Ófærufoss, Double cascade waterfall in Eldgjá canyon, Iceland
Ófærufoss is a double cascade waterfall located within Eldgjá canyon, one of the world's largest volcanic canyons. The water drops in two separate tiers through dark volcanic rock, creating a striking sight in this remote landscape.
The area was shaped by volcanic activity in the Eldgjá fissure, which formed thousands of years ago. A natural stone arch that once stood above the second cascade collapsed in the early 1990s due to erosion.
The name Ófærufoss comes from Icelandic and means 'impassable waterfall', reflecting how hard it is to reach this place. Visitors notice how the water crashes through dark volcanic walls, giving the location a remote and rugged character.
You need a four-wheel drive vehicle to reach this place, and the best time to visit is between July and September when highland roads are open. The journey is demanding and weather can change quickly, so wear sturdy footwear and bring warm layers.
The water flows through the Eldgjá fissure, a deep crack that stretches across the highland landscape and connects two major glaciers. Most visitors focus on the falls themselves and miss that they are walking through a rare geological feature that spans a massive distance.
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