From trickling streams through lava rock to thundering walls of water, Iceland’s waterfalls are as unique as the ever-changing landscape itself. If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, visiting a few waterfalls has to be on your list of must-dos. Lucky for you, I’ve compiled the top ten waterfalls in Iceland you absolutely can’t miss.
Whether you’re staying close to the capital city of Reykjavik or venturing out to hike some mountains, you’re bound to find yourself on Þjóðvegur 1 at some point, better known as Iceland’s Ring Road. True to its name, this road circles the entire country, and is a hot spot for some of the best waterfalls in Iceland.
But not all waterfalls in Iceland are created equal. That’s why I’ve put together this top ten list of the best waterfalls in Iceland, including all the nitty gritty details (costs, parking, and everything in between!) Now let’s go chase some waterfalls shall we?
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Iceland Quick Links
✈️ Flights – Use Kiwi.com to find the cheapest and fastest flights to Iceland
🛏️ Accommodation – Find the best places to stay all around the Ring Road on Booking.com
🚗 Rent a Car – Find the best deals on RentalCars.com to explore the best of Iceland behind the wheel.
✅ Get Insured – I personally use Safety Wing Nomad Insurance for my travels all around the world!
🚴♀️ Find Things to Do – Check out Get Your Guide or Viator for exciting guided tours of Iceland
☎ Buy a Sim – Airalo offers eSIMS for over 200 countries and regions
Guided Tours in Iceland
Don’t want to visit waterfalls all on your own? Check out some of these guided tours with waterfalls as a highlight!
⭐️ Golden Circle Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik: Explore a hot spot of waterfalls and natural beauty
🐏 West Fjörds Waterfall Tour and Farm Visit: Visit waterfalls and stop at a traditional Icelandic farm
🐟 Lake Mývatn & Goðafoss Waterfall from Akureyri: Explore waterfalls and take a dip in thermal pools
Map of the Best Waterfalls in Iceland
Want to visit all the waterfalls mentioned in this guide? Check out the map below to help you plan your itinerary!
Pro Tip: The best way to visit Iceland is by renting a car so you can have full control over your time and itinerary. We used RentalCars.com to find an affordable rental car with pickup from the Reykjavik International Airport.
Waterfalls in South Iceland
Southern Iceland is home to Iceland’s “Golden Circle,” a hotspot of natural beauty and easily the most popular sightseeing trail. It’s home to stunning natural landscapes, geothermal energy, and of course, countless stunning waterfalls.
If you only have a few days to spend in Iceland, this is the area to visit. It’s the perfect spot to embark on some day trips from Reykjavik, or serves as a great introduction to an epic road trip. Here are the best waterfalls to visit in southern Iceland.
Seljalandsfoss
Want to see a waterfall from a new perspective? At Iceland’s Seljalandsfoss waterfall, a trail leads visitors into a cave behind the falls, where you can observe the roaring wall of water from behind. The result is adrenaline inducing and absolutely breathtaking.
The path behind the waterfall is wide enough to feel secure, but do prepare to get wet while standing behind the falls. I recommend leaving cameras and other electronics in your car or with a friend in front of the falls, unless you really want to risk it for the photo! (Or if you have a waterproof camera – my GoPro is a lifesaver in these situations!)
Note that the path behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall is often closed during the winter months due to icy conditions. The waterfall is still available to view from the front year-round, but consider visiting in the warmer months between May and September if you wish to walk behind.
HOW TO VISIT SELJALANDSFOSS: You can see Seljalandsfoss from the Ring Road, about 120km from Reykjavik. There is a large parking lot for visitors, which costs 750 ISK ($6.00 USD) to park. From here you can easily walk to the falls. | View on Google Maps
Skógafoss
Skógafoss waterfall is one of Iceland’s most Instagram-famous, but this isn’t a case of Instagram vs. Reality. In fact, Skógafoss is even more breathtaking in real life – a thundering wall of white water crashing into a black sand beach. You can practically feel the power of this waterfall before you even get out of your car!
To see Skógafoss from a different perspective, follow the path to the right up 370 steps to view the falls from above. If you hike a few more meters up the ridge trail you’ll be rewarded with yet another waterfall to admire, not to mention spectacular mountain views!
While visiting Skógafoss, keep an eye out for a chest within the thundering falls. According to legend, Þrasi Þórólfsson, the Viking settler at Skógar, hid a chest filled with gold and treasure behind the powerful falls of Skógafoss. Many years later, three men went to retrieve the chest, hooking a ring to its side. As they tried to pull the chest from behind the falls, the ring slipped from the chest and the chest fell back into the falls, where it remains to this day. The ring, however, can be viewed at the nearby Skógar museum.
HOW TO VISIT SKÓGAFOSS: Skógafoss is hard to miss, located directly off the Ring Road about 2 hours from Reykjavik. There is plenty of free parking available a short 1-2 minute walk from the falls. | View on Google Maps
Öxarárfoss
Öxarárfoss is hands-down my favorite waterfall in Iceland. Located in Thingvellir National Park, visitors must first walk through the cliffs of two tectonic plates before finding the wall of white water tumbling over obsidian stones. The waterfall is awe-inspiring, and even a bit eerie.
The Öxarárfoss waterfall is surrounded by folklore, stemming from its dark history. The name Öxarárfoss derives from an ax, believed to have been used to execute a murderous troll that once terrorized the area. Years after this execution, the ax was found washed up on the site of the waterfall.
The area continued to be an execution site, home to at least 15 known hangings of criminals. You can read about this dark history as you walk the path to the waterfall, a truly eerie experience as you approach the magnificent waterfall that lies at the end.
HOW TO VISIT ÖXARÁRFOSS: Öxarárfoss is a short detour from the Ring Road, located in Thingvellir National Park about 50km from Reykjavik. There is a large free parking area available for the falls, from which it is a 15 minute walk along the trail to the waterfall. | View on Google Maps
Svartifoss
The striking landscape of Svartifoss waterfall is iconically Icelandic – featuring organ pipe lava columns of basalt. Looking at Svartifoss waterfall it’s easy to understand why its name translates to “black falls,” and how it inspired Reykjavik’s iconic Hallgrimskirkja church!
Located in Vatnajökull National Park right off of the Ring Road, Svartifoss waterfall is an easy 5.3km round trip hike into the park. The hike can be steep at parts but is a relatively smooth path, accessible even for a novice hiker. The added hike cuts down on crowds at Svartifoss waterfall, and the mountain views are stunning the entire way.
If you’ve got extra time after your hike to Svartifoss, I recommend extending your loop by one kilometer to visit the Sjónarnipa viewpoint, a stunning panoramic view of the Vatnajökull glacier. The glacier is extraordinary from above, but if you’re looking for an extra adventure, it’s also one of the best places to explore ice tunnels in Iceland.
HOW TO VISIT SVARTIFOSS: Svartifoss waterfall is located in Vatnajökull National Park approximately 2.5 hours from Reykjavik. The parking lot is located a 5 minute drive from the Ring Road and costs 500 ISK ($4.00 USD) to park. | View on Google Maps
Waterfalls in East Iceland
A bit off the beaten tourist track, Eastern Iceland has a raw, serene feeling characterized by rolling forests and farmland. In recent years, the region has developed an eclectic art scene, now home to a number of arts and music festivals throughout the year.
If you’re traveling along the Ring Road, take your time making your way through the quaint coastal towns of the region. Even if you’re short on time, prioritize East Iceland if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure with nature at the center. Here are the best waterfalls to visit in Eastern Iceland.
Folaldafoss
Folaldafoss waterfall is an unexpected find off the Ring Road, hidden within layers of columnar basalt just out of view from the main road. The rushing torrent of water spills out from the towering mountains above, leaving a truly striking scene.
The isolation of Folaldafoss waterfall only adds to its magic – chances are, you’ll have the entire place to yourself. There are no guided tours that visit this waterfall, so you’ll skip the throngs of tourists and instead be met with a serene moment between yourself and nature.
Quick tip: If you’re using Google Maps to travel through Eastern Iceland, your map might recommend a shortcut via the road behind Folaldafoss rather than continuing along the Ring Road. I do not recommend this route unless you have 4WD and are a VERY brave driver – think uneven roads and sheer drops on both sides. From someone who learned the hard way, trust me and stick to the Ring Road.
HOW TO VISIT FOLALDAFOSS: Folaldafoss waterfall is located a 5-minute drive uphill from the Ring Road via Route 939. The drive to the parking area is passable with 2WD in the summer months. Parking at the waterfall is free. | View on Google Maps
Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss
Hengifoss waterfall is the third-highest waterfall in Iceland, standing at 128 meters high. But that’s not even the best part – visitors to Hengifoss waterfall will get two for the price of one!
Hengifoss waterfall is located at the top of a short but steep hike along a gorge, only 5km round trip but covering 300 meters of elevation. One kilometer into the hike you’ll pass Litlanesfoss waterfall, a stunning lower falls surrounded by some of the tallest basalt columns in Iceland.
At the top of the path you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the towering Hengifoss waterfall. The water tumbles over alternating layers of black basalt and red clay, leaving a striking scene in contrast to the thundering white water.
HOW TO VISIT HENGIFOSS: Hengifoss waterfall is located 30 minutes from the Ring Road via Route 95. The route takes you alongside one of Iceland’s largest fjords to a large free parking area. | View on Google Maps.
Dettifoss and Selfoss
Dettifoss waterfall is not only one of the most popular in Iceland, but the largest waterfall in Europe. With over 500 cubic meters of water plunging over the top of the falls every second, it’s no wonder visitors travel from around the world to see it.
A short walk upstream from Dettifoss is the smaller Selfoss waterfall, though its unique horseshoe formation arguably makes it even more striking. Both falls are fed by the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river, first tumbling over the bend of Selfoss before continuing downstream to Dettifoss.
Dettifoss and Selfoss are accessible via two routes from the Ring Road: Route 864 and Route 862. Route 864 is often the most popular option for summer travelers as it cuts out about 10 minutes of driving, but it’s important to note that Route 864 is closed during the colder months of September to May. If you’re traveling during the winter season, you will need to take Route 862 to access the falls.
HOW TO VISIT DETTIFOSS AND SELFOSS: Dettifoss and Selfoss waterfalls are located about 30 minutes from the Ring Road and are accessible via Route 864 (summer months) and Route 862 (winter months). Both roads take you to a free parking area from which it is a 10 minute walk to reach the falls. | View on Google Maps
Waterfalls in North Iceland
Home to Iceland’s second largest city of Akureyri, northern Iceland is a hotspot of otherworldly landscapes and experiences, from the whales dotting the coastline to the shimmering Northern Lights. It’s also home to plenty of geothermal energy – make sure to check out Myvtyn, milky-blue pools that rival the Blue Lagoon for half the price.
Basing yourself in Akureyri for a night or two is a great way to get a feel for northern Iceland, and you might as well check out some waterfalls while you’re at it! Here are the best waterfalls to visit in Northern Iceland.
Reykjafoss
Reykjafoss waterfall might be smaller than some others listed here, but it makes the list thanks to its stunning landscape. The Huseyjarkvisl river rushes through a field of purple flowers and rolling hills before tumbling over lava rocks into the canyon below. The result feels almost mystical – like something out of a dream.
The best place to admire Reykjafoss is from Fosslaug, a geothermal pool located just beyond Reykjafoss beside the river. This natural pool is a local favorite, and the perfect place to do a cold plunge if you’re feeling brave. There are plenty of benefits to an ice dip – but you don’t often get to take one right beside a stunning waterfall!
We spent three hours here, meeting locals from all around the region who had come to take a dip in the pool. Combined with the beauty of Reykjafoss, this is one of the most unique experiences in Iceland.
HOW TO VISIT REYKJAFOSS: Reykjafoss is located 10 minutes from the Ring Road via Route 752. You’ll have to cross a small bridge over a stream, passable with both 2WD and 4WD. There is plenty of free parking just outside of Fosslaug. | View on Google Maps
Kolugljúfur Canyon
Kolugljúfur Canyon is home to the Kolufossar waterfall, a rushing cascade channeling through the lava rock. Years of irrigation have created otherworldly formations within the canyon, which visitors can admire from a viewing platform high above the falls.
According to legend, a giantess named Kola once lived on the ledge of the canyon, using the river as her source of food and water. Kola would put her bare hands into the rapids to catch salmon, which she would cook in the Koluketill Kettle, a nearby geothermal spring.
While the twisting rock formations of Kolugljúfur Canyon can be enticing to explore, exercise caution when exploring and don’t get too close to the edge. This spot is ranked by the Icelandic Tourist Bureau as one of the 10 most dangerous tourist places in Iceland.
HOW TO VISIT KOLUGLJÚFUR CANYON: Kolugljúfur Canyon is located 6 kilometers from the Ring Road via Route 715. There is plenty of free parking available a minute walk from the canyon. | View on Google Maps
Glanni Waterfall
Glanni Waterfall is quite different from some of the towering giants on this list, but its simple beauty and ode to Nordic architecture earns it a spot in the best waterfalls in Iceland.
Tumbling over three separate drops, the Glanni waterfall is notable for its man-made salmon trap, which twists around the towering lava rock like a piece of modern art. It is a beautiful example of the functional yet striking Nordic design common throughout Iceland, perfectly intertwined with the country’s natural beauty.
Located near Bifrost University in the Northwest of Iceland, this waterfall is a popular hangout for students and locals alike. Just past the waterfalls is a popular swimming spot – a natural oasis referred to as Pardisralaut, or “Paradise Hollow.” This turquoise pool nestled among the lava rocks is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sounds of the nearby Glanni waterfall.
HOW TO VISIT GLANNI WATERFALL: Glanni Waterfall is located 1 kilometer from the Ring Road just past Bifrost University. From the free parking area, walk 10 minutes down a well-paved path to the falls. | View on Google Maps
The Best Time to Visit Waterfalls in Iceland
The best time to visit Iceland is totally subjective – while some prefer the midnight sun of summer, others come seeking the Aurora Borealis in the winter. However, if seeking waterfalls is your top priority, the best time to visit is in the warmer months from May to September.
During the warmer months, days are longer and sunshine is far more likely. Not to mention, many roads in Iceland are impassable during the winter time due to icy conditions, so there’s no guarantee you’ll be able to access the waterfalls on this list.
I visited and photographed all these waterfalls in Iceland in May. Since it was not yet the peak tourist season, I found crowds were smaller and weather was still pleasant (if a little chilly at times!) You can check flight prices for your preferred travel dates using the widget below.
Plan Your Trip to Iceland
Want to keep exploring Iceland? Iceland is a nature lover’s dream, so grab your hiking boots and check out my Ultimate Guide to Hiking Mount Esja, or enjoy a city break exploring Iceland’s capital city of Reykjavik. No matter where you turn, there’s stunning landscapes to be found and awe-inspiring places to explore.
If you’re into outdoor adventures you’re in the right place, because I’ve actually written extensively about my favorite hikes and outdoor activities all around the world! Check out all of my hiking guides from around the world, and let’s start breaking in those boots!
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Virginia Taylor (Ginna) is a travel writer and photographer exploring the world until her boots wear through. She’s currently on a mission to explore all 32 departments of Colombia, though she formerly called the Middle East home. Want to know more? Visit the About Page.
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