Visit Iceland’s natural wonder – breathtaking waterfalls! Discover the famous and lesser-known waterfalls, each with its unique character and charm. From stunning glacial rivers to captivating volcanic landscapes, Iceland’s waterfalls are truly one of a kind.
Join us as we unveil the top 15 best waterfalls in Iceland. Explore the stories behind each waterfall and marvel at their beauty through stunning photographs. Whether you’re a nature lover or a photography enthusiast, Iceland’s waterfalls will captivate you.
Selfoss waterfall
Witness the unique beauty of Selfoss waterfall in North Iceland, located about 100 miles (160 kilometers) from Akureyri. Unlike many other waterfalls, Selfoss is not defined by its height, but by its width. Standing at only 36 feet (11 meters) tall, but spanning 330 feet (100 meters) wide, this waterfall creates a series of cascading falls among the cliffs. Take in the breathtaking views of the waterfall from the natural viewing platform on the opposite cliffs, but be mindful of the slippery rocks, especially in the winter. And if you’re looking for an even more impressive waterfall experience, just slightly downstream you will find Dettifoss, the second most powerful waterfall in Europe.
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Gullfoss
Experience the natural beauty of Iceland with a visit to Gullfoss, or “Golden Falls”, one of the must-see attractions on the famous Golden Circle route. This two-tiered waterfall drops 32 meters (105 feet) into a narrow, deep canyon, creating an impressive spray of mist that often produces rainbows in sunny weather.
Take a stroll on the footpath leading from the car park to a viewing platform and witness the waterfall’s majesty up close. As you explore the Golden Circle, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the renowned Geysir hot spring and Þingvellir National Park – a perfect trifecta of Iceland’s natural wonders.
Kirkjufellsfoss
Kirkjufellsfoss, a small and charming waterfall, is located near the iconic Mount Kirkjufell at Grundarfjordur bay on the Snaefellsnes peninsula. This waterfall offers a unique and picturesque setting for photographers, as the serene water cascades against the dramatic mountain in the background.
The location of Kirkjufellsfoss is what makes it truly special. The waterfall is named after the mountain, and the surroundings and backdrop play a significant role in its beauty. It’s one of the best waterfalls to photograph in Iceland, and the best part is that it’s easily accessible with no hiking required. The area looks dramatically different depending on the time of year, whether it’s bathed in the light of the midnight sun or under the northern lights in the winter, it’s always a stunning sight to behold. Whether you’re a professional photographer or an amateur, Kirkjufellsfoss is a must-see destination on your next trip to Iceland.
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Seljalandsfoss
Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Seljalandsfoss, a towering cascade located in South Iceland. While impressive to behold from a distance, the true magic of this waterfall lies in the footpath that leads behind the cascading water, allowing you to admire Seljalandsfoss from multiple angles and experience the rush of standing behind it. No wonder it’s considered one of the best waterfalls in Iceland.
To fully enjoy your visit to Seljalandsfoss, make sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring a waterproof coat. The path can be slippery and there is a lot of spray, so be prepared for an exhilarating and wet experience.
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Gljúfrabúi
After visiting Seljalandsfoss, take a short walk to discover another unique waterfall – Gljúfrabúi, also known as “the hidden waterfall” and translated as “Dweller of the Gorge”. This hidden gem is a must-see in Iceland, and can be accessed by wading through a small stream and entering a narrow opening in the cliff.
Once inside, you’ll be surrounded by mossy rocks on all sides, with water pouring in from an opening high above. The ambiance is like a scene straight out of a fantasy movie. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover this hidden waterfall, as it adds an extra layer of adventure and wonder to your Iceland experience.
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Skógafoss
Visit the natural wonder of Skógafoss, a majestic 60-meter (197-foot) waterfall located on the south coast of Iceland. This waterfall is a must-see for any visitor to Iceland, with its jaw-dropping height and powerful cascading water.
According to legend, a Norse settler in the area once hid treasure in the cave behind the waterfall. Visitors can get up close to the waterfall as the ground beneath it is flat, or climb the staircase to reach the observation deck at the top for an even more breathtaking view.
While you’re here, take the time to explore the Skógar Folk Museum, an open-air site that offers a glimpse into the lives of the locals hundreds of years ago, showcasing an original turf farm. This visit will give you a deeper understanding of the culture and history of Iceland.
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Háifoss
At an astounding 400 feet (122 meters) high, Haifoss is the fourth tallest waterfall in Iceland. The name of it means “Tall Falls,” as many proud Icelanders thought it to be the tallest waterfall in all of Europe when it acquired its name in the 19th century. Since then, taller falls have been found in the country and elsewhere in Europe, but it’s still among the ten tallest waterfalls in Europe.
Located in the Thjorsardalur Valley in South Iceland, this waterfall can only be reached by renting a 4×4 vehicle, as you will need to drive on a gravel road and possibly cross some small rivers. Alternatively, you can park your car and hike the last 4.5 miles (7.2 kilometers).
As Haifoss flows down a cliff and into a valley, you will have a great vantage point on the other side of the gorge, giving you a full view of the waterfall. Close to it, you can see Granni waterfall, which translates to “Neighbor.” It’s no slouch either, as it has a height of 331 feet (101 meters).
Svartifoss
Discover the beauty of Svartifoss, meaning “Black Falls” in Icelandic, known for its unique hexagonal basalt columns reminiscent of those seen at Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland or Reynisfjara beach in southern Iceland.
Located in Skaftafell, a nature reserve that forms part of Vatnajökull National Park, Svartifoss waterfall is a must-see for nature lovers. This area offers a variety of activities such as glacier hiking, or simply soak up the beautiful landscape, characterized by canyons, hanging valleys and glacial rivers.
To reach the waterfall, you’ll need to hike a 5.5-kilometer (3.4-mile) round trip on a marked trail from the Skaftafell visitor center. The journey to Svartifoss is an adventure in itself, but the reward is worth the effort: a breathtaking waterfall that showcases the natural beauty of Iceland.
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Hengifoss
Experience the natural beauty of East Iceland with a visit to Hengifoss, one of the tallest waterfalls in the country at 128 meters (420 feet). Located just a short drive from Reykjavik along the south coast, Hengifoss offers a unique opportunity to witness the power of water as it cascades into a breathtaking gorge surrounded by vibrant red clay. Discover the geological history of the area by exploring the fossilized trees found in the rock. While you are there, take a short hike to Litlanesfoss, a smaller waterfall that flows between basalt columns, adding to the natural splendor of the area. Make Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss a must-see destination on your next trip to Iceland.
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Aldeyjarfoss
Discover the unique beauty of Aldeyjarfoss waterfall, located in the northern Highlands of Iceland. This waterfall stands out for its distinct backdrop of basalt columns surrounding its flow as it cascades into an icy blue pond. At 65 feet (20 meters) tall, the fascinating contrast between the white water of the falls and the dark basalt columns makes it a photographer’s dream.
These basalt columns are so perfectly formed and symmetrical that they seem to be carved by hand, but they are formed when lava rapidly cools down following a volcanic eruption. These columns can be found widely in Iceland, but at Aldeyjarfoss waterfall, they are unusually colorful, with shades of yellow and red created by sulfur and iron. This waterfall is a bit off the beaten path and can only be reached by traveling on Iceland’s famous F-roads, which can only be driven with a four-wheel-drive vehicle. During the winter, ice covers the hexagonal basalt columns along the waterfall, making it look even more otherworldly. If you are planning to visit Aldeyjarfoss, you can find a range of options for Iceland car rental to reach it. Don’t miss out on the chance to witness the natural wonder of Aldeyjarfoss waterfall on your next trip to Iceland.
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Dettifoss
Experience the awe-inspiring natural wonder of North Iceland on the Diamond Circle route. As you drive along the Ring Road, you’ll have the opportunity to explore a diverse range of landscapes including canyons, vast lakes, and charming towns that offer whale-watching opportunities. But the true highlight of the Diamond Circle route is Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe and the largest in Iceland. With a flow of nearly 200 cubic meters (over 7,000 cubic feet) of water per second, the roar of Dettifoss can be heard from a distance before the waterfall comes into view. To fully appreciate the might of Dettifoss, make sure to visit the east bank viewpoint. Don’t miss the chance to witness the raw power of nature at Dettifoss on your next trip to Iceland.
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Goðafoss
Discover the natural beauty and rich history of Goðafoss on the Diamond Circle route in North Iceland. This horseshoe-shaped waterfall is not only a stunning sight to behold, but also steeped in legend and myth. Goðafoss, also known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” is said to have gotten its name over a thousand years ago when a local chieftain, after converting to Christianity, threw his statues of the Norse gods into the thundering water. See the powerful curtain of water and let yourself be captivated by the stories and myths surrounding Goðafoss. Make sure to add Goðafoss to your itinerary on your next trip to Iceland.
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Dynjandi
Explore the rugged and remote beauty of the Westfjords in Western Iceland and discover one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the region, Dynjandi. Often compared to a bridal veil or multi-layered wedding cake, this waterfall tumbles over multiple layers of rock across a width of 30 to 60 meters (98 to 197 feet), making it the largest waterfall in the Westfjords. The hike to reach Dynjandi from the parking area takes around 15 minutes and along the way, you’ll pass by six other waterfalls that are also worth a visit. With its breathtaking beauty and remote location, Dynjandi is a must-see destination for nature lovers visiting Iceland.
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Hraunfossar
Experience the unique natural beauty of Hraunfossar on your journey back to Reykjavik from West Iceland. These falls are a must-see detour off the Ring Road and will leave you marveling at their source, as there is no river or lake in sight. The water for Hraunfossar actually comes from rivulets in the Hallmundarhraun lava field, formed by a volcanic eruption from beneath the Langjökull glacier. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the neighboring Barnafoss falls and experience the thrill of an Into the Glacier tour, where you can walk inside the ice tunnels carved out of the nearby Langjökull glacier. This is one of the top things to do in West Iceland.
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Glymur
Glymur waterfall is the second tallest waterfall in Iceland and is located in the Hvalfjordur fjord, not far from Reykjavik. It is a two-hour hike through beautiful scenery, including river crossings and a cave, and is a perfect destination for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers. The waterfall’s name is steeped in legend and is said to be named after an old Icelandic folklore about a man who was turned into a whale by an elf woman. The waterfall’s natural beauty, interesting history and legend make it a must-see destination on your next trip to Iceland.
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In conclusion, Iceland is home to a wide variety of breathtaking waterfalls that are sure to take your breath away. From the powerful and majestic Dettifoss, to the unique and picturesque Aldeyjarfoss, each waterfall in Iceland has its own unique charm and beauty. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, Iceland’s waterfalls offer something for everyone. With many easily accessible and some requiring a bit more effort, this list of the top 15 waterfalls in Iceland is a great starting point for planning your next trip to Iceland, and a reminder of the natural beauty that this country has to offer.