Iceland is known for its dramatic landscapes—towering volcanoes, black sand beaches, and glaciers stretching as far as the eye can see. But even in a country filled with natural wonders, Sigöldugljúfur Canyon stands out as something truly special. Often referred to as the “Valley of Tears”, this breathtaking canyon remains a hidden treasure, largely untouched by the heavy tourist crowds that visit Iceland’s more famous sites.
Sigöldugljúfur is located in Iceland’s Highlands, a remote and rugged region known for its otherworldly landscapes. Unlike the more well-known Gullfoss or Skógafoss waterfalls, this canyon isn’t a single waterfall—it’s an entire waterfall paradise. Dozens of delicate streams tumble down its moss-covered cliffs, creating an enchanting display of water, rock, and greenery.
The canyon’s beauty is enhanced by its vivid colors. The river that carves through it, fed by glacial melt, is an almost unreal shade of blue, contrasting sharply with the lush green moss and earthy tones of the cliffs. This blend of colors, along with the gentle mist rising from the waterfalls, makes it feel as if you’ve stepped into a dream.
Like much of Iceland’s landscape, Sigöldugljúfur was shaped by the powerful forces of volcanic activity and glacial erosion. The canyon itself was once part of a glacial river valley, but when Iceland began harnessing hydroelectric power, the flow of water changed, leaving behind this breathtaking series of waterfalls.
Though human intervention altered the landscape, it also unintentionally revealed one of Iceland’s most spectacular hidden wonders. Today, the canyon remains a testament to the raw power of nature, a place where the elements have sculpted something truly extraordinary.
Part of what keeps Sigöldugljúfur so untouched is its remote location. Unlike Iceland’s famous tourist stops along the Golden Circle, getting to this canyon requires a bit of effort. Located near the Sigalda Power Plant in the Highlands, it can be reached via F-roads, which are unpaved and often only accessible by 4×4 vehicles during the summer months.
For those who make the journey, the reward is an experience far removed from the crowds of places like Seljalandsfoss or Thingvellir National Park. Here, you can walk along the canyon’s edge in peaceful solitude, listening only to the sound of rushing water and the occasional call of birds soaring overhead.
For photographers and nature lovers, Sigöldugljúfur Canyon is nothing short of paradise. The combination of waterfalls, mossy cliffs, and striking blue waters creates a perfectly balanced composition, no matter where you look. Whether capturing the early morning light as it filters through the mist or the vibrant greens of summer, every shot feels like a piece of art.
The canyon also changes with the seasons. In summer, it’s a lush oasis of green and blue, while in autumn, the moss takes on golden hues. Even in winter, when snowfall blankets the landscape, it becomes a frozen wonderland, with icicles forming along the canyon walls.
Why Sigöldugljúfur Remains a Hidden Treasure
Despite its beauty, Sigöldugljúfur remains one of Iceland’s lesser-known destinations. Unlike the country’s most famous sites, there are no large parking lots, visitor centers, or marked trails leading straight to the viewpoint. This lack of development has preserved its untamed and mystical charm, making it a perfect escape for adventurers seeking Iceland’s true wilderness.
For those who long to explore Iceland beyond the usual tourist stops, Sigöldugljúfur is a must-see. It’s a place where nature still reigns supreme, where waterfalls flow freely, and where the silence is broken only by the sounds of the wild.
A Final Thought: The Magic of Iceland’s Hidden Canyons
Iceland is full of famous landmarks, but sometimes, the most unforgettable places are the ones not yet overrun by tourism. Sigöldugljúfur Canyon is a reminder that Iceland’s true magic lies off the beaten path, waiting to be discovered by those willing to seek it out.
Would you add this stunning canyon to your Iceland adventure?
