Oxararfoss Waterfall | Thingvellir

Information

Landmark: Oxararfoss Waterfall
City: Thingvellir
Country: Iceland
Continent: Europe

Oxararfoss Waterfall, Thingvellir, Iceland, Europe

Oxararfoss Waterfall is a cascade located within Thingvellir National Park in southwestern Iceland. The waterfall flows from the River Öxará over the Almannagjá Gorge.

Visual Characteristics

The waterfall descends approximately 13 meters over a series of dark basalt rock formations. The water is typically clear, originating from the Öxará River. Surrounding the falls, the gorge walls are composed of ancient volcanic rock, often covered with moss and sparse vegetation, particularly during warmer months. Ice formations are common during winter.

Location & Access Logistics

Oxararfoss Waterfall is situated within Thingvellir National Park, approximately 49 kilometers northeast of Reykjavík via Route 36. Access is primarily by foot from two main parking areas. The closest parking lot, P1, is located off Route 361, approximately 0.5 kilometers from the waterfall via a marked trail. An alternative, longer walk originates from the P2 parking area near the Thingvellir Visitor Centre. There is no direct public transport to the waterfall itself; visitors typically arrive by car or as part of organized tour buses that stop at the park's main facilities.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The waterfall's formation is linked to the geological activity of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which runs through Thingvellir. The Almannagjá gorge, over which the waterfall flows, is a visible rift valley formed by the separation of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The Öxará River was historically diverted in the 9th or 10th century to flow into the gorge, potentially to provide water for the Althing, the ancient Icelandic parliament.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can walk along a designated path within the Almannagjá gorge to reach the base of the waterfall. Photography is a primary activity, with viewpoints available from the trail. During winter, the waterfall often freezes, offering ice formations.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the main Thingvellir Visitor Centre (P2 parking area), approximately 1.5 kilometers from the waterfall. There are no direct restrooms or shade structures at the waterfall itself. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available throughout Thingvellir National Park. Food vendors and a café are located at the Thingvellir Visitor Centre.

Best Time to Visit

The waterfall is accessible year-round. For photography, late morning to early afternoon provides optimal lighting on the falls. The summer months (June to August) offer the mildest weather and full accessibility, though visitor numbers are higher. Winter visits (November to March) provide a unique experience with ice formations, but paths can be slippery. There are no specific high/low tide requirements as it is an inland waterfall.

Facts & Legends

Local folklore suggests that the Öxará River turns to wine on New Year's Eve. Historically, the pool at the base of the waterfall was used for executions during the time of the Althing, particularly for women accused of infanticide, who were drowned in the "Drowning Pool" (Drekkingarhylur) further downstream in the river.