Literally translated, Jokulsargljufur means glacial-river-canyon and it is aptly named for Iceland’s longest river canyon at 25 kilometers (16 mi). This great canyon makes up the largest portion of Jokulsargljufur National Park.
Jokulsargljufur makes up the northeastern region of Vatnajokull National Park and there are several must-see nature sites in this area including Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall and Asbyrgi, the remarkable horseshoe shaped canyon which Viking settlers believed to be a hoof-print formed by Sleipnir, Odin’s flying horse from Norse mythology.
Jokulsargljufur literally transcribes as Glacial-River-Canyon. This canyon is 25 km long, 500 m wide and in many places 100-120 m deep, making it one of the deepest and most breath-taking canyons in Iceland. Jokulsargljufur is also known for its series of waterfalls: Selfoss, Dettifoss, Hafragilsfoss and Rettarfoss.
Jokulsarsgljufur National Park Visitors Center
The park’s visitor center is located in Asbyrgi. A fairly large and developed campground can also be found in Asbyrgi. A more primitive campground is located in Vesturdalur, which is midway between Dettifoss and Asbyrgi.
Asbyrgi can be visited any time of the year, although services may be limited during winter. Dettifoss and Vesturdalur are located at higher altitudes and therefore subject to snow cover and road conditions.
Check out our complete guide to travelling in North Iceland.
