Iceland Waterfalls
Descriptions, height, access, parking and best time for each waterfall
Gullfoss
SouthTwo-tiered falls on the Hvítá river. Iceland's most famous waterfall and part of the Golden Circle. Rainbows form in the spray on sunny days.
Seljalandsfoss
SouthOne of few waterfalls where you can walk behind the cascade — be prepared to get wet! Short walk from the Ring Road.
Skógafoss
SouthWide falls with thin mist. Steps lead to the top with incredible views. Legend says a chest of gold is buried behind it.
Gljúfrabúi
SouthHidden waterfall inside a canyon right next to Seljalandsfoss. You must wade a stream to get in — worth it!
Goðafoss
North"Waterfall of the gods" — said the law speaker threw his idols into the falls when Christianity took over. Wide and beautiful.
Dettifoss
NorthMost powerful waterfall in Europe. The force is so strong you feel it in the ground. The west side is better for walking.
Háifoss
SouthFourth-highest waterfall in the country in Fossá in Þjórsárdalur. Great canyon views. Solitary and beautiful.
Hengifoss
EastHighest waterfall in East Iceland. Hiking trail with good views and Litlifoss on the way. Red layers in the cliffs.
Dynjandi
WestfjordsStepped waterfall that widens like a bridal veil. The symbol of the Westfjords. Trail reaches it with several smaller falls along the way.
Hraunfossar
WestUnique waterfall where water seeps from the lava field into the Hvítá river. Blue-green water against red rocks.
Barnafossar
WestWaterfall that has carved its way through a canyon. Legend says two children drowned here — hence the name "children's falls".
Svartifoss
SouthWaterfall surrounded by black basalt columns — inspired the design of the National Theatre and Hallgrímskirkja. The hike is worth it.
Photography tips
- •Use a tripod and long exposure (0.5–2 sec) to make the water silky smooth.
- •Morning brings the best light and fewer people.
- •Waterproof jacket — spray from the falls will get you wet.
- •Stay on the paths — rocks are slippery and steep near falls.
Waterfalls are dangerous — slippery rocks, strong currents and steep edges. Never go beyond the safe viewing point and follow signs. Some waterfalls have killed people.
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