Hengifoss is one of Iceland's tallest waterfalls, plunging 128 metres in the hills above Lake Lagarfljót in East Iceland. It is instantly recognisable for the striped cliff behind it, where bands of red clay are layered between dark basalt — a record of ancient volcanic eruptions and the soils that formed between them.
Reaching the falls takes a roughly 2.5 km uphill hike of about an hour from the car park. Along the way you pass Litlanesfoss (also called Stuðlabergsfoss), a smaller waterfall ringed by remarkable hexagonal basalt columns. Sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended year-round.