Stuðlagil canyon is a great experience for both travelers and residents alike. This private trip will take you to Stuðlagil and you will enter the canyon by foot and hiking to get close to this tresure that has been carved out by nature over thousands of years.
Our guide will also tell local stories and history of the places we visit.
Tour info
Discover the raw beauty of East Iceland on this private 5-hour tour to one of the country’s most unique natural wonders – Stuðlagil Canyon.
Our journey begins with pickup in either Seyðisfjörður or Egilsstaðir, followed by a scenic drive through the Eastfjords. As we travel, your local guide will share stories about the people, the landscape, and the powerful forces that have shaped this remote part of Iceland.
The first stop is at Rjúkandi, the tallest waterfall in East Iceland. This often-overlooked gem offers a short and pleasant walk with rewarding views – a perfect introduction to the region’s dramatic nature.
From there, we head deep into the Jökuldalur valley toward the eastern side of Stuðlagil. A 30-minute hike takes us to the heart of the canyon, where striking basalt columns tower over the glacier-fed Jökla river. When the water is clear, it takes on an otherworldly turquoise hue that contrasts beautifully with the dark volcanic rock.
For those who prefer a shorter walk or have limited mobility, there is also an option to view the canyon from the west side, where a staircase leads down to a viewing platform.
Formed in secrecy and only revealed after the construction of the Kárahnjúkar hydro-dam, Stuðlagil has quickly become one of Iceland’s most captivating hidden gems. This tour gives you front-row access to this geological wonder – with the intimacy and insight that only a private, guided experience can provide.
Whether you're a photographer, nature lover, or simply curious traveler, this tour offers a powerful glimpse into Iceland’s elemental forces and untouched beauty.
Operated as a private tour for 1–7 passengers.
Please note that the river takes on a grey-brown colour during overflow is most common from the beginning of August until October – but can occur at other times too
Take a look and see our terms and policies
For group requests contact us via the contact form or email
Whats´s included
✓ Private transportation
✓ Private local guide
✓ Bottled water
✓ Pickup and drop-off at selected locations
What to bring
✓ Warm layers and clothes suitable for changing weather
✓ Comfortable walking shoes — no open-toed footwear, please
✓ Your phone or camera for photos
✓ Your sense of adventure
Tag us in your photos: #easthighlanders
Disclaimer
Guests participate in all tours at their own responsibility. East Highlanders is not responsible for accidents, injuries or losses resulting from guests’ own actions, negligence or failure to follow safety instructions provided by the guide.
Pickup and drop-off
Departure details
Traveler pickup is offered in Seyðisfjörður and Egilsstaðir, including Seyðisfjörður harbour, Egilsstaðir Airport and selected accommodation in both areas.
This is a private tour. Your driver-guide will meet you at the agreed pickup location.
For cruise passengers arriving in Seyðisfjörður, pickup is planned around the ship schedule. Please provide your cruise ship name.
For other pickup points, please contact us before booking.
Return details
Returns to the original departure point in Seyðisfjörður or Egilsstaðir.
What to expect
Duratition: 5 hours
Difficulty level: easy
Departure: upon request
Language: English, Icelandic