Hvita River

The Hvitá River (White River) is one of the rivers you are likely to see during your visit to Iceland because its path is interrupted by one of Iceland's most renowned attractions, Gullfoss waterfall, one of the three sites on the highly regarded Golden Circle viewing circuit.

The river's source is the Langjökull glacier in the highlands, namely the Hvtárvatn glacier lake. Hvtá is a 185-kilometer-long river that begins with a 40-kilometer trek to Gullfoss, where it dips into a tight gorge. It then cuts directly through the districts of Biskupstungur and Hrunamannahreppur. The river's volume doubles as it joins three others: the Tungufljót, the Brará, and the Stóra-Laxá. From here, the river flows gently through the lowlands beside Grmsness, past Ingólfsfjall mountain before joining the Sogi River in Selfoss.

The Hvitá river is a favorite among river rafters and kayakers. According to the International Scale of River Difficulty, the river is classified as Class 2, which means it has moderate drops, rocks, and quick flow and necessitates maneuverability and skill on the side of the rafter.

Taking to the river by boat allows you to get up close and personal with Brarhlö canyon, a relic of the glacial inundation that occurred in the area centuries ago. Despite its potential for fun and adventure, the Hvitá river has a reputation for being Iceland's most dangerous river. This is owing to the previous flooding, which has been exacerbated by Iceland's relatively strong rainfall.

Length: 40 km (25 mi)