Stuðlagil Canyon hike from Seyðisfjörður: Basalt columns

Hike into a canyon framed by towering basalt columns and turquoise water

A guided shore excursion from Seyðisfjörður to Stuðlagil Canyon in East Iceland, where you hike along the east side of the canyon to see basalt formations up close and stop at Rjúkandi Waterfall. The tour runs five hours with an English-speaking guide, air-conditioned transport and pickup included. It suits travelers with moderate fitness who want a structured half-day outing with professional commentary on the landscape and local life.

Step-by-step itinerary

Stuðlagil Canyon and Rjúkandi Waterfall

• Depart from Seyðisfjörður
• Travel through East Iceland countryside
• Stop at Rjúkandi Waterfall
• Take short walk at waterfall
• Continue to Stuðlagil Canyon
• Hike along east side of canyon
• View basalt columns and river
• Take photographs at canyon
• Return to bus
• Travel back to Seyðisfjörður

The experience

You leave Seyðisfjörður in an air-conditioned vehicle and travel through the countryside into Jökuldalur Valley. The first stop is Rjúkandi Waterfall, where a short walk brings you close to the cascading water and gives you time to photograph the falls before the group moves on to the canyon itself.

At Stuðlagil, you follow the hiking trail along the east side of the canyon. Tall basalt columns frame the river, creating one of East Iceland's most distinctive landscapes. The hike lets you see the formations up close and take photographs before walking back to the bus. Your local guide shares insights into the landscape and life in East Iceland throughout the journey, so you get context for what you're seeing rather than just the views themselves.

The whole outing takes five hours from pickup to return. Children from age five are welcome, and the group stays small enough that the guide can answer questions and adjust the pace if needed.

What’s included

• Air-conditioned vehicle with pickup from Seyðisfjörður.
• English-speaking local guide throughout the tour.
• access to Stuðlagil Canyon hiking trail and Rjúkandi Waterfall.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 10 Jun 2027

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (16 and older) · Child (6 to 15 years) · Infant (5 years): free · Under 5: can't be booked

GroupUp to 15

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.You can choose from 3 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Tanni Travel

Is this one for you?Book this tour if you have a few hours free during a port call or a day in Seyðisfjörður and want a structured outing with professional guidance. The moderate fitness requirement and five-hour timeframe suit travelers who are comfortable with steady walking and want to see the canyon with context rather than on their own.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (6 to 15 years); Infant (5 years): free. Children under 5 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What is Stuðlagil Canyon actually like when you get there?

Stuðlagil Canyon is defined by tall basalt columns that frame a river with turquoise water. You hike along the east side of the canyon to see the formations up close, with time to photograph them and take in the landscape before walking back to the bus.

How much walking is involved in this tour?

You walk a short distance to Rjúkandi Waterfall and then hike along the east side of Stuðlagil Canyon. The tour description notes it requires at least moderate physical fitness, so the terrain and distance are steady rather than casual.

Does the tour include a guide, and what language does he speak?

Yes, a live English-speaking guide leads the tour and shares insights into the landscape and life in East Iceland throughout the journey.

What's included in the price, and what do I need to bring?

The tour includes air-conditioned transport and the guide. Snacks and bottled water are not included, so bring your own if you want them during the five-hour outing.

Can I book this tour if I'm arriving by ship in Seyðisfjörður?

Yes, this is a shore excursion designed for cruise passengers. Pickup from Seyðisfjörður is included, and the five-hour duration fits inside a typical port call.