14 BEST Waterfalls You Should Visit In Iceland
(With Map)
The waterfalls of Iceland are among the most majestic and visually stunning in the entire world. Ice cold rivers flowing from ancient glaciers to the salty sea creating captivating mist filled falls along the way. These incredible pockets of wonder bring life back to the island as they cut through the stark volcanic landscapes. Dipping in and out of glacier carved gorges, around daunting volcanos, and through bubbling geothermal areas. It’s easy to see how the land of 10,000 waterfalls is home to the best on the planet.
While each waterfall appears brilliantly distinct, the one thing they all have in common is that you won’t find anything like them anywhere else. The calm and enchanting Kirkjufellsfoss, the powerful roaring Detifoss, the skyscraping Glymur are some of the many breathtaking and unique waterfalls scattered throughout Iceland. Whether you’re looking to relax next to a soft and peaceful stream or be stunned by the sight of a massive raging cascade, Iceland has it all!
1.) Seljalandsfoss
One of Iceland’s crown jewels, this is truly an incredible waterfall. If you only have time for a couple of waterfalls, make sure this is one of them!
WHAT TO EXPECTÂ
– A large continuous stream of water
– Mist all around the bottom
– A large walkway behind the falls
– Many lookout points for picturesÂ
Pro Tip-Â Get there early to beat the crowds
2.) Gljufrabui
Maybe you’re looking for a more secluded and mysterious waterfall. If so then look no further! Often overlooked, Gljufrabui Falls is just a short walk from Seljalandsfoss making it a quick way to check off two falls in one day.
WHAT TO EXPECT
– Small crowds, a more intimate feeling
– Hidden inside a tight gorgeÂ
– Less intense water making it great for photos
– A short walk along rocks in the water
Pro Tip-Â Waterproof shoes are a huge help
3.) Skogafoss
One of the most popular falls in Iceland, and for good reason. With a ton of space to walk around and ample parking spots, it shouldn’t feel crowded. Plus it’s only a short drive from the Solheimasandur Plane Wreck!
WHAT TO EXPECT
– Intensely powerful water output
– A path at the bottom letting you get as close as you want (if you don’t mind getting wet)
– Great views at the bottom and the top of the falls
– Plenty of spots to camp
Pro Tip- Don’t forget to do the waterfall way hike starting at the top of Skogafoss.
4.) Kvernufoss
Overshadowed by the might of Skogafoss, the nearby falls of Kvernufoss are arguably much more beautiful. Few people and picture perfect views make this one of the best waterfalls in the country!
WHAT TO EXPECT
– A short walk from Skogafoss
– A fun trail through a small gorge to the waterfall
– Look for grazing sheep along the way
– A small path to walk behind the fallsÂ
Pro Tip-Â Try to get there on a sunny day for some great rainbow photos
5.) Gullfoss
In the middle of open plains this 2 level cascade almost seems like it was plopped here by accident. Not to mention a strong current kicking up plenty of mist that leaves the bottom of the falls drenched in mystery… it will also leave you drenched, so don’t forget a waterproof coat 😀
WHAT TO EXPECT
– A very easy to walk path
– Multiple lookout points
– It’s very misty, so be ready to get wet
– Wide sprawling sceneryÂ
Pro Tip-Â An excellent spot for some sunrise picturesÂ
6.) Haifoss
If you like awe inspiring views, this one’s for you. A canyon that seems to stretch down forever, multiple falls, and an unrivaled vista, what more could you want from one of the best waterfalls in the Iceland?
WHAT TO EXPECT
– A deeply carved canyon
– Numerous lookout points to take in the sights
– A split in the river creating not 1 but 2 tall waterfalls
– The bottom can be reached using a path along the canyon
Pro Tip- The dirt road leading to the falls can get bumpy a 4×4 is recommended
7.) Sigöldugljúfur
Seemingly in the middle of nowhere, this magical spot seems straight out of a dream. The color combinations and undisturbed peacefulness are things that have to be experienced in person!
WHAT TO EXPECT
– Dozens of light-flowing falls
– Beautiful light blue waterÂ
– Trails to follow to the next set of showers
– Plenty of places to sit and watch
Pro Tip-Â Park in a small lot before the turnoff for a cool rocky trail to the falls
8.) Fjaðrárgljúfur
This one is a bit different compared to the rest of the list, BUT that’s what makes it so spectacular. At this stop, the waterfall is nice, but the real star of the show is the gorge. This otherworldly gorge is proof that Iceland is unlike anything you have ever seen
WHAT TO EXPECT
– A well-kept trail along the top
– Unbelievable views of the moss covered cliffs
– Multiple overlook points
– A short uphill walk from the parking lot
Pro Tip-Â Get there early so you get a spot in the small parking lot
9.) Svartifoss
Tucked away in a forested valley, Svartifoss is a prime example of the obscure beauty Iceland has to offer. The water dancing over the hexagon shaped rocks looks like something you would only see in a movie.
WHAT TO EXPECT
– Unique rock formations
– 1.5mile hike from the parking lot
– A light water flow causing little mist
– Views of the forest and nearby glacier
Pro Tip- Be sure to hike to the nearby Skaftafell Glacier for another “Only in Iceland” experience
10.) Gufufoss
Located on the less populated east side of the island this waterfall can be easy to miss, but don’t be fooled it’s definitely worth the trip! The colorful flowers and calm river make for a fairytale like scene
WHAT TO EXPECT
– A path leading all the way to the base
– Peaceful streamÂ
– Wildflowers along the water
– Plenty of mist the closer you get
Pro Tip-Â On the other side of the river you can follow the trail to the top of the falls.
11.) Detifoss
Iceland has some of the most powerful environments in the world, and Detifoss is at the pinnacle of power. The most powerful waterfall in Europe, flowing over 3 million gallons per minute, these rapids create a raw strength you can feel.
WHAT TO EXPECT
– A rocky trail to the falls
– A sight you have to see to believe
– A few lookout points
– Amazing slow-mo videos
Pro Tip-Â Hike about a mile upstream to see a series of cascades.
12.) Kirkjufellsfoss
Odds are when you think of Iceland waterfalls, this is the one that comes to mind. An enchanting Instagram worthy place that is truly one of the prettiest sights in the entire country.
WHAT TO EXPECT
– Vibrant flowers around the water
– Calm falls in the shadow of an oddly shaped mountain
– A bridge above the falls
– A great view of the bay and surrounding mountainsÂ
Pro Tip-Â Get there early to see one of the best sunrises in the world!
13.) Glymur
Saving one of the best for last, this waterfall’s cavernous beauty is hard to put into words. Following the trail up the side of the gorge, providing breathtaking views every step of the way will surely be one of the highlights of your trip! If you’re afraid of heights, don’t worry; the views of one of the tallest waterfalls in the country are just as impressive from the bottom as they are from the top… well almost😀
WHAT TO EXPECT
– Incredible heights
– High winds
– A rocky sometimes slick trail entirely uphill
– Roughly 2.5 miles to the top from the parking lot
Pro Tip-Â Don’t forget some waterproof shoes so you can cross the river at the top.
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