Sigöldugljúfur

About Sigöldugljúfur

Sigöldugljúfur is a short canyon on the southern edge of Iceland's Central Highlands, just off mountain road F208 near the Sigalda hydroelectric station, on the way to Landmannalaugar. It is often called the Valley of Tears because dozens of small waterfalls stream down its green, moss-covered walls into the turquoise river below. It lies roughly 167 km from Reykjavík.

The canyon is compact, so the appeal is the density of falls in one view rather than a long hike. From the viewpoint at the canyon edge you look along both walls, with the thin cascades set against the dark volcanic slopes around Sigalda. Photographers usually prefer overcast days or soft evening light, when the contrast between the moss, the water and the grey highland terrain is easiest to capture.

To get there, take Route 26 past the Hrauneyjar area and turn south onto F208 towards Landmannalaugar. About 3 km past the power station, over a small hill, is a parking area on the right with room for about ten vehicles; this is the only place to park. From there a marked trail of about 1 km leads to the viewpoint in roughly 15 minutes over uneven but easy ground. There are no toilets or other facilities at the site.

F208 is an F-road, so a 4x4 vehicle is required by law, and the road is only open in summer, usually from about mid-June to mid-September depending on snow and ground conditions. Check the current opening status and weather before driving, and carry water and warm, waterproof layers. The canyon combines easily with a day at Landmannalaugar, roughly 20 to 25 km further along F208, and guided Landmannalaugar day tours from Reykjavík sometimes stop here.