Brúarfoss Waterfall – Iceland’s Bluest Waterfall & Hidden Gem

Location: South Iceland, along the Golden Circle, between Laugarvatn and Geysir
Distance from Reykjavík: About 90 to 100 kilometers or roughly 1 hour 30 minutes by car depending on route
Type: Glacial river waterfall known for its vivid blue water and photogenic setting

What Makes Brúarfoss Special

• The waterfall gets its blue color from water that begins in Langjökull glacier, travels through the Brúará River, and then cascades over volcanic rock near Brúrfoss

• The name Brúarfoss means “Bridge Falls” because there used to be a natural stone arch over the river. That was destroyed in 1602 during a famine to prevent people from crossing toward church‑owned lands

Access: Two Options

There are two main ways to visit Brúarfoss depending on how much time you have:

1. Quick Access from the New Parking Lot
   • Drive to the newer parking area near Hlauptunga, close to Hotel Efstidalur off Road 37 bruarfoss.is
   • Walk about 5 minutes along an easy, short trail to the waterfall from this lot
   • Parking fee is approximately 750 ISK for a standard car via the Parka app

2. Longer Hiking Trail from Older Parking
   • You can instead use a parking lot at the trailhead on Road 37 and hike about 4.4 miles (7 kilometers) round trip to reach Brúarfoss
   • Along this hike you will pass other falls like Hlauptungufoss and Miðfoss, plus scenic river views
   • This option is more time consuming and can be muddy in places depending on weather

Visitor Tips

• Bring sturdy, waterproof shoes especially in summer since paths can be muddy

• Have the Parka app on your phone so you can pay for parking (new lot is Pay‑by‑phone only)

• No facilities like restrooms, shops or cafés right at the parking area so plan ahead

• Summer gives you long daylight and easier trail conditions. Winter may also be beautiful, but expect snow, ice, and possibly harder walking