likes • 725.7K views

🚗 AWD Recommended

While not always essential in summer, AWD or 4x4 provides peace of mind on the steep, gravel road.InstagramReddit

💧 Be Prepared to Get Wet

Hiking near the base might involve crossing streams; waterproof gear is a good idea.Reddit

Ultimate list perfect for your Iceland Trip #iceland #travel #bucketlist #worldtravel #passionpassport #beautifuldestinations #icelandadvice #visiticeland
@kyanasue
101.5K likes • 1.9M views
Oh Iceland 🥹 In Mjóifjörður, East Iceland, you’ll find this spectacular site 📍 Klifbrekkufossar waterfalls are no less than 7 waterfalls in 1! 🤩 In addition, from the falls you have the most stunning view over the fjord 🌟 It’s priceless and completely underrated! ❤️🇮🇸 Just be prepared for some pretty sharp turns down the steep gravel road to get there 🚙🙈 I highly recommend adding this gem to...
thenordicexplorer
33 likes • 754 views

📸 Drone Friendly

Capture unique aerial perspectives of the falls and fjord, but fly responsibly.Reddit

🗺️ Check Road Conditions

Always check road.is before heading out, especially outside of peak summer.Reddit

✨ hidden waterfall in Iceland 🤫 💌 SAVE & SHARE 📌 Klifbrekku Waterfall, Iceland Tucked away in Iceland’s remote Eastfjords, Klifbrekkufossar is a true hidden gem, a multi-tiered cascade that looks straight out of a fairytale! ✨💦 🚗 Getting here: 👉situated in Mjóifjörður, one of the most scenic and remote fjords in eastern Iceland 👉can only be accessed during the summer season, June to September...
herwanderingpassport
383 likes • 20K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 AWD Recommended

While not always essential in summer, AWD or 4x4 provides peace of mind on the steep, gravel road.InstagramReddit

💧 Be Prepared to Get Wet

Hiking near the base might involve crossing streams; waterproof gear is a good idea.Reddit

📸 Drone Friendly

Capture unique aerial perspectives of the falls and fjord, but fly responsibly.Reddit

🗺️ Check Road Conditions

Always check road.is before heading out, especially outside of peak summer.Reddit

🤫 Seek Solitude

Arrive early or late to experience the profound quiet and have the falls to yourself.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(229 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the breathtaking beauty and serene atmosphere of Klifbrekkufossar, often calling it an underrated gem. The drive into the Mjóifjörður fjord is also a highlight, offering spectacular views. However, the gravel road requires careful driving and can be challenging for inexperienced drivers, especially outside of summer.

"This place is exactly as described. Be advised that the road to them is not so easy, you have to be careful. It is approx. 20km of gravel road, but well maintained. We were alone at the premises which really allowed to experience the calmness and power. You have to go through water and springs to climb the waterfall, but it is worth it!"

Zoran Kascelan

"It's q gravel road not for a newbie driver. In summer you don't need 4x4, the road is well-maintained, no stones or debris on it. Just drive carefully. The views are unforgetable! There are few wild parking lots nearby, they provide different view. If you hike up, be carefull not to loose the trail, it's not marked at all. Take your drone with you."

Alexandra Dejanovic

"Nice drive out there! Be sure you got AWD.
It was really nice to continue driving this road along the fjord!"

עופר נוימן

What People Like

Spectacular multi-tiered waterfalls
Underrated and serene location
Breathtaking fjord drive

What People Dislike

Challenging gravel road

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Klifbrekkufossar is located in the Mjóifjörður fjord in East Iceland. The access road (road 953) is a steep, winding gravel road. While many visitors manage with a standard car in summer, AWD or 4x4 is recommended for added safety and comfort, especially if conditions are less than ideal.InstagramReddit

No, the road is often impassable during winter due to snow and ice. It's crucial to check road.is for current conditions before your visit, particularly if traveling outside of the summer months.InstagramReddit

While some visitors have driven it in regular cars during summer with caution, an AWD or 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended for the steep, gravel, and sometimes uneven terrain.InstagramReddit

The drive from the main Ring Road into Mjóifjörður and to the waterfalls can take approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on road conditions and your driving speed. The drive itself is scenic.Instagram

No, there are no services available along the gravel road into Mjóifjörður. Ensure you have enough fuel and any necessary supplies before you begin the drive.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Klifbrekkufossar is a natural attraction and there is no entrance fee. You can visit and enjoy the waterfalls and the fjord scenery free of charge.Instagram

Klifbrekkufossar is accessible whenever the road is open and safe to travel. There are no set opening or closing hours, as it is an outdoor natural site.

No booking is required. As it's a natural attraction with no entry fee, you can visit spontaneously, though checking road conditions is advised.Reddit

The access road is gravel and can be uneven. While you can view the falls from near the roadside, hiking closer or to the base may be challenging for those with mobility issues.Instagram

Visiting in winter is generally not recommended due to road closures and hazardous conditions. The road is often impassable and lacks winter service.InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The most spectacular views of all seven waterfalls are often seen from the roadside as you descend into the fjord. Various wild parking spots offer different vantage points.InstagramReddit

Yes, a drone can capture incredible aerial perspectives of the cascading falls and the dramatic fjord landscape, offering unique shots not possible from the ground.Reddit

Late afternoon during the 'golden hour' can provide beautiful lighting on the waterfalls and fjord. However, any time of day offers stunning views, and even a rainbow can appear, enhancing the magic.InstagramReddit

Look for opportunities to capture the full series of seven falls in one frame. The drive itself offers many scenic photo stops along the fjord.Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grandeur of the falls and fjord. A sturdy tripod can be useful for longer exposures, especially if there's mist or low light.Instagram

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

Yes, it's possible to hike closer to or to the base of the falls. Be aware that trails are not always marked, and you may need to navigate over rocks and through water.Reddit

Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the drive, the various viewpoints of the waterfalls, and perhaps a short hike. Some visitors spend longer soaking in the atmosphere.Reddit

The best experience often comes from having the place to yourself, allowing you to appreciate the silence and power of nature. Driving down the fjord and stopping at different points offers varied perspectives.InstagramReddit

No, there are no facilities such as restrooms or visitor centers at Klifbrekkufossar. It's a remote natural site, so be prepared and plan accordingly.

Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes or boots. Layers are recommended, and waterproof outer layers are essential, as the weather in Iceland can change rapidly.TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Klifbrekkufossar offers a sense of wonder for families, though the journey requires careful planning. The drive down the gravel road into Mjóifjörður needs attentive driving, especially with younger children. Ensure children are securely seated and entertained during the scenic, albeit bumpy, ride.Instagram

Once at the falls, the sheer spectacle of seven waterfalls can captivate young imaginations. While a full hike to the base might be challenging for very young children, there are accessible viewpoints near the road where they can safely marvel at the cascades. Pack snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities. Waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes are a must, as the area can be damp and the ground uneven.TikTok

🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts

For those on an Iceland road trip, Klifbrekkufossar and the drive into Mjóifjörður are a highlight, especially for those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.Instagram The gravel road is part of the adventure, offering a taste of Iceland's more rugged terrain. An AWD or 4x4 vehicle is recommended to fully enjoy the drive and access potential viewpoints with confidence.InstagramReddit

This destination is perfect for travelers looking to escape the crowds and discover truly underrated natural beauty. The drive itself is a significant part of the appeal, with stunning fjord vistas. Plan to spend ample time exploring the various pull-offs and viewpoints along the road, and consider bringing a drone for unparalleled aerial shots of the falls and the fjord.Reddit

📸 Photographers & Drone Pilots

Klifbrekkufossar is a photographer's paradise, offering unique compositions with its series of seven waterfalls cascading down a steep fjord.Instagram+1 The dramatic landscape of Mjóifjörður provides a stunning backdrop, and the drive itself is filled with scenic opportunities. Wide-angle lenses are ideal for capturing the grandeur of the falls and the fjord.Reddit

Drone pilots will find this location particularly rewarding, with the potential for breathtaking aerial shots that showcase the full scale of the waterfalls and their integration into the natural environment.Reddit Remember to fly responsibly and be aware of any local regulations. The changing light throughout the day, especially during golden hour, can create magical photographic moments, and even a rainbow can add an extraordinary element to your shots.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enchanting Drive into Mjóifjörður

The journey to Klifbrekkufossar is an adventure in itself. The road, often described as steep and winding, descends dramatically into the Mjóifjörður fjord. This gravel path, while requiring careful navigation, offers breathtaking panoramic views at every turn.Instagram+1 Many visitors highlight the scenic beauty of this drive, noting that it's a significant part of the overall experience. It's advisable to have an AWD or 4x4 vehicle for added confidence, especially if you're not an experienced gravel road driver, though many manage in summer with caution.InstagramReddit

As you wind your way down, the anticipation builds for the sight of Klifbrekkufossar. The road is not just a means to an end but a visual feast, showcasing the rugged, untouched beauty of East Iceland. Be prepared for sharp turns and varying road surfaces. Checking road conditions on road.is is paramount, particularly outside of the summer months, as the road can become impassable in winter.Reddit

Beyond the waterfalls, continuing along the fjord road offers further opportunities to appreciate the dramatic coastal landscape. This remote fjord is a testament to Iceland's wild and untamed nature, providing a sense of discovery and solitude that is increasingly rare in popular travel destinations.Instagram+1

Experiencing Klifbrekkufossar: A Sensory Journey

Klifbrekkufossar, meaning 'cliff-slope-waterfalls,' is a spectacular series of seven waterfalls cascading down a steep mountainside. The sheer scale and beauty of these falls, combined with the dramatic backdrop of the fjord, create an almost otherworldly atmosphere.Instagram+1 Visitors often describe the experience as deeply moving, with some comparing it to stepping into a fairytale or a scene from 'The Lord of the Rings'.Reddit The sound of the water, the fresh, crisp air, and the profound silence of the remote location combine to create a truly immersive natural encounter.

While the main viewpoints offer stunning vistas of the entire cascade, many visitors enjoy hiking closer to the base. This can involve navigating over rocks and through shallow streams, so waterproof footwear is highly recommended.Reddit The effort is rewarded with a more intimate experience of the waterfalls' power and beauty. The feeling of peace and awe that washes over visitors here is a recurring theme in reviews, highlighting its status as a place to 'feel' rather than just 'see'.Reddit

For photographers, Klifbrekkufossar presents a dream scenario. The multi-tiered falls offer dynamic compositions, and the surrounding landscape provides ample opportunities for capturing the grandeur of East Iceland. Bringing a drone can unlock unique perspectives, showcasing the full extent of the falls and their integration into the fjord.Reddit The chance of witnessing a rainbow framing the scene, as one visitor did, adds another layer of magic to this already captivating location.Reddit

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