19 Best Waterfalls in Iceland to Visit
Planning a trip and wondering what the best waterfalls in Iceland are? You’re in the right place.
Waterfalls are one of the major draws to Iceland, and there’s no wonder why – Iceland is a small country, but has over 10,000 waterfalls. This number is only an estimate as there’s no official record.
The best waterfalls to visit in Iceland are the ones that are easily accessible (some are much easier than others.)
Here is a map showing you the best waterfalls in Iceland.
In a short south Iceland itinerary, the two most common waterfalls that everyone visits (and for a good reason) are:
- Seljalandsfoss
- Skogafoss
While these two waterfalls are spectacular, there are over a dozen others that you should consider visiting, depending on how much time you have.
I have collaborated with other travel experts on Iceland to formulate this list of the top waterfalls in Iceland to visit, and everything you need to know about visiting them.
So, to dive into the details you need about visiting any of the waterfalls pictured above on that map, scroll below.
Good to Know: The word “foss” in Icelandic, means ‘waterfall.’ So all waterfall names end with the word ‘foss.’
So, let’s jump in – the best waterfalls in Iceland to consider for your next trip!
Best Waterfalls Iceland
South lceland is where most tourists in Iceland tend to stick to, and there are a ton of great waterfalls ot see just in this area. Here are the best waterfalls in Iceland, and everything you need to know about visiting them as a tourist
1. Skogafoss
Location: South Iceland
Skogafoss is a stunning waterfall located in South Iceland. Known for being one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland, it has an impressive width of 25 meters and drops 60 meters.
It is conveniently located off Ring Road making it a perfect place to stop while driving from Reykjavik to Vik.
Skogafoss is easy to access; you can walk right up to it and parking is available. The waterfall is open 24/7, but because it is one of Iceland’s most popular waterfalls, arriving before 9 am or after 6 pm is best to avoid the larger crowds.
Next to Skogafoss is a staircase that you can climb for amazing views of the top of the waterfall.
Pro Tip: At the top of Skogafoss is where the Waterfall Way trail begins, and by hiking about 2-3 km (1-2 miles), you’ll come across several other small waterfalls! Just make sure to turn back after about 3 km (2 miles), as the trail doesn’t loop back and continues to become a strenuous one-way day hike to Thórsmörk.
Whether you want to do some hiking or just admire the falls, Skogafoss is one of the top waterfalls in Iceland to visit.
Recommended by Amber from Get Lost in Wanderlust
2. Kvernufoss
Location: South Iceland
We recommend adding the short hike to Kvernufoss when you visit the more famous Skogafoss next to it. Kvernufoss is a lesser-known waterfall off the Ring Road in South Iceland.
This 98 foot-tall (30-metre) waterfall is hidden away in a scenic gorge of sparkling emerald-green water. You can hike behind the cascade to get a gorgeous keyhole view of the whole valley through the falls.
The hike to Kvernufoss is only 10 minutes, and begins at the Skogar open-air museum -it’s located just east of Skogafoss.
The hike takes you through a green mossy canyon. At the head of the canyon, you will find Kvernufoss Falls.
If you visit on a sunny day, the canyon winds scatter the droplets of the falls into a stunning rainbow.
If you have time, I recommend also visiting the Skoga Open-Air Museum. This museum is a hidden gem and a fascinating peek into Icelandic culture and architecture.
Overall, Kvernufoss is a lesser-known waterfall and the beautiful hike there is one of the Iceland outdoor adventures you don’t want to miss.
Recommended by Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler
3. Seljalandsfoss
Location: South Iceland
Seljalandsfoss is located on the south coast of Iceland and is an easy 2-hour drive from Reykjavik, and about 30 minutes from Skogafoss.
People often visit Skogafoss, and Seljalandsfoss when driving the Ring Road. It’s no surprise that the waterfall has gained so much popularity, it has a height of 196 feet (60m.)
But the really unique thing about these falls is that you can actually walk behind them!
The pounding of the water cascading in front of you and the spray on your face make for an exciting experience and some truly magical pictures.
Navigating there is simple as you can follow Hwy 1, otherwise known as the Ring Road and it is accessible right from the road. There is no entrance fee to the falls however if you are driving, there is a parking fee of 800 ISK.
If you are planning to walk along the path behind, make sure you have good walking or hiking shoes as it can be very slippery. If you’re in Iceland with kids, be sure to hold their hand.
Also, the spray from the waterfall can make conditions wet so be sure to bring something to keep your camera or phone dry.
If you are making the trek behind the falls plan to be there for about an hour.
Recommended by Kim Gervais of Explore Your Bucket List
4. Svartifoss
Location: South Iceland
Located in South Island, in the area around Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park, Svartifoss is a must-visit on any south Iceland itinerary.
Svartifoss is one of the most visually interesting waterfalls in Iceland, renowned for its unique basalt column formations.
The columns resemble the pipes of an organ and are said to have inspired the stair-stepped facade of the famous Hallgrimskirkja Cathedral in Reykjavik.
Svartifoss, which means “Black Falls” in Icelandic, was formed by slow-cooling lava resulting in the unique rectangular pillars.
There is a 1000 ISK ($9 USD) parking fee which can be paid at the visitors centre when you arrive.
Getting to the waterfall involves an easy, kid-friendly hike on a mostly gravel path surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can either do a 5.6 km (3.5 mile) loop, or turn around and take the same path back to the trailhead, which is slightly shorter.
Because of the hike, plan to spend at least two hours to hike to Svartifoss. Like many of the majestic falls in Iceland, you can walk directly up to the cascading water, which empties down into a small stream surrounded by boulders and large rocks.
Although the national park is open year-round, it is best to visit this waterfall in summer, as some of the roads and trails are inaccessible in the winter.
Submitted by Melissa of Parenthood and Passports
5. Brurfoss
Location: South Iceland
Bruarfoss is known for being the bluest waterfall in Iceland. It’s fed by glacial water that gives the waterfall a beautiful blue colour.
This waterfall is within the Golden Circle, and about a 1.5 hour drive from Reykjavik.
Now, here’s the reason why you don’t hear about too many people visiting Bruarfoss – The only way to reach it is by hiking a 7 km (4.4 mile) round trip trail from the parking lot to Bruarfoss and back.
The walk takes about 1 hour each way, which means its best visited during July or August.
Not everyone is up for this trek, but if you are, it’s well worth it.
Here are some things to keep in mind about the trail:
- On the way to Bruarfoss, you can stop at Midfoss, another small waterfall that is fed by the same river.
- The trail to Bruarfoss and back starts out very wide, narrowing as you go. Although it narrows, it’s still very easy to follow it.
- The trail is mostly flat, so it isn’t challenging
- Be prepared for a muddy path if it’s been raining.
- Most of the trail follows along the Brúará River, with beautiful views of mountains and glaciers in the distance.
When you get to Bruarfoss, you’ll see a bridge that you can walk onto for the best views of the waterfall. Once you’ve spent enough time enjoying Bruarfoss, turn back to take the same trail back to the parking lots.
Parking at the start of the Bruarfoss trail is free of charge. There is a sign with information at the trailhead, but no other amenities, so plan accordingly.
While hiking to Bruarfoss, remember what not to do in Iceland: don’t hike off of the trail, and don’t leave litter along the way (bring it back to your car and dispose of it properly).
Recommended by Erin from Pina Travels
6. Foss á Síðu
Location: South Iceland
It’s not one of the big, powerful waterfalls in Iceland, but it is definitely one of the prettiest: Foss á Síðu is a fairytale-like waterfall in south-east Iceland. It has a narrow stream of water that falls over vertical cliffs.
In the summer months, the banks and cliffs on either side of the fall are a glorious green, so it’s especially worth checking out if you’re visiting Iceland in summer.
Foss á Síðu is very close to the Ring Road between Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon and Lómagnúpur mountain (these are also some of the top places to visit in Iceland.)
Foss á Síðuone of the easiest waterfalls in Iceland to see. There’s no hike involved, and no entry fees.
While you can’t walk up right next to the waterfall, because it is on private farmland, you can get close enough to get a great view from the farm gate at the end of a short lane that runs off route 1 (the ring road).
There’s parking next to the café on the other side of the road: Hamrafoss Café, which is also a nice, rustic and cozy place for a bite to eat or a drink.
Recommended by Martha from May Cause Wanderlust
7. Haifoss
Location: South Iceland
Haifoss sits in the Southern portion of the Iceland and stands at an astounding 400 feet tall.
This waterfall derives most of its power from the Fossa River, which flows down into the gorge to create this magical waterfall.
However, what really makes Haifoss unique is that while it is the fourth-largest waterfall in the country, it rarely receives visitors. And that’s because you need a four-wheel drive vehicle to get here.
To get to the parking lot near the waterfall you’ll have to go over a very bumpy road. Therefore, this spot is best accessed in the summer when roads are totally clear.
Then, from the parking lot, it is a short hike to the waterfall and the viewing platform at the top. However, if you’re feeling energetic you could always hike the waterfall by following the River Fossá.
Pro Tip: You can also try hiking to the bottom of the waterfall to enjoy a totally unique perspective of one of the most unique places to visit in Iceland.
It is also conveniently located near the smaller, Granni Waterfall in Fossárdalur Valley, allowing you to visit two incredible waterfalls at the same time.
Submitted by Victoria from Iceland Trippers
8. Gluggafoss
Location: South Iceland
Gluggafoss is located in South Iceland, just over halfway between Reyjavik and the small town of Vik. Its one of the lesser known waterfalls, and you have a very good chance of having this little gem all to yourself.
You can simply park your car in the small park lot provided and you can walk right up to the waterfall. If you look closely, you can see that Gluggafoss isn’t just one waterfall – its actually two.
When you approach the Gluggafoss to the left, there is a little cave. From there, you have a view of the waterfall behind (pictured, right.)
When we visited Gluggafoss, we had it all to ourselves. That was a big part of what made it special.
There are no washrooms or any other amenities here – just peaceful nature for you to enjoy for a few moments before continuing back to the Ring Road.
9. Faxa Foss
Location: South Iceland
Located in southern Iceland, about an hour and a half drive away from Reykjavik is the beautiful Faxa Foss (also known as Faxi Falls.)
It is one of the unique waterfalls that many miss as most visitors check off the Gullfoss. However, it is just a short detour on the Golden Circle route.
There is a small parking lot where you can park your vehicle. The parking fee is 700 ISK. You will also find washrooms and a small restaurant, called Við Faxa restaurant which overlooks the waterfalls!
Faxa foss is fed by glaciers and other smaller lakes. In order to access and view the falls, there is a boardwalk and a well-maintained path. A quick walk leads to the viewing area, where you can take in the view from the falls.
Recommended by Mayuri from To SomePlace New
10. Oxararfoss
Location: West Iceland
One of the most accessible and most photographed waterfalls in Iceland is Oxararfoss, located right in Thingvellir National Park on the Golden Circle. The waterfall is 44 feet (13 meters) high and about 20 feet (6 meters) wide.
Being in Thingvellir, this waterfall has played an important part in Icelandic history, is mentioned in many of the sagas, and was used for bathing during the annual Alþingi/Icelandic Parliamentary meetings that began in 930 AD.
To reach the waterfall, take Road 36 (the Golden Circle) into the national park. From there, take Road 361 to the south, and the first fork to the right. There are several parking lots here to begin the hike, but P3 offers the shortest walk.
There is a small parking fee which you can pay at the kiosk. Be sure to have change on you.
The hike is about half a kilometre ( ¼ mile) uphill. The trail is easy and well marked, but may be challenging for anyone with limited mobility because of the steepness.
Once at the top of the hill, there’s a short walk along a wooden boardwalk to view the falls.
Recommended by Lance & Laura Longwell of Travel Addicts
11. Gullfoss
Location: West Iceland
Gullfoss is a 2-hour drive from Reykjavik, and popular for visitors year-round. In the winter, (November through February) Gulfoss is one of the few Icelandic waterfalls that is typically frozen.
Many Norwegian vikings settled in Iceland as well as the northern Scottish Islands, and Gulfoss (meaning “golden waterfalls”) got its name from a story about a viking throwing his treasure into the falls.
In a country full of waterfalls, Gullfoss is one of the largest, with two cascades with drops of over 100 feet (32 metres).
As the water tumbles down the spray generated is so powerful you might get drenched, especially on windy days. Be sure to wear a raincoat, or poncho.
Gulfoss is probably the 3rd most popular waterfall in Iceland (after Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss) so, try to arrive early or late in the day since it can be very busy.
The waterfalls are a 10-minute walk from the car park. There is also a restaurant and gift shop on site.
Around the falls there are several walkways and viewing platforms where you can view the falls from different angles. One thing we loved about them was being able to walk right up close to the cascades.
Recommended by Kristin from Scotland Less Explored
12. Kirkjufellsfoss
Location: West Iceland
Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall is on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula in west Iceland, and by far one of the top waterfalls in Iceland – you will see it in many images advertising Iceland.
You might recognize the mountain just behind Kirkjufellsfoss in the picture below if you’re a Game of Thrones fan. The mountain, known as Mt. Kirkjufell, was featured in the series as Arrowhead Mountain.
While there is no entrance fee for Kirkjufellsfoss, there is a small parking fee, of about 700 ISK.
There is a rope to section off the bottom section of Kirkjufellsfoss; please respect the area and do not go beyond the roped-off areas as they are trying to restore the vegetation.
There are many other things to see on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula; you could spend a whole 1-2 days exploring many other things besides the waterfall. It’s about a 2.5 hour drive from Reykjavik.
Recommended by Alaina Thomas of Beyond the Moments
13. Glymur
Location: West Iceland
Glymur is the second-highest waterfall in Iceland, and likely the tallest waterfall you will see while in the country. (This is because highest waterfall is in Skaftafell and is not easy to reach.)
Glymur on the other hand, is just one hour away from Reykjavik in the Western Region. This waterfall is only accessible via a hike.
Glymur waterfall is open year round but summer is the best time to visit because of the hike.
There is a spacious and free parking lot at the trailhead, and a 6.5 km (4.1-mile loop) trail brings you to the waterfall.
Give yourself about 3.5 hours for the roundtrip hike, and to see the waterfall. Take the loop counterclockwise to see the waterfall sooner. You will pass through a cave, have to walk over a log to cross a river, and hike along a narrow canyon.
You will get the first glimpse of Glymur Waterfall about 2 km (1.2 miles) into the hike.
Continue hiking uphill to enjoy the waterfall from the top. Only the crest of Glymur is visible from that viewpoint. But you will have the whole valley all the way down to the fjord to enjoy.
There is another river crossing upstream from the waterfall. The rest of the trail to the parking lot is easier since it goes downhill.
Recommended by Anastasia of Travel Realist
14. Goðafoss
Location: North Iceland
Located in northern Iceland, this stunning natural wonder is a sight you have to include in your full Iceland Ring Road Itinerary.
Make sure to bring your camera, because this place is a photographer’s dream.
Legend has it that in the year 1000, the lawmaker of the Alþingi (the national parliament) decided to convert to Christianity and threw his statues of the Norse gods into the waterfall. From then on, Goðafoss, (which means “Waterfall of the Gods”) became a symbol of the Icelanders’ conversion to Christianity. So, not only is it a breathtaking sight, but it also holds a deep cultural significance.
Now, before you start making plans, here are a few things to know about Goðafoss. First, be prepared for the sheer power and volume of water cascading down the falls. It’s truly awe-inspiring, but also strong and wet.
Lastly, be ready for some muddy trails if you plan on getting up close and personal with the waterfall.
So, pack your waterproof boots and get ready to enjoy one of the coolest places in Iceland. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
There are many tours from Akureyri that bring you to Goðafoss, but you can also drive yourself (it’s about 30 minutes from Akureyi.) The car park is right beside the Ring Road, so it’s very accessible!
Submitted by Cristina of Honest Travel Stories
15. Dettifoss
Location: North Iceland
Dettifoss is located in northeast Iceland, about 2.5 hours from Akureyri.
It’s considered one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls, with an average flow rate of over 6,800 cubic feet per second.
On a sunny day, the heavy mist from the waterfall often creates a pretty rainbow.
One of the best parts of visiting this waterfall is that it’s not as popular as others, just due to its location. Depending on the season, you may have it all to yourself!
The easiest way to get to Dettifoss is from the West Parking lot. From there, its just a 10 minute hike to the waterfall!
The east side is beautiful too, but it’s a dirt road which isn’t usually accessible in the winter.
One thing to note is that parts of the hiking trail are very rocky and uneven, so take your time, especially if it’s wet.
Pro Tip: After visiting Dettifoss, there is another lesser-known waterfall just north of it called Hafragilsfoss. It’s only a 10-minute drive, as pictured below.
Hafragilsfoss has a drop of 89 feet, and is definitely worth checking out as well.
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay nearby, check out the Grímstunga Guesthouse, a great hotel near Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1).
Recommended by Rebecca from Veggies Abroad
16. Selfoss
Location: North Iceland
Another waterfall to add to your Northern Iceland itinerary is Selfoss.
Selfoss is about an hour away from Dettifoss and Hafragilsfoss, mentioned above.
Selfoss waterfall is a bit remote, but still easily accessible from Husavik (1.5 hour drive) or the city of Akureyri (2 hour drive.)
This waterfall is not to be confused with Selfoss tourist town of the same name in south Iceland.
Selfoss is not a tall waterfall, buts it’s 330 feet wide.
I was happy viewing the falls from the paved path and did not venture to the rocks beyond. However, you can go close to the falls if you choose to – just be careful of the slippery wet rocks.
Selfoss waterfalls is open throughout the year, though the flow decreases during winter. There are dry pit toilets at the car park but no other facilities.
Recommended by Shweta from Zest in a Tote
17. Henigfoss
Location: East Iceland
Of all the waterfalls in Iceland, Hengifoss is arguably the most unique. Its distinctive contrasting red clay and black basalt layers make for an absolutely beautiful sight.
It is also one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, with a spectacular 387 feet (118 m) drop.
Hengifoss is one of the few spectacular waterfalls on the east coast of Iceland and is a must-visit if you are planning a road trip around Iceland.
The hike to Hengifoss is around 5 km (3.1 miles) return.
Along the hike, you’ll notice that there are a few other waterfalls to look at. It’s well worth the hike.
From the car park, the hike follows the left-hand side of the falls leading you all the way to the base of the walls.
The pathway is predominately paved or boardwalks, however, there are little patches where you are required to step across stones towards the end. Overall, it’s an easy to moderate hike and there are plenty of places to stop for a rest or to enjoy the view.
Hengifoss is accessible at any time of the day, however, it’s a popular spot so it’s recommended to arrive early if you’d prefer less people around.
In summer, you can find the Henigfoss food truck parked near the road where you can buy a warm drink and treat yourself to some post-hike waffles.
Recommended by Danni from The Solo Plan
18. Klifbrekkufoss
Location: East Iceland
Nestled in the remote fjord of Mjóifjörður, in the East fjords, lies Klifbrekkufossar. What sets this waterfall apart is its remarkable setting amidst the breathtaking landscapes at the head of the fjord.
The waterfall is broken into multiple falls that can be seen from a small pull-in on the roadside.
It sits in the centre of the cliffs with the road running down the side of the cliffs before the river crosses under the road at the bottom of the falls. It is possible to hike to the falls from the parking area although the paths are not clear.
The road leading to Klifbrekkufossar is a remote mountain pass – Road 953. It can be a challenging drive even in a 4WD vehicle due to its steep inclines and narrow sections, but the effort is rewarded with the breath taking scenery that unfolds along the way.
It’s important to note that accessing Mjóifjörður and its waterfall is impossible during the winter months. The region experiences heavy snowfall, making the road impassable for vehicles between October and May and even in the summer conditions can be difficult.
Recommended by Suzanne from Meandering Wild
19. Hraunfossar
Location: West Iceland
Accessibility: Medium
Hraunfossar is a series of small waterfalls in West Iceland (about 1.5 hour drive from Reykjavik), known for their bright blue colour.
These waterfalls get their name comes from the Icelandic word hraun, which means “lava” and the word for waterfalls (fossar). They flow through a 900-metre stream from a lava field.
These waterfalls are in a remote location off the Silver Circle, and you may have them all to yourself!
A short 10-minute walk upstream from Hraunfossar, is another waterfall called Barnofoss. “Barn” in Icelandic and other Nordic languages, means “child,” so its name in means “waterfall of the children” in English.
The name is said to come from a legend which is pretty morbid, which you can read about here.
Regardless, you can take a quick look at both Hraunfoss and Barnfoss while you’re in this area.
There is a free parking lot and admission; there is just a bathroom which costs a small fee.
Best Waterfalls in Iceland: FAQs
Here are the most commonly asked questions about waterfalls in Iceland
What is Iceland’s biggest waterfall?
Dettifoss, in northeast Iceland, is the country’s biggest waterfall at 330 ft (100 metres) wide and a drop of 144 ft (44 metres) to put it into perspective, this is only 25 feet shorter than Niagara Falls. Dettifoss is also considered Europe’s most powerful waterfall with a flow rate of 6,800 cubic feet per second.
Which waterfall in Iceland is best?
When there are 10,000 waterfalls in Iceland, it’s hard to choose a single best of them all. However, there are a few waterfalls that are very large and dramatic, and easy to visit for tourists who don’t want to hike for hours or take a 4-wheel drive to get to a waterfall. These two waterfalls are Gulfoss, Seljandfoss and Skogafoss. They tend to be very popular for tourists and they don’t disappoint.
How many waterfalls are there in Iceland?
There are over 10,000 waterfalls in Iceland – this is an estimate, because its hard to count an exact number when there are that many of them.
Best Waterfalls in Iceland: Conclusion
By now, you have an idea of some of the amazing waterfalls scattered across Iceland; some easily accessible along the main roads, and others that you might have to work a little harder to see.
Part of what makes the waterfalls in Iceland so magical is that many of them are not heavily visited, being located off the beaten track. One thing is for sure – if you love waterfalls, then you’ll be in the right place when you visit Iceland.
While you’re in Iceland, don’t forget to grab some authentic souvenirs that are hard to find anywhere else.