Blue Falls Adventure
Mason O'Donnell
| 08-07-2026
· Travel TeamBrúarfoss Waterfall is located in southwest Iceland, about 90 km (56 miles) from Reykjavík, just off the famous Golden Circle route.
Surrounded by peaceful countryside and fed by crystal-clear glacial water, this hidden waterfall is famous for its striking blue color.
Whether we are planning a quick stop or a relaxing hike, this guide covers everything we need to know, including entrance fees, parking, transportation, opening hours, nearby accommodation, dining options, the best time to visit, and helpful travel tips for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Brúarfoss
Entrance Fees and Parking Costs
There is no entrance ticket required to visit Brúarfoss, since it is a natural outdoor site.
However, parking is usually paid:
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- Close parking area: around $5–$6 per car
- Payment is typically done through a parking machine or mobile system
- Trail parking (slightly farther away): may be free at times, depending on management updates
There are no extra hiking fees, so the main cost is only parking if we choose the short access route.
Opening Hours and Access Conditions
Brúarfoss has no fixed opening or closing hours.
- Open all year
- Accessible 24 hours a day
However, practical access depends on:
- Daylight hours
- Weather conditions
- Road safety, especially in colder months
For a comfortable visit, daytime travel is always the best choice.
How We Get There (Transport Guide)
Most visitors reach Brúarfoss by car as part of the Golden Circle route.
Approximate driving times:
- Reykjavík: about 1.5 hours
- Geysir area: around 12–15 minutes
- Gullfoss: about 20 minutes
- Þingvellir National Park: around 40 minutes
Transport options:
Self-drive
- Most flexible choice
- Car rental usually costs around $60–$120 per day, depending on vehicle type
- Easy to combine with other nearby stops
Guided tours
- Full-day tours often include Golden Circle highlights
- Average price: $70–$150 per person
There is no direct public bus service to the waterfall.
Walking Routes and Time Needed
There are two main ways to reach Brúarfoss:
Short walk (closest parking):
- 5–10 minutes walking
- Total visit: about 30–45 minutes
Long trail route:
- Around 7 km round trip
- Takes about 1.5–2.5 hours
- Includes two smaller waterfalls along the way
The path is mostly flat but can become muddy after rain, so stable footwear is important.
Best Time to Visit
Each season offers a slightly different experience:
Summer
- Long daylight hours
- Easier walking conditions
- Clear and bright water colors
Spring and Autumn
- Fewer visitors
- Soft natural lighting
- Some wet or muddy sections
Winter
- Snow scenery possible
- Short daylight hours
- Slippery areas in some sections
Best daily timing is early morning or late afternoon for softer light and quieter paths.
Nearby Accommodation Options
There are no hotels directly at Brúarfoss, but several nearby areas work well:
Laugarvatn area (closest)
- Guesthouses: around $120–$220 per night
- Small hotels: about $150–$300 per night
Selfoss town (larger selection)
- Hotels: around $130–$250 per night
- More services and dining options available
Reykjavík (main base for most travelers)
- Budget stays: about $90–$180 per night
- Mid-range hotels: around $150–$350 per night
Many visitors choose Reykjavík as a base and do Brúarfoss as a day trip.
Food Options and Typical Prices
There are no restaurants at the waterfall itself, so food is usually taken from nearby stops or towns.
Nearby dining options along the Golden Circle route:
- Light meals: $10–$20
- Soups or sandwiches: $12–$18
- Coffee and snacks: $4–$8
- Full meals in towns: $20–$45 per person
It is useful to bring water and a small snack, especially if taking the longer walking route.
Helpful Tips for a Smooth Visit
To make the trip more comfortable, we can keep these simple points in mind:
- Wear shoes with good grip for muddy or uneven paths
- Check weather before starting the walk
- Bring a light jacket, as conditions can change quickly
- Stay on marked paths to protect the natural environment
- Allow extra time if combining with other Golden Circle stops
- Parking payment may require a mobile app or machine
Final Thoughts for Lykkers
Brúarfoss is not a large or heavily built attraction, but its bright blue water and peaceful walking route make it a memorable stop in southwest Iceland. With flexible access options and no entry ticket, it fits easily into most travel plans.
So Lykkers, would we prefer a quick short visit or a longer river walk with extra scenery along the way? Either choice offers a calm moment in a busy travel day.
How to find BRUARFOSS waterfall | Hiking in Iceland
Video by Iceland with a View