Rjúkandi Waterfall
About Rjúkandi Waterfall
Rjúkandi Waterfall drops down the side of Jökuldalur valley in East Iceland, and you can see it from the Ring Road as you drive past. It is one of the easiest waterfall stops between Egilsstaðir and Mývatn, with a short trail that takes you right to the bottom of the falls.
The stream falls about 93 meters in total, in tiers rather than one clean drop, with the two main steps measuring roughly 60 and 33 meters. Its name comes from the Icelandic verb rjúka, to smoke or blow, after the spray that drifts off the water on windy days.
Rjúkandi is right on Route 1, about 49 kilometers west of Egilsstaðir, which takes around 45 minutes by car. A small parking area sits beside the road near the bridge over the stream. From there, a trail of under 1 kilometer leads up to the base of the falls, so allow 20 to 30 minutes for the round trip.
The path is easy but rocky and steep in places, and it can be slippery after rain, so wear proper shoes. There is no fee and no facilities, so plan food and restrooms in Egilsstaðir. Stuðlagil canyon is in the same valley, so the two fit easily into one drive through Jökuldalur.
Good to know
Where is Rjúkandi Waterfall?
It is in Jökuldalur valley in East Iceland, right beside Route 1 about 49 kilometers west of Egilsstaðir. The drive takes around 45 minutes.
How tall is Rjúkandi Waterfall?
It falls about 93 meters in total over several tiers. The two main drops are roughly 60 and 33 meters.
How long is the walk to Rjúkandi Waterfall?
The trail from the roadside parking area is under 1 kilometer each way. Allow 20 to 30 minutes for the round trip.
Is it free to visit Rjúkandi?
Yes. There is no entry or parking fee, but there are also no restrooms or other facilities.
What does Rjúkandi mean?
The name comes from the Icelandic verb rjúka, meaning to smoke or blow, after the spray that rises from the falls.
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