Almannagja Gorge is one of Iceland’s most awe-inspiring geological sites, nestled in the heart of Thingvellir National Park. This dramatic rift marks the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a tectonic plate boundary that separates the North American and Eurasian plates.
With its dramatic cliffs and panoramic views, it is one of the most rewarding stops along the Golden Circle Route and is perfect for a peaceful hike amid Iceland’s raw beauty.
Key Takeaways
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Historical Significance: Iceland’s first parliament and open-air assembly, Althingi, was founded at the gorge in the year 930 A.D.
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One-of-a-Kind Walk: The walking path through Almannagja Gorge is a simple, accessible hike with incredible views.
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Rich Location: The gorge's location in Thingvellir National Park puts Almannagja in close proximity to several other notable natural wonders.
Geology of Almannagja
Thingvellir National Park is the best place in the country to see this unique characteristic of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. At different points within the park, it is possible to see both cliffs that mark the ends of the continents. And when driving through the park, you descend one of them and ascend the other.
The movement of the tectonic plates as they slowly pull apart has also given the park many other remarkable features, including Almannagja.
As the North American plate pulled west, the ground could no longer sustain its weight, causing the edge to break free of the continent in an earthquake. This left the Almannagja Gorge between the two segments. The gorge varies in width, but at several points, you can walk through it.
Thingvellir National Park is also full of ravines, many filled with crystal-clear spring water. The most famous of these is Silfra, a popular site for snorkeling and diving. The park is also home to Oxararfoss Waterfall, which is easily reached on foot.
History of Almannagja
Almannagja Gorge is home to a great deal of Icelandic history. Thingvellir National Park was the original site of the Althingi, Iceland’s national parliament, considered one of the world’s oldest surviving democratic institutions.
The members of the Althingi would stand on a rock above Almannagja Gorge to read out the laws of the day to thousands of people. Each year, crowds gathered here to settle debates, exchange news, represent their families and clans, and even battle for dominance.
As you walk through the gorge, you’ll pass Drekkingarhylur Pool, a somber site where women convicted of moral crimes were drowned during the 17th and 18th centuries. Though easy to overlook, a small plaque marks the spot and commemorates those who lost their lives there.
Almannagja also holds modern historical significance. It was here that Iceland officially declared its independence from Denmark on June 17, 1944, during a national celebration that marked the founding of the Republic of Iceland.
What To Do at Almannagja
Almannagja is easily incorporated into a full day of exploring the attractions of Thingvellir National Park. If you’re not visiting the park as part of an organized tour, you can drive there yourself. A small parking fee of 1,000 ISK gives you access to all of the parking lots within the park for the entire day.
While the park is open 24/7, the visitor center is open 9 AM to 6 PM from April to October and 9 AM to 5 PM from November to March. It’s located next to the Hakid Viewing Platform, and you can walk straight down from the center to Almannagja Gorge.
One of the most popular activities at the gorge is hiking. You can embark on a journey that’s about 5 miles (8 kilometers) and leads you to remarkable views of the Oxararfoss Waterfall.
Meanwhile, TV fans can look out for a familiar landscape. HBO’s "Game of Thrones" used Almannagja and its hiking path as the filming location for the Bloody Gate, the castle along the Western edge of the Vale of Arryn. It appears in Season 4 of the fantasy drama.
What To Do Near Almannagja
Thingvellir is one of Iceland's three national parks, and there are many other Icelandic attractions near Almannagja Gorge. Visitors can enjoy different activities throughout the area.
Two popular options nearby are diving and snorkeling tours in the Silfra Fissure, where you can swim between the tectonic plates.
For a more cultural experience, visit Thingvellir Church, one of Iceland’s most beautiful churches. While the building standing in that spot was built in 1859, a church has been on those grounds since 1017.
The Thingvellir Church is open to visitors from June to August, typically from 9 AM to 10 AM and again from 1:30 PM to 5 PM, when a park ranger is present. Services are held there, and the church can also be rented for a fee.
While you’re in the area, you can also visit Lake Thingvallavatn, the largest natural lake in the country.
How To Get to Almannagja
Any tour, package, or itinerary that includes Thingvellir National Park gives you the opportunity to glimpse the gorge. Here are some of our favorites.
Golden Circle Day Tours
Looking for a way to fill a few hours? These Golden Circle tours range from pure sightseeing to outdoorsy activities.
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Golden Circle Horseback Riding Tour: This 10-hour tour combines two hours of riding an Icelandic horse through picturesque valleys with a sightseeing tour of Thingvellir.
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Golden Circle Minibus Tour: Stay comfortable in your transportation on this 8-hour sightseeing tour, which includes several notable locations in Thingvellir as well as other popular destinations on the Golden Circle.
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Golden Circle Tour With Kerid Crater: Ease into your seat for this bus tour of Iceland’s most unforgettable landscapes. You’ll see the three most popular sites in Iceland on the famous Golden Circle, along with two more!
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Golden Circle & Snowmobiling Tour From Reykjavik: See the Golden Circle and take a snowmobile ride on this incredible day tour. Spend an hour whizzing across the colossal ivory snows of Langjokull Glacier, the second-largest glacier in Iceland.
Self-Drive Tours
If you prefer choosing your own destiny and setting your own pace, try one of these self-drive tours.
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7-Day Ring Road Self-Drive Tour: You’ll traverse the entire Ring Road, including Thingvellir National Park, on this self-guided summer tour.
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9-Day Ring Road Self-Drive Tour With Snaefellsnes Peninsula: This slightly longer Ring Road tour includes an enriching detour to Snaefellsnes Peninsula, also known as Iceland in Miniature.
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2-Week Summer Self-Drive Tour: Take in must-see sights and hidden gems known only to locals on this 15-day self-drive tour.
Multi-Day Guided Tours
Benefit from the experience and knowledge of expert local tour guides with guided multi-day tours.
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3-Day Northern Lights and Ice Cave Tour: Hunt for an unforgettable view of the northern lights on this must-do winter tour of the Golden Circle and the South Coast.
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1-Week Guided Summer Ring Road Tour: This comprehensive itinerary includes a guided exploration of Thingvellir National Park.
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10-Day Guided Ring Road Tour: A small group minibus tour of the Ring Road includes plenty of time to explore the city center of Reykjavik, as well as more remote destinations.
Vacation Packages
Let us handle all of the details, from accommodations to activities to transportation, with inclusive, hassle-free vacation packages.
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5-Day Summer Vacation Package: Traveling during the summer months gives you longer days to explore the best of what Iceland has to offer, including the site of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.
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6-Day Northern Lights Adventure Package: A weather expert will guide you in your hunt for the elusive northern lights in this fully organized vacation package.
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7-Day Summer Vacation Package With Volcano Tour: Swimming in geothermal springs and an inside-the-volcano tour are just two of the featured activities on this jam-packed summer itinerary.
Where To Stay Near Almannagja
Thanks to its location within Iceland's most popular travel route, Thingvellir National Park is easy to reach. It’s conveniently close to a range of Golden Circle accommodations, from four-star luxury hotels to cozy cottages.
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Hotel Grimsborgir: Treat yourself to a world-class experience with this lavish hotel spread across 15 buildings, featuring balconies, hot tubs, an acclaimed onsite restaurant, and complimentary breakfast.
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ION Adventure Hotel: Perched on Mount Hengill, ION Adventure Hotel offers guests an onsite spa and geothermal spring, as well as an easy commute to Thingvellir.
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Sel Guesthouse: Sel Guesthouse is a cozy, nine-room converted farm in Skalholt. It is close to Iceland's Golden Circle, a small petting zoo, and all the adventure to be found on Lake Apavatn.
FAQs About Almannagja Gorge
To help you plan your visit, here are some common questions about Almannagja.
Can you walk through Almannagja Gorge?
Yes, there is a well-maintained walking path through the gorge, allowing visitors to experience the striking landscape between the plates.
Is Almannagja safe to visit?
Yes, it is very safe for tourists. It has walking paths, viewing platforms, and interpretive signs. However, visitors should wear sturdy shoes to traverse the uneven terrain.
Is there an entrance fee to visit Almannagja?
While entry to Thingvellir National Park is free, there is a parking fee. No additional fee is required to visit Almannagja.
When is the best time to visit Almannagja?
The gorge is accessible year-round, but June through August offer the best weather and daylight conditions for hiking and sightseeing.
A Geological Marvel Worth Exploring
Almannagja Gorge is more than just a dramatic rift in the earth — it’s a place where geology, history, and culture converge. As part of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, it offers a rare chance to walk between two continents, surrounded by Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes.
Plan your visit today and discover why this remarkable gorge belongs on every Golden Circle itinerary. Check out the ultimate guide to the Golden Circle to plan your trip in this beautiful region.
