A Guide to Visiting Dynjandi Waterfall in Westfjords
Here's everything you should know before visiting Dynjandi Waterfall in Iceland's Westfjords. Our Dynjandi travel guide includes tips on how to get there, what to expect, and when to go.
Local people who live in one of the most remote parts of Westfjords often say that Dynjandi is the most beautiful waterfall in Iceland.
Although we think this statement might be a bit biased, nothing changes the fact that Dynjandi is one of the best stops on your Westfjords itinerary.
After our trip to the northwest corner of Iceland, we can confirm that Dynjandi is absolutely stunning.
But having seen tens of beautiful waterfalls during our two-week road trip around Iceland, we do not dare to compare them anymore. One thing is sure.
Visiting Dynjandi was very high on our list as the series of waterfalls resembling a bridal veil was super-photogenic and a welcoming stop on a long day we spent in the car.
Facts
Dynjandi is 100 meters high, it is 30 meters wide at the top, and as the water plunges into the pool at its base, the waterfall widens.
Therefore, it's around 60 meters wide at the bottom. But that's not all.
As we've already mentioned, Dynjandi is actually a series of waterfalls, so the area is quite different from the falls we've already seen in Iceland, such as Seljalandsfoss, Kirkjufellsfoss, or Dettifoss.
It means the water takes a bit more challenging approach and overcomes another six cascades before reaching the bottom of the valley.
Therefore, the whole waterfall is much higher. In total, it's approximately 200 meters high, making Dynjandi the biggest waterfall in Westfjords.
Dynjandi literally means thunderous because of the sound one can hear when standing close to it.
Dynjandi also has another name, Fjallfoss, which means Mountain Waterfall.
Regardless of the meaning of the name, Dynjandi is one of the top attractions a traveler must visit in Westfjords.
Why Visit Dynjandi Waterfall
Even though we believe that everyone who happens to be in Westfjords includes this waterfall in the itinerary, the great news is that Dynjandi is not overcrowded.
Why is that?
The explanation is very simple, only one-tenth of all visitors to Iceland make it to this area.
So even despite the fact that Dynjandi is one of the best waterfalls in Iceland, you can enjoy this natural sight without crowds.
If you prefer to visit less-traveled places, this might be one more reason to include Westfjords in your Iceland itinerary.
Had Dynjandi been closer to the famous Ring Road, it would have been one of the most visited sites in the country, that's for sure.
This travel guide aims to show you the beauty of Dynjandi. Hopefully, you will find the practical information on how to visit Dynjandi Waterfall helpful as well.
Visiting Dynjandi Waterfall
The second day of our trip around Westfjords was supposed to be very scenic.
We knew that it was going to be a long day on the road, but the breathtaking nature everywhere around us made everything easier.
One of the must-visit places in Westfjords we wanted to see was Dynjandi Waterfall.
We traveled from Patreksfjordur, so we did not get the views until the very last moment.
On the other hand, we drove across the Dynjandisa River and unknowingly drove around the mouth of the waterfall.
The views of the bay were stunning from the top of the cliff, and we quickly descended to the Dynjandi parking lot.
And yes, our information was correct. The scenery was absolutely breathtaking.
Parking
There is free parking at Dynjandi Waterfall.
Entrance Fee
There is no entrance fee to Dynjandi Waterfall. So just leave your car in the parking lot, and you are ready to go.
Dynjandi Walking Trail
The path to the Dynjandi Waterfall is well-maintained and clearly visible. In order to reach the main attraction in this place, it is necessary to climb up around a series of waterfalls.
Thanks to it, the walk itself is quite entertaining, even though it leads uphill all the time, for approximately 15 minutes.
Yes, while the hike is somewhat steep, it is fairly short, and any moderately fit person should be able to reach Dynjandi without too much effort.
Gradually, you will climb along Haestahjallafoss, Strompgljufrafoss, Gongumannafoss, Hrisvadsfoss-Kvislarfoss, Hundafoss, and Baejarfoss, which will keep you entertained until you reach Dynjandi.
These smaller falls create a charming cascade that makes the climb much easier.
It does not matter that you can see the falls the entire time you're climbing up.
It is simply spectacular when you get to the base of the waterfall.
In fact, it's much better to have an opportunity to be so close as you can really feel its power.
The closer you get, the more spray you can feel on your face and body. Don't get too excited and keep a safe distance to stay safe, though.
Once you are finished admiring Dynjandi, it is time to go back.
This time you'll be facing the fjord, and as you're in Iceland, there's no shortage of breathtaking views.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
How to Get to Dynjandi
Dynjandi lies on Road 60 between Patreksfjordur and Isafjordur, the biggest town in Westfjords.
Even though the road is far from deserted during the summer, it is not fully paved.
So even though the surroundings are super-photogenic, always pay attention when driving.
Car or Campervan
The best way to get to Dynjandi is by rental car or campervan.
The drive from Patreksfjordur to the waterfall, when you get the first glimpse of Arnarfjordur Fjord and later of the cascade itself, is worth remembering.
Your car will provide you with the flexibility to stop wherever it's possible and safe.
If you travel Westfjords in the opposite direction, you will see Dynjandi in the distance across the fjord.
It is not necessary to have 4WD to get to Dynjandi Waterfall in the summer. We drove around Westfjords in our 2WD campervan, and everything was ok.
We even visited the westernmost point of Iceland, Latrabjarg Cliffs, the day before.
If you travel closer to the shoulder season, you will likely need a 4WD car.
By the way, getting to Dynjandi from Reykjavik by car will take you at least six hours without stops.
In case you do not have a car, there are two options on how to visit Dynjandi.
Public Transport
Unlike so many attractions in Iceland, you can get to Dynjandi Waterfall by bus.
Yes, it is possible to hop on a bus connecting the major towns and villages in Westfjords.
And what is more important, it stops for approximately thirty minutes at the Dynjandi parking lot, which gives you enough time for a quick visit.
It is only good to know it does not run every day, and it must be prebooked outside the summer season.
Tours
If you don't want to drive in the Westfjords, you can take a Westfjords Tour from Isafjordur including Dynjandi Waterfall.
In case you don't want to drive at all, this 12-Day Iceland Grand Tour visits Westfjords and Dynjandi.
Where to Stay When Visiting Dynjandi
Dynjandi waterfall is kind of in the middle of nowhere, so there is no accommodation nearby.
On the other hand, it is just off Road 60, so it is easy to get from here to a town nearby and find a hotel.
Remember that in the high season, many hotels might be booked out.
So it is important to plan your itinerary and all the stops well in advance and figure out where to spend a night before or after visiting Dynjandi.
On the day of visiting Dynjandi, we started early in the morning in Patreksfjordur and continued via Isafjordur all the way to Budardalur.
We've handpicked all the small towns along the way from where it is possible to reach Dynjandi in a day.
Budardalur | The Castle - This cozy guesthouse can be your getaway to Westfjords. Some of the rooms face the beach, and it is also a great place to spot the Northern Lights.
Patreksfjordur | Fosshotel Westfjords - Amazing location overlooking the fjord, modern rooms, great staff, and perfect services that are expected from this chain, Fosshotel Westfjords is a top pick in Patreksfjordur.
Isafjordur | Hotel Isafjordur - This well-equipped hotel stands right in the heart of the town and features clean rooms, good WiFi, and a delicious breakfast.
Holmavik | Gistihus Holmavikur - This comfortable guesthouse in Holmavik offers great value for the price, and you can enjoy sitting on a terrace overlooking the sea.
What to Pack
When visiting Iceland, you'll need clothes for all types of weather. As the Dynjandi parking lot is close to the waterfall, do not overpack.
Regardless of the weather conditions, we recommend wearing a rain jacket against the spray coming off the waterfall.
On an exceptionally warm and sunny day, at least bring a windbreaker to stay warm against the ubiquitous fierce wind.
A waterproof dry bag to keep your valuables safe is also a good idea.
If you plan on taking photos with your mirrorless camera, be quick, and have your photo cleaning kit ready.
Enthusiast photographers might consider bringing a tripod and circular polarizer filter.
It is enough to wear sneakers unless it rains.
In that case, it is much better to wear sturdy hiking boots to keep your feet nice and warm.
For more information, read our guide on what to pack for Iceland.
How Much Time Do I Need for Dynjandi
If we assume you park your car, walk swiftly along the cascades to Dynjandi Waterfall, snap a few photos, and return to your vehicle, you would need approximately thirty minutes for the whole visit.
But that's a bare minimum.
And we believe you want to enjoy the most beautiful waterfall in Westfjords at a much more leisurely pace.
Therefore, we believe you should allow yourself at least an hour for Dynjandi Waterfall.
It's an optimal amount of time to soak up the views and fill up your camera with photos of the waterfall from different angles.
And it is an hour well spent.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
