Quick Facts
Accessibility: 10/10 (easy, you can see it without following any trail down to the river)
Height: 20′ / 6 m
Length of Hike: negligible
The Record
Ægissufoss (also known as Ægissíðufoss) is one of the tamer waterfalls in Iceland, but its quiet charm is exactly what makes it special. Located on the Ytri-Rangá river, just about 5 kilometers south of the town of Hella, it doesn’t have the thunderous roar of the massive glacial falls found elsewhere on the South Coast. Instead, it is a wide, graceful cascade that spans the entire river. What makes this spot truly iconic for photographers is the view on a clear day. The notorious Hekla volcano can often be seen in the background, providing a dramatic contrast to the gentle falls. It is also a renowned location for salmon fishing, featuring a visible salmon ladder that helps fish migrate upstream, adding a layer of local character you won’t find at more tourist-heavy stops.
Visiting the falls is a breeze and well worth the small detour from the Ring Road. If you are driving south on Road 25 (Þykkvabæjarvegur), the turnoff to the parking area is easy to find and only takes about 20 minutes of your time. The waterfall is accessible from both banks of the Ytri-Rangá. While most drivers approach via the gravel road to the main parking lot, there is a popular hiking trail that runs from the Hella campground directly down to the falls. It’s about an hour-long walk through fields and forests, which explains why you might see people appearing on the opposite side without a car in sight. Whether you hike or drive, the setting remains incredibly peaceful, often leaving you as the sole witness to the river’s steady flow.
Directions
- This waterfall is in the southern portion of the island, east of Reykjavík and west of other waterfalls, including the amazing Seljalandsfoss. As you’re driving along the Ring Road, turn onto Route 25 heading south.
- Drive for about 2 miles along Route 25. You’ll see a sign on your left for the “road” to the falls.
- Turn left onto this unpaved road, drive the few hundred feet to the end, where there’s a parking area.
- From the parking area, follow the sounds to the river. You’re only a few hundred feet from the falls, and a few different easy-to-identify trails lead down to the shore of the river.
Waterfall Record 
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