south iceland

黑瀑布

About 黑瀑布

Svartifoss is one of the most recognizable waterfalls in Iceland due to the distinctive basalt column formations surrounding the cascade. These columns formed when thick lava flows cooled slowly and contracted into hexagonal shapes, creating natural geometric cliffs around the waterfall. Located within the Skaftafell area of Vatnajökull National Park, Svartifoss is accessible via a well-marked hiking trail beginning at the Skaftafell Visitor Centre. The trail gradually climbs uphill and passes two additional waterfalls, Hundafoss and Magnúsarfoss, before reaching Svartifoss itself. Although Svartifoss is smaller than many of Iceland’s major waterfalls, its geological setting makes it one of the most visually unique. The contrast between dark volcanic rock and bright white water creates a dramatic landscape that changes appearance depending on lighting and season. The surrounding area offers additional hiking routes with views toward glaciers, mountain ridges and volcanic plains. Because of its accessibility and scenery, Svartifoss remains one of the most popular natural attractions along Iceland’s South Coast.

🐉 Basalt Columns and Troll Legends

According to Icelandic folklore, unusual rock formations such as basalt columns were often believed to be trolls that turned to stone when exposed to sunlight. The dark cliffs surrounding Svartifoss were traditionally seen as frozen guardians protecting the waterfall and the valley below. Stories like these helped early travelers explain Iceland’s mysterious volcanic landscapes long before modern geology described their formation.

📖 History

Svartifoss has long been recognized as one of the most distinctive waterfalls in the Skaftafell region. As Vatnajökull National Park developed into one of Iceland’s most important protected areas, the waterfall became a popular destination for hikers exploring South Iceland. The basalt column formations surrounding Svartifoss influenced Icelandic architecture, most famously the design of Hallgrímskirkja church in Reykjavík. Today the waterfall remains one of the key highlights within Skaftafell and an essential stop for visitors traveling along the South Coast.lacier outwash plain.

✈️ Why Visit

The basalt columns inspired the design of Hallgrímskirkja church

💡 Did You Know?

The name means 'Black Falls' after the dark basalt surrounding it

Key Facts

✓

Name means 'Black Falls'

✓

Inspired the design of Hallgrímskirkja church in Reykjavík

✓

Surrounded by dark hexagonal basalt columns

✓

Located within Vatnajökull National Park

✓

About 45-minute hike from the Skaftafell visitor centre

✓

One of Iceland’s most photographed waterfalls

💎 Hidden Gems

★

Hundafoss Waterfall

Hundafoss is a smaller waterfall located along the hiking trail between the Skaftafell Visitor Centre and Svartifoss. Many visitors walk past it quickly on their way uphill, but it offers a beautiful cascade surrounded by basalt formations and green moss-covered slopes.

A peaceful waterfall stop along the trail that most visitors overlook while hiking to Svartifoss.

★

Magnúsarfoss Waterfall

Magnúsarfoss is another hidden waterfall along the Svartifoss hiking route. It is located slightly off the main viewing path but rewards visitors with a quieter and more intimate waterfall experience.

A quieter alternative waterfall viewpoint with fewer visitors than Svartifoss.

★

Skaftafellsheiði Plateau Viewpoint

Continuing beyond Svartifoss leads toward the Skaftafellsheiði plateau, where hikers can enjoy wide panoramic views across glaciers, mountain ridges and volcanic plains inside Vatnajökull National Park.

Offers some of the best panoramic views in the Skaftafell area beyond the main waterfall stop.

★

Sjónarnípa Glacier Viewpoint

Sjónarnípa is one of the most impressive glacier viewpoints in the Skaftafell region, overlooking Skaftafellsjökull glacier tongue stretching down from Vatnajökull ice cap.

One of the closest and most dramatic glacier viewpoints accessible from the Skaftafell hiking trail network.

★

Magnificent Basalt Column Close-Up Area

Near the base of Svartifoss visitors can walk closer to the basalt column formations that surround the waterfall and observe their geometric structure up close.