Iceland Nature Guide
Waterfalls in Iceland
Iceland has thousands of waterfalls — from accessible Golden Circle giants to hidden highland cascades. Here are the most spectacular.
Iceland's Waterfall Culture
Iceland is home to thousands of waterfalls thanks to its glaciers, volcanic rivers and dramatic terrain. The combination of enormous glaciers melting into fast-flowing rivers, combined with Iceland's sharp cliff landscapes, creates some of the most spectacular waterfall scenery on Earth.
Many waterfalls are easily accessible directly from the Ring Road on the South Coast, including the famous trio of Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss and Gullfoss on the Golden Circle. Others require hiking through remote valleys or driving highland F-roads.
The Icelandic word for waterfall is foss — which you'll notice in nearly every waterfall name: Gullfoss, Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss. Iceland has more waterfalls per square kilometre than almost anywhere else on Earth.
Waterfalls in Iceland are fed by glaciers, springs, and rainfall. The largest, like Dettifoss, carry glacial meltwater from the vast Vatnajökull glacier. Others like Hraunfossar spring from beneath ancient lava fields in a completely unique phenomenon.
Best Waterfalls in Iceland
Detailed guide to the most spectacular waterfalls — with tips, directions and history
All Waterfalls in Iceland
212 waterfalls in our database — from iconic Ring Road stops to hidden gems
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🎫 Bookable TourPrivate Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 2 Day Tour & Glacier Hike
🎫 Bookable TourPrivate 2-Day Glacier Lagoon, Ice Cave and Northern Lights
🎫 Bookable TourReykjavík All In One Food Tour - Eat, Drink & Explore with Locals
🎫 Bookable TourGlacier Adventure at Sólheimajökull Private Tour
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🎫 Bookable TourIceland: Diamond Beach Glacier Lagoon Black Sand Beach 冰岛冰河湖中文一日团
🎫 Bookable TourPrivate Silfra Snorkeling 6 p. group - Meet on Location - with Underwater Photos
🎫 Bookable TourPrivate Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 2 Day Tour & Glacier Hike
🎫 Bookable TourPrivate 2-Day Glacier Lagoon, Ice Cave and Northern Lights
🎫 Bookable TourReykjavík All In One Food Tour - Eat, Drink & Explore with Locals
🎫 Bookable TourGlacier Adventure at Sólheimajökull Private Tour
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🎫 Bookable TourReykjanes Peninsula Private Day Tour - up to 9 passengers
🎫 Bookable Tour2 hour Round Trip in Vestmannaeyjar on a RIB Boat
Visiting Iceland's Waterfalls
Best Time to Visit
- •Summer (June–August): Maximum water flow from glacier melt, long daylight hours
- •Winter (Nov–Mar): Dramatic ice formations, possible Northern Lights backdrop
- •Spring (April–May): Rushing snowmelt, fewer crowds
- •Autumn (Sept–Oct): Golden colours, comfortable temperatures
What to Bring
- •Waterproof jacket and trousers — always
- •Waterproof boots with ankle support
- •Camera with UV filter to protect from spray
- •Layers — weather changes fast in Iceland
- •Polarising lens filter for photography
Safety Tips
- •Never cross safety barriers or ropes — accidents happen
- •Don't stand directly under waterfall spray for long periods
- •Wear grippy footwear — wet rocks are extremely slippery
- •Check road conditions before visiting highland falls (safetravel.is)
- •Tell someone your plan if hiking to remote falls
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most famous waterfall in Iceland?
Gullfoss is arguably the most famous waterfall in Iceland, located on the Golden Circle route. Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss on the South Coast are also among the most visited. For sheer power, Dettifoss in North Iceland is Europe's most powerful waterfall.
Can you walk behind a waterfall in Iceland?
Yes — Seljalandsfoss on the South Coast has a path that allows visitors to walk completely behind the waterfall. It is open most of the year except in icy winter conditions. Bring waterproof clothing as the path gets very wet.
What is the tallest waterfall in Iceland?
Morsárfoss at 228 metres is technically the tallest, but it is very remote. Glymur at 198 metres is the tallest accessible waterfall in Iceland and is popular for hiking. Hengifoss (128m) and Háifoss (122m) are also among the tallest.
Which Iceland waterfall is best in winter?
Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Gullfoss are all dramatic in winter and accessible year-round. Seljalandsfoss can freeze partially in very cold winters. Kirkjufellsfoss is particularly popular in winter for Northern Lights photography.
Are Iceland waterfalls free to visit?
Most waterfalls in Iceland are free to visit. Some, like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, have paid parking areas nearby. Entry to the waterfalls themselves is always free.
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