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 a land of waterfalls. With abundant rainfall, glacial melt, and dramatic topography, this island nation is home to countless cascades ranging from gentle streams to thundering curtains of water.
Icelanders have a deep connection to their waterfalls. Many carry legends and folklore, and some played pivotal roles in the country history.
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
Gullfoss
The Golden Waterfall
Gullfoss is one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland and a centerpiece of the popular Golden Circle route. The waterfall drops in two dramatic stages into a rugged canyon carved by the glacial river.
Seljalandsfoss
Walk Behind the Waterfall
Seljalandsfoss offers a truly immersive experience, allowing visitors to walk directly behind its powerful cascade. Surrounded by vibrant green hills and a meandering stream, this iconic waterfall provides breathtaking photo opportunities and a unique perspective on Iceland's raw beauty.
Skógafoss
Powerful South Coast Waterfall
Skógafoss is a breathtaking spectacle in South Iceland, where a massive curtain of water plunges dramatically from ancient, moss-covered cliffs. The immense spray often creates vibrant rainbows, as seen shimmering near its base, offering an unforgettable natural display.
Dettifoss
Europe Most Powerful Waterfall
Dettifoss is widely considered the most powerful waterfall in Europe, with a flow rate of up to 500 cubic metres per second. The thundering sound can be heard from kilometres away.
Goðafoss
Waterfall of the Gods
Goðafoss, the 'Waterfall of the Gods,' is a breathtaking horseshoe-shaped cascade in North Iceland, formed by a powerful glacial river. Its wide, elegant curve and the vibrant blue water create a truly majestic spectacle, especially when bathed in the soft Icelandic light.
Svartifoss
The Black Waterfall
Cascading over striking black basalt columns, Svartifoss in East Iceland is a natural masterpiece. These hexagonal formations, resembling organ pipes, were sculpted by slow-cooling lava, creating a truly unique and awe-inspiring spectacle.
Kirkjufellsfoss
Waterfall by Kirkjufell
Kirkjufellsfoss is one of the most photographed locations in Iceland with the iconic cone of Kirkjufell mountain in the background. Popular for Northern Lights photography in winter.
Hraunfossar
Lava Field Waterfalls
Hraunfossar, meaning 'Lava Waterfalls', is a breathtaking series of cascades emerging directly from beneath a porous lava field. Instead of a single dramatic drop, water gracefully seeps and tumbles over countless small openings, creating a mesmerizing, ethereal spectacle unlike any other waterfall in Iceland.
Bruarfoss
The Blue Waterfall
Bruarfoss is known for the extraordinary electric blue colour of its glacial water. Hidden near the Golden Circle route, it requires a short hike to reach.
Háifoss
One of Iceland Tallest Waterfalls
Prepare to be awestruck by Háifoss, a monumental waterfall plunging dramatically into a rugged canyon. As Iceland's third-highest, its sheer scale and the surrounding untouched landscape offer a truly wild and unforgettable spectacle.
Hengifoss
Red Layer Waterfall
Prepare to be mesmerized by Hengifoss, Iceland's third-tallest waterfall, dramatically framed by striking red and black basalt layers. This unique geological display, formed by ancient volcanic activity, offers a breathtaking contrast to the vibrant green moss and surrounding landscape.
Dynjandi
Westfjords Jewel
Dynjandi is the crown jewel of the Westfjords — a magnificent tiered waterfall that fans out like a bridal veil down a 100-metre cliff face at the head of Arnarfjörður. Seven smaller waterfalls cascade below it along the same trail. The name means 'thunderous' in Icelandic, and standing at its base beneath the roaring curtain of water is a truly humbling experience.
Glymur
Iceland Second Tallest Waterfall
Glymur is Iceland second tallest waterfall at 198 metres, hidden in the fjord canyon north of Reykjavik. The hike takes you through a cave and across a log bridge over a glacial river.
All Waterfalls in Iceland
192 waterfalls in our database — from iconic Ring Road stops to hidden gems
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🎫 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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