Sigöldugljúfur
Sigöldugljúfur Canyon, the 'Valley of Tears,' captivates with countless waterfalls cascading down mossy walls into turquoise waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Easier access, good light
Sigöldugljúfur
Best Time
Easier access, good light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sigöldugljúfur Canyon, the 'Valley of Tears,' captivates with countless waterfalls cascading down mossy walls into turquoise waters.
"This canyon was my favorite place of the weekend. The sound of flowing water is so relaxing."
🚗 4x4 is Key
Don't risk your rental! A 4x4 is essential for the bumpy final stretch to Sigöldugljúfur .
🚶♀️ Hike if Needed
If your vehicle isn't 4x4, park before the rough road and enjoy a scenic hike .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Valley of Tears
Sigöldugljúfur Canyon
Countless small waterfalls cascade down lush green walls, creating a breathtaking spectacle. The sheer number of falls is astounding .
Turquoise Waters & Greenery
Sigöldugljúfur Canyon
The vibrant turquoise water against the stark black cliffs and vivid green moss is a visual feast unlike any other .
Serene Highland Drive
Road to Sigöldugljúfur
The journey through the Icelandic Highlands itself is an adventure, with dramatic landscapes unfolding at every turn .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Highland Access & Vehicle Choice
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 4x4 is Key
Don't risk your rental! A 4x4 is essential for the bumpy final stretch to Sigöldugljúfur.
🚶♀️ Hike if Needed
If your vehicle isn't 4x4, park before the rough road and enjoy a scenic hike.
☀️ Golden Hour Magic
Late afternoon sun can illuminate the falls beautifully, making it the best time for photos.
🗺️ Check Location
The Google Maps pin can be slightly off; aim for 1km upstream from the suggested point.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 4x4 is Key
Don't risk your rental! A 4x4 is essential for the bumpy final stretch to Sigöldugljúfur.
🚶♀️ Hike if Needed
If your vehicle isn't 4x4, park before the rough road and enjoy a scenic hike.
☀️ Golden Hour Magic
Late afternoon sun can illuminate the falls beautifully, making it the best time for photos.
🗺️ Check Location
The Google Maps pin can be slightly off; aim for 1km upstream from the suggested point.
🌬️ Be Prepared for Wind
The canyon area can be quite windy, so dress in layers and secure your belongings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sigöldugljúfur as an unbelievable and favorite spot in Iceland, highlighting its unique beauty with countless waterfalls and vibrant colors. The serene atmosphere and lack of crowds are major draws, though the challenging Highland drive requires a 4x4 and can be bumpy.
"One of the best place in Iceland in my opinion
In winter the road is closed but you can park just before the closed sign and walk as I did
You'll probably be alone like me if you come in winter
It was around 6-7km roundtrip so it's not so long
Try to follow the roads if you can see it under the snow
You should have 4G connection
In summer there can be more people of course but it's way easier to get access"
Kustom
"Unbelievable. The drive out here is gorgeous, the last bit turns into a 4x4 road before you get to a parking area for the canyon, you can drive right up to it, but I recommend the parking area across from the field, it's such a cool terrain to walk though. We dropped by on our way to lamdmannalsuger, I think it was my favorite place we stopped during our whole trip. If you're not into driving an hour on uneven ground and having the pee shaken out of you, I recommend turning around after the canyon, it's well worth the trip."
Miriam Smith
"Very beautiful canyon, short walk from the parking (easy walk). The area is pretty windy."
Tal Neumann
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sigöldugljúfur is located in the Icelandic Highlands. The drive involves rough, bumpy roads, and a 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended for the final approach. If you don't have a 4x4, you may need to park and hike the last section.
The journey can take about 2.5 hours of driving on uneven ground from outside the main Ring Road.
In winter, the road is typically closed. Visitors can park before the closure sign and hike to the canyon, which is about 6-7 km roundtrip. This offers a unique, solitary experience.
A 4x4 vehicle is highly advised for the rough terrain leading to Sigöldugljúfur. A standard car like a Toyota CHR might be suitable for nearby Haifoss in good weather, but not recommended for this canyon.
The drive time can vary significantly depending on your starting point and road conditions. It's often described as about an hour on uneven ground from a certain point, or 2.5 hours from outside the main road.
The Google Maps location might not be perfectly accurate. Some visitors suggest aiming for a point about 1 km upstream from the suggested pin for the best access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no entrance fees for Sigöldugljúfur Canyon. It's a natural attraction in the Icelandic Highlands, and access is free.
Sigöldugljúfur Canyon is a natural landscape and is accessible year-round. However, road conditions, especially in winter, will dictate physical access.
No, tickets are not required for Sigöldugljúfur Canyon as it is a natural, undeveloped site. You can visit spontaneously, but always check road conditions beforehand.
Yes, with a suitable 4x4 vehicle, you can often drive very close to the canyon. There's a parking area available, and some reviews suggest you can drive right up to it.
Compared to more popular Icelandic attractions, Sigöldugljúfur is generally not crowded, especially outside of peak summer hours or during winter visits.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
Late afternoon is often recommended for photography, as the sun can shine on the falls, creating beautiful lighting conditions. Drone shots can also capture the stunning scale and turquoise waters.
The canyon's beauty lies in its numerous small waterfalls cascading down vibrant green moss-covered walls, with striking turquoise water flowing below. It's often called the 'Valley of Tears' due to the abundance of falls.
Drone footage showcases the canyon's unique beauty, with shots highlighting the turquoise water and the sheer number of waterfalls.
The terrain is rugged and unique, with a mix of volcanic rock and lush vegetation. Walking through it is part of the experience, even from the parking area.
Yes, there are countless small waterfalls. The exact number is unknown and they can change frequently, contributing to its nickname, the 'Valley of Tears'.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
If you can drive close to the canyon, the walk from the parking area is short and easy. If you have to park further away due to road conditions or winter closures, the hike can be around 6-7 km roundtrip.
The short, easy walk from the parking area makes it manageable for families. However, the rough drive to get there and the windy conditions might be challenging for very young children.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots suitable for uneven terrain. Layers are recommended as the weather in the Highlands can change quickly, and it can be windy.
Some visitors have reported having 4G connection in the area, which can be useful for navigation or sharing your experience.
The sound of flowing water from the numerous waterfalls is described as very relaxing and is a significant part of the tranquil atmosphere of the canyon.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Adventure & Off-Road Enthusiasts
The final approach to the canyon often involves a challenging but rewarding dirt road. The reward is reaching a less-visited, stunning natural wonder that feels truly remote and wild. The unique landscape and the satisfaction of reaching such a secluded spot make it a favorite for adventure seekers.📸 Photographers & Content Creators
The 'Valley of Tears' nickname perfectly captures the essence of the scene. Visiting in the late afternoon can provide ideal lighting conditions for capturing the falls. Remember to be patient, as the ever-changing number of falls offers endless photographic possibilities.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology and Formation of Sigöldugljúfur
A notable aspect of its recent history is the diversion of water for a hydroelectric station, which altered the surrounding landscape and contributed to the unique appearance of the canyon with its numerous falls.The canyon itself is characterized by steep walls covered in vibrant green moss, from which countless small waterfalls emerge. These springs and seeps create a constant, gentle flow of water, giving the canyon its evocative name. The water is often a striking turquoise color, contrasting dramatically with the dark volcanic rock and lush greenery.
The sheer abundance and delicate nature of these falls are what truly captivate visitors, making it feel like a hidden gem within the vast Icelandic Highlands.Visiting Sigöldugljúfur offers a chance to witness a unique geological phenomenon. The drive through the Highlands to reach the canyon is an experience in itself, showcasing Iceland's raw and untamed beauty. It's a place where the power of water and the resilience of nature are on full display, offering a serene and awe-inspiring encounter with the Icelandic landscape.
+1Navigating the Icelandic Highlands
Many visitors combine a trip to Sigöldugljúfur with other Highland destinations like Landmannalaugar, which is located northeast of the canyon.
The drive itself is often described as bumpy and can feel like a significant undertaking, with some travelers noting it takes about an hour on uneven ground to reach the final approach.For those without a 4x4, parking at designated points and hiking the remaining distance is a viable option. This allows you to experience the surrounding Highland scenery on foot and still reach the canyon. Always ensure you have adequate supplies, a reliable navigation system (and potentially a physical map), and inform someone of your travel plans, as cell service can be spotty in remote areas.
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