Mulagljufur Canyon is a hidden gem in Iceland, tucked away in the south with stunning views of Hangandifoss and Múlafoss waterfalls. The hike to Mulagljufur offers breathtaking scenery, narrow paths, and overgrown bushes, making it an adventure worth embarking on.

• Location: Múlagljúfur is in Vatnajökull National Park, located just a short drive from the Ring Road (Route 1) between the towns of Vík and Höfn. It is about a 4.5 to 5-hour drive from Reykjavík.

• Access: The turnoff from the Ring Road is onto an unmarked gravel road, so using GPS coordinates is highly recommended (e.g., 63.9886667, -16.3971589). A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for the bumpy access road, as it involves crossing small streams and can be muddy or icy depending on the weather.

• Hiking: The primary activity is hiking along the canyon rim. The trail is considered moderate in difficulty, with some steep and potentially slippery sections.

  • Shorter Hike: A 1.5 to 2-hour round trip (approx. 4 km/2.5 miles) leads to the main viewpoint for Hangandifoss.

  • Longer Hike: A 2.5 to 3-hour round trip (approx. 6.5 km/4 miles) continues further up to Múlafoss and higher viewpoints.

• Facilities: There are no facilities (toilets, shops, etc.) at the canyon or the parking area, so visitors must plan accordingly. 

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Múlagljúfur Canyon is during the summer months, from June to September. During this period, the weather is milder, days are long, the moss is vibrant green, and the trails are in the best condition, making for a safer and more pleasant hiking experience. Visiting in winter is possible but can be challenging and unsafe due to snow, ice, and limited daylight.