4 WD
Hiking
Photography
What and Why?
Rauðufossar is a hidden gem and one of the most special waterfalls we have seen in Iceland. The iron-rich bedrock gives the 18-metre high waterfall its characteristic orange-red colour. The veil-shaped waterfall is apparently not very well known, but we highly recommend a visit.
Where is it?
Rauðufossar is located in the highlands west of Landmannalaugar, approximately halfway along the F 225 road.
64.0202533, -19.3397034
How to get there?
As the route to Rauðufossar leads along the F225, it is only possible to get there by 4WD. However, the route is not too difficult and can be travelled in a regular SUV. We made the journey from the west, as well as from the east, in a standard 2015 Suzuki Jimny.
From the west
If you turn north of Frostastaðavatn from the F208 onto the F225, you drive 16.4 kilometres westwards and come to a ford. This is normally not very deep, but it is always worth checking it out on foot! 750m after this ford, turn left onto a road (not indicated on Google Maps, therefore see the Map below) that leads to the car park, which is the starting point for the 30-minute hike to Rauðufossar waterfall.
From the east
If you turn off the road 26 onto the F225, you drive 24km eastwards until you come back to the road mentioned above, which leads to the car park. We didn’t have to cross any fords on this stretch.
When to go?
The roads in the highlands are normally open during the summer months from June to early September.
However, opening times may vary depending on conditions. You can find out about the current situation on the following pages:
Who can visit?
The visit is suitable for everyone for whom an easy hike is no problem.