The majestic waterfall of Dettifoss in Iceland is the most forceful waterfall in Europe. Having a height of 44 m and a width of 100 m, Dettifoss is located on the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river flowing from the Vatnajökull glacier in Northeast Iceland. The average flow of water in Dettifoss is 193 cubic meters per second but during floods it can reach up to 600 m3/s. The immense force of its waters can be imagined by the trembling bedrock when it is stricken.

Jökulsá á Fjöllum is the glacier where Desttifoss lies and this glacier emerges from beneath Vatnajökull glacier and ultimately it runs into Öxarfjörður bay. The whole area is a protected area known as Vatnajökull National Park. Although this whole part of Iceland is filled with wonderful waterfalls yet Dettifoss exists in the middle of these unique series of waterfalls. Selfoss River is located about one km up of Dettifoss and Hafragilsfoss river is located two km down of Dettifoss.

The track towards Dettifoss waterfall is quite difficult as the road is really rough and muddy. From the west bank the view on the waterfall is obstructed by the amazing water sprays but on the eastern bank good track is available to reach the ideal viewpoints. However due care and diligence is required to travel on the banks as the mighty Dettifoss is biting them every time. Continually eating away at the river bank.  The milky water foams of Dettifoss witness the crumbling of the earth and carrying away sediment and minerals here.

A few meters away from Jökulsá, a splendid way leads towards a green dell called Fosshvammur. In this slippery area the grass and moss are constantly watered by the spray. But standing in Fosshvammur, Dettifoss can be viewed face to face with all its glory and strength. The area of Dettifoss, Selfoss and Hafragilsfoss on the east side of the river was declared a national monument in 1996.