Waterfalls in Iceland

Seljalandsfoss is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and photographed Waterfalls in Iceland. Its tall, slender cascade tumbles from a cliff once part of the coastline, plunging 60 meters into the lush plains of South Iceland. What truly makes Seljalandsfoss special is the pathway that circles behind the waterfall, giving visitors a 360-degree perspective surrounded by mist and shimmering sunlight. The experience of standing behind the falls, with roaring water overhead and rainbows in the spray, is breathtaking for every traveler. During summer, the nearby fields bloom with vibrant wildflowers, while in winter, Seljalandsfoss transforms into a magical frozen landscape. Easily accessible from Route 1, it remains a must-see on any journey through Iceland’s southern region.

Location: South Iceland near Route 1, just 30 kilometers from Skógafoss.
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Skógafoss is a mesmerizing waterfall found along Iceland’s southern coast, celebrated for its powerful flow and cinematic beauty. Standing at 62 meters high and stretching 25 meters wide, Skógafoss generates constant mist, allowing rainbows to appear frequently in sunny weather. The waterfall is famous for its perfectly rectangular shape, and visitors can approach the base, feeling the full force of nature and getting drenched for a truly immersive experience. A staircase beside the falls leads up the steep cliff for panoramic views of the Skógá River and rolling green landscapes. Skógafoss is the starting point of the Fimmvörðuháls hiking trail, which traverses multiple Iceland waterfalls. Featured in films and TV, it remains an essential stop for photographers and nature lovers.

Location: South Iceland, on Route 1 near the village of Skógar.
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Gljúfrabúi, meaning “Canyon Dweller,” is an enchanting waterfall tucked away just north of the famous Seljalandsfoss. Hidden behind a moss-draped cliff, Gljúfrabúi offers a sense of adventure and intimacy rarely found among more visited Iceland waterfalls. To reach its 40-meter drop, visitors must walk along a stream and navigate through a narrow opening in the rock, where the roar of water and the misty atmosphere create a magical experience. A lone boulder within the canyon provides a dramatic viewpoint perfect for photographs. Despite its proximity to Seljalandsfoss, Gljúfrabúi remains relatively quiet and undiscovered by large tour groups, making it an ideal secret for those who appreciate the raw, untouched beauty of Iceland’s landscape.

Location: South Iceland, just a few hundred meters north of Seljalandsfoss, accessible from the same parking area

Kvernufoss is a lesser-known but absolutely captivating waterfall located near Skógafoss. Surrounded by a mossy canyon and hidden behind basalt cliffs, Kvernufoss drops approximately 30 meters into a secluded gorge. The trail to the falls involves a short, easy walk from the Skógar Museum, offering tranquility and privacy far from the bustling crowds of more popular Iceland waterfalls. Adventurers can walk behind the curtain of water, marveling at the lush greenery and echoing sound of the cascade. Because of its discreet location and the short journey required, Kvernufoss often feels like a private discovery, perfect for photography and peaceful reflection. This waterfall epitomizes the charming wildness that makes South Iceland so alluring to travelers.

Location: South Iceland, just east of Skógafoss, near Skógar Museum.
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Svartifoss, meaning “Black Falls,” stands out for its striking appearance, framed by dark hexagonal basalt columns reminiscent of a cathedral’s organ pipes. The waterfall is relatively modest, with a drop of 20 meters, yet its surrounding geological features make it a highlight of Vatnajökull National Park. A scenic hiking trail leads visitors through lush forest and past several smaller falls before reaching Svartifoss, whose design inspired Reykjavik’s Hallgrímskirkja church. In summer, the area bursts with wildflowers, while autumn brings deep colors to the landscape. Svartifoss is a favorite among photographers and nature lovers, celebrated for its harmonious blend of Iceland’s volcanic history and delicate natural beauty.

Location: Skaftafell, Vatnajökull National Park, South-East Iceland. Parking is available at Skaftafell Visitor Center.

Goðafoss, known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” is one of North Iceland’s most storied natural wonders. Famed for its wide, horseshoe-shaped cascade, Goðafoss drops 12 meters across a 30-meter span of the river Skjálfandafljót. Its name comes from a pivotal moment in Icelandic history: when the nation converted to Christianity, idols of Norse gods were cast into the falls. Goðafoss can be admired from multiple viewing platforms on both sides of the river, with pathways providing easy access. The turquoise color of the glacial water, combined with the surrounding rugged canyons and green meadows, creates a dramatic sight. Goðafoss is a favorite for families and photographers alike, thanks to its accessibility and legendary status.

Location: North Iceland along Route 1, between Akureyri and Lake Mývatn, with parking on both riverbanks.

Often called the most powerful waterfall in Europe, Dettifoss dominates the northern landscape with sheer force and drama. The relentless cascade drops 45 meters and stretches 100 meters across the Jökulsá á Fjöllum River, sending a constant spray into the air and roaring with energy that vibrates through the canyon. Dettifoss is accessible via marked hiking trails and viewing platforms, with its primal mist and thunderous sound drawing adventurers and film crews. The lunar-like terrain of the surrounding Vatnajökull National Park makes its stark power even more impressive. Dettifoss is an essential destination for travelers eager to witness the raw, untamed might of Iceland waterfalls up close, especially during summer when access is easiest.

Location: North-East Iceland, Vatnajökull National Park via Route 862 (West) or Route 864 (East).

Selfoss is located just upstream from Dettifoss and offers a more elegant, tranquil experience. With a drop of 11 meters but spanning nearly 100 meters wide, Selfoss features a series of cascading streams that tumble into a rugged canyon carved by glacial waters. The basalt columns provide a dramatic backdrop as visitors wander along marked trails, easily combining visits to Selfoss with Dettifoss for an immersive waterfall adventure. Selfoss is less crowded than its powerful neighbor and ideal for peaceful moments, photography, and observing the subtle interplay of water and volcanic stone that defines many Iceland waterfalls. It’s especially vibrant in summer when the volume surges and wildflowers blanket the surrounding terrain.

Location: North-East Iceland, immediately upstream from Dettifoss, accessible via marked walking trails from Dettifoss parking.

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Hafragilsfoss adds grandeur to the canyon system of North Iceland, plunging an impressive 27 meters down jagged basalt cliffs into the Jokulsargljufur canyon. The waterfall may not be as widely visited as Dettifoss, but its dramatic and remote setting makes it a rewarding find for those willing to venture off the beaten path. The canyon surrounding Hafragilsfoss is deep, wild, and largely untouched, offering striking views and opportunities for landscape photography. The lookout points for Hafragilsfoss reveal the ancient geological processes that shaped Iceland waterfalls over thousands of years. Fewer crowds mean visitors are likely to have serene moments alone with spectacular views of raw Icelandic nature.

Location: North Iceland, Vatnajökull National Park near Dettifoss and Selfoss, best accessed from the east side.
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Hraunfossar, the “Lava Falls,” is a wide, magical series of springs that emerge directly from beneath the Hallmundarhraun lava field, spilling gently into the Hvítá river. Unlike typical Iceland waterfalls, Hraunfossar comprises hundreds of small streams trickling across mossy rocks for nearly a kilometer, creating an ethereal blue-and-white tapestry. The volcanic setting reveals Iceland’s fascinating geological history and peaceful natural beauty. Well-maintained trails and viewing platforms allow visitors to explore the area at leisure while marveling at the purity and clarity of the water. Hraunfossar is a perfect spot for families, photographers, and anyone seeking serenity away from more dramatic waterfalls in Iceland.

Location: West Iceland, near Reykholt, approximately 120 kilometers from Reykjavik. Parking and trails available.

Barnafoss, or “Children’s Falls,” lies just northeast of Hraunfossar and offers a stark contrast with its wild rapids churning through a narrow, rocky gorge. Its name comes from a tragic legend involving children who perished attempting to cross a stone arch that once spanned the falls. Barnafoss’s intense blue and white waters, framed by jagged volcanic rocks, create a dramatic spectacle. Well-maintained walking paths guide visitors along the edge of the gorge for safe viewing and excellent photography. Folklore is alive here, with tales posted on signs adding to the sense of history and local mystery that surrounds many Iceland waterfalls.

Location: West Iceland, adjacent to Hraunfossar near Reykholt, connected via walking paths.

Glymur is Iceland’s second-tallest waterfall, plunging 198 meters in a sheer drop through a lush, narrow canyon filled with verdant moss and dramatic rock arches. Reaching Glymur is an adventure, requiring a hike over streams and along steep cliff edges, but the effort is richly rewarded with panoramic views of the valley and distant fjords. This waterfall, fed by the Botnsá River, remains unspoiled by mass tourism, allowing visitors to connect deeply with the raw wilderness unique to Iceland waterfalls. Glymur’s soaring height and rugged location make it ideal for experienced hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking excitement and solitude.

Location: Hvalfjörður, West Iceland, about an hour’s drive north of Reykjavik. Parking at trailhead.

Hengifoss, the third-highest waterfall in Iceland, is famous for its stunning geological display: red clay stripes sandwiched between black basalt cliffs. The single drop of 128 meters creates a bold vertical stripe, making Hengifoss one of the most visually memorable Iceland waterfalls. The scenic, moderately challenging hiking trail passes through lush hillside meadows and past smaller wonders such as Litlanesfoss. Visitors can admire sediment layers revealing Iceland’s volcanic history and dramatic changes over millions of years. Hengifoss is especially breathtaking in late spring and autumn, when the colors of the cliffs and surrounding landscapes become most vivid.

Location: East Iceland, about 30 kilometers south of Egilsstaðir, with a trail and parking area beside the main road.

Litlanesfoss is a picturesque waterfall encountered on the hike to Hengifoss, instantly recognized by its stunning ring of tall basalt columns. The waterfall itself drops about 30 meters into a deep canyon, flanked on either side by pillars that rise dramatically above the stream. These columns frame the cascade in one of the most striking geological formations among Iceland waterfalls, inviting photographers and hikers to pause and marvel. Litlanesfoss’s unique setting and relatively quiet location make it an ideal reward for those undertaking the trek to Hengifoss, where geology, tranquility, and wild beauty merge in a magical way.

Location: East Iceland, accessed via the hiking trail to Hengifoss from the parking area near Egilsstaðir.

Fardagafoss, a relatively unknown gem, sits just outside the town of Egilsstaðir and boasts both easy accessibility and adventure. A well-marked hiking trail leads visitors through greener hills and rocky landscapes, ending with the chance to climb behind the falls into a shallow cave for a unique photo opportunity. Fardagafoss is less visited than most Iceland waterfalls, so travelers often encounter peace and solitude as the sound of water echoes through the canyon. This site reveals the quieter, more personal side of Icelandic nature, perfect for a relaxing stop or a spontaneous local discovery.

Location: East Iceland, near Egilsstaðir, along well-marked walking paths starting from the town’s outskirts.

Dynjandi is the pride of the Westfjords and renowned for its multilayered, cascading flow resembling a bridal veil. Measuring 100 meters in height and spanning 60 meters at the base, Dynjandi is the largest waterfall in the region, with a series of smaller cascades tumbling down beneath the main drop. The hike to Dynjandi leads visitors past these smaller falls before culminating in the jaw-dropping spectacle of the main cascade. Rainbows frequently appear in the mist, and the remote, rugged scenery creates a sense of awe and wonder unique to the Westfjords. Dynjandi is a bucket-list destination for those eager to experience the untouched grandeur of Iceland waterfalls.

Location: Arnarfjörður, Westfjords, accessible via Route 60. Clearly marked parking and hiking trails available.

Fossá refers to several waterfalls in Iceland, as "fossá" simply means “waterfall river” in Icelandic. The most notable Fossá lies in the Faroe Islands, but on Iceland itself, there are various smaller Fossá sites characterized by their beautifully tiered cascades through scenic valleys and rocky outcrops. The most charming Fossá can be found in the Westfjords, with water rushing loudly over basalt ledges and framed by lush moss and wildflowers. These waterfalls embody the quieter essence of Iceland’s landscape, perfect for close-up exploration and peaceful contemplation away from the crowds. Fossá provides delightful local color and showcases the everyday beauty found throughout Iceland waterfalls.

Location: Multiple across Iceland, most significant in the Westfjords and accessible near major routes.

Reykjanesfoss is nestled in the volcanic heart of the Reykjanes Peninsula, surrounded by geothermal fields, cliffs, and bird habitats. Though smaller than other Iceland waterfalls, Reykjanesfoss is notable for its striking geological context amid lava flows and hot springs. The area is rich in hiking trails, and visitors can enjoy a combination of natural wonders while exploring nearby sites. The waterfall itself offers gentle cascades, with clear water rushing over black volcanic stone. Reykjanesfoss is an ideal destination for those wishing to discover unique landscapes or unwind while traveling through western Iceland’s geothermal corridors.

Location: Reykjanes Peninsula, about 40 kilometers southwest of Reykjavik, near prominent geothermal sites.

Aldeyjarfoss is a dramatic waterfall located in North Iceland’s highlands, famed for its 20-meter drop and amphitheater of black basalt columns. The brilliant blue water surges into a rocky pool, contrasting sharply with the dark volcanic landscape. Reaching Aldeyjarfoss requires a drive along remote roads, best undertaken in summer when access is safest. For those willing to seek it out, Aldeyjarfoss creates unforgettable scenery and photo opportunities that encapsulate the wild, untamed soul of Iceland waterfalls. Its isolation ensures tranquil visits and the feeling of having discovered a true geological treasure.

Location: North Iceland, in the Sprengisandur Highlands, accessible via F26; parking available in summer.

Bruarfoss is celebrated for having the bluest water among the Iceland waterfalls, thanks to the unique composition of surrounding rocks and minerals. Though modest in height, with a drop of just three meters, Bruarfoss’s electric blue stream weaves delicately through dark volcanic terrain and lush vegetation. The walking trail to the falls follows a scenic river path and reveals tranquil views. This hidden gem was once difficult to access, but new trail developments have made it easier to reach. Bruarfoss is perfect for those seeking serene, photogenic landscapes and a bit of solitude within the famous Golden Circle region of Southwest Iceland.

Location: Southwest Iceland, near Laugarvatn, accessible via the Golden Circle route and well-marked walking trails.