24 Gorgeous Waterfalls of Iceland + An Iceland Waterfalls Map
Looking for a list and map of Iceland’s best waterfalls? You’re in the right place – read on for details!
Picture this: towering cascades of pure, glistening water, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and stark landscapes. Iceland is a land of fire and ice, where nature’s raw power is on full display, and its waterfalls embody the sheer majesty and untamed beauty of this enchanting country.
From powerful torrents to delicate veils of mist, Icelandic waterfalls come in all shapes and sizes, each with its own unique charm. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to some of the can’t miss waterfalls in the country that has the most waterfalls per square mile in the whole world.
With over 10,000 waterfalls in Iceland, you’ll see waterfalls streaming off of cliffs and down the sides of mountains everywhere you turn. It was one of the many, many magical parts of being in the country – we loved this aspect of Iceland.
This list of waterfalls in Iceland travels counter-clockwise around the country – starting in Reykjavik, and then heading southeast. You’ll notice from this list that most names on this list end in “foss”. In Icelandic, “foss” means waterfall.
And of course, we’re including a handy map of Iceland’s waterfalls, to help you better plan your trip!
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24 Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Iceland You Can’t Miss
These are 24 incredible waterfalls in Iceland – the biggest attractions you must see, and the some hidden gems you definitely need to discover.
Iceland Waterfalls Map
1. Gullfoss
As you consult the Iceland waterfalls map, you’ll see that Gullfoss (the Golden Falls) is quite close to Reykjavik and is part of the Golden Circle. This makes it easy to hit Gullfoss as a first waterfall on your Ring Road itinerary. The waterfall is really close to the parking lot; you just have a quick, 5 minute walk down a paved path to get to the viewpoints.
There is an upper and a lower viewing deck. Both offer nice views (and you can transfer between the two viewing decks via stairs), but if you want to get close to the falls, the lower deck is what gets you there. Restrooms and other facilities are found near the upper deck.
Gullfoss is very powerful, and has tons of mist – which you really feel on the lower viewing deck. When it’s sunny there will be a really nice rainbow over the falls, especially in the afternoon (unfortunately it was cloudy when we went).
The falls themselves were very wide and had a lot of different ledges along a first, smaller drop, culminating in a final large drop into a narrow ravine. The total height of Gullfoss is about 100 feet.
2. Bruarfoss
Bruarfoss Waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland and is definitely worth a visit. The best way to get to Bruarfoss Waterfall is by hiring a car. Once you arrive there, you can park your car at Brúará Trail – Parking and walk to the falls which should take approximately 50 minutes.
A few other waterfalls can also be seen during the hike such as Hlauptungufoss and Midfoss. The water’s breathtaking blue hue makes this one of the most scenic walks that you can have in Iceland. If you want to experience even more spectacular views, consider visiting it during the winter season which is considered the best time to visit Iceland.
Take advantage of stunning sunrises or sunsets to snap the most amazing photos of this beautiful milky-blue waterfall in Iceland. Just be sure to watch your step, as the rocks can be slippery. Not many tourists know about Bruarfoss waterfall in Iceland, but those who do often rave about its beauty.
By Paulina from the UK Every Day
3. Haifoss
The Haifoss waterfall is a giant cascade located in southern Iceland, not too far from Reykjavik, although it’s a bit harder to reach than some other falls in Iceland.
This waterfall is huge and impressive, so you won’t want to miss it. It has a drop of more than 120 meters (400 feet), which actually makes it one of the tallest waterfalls in the country!
There’s no cost or parking fee to visit Haifoss. The last section of the road to the waterfall is gravel and it has some deep ruts, but a 4×4 vehicle can still drive all the way to the waterfall.
Otherwise, if you have a 2WD vehicle, you can park up the road about 5.7 kilometers (3.5 miles), and then hike the rest of the way. It’s a mostly flat road, so with a decent pace you can reach the falls in about 1 to 1.5 hours. It’s well worth the effort!
By David & Intan from The World Travel Guy
4. Hjálparfoss
Hjálparfoss is located in the southern part of Iceland, near the confluence of the rivers Fossá and Thjórsá. The waterfall is unique with small cascades over two parallel rock formations, creating a mesmerizing double-drop effect.
The dark basalt columns on either side of the falls add to its dramatic appeal. The contrasting white waters rushing down against the dark backdrop create a stunning appearance.
Looking downstream from the falls, the river snakes around basalt columns that drop from the parking area into the river with the Búffellsstöð hydroelectric plant in the distance.
The waterfall can be seen from the parking area and a short walk down a gravel path will take you to a viewing platform on the edge of the river. it is steep but just a very short distance to the river.
To reach Hálparfoss, take Route 30 from Flúðir and then the 32 to the waterfalls. The road is rough gravel in places, and it is advisable to have a 4×4 vehicle due to the road conditions. This waterfall and the surrounding area is a perfect extension to the Golden Circle or the start of an adventure into the Icelandic Highlands.
By Suzanne of Meandering Wild
5. Gljufrabui
What makes Gljufrabui really unique and fun is that it is “hidden” in a cave. Well, technically, you can see the top of the waterfall from the outside, but it disappears behind some cliffs. Which means the name is very appropriate as Gljufrabui means “one who lives in the canyon”.
To see the whole waterfall, you have to go into the cave. You wade through ankle to mid-calf deep water for about 10 yards to get into the cave, and then are back on land. The waterfall streams down around 125 feet into the cave — the whole thing is gorgeous and feels so surreal! In fact, Gljufrabui was one of my top two favorite waterfalls in all of Iceland!
Once you are in the cave it’s hard to avoid the mist, so plan to get wet or bring a raincoat! For another perspective, there is a trail and staircase that takes you up about half the height of the falls, accessible from outside the cave.
If you are campervanning in Iceland, there is a campsite right outside the waterfall cave that is a gorgeous location.
If you check the Iceland waterfalls map, you’ll notice that Gljufrabui is within sight of…
6. Seljalandsfoss
Seljalandsfoss, named after the river that makes it, is just a few hundred meters from Gljufrabrui. It’s pretty tall, about 200 feet, and a medium flow waterfall, but the really cool thing about Seljalandsfoss is you can go behind it. The path takes you all the way around the backside of the waterfall so you get a really great view. It is super pretty!
Plan on experiencing a good amount of mist as you walk behind this waterfall (but it’s totally worth getting wet).
Note that there is a 700 krona parking fee here. There are public bathrooms as well.
7. Skógafoss
Skógafoss (Forest Falls) is just another 20 minutes down the road from Gljufrabui and Seljalandsfoss. It is a very tall (200 ft), very strong waterfall, and might be the most famous waterfall of Iceland!
Because this waterfall has such a high flow, the mist here is extremely powerful -it really shoots out of the falls at you and creates its own, stiff wind. This is another great spot for rainbows on sunny days!
The parking lot is right at the waterfall, so you don’t have to walk far at all. The path takes you to the base of the falls, which is ostensibly the best viewing spot. If you want a workout and a different vantage point, there is also a tall staircase that takes you to the top. From the top, there is a path that continues inward to see additional falls, but we did not go beyond the top.
8. Kvernufoss
Easily one of the best waterfalls in Icleland, Kvernufoss Waterfall is similar to Seljalandsfoss – since you can actually walk behind it.
Additionally, this is one of Iceland’s lesser known attractions, Therefore, you can escape the crowds and can access this local landmark by way of a short hike.
So, to get here, just head to the southern coast of Iceland and use the same road that you would use to visit Skogafoss.
Additionally, you can put “Skogar Museum” into your navigation system and park at the museum’s parking lot.
Just be aware that you will need to pay for parking inside the museum or use an associated fee box if the museum is closed.
Once parked, begin the hike to Kvernufoss Waterfall. You’ll go behind the building adjacent to the museum that looks like a garage. You’ll also see a fence and small ladder that you’ll need to climb over.
In truth, the hike to the waterfall is quite easy and will take no longer than 20 minutes each way.
From: Victoria of Iceland Trippers
9. Foss á Síðu
In south-east Iceland there is a gem of a waterfall called Foss á Síðu. It has a fairy-tale feel to it, with a delicate stream of water falling over a smooth vertical cliff.
If you visit Iceland in summer, the grassy slopes around Foss á Síðu will be vibrant green – it’s really picturesque! In winter, the water will partially freeze; and in rough winds, the water can be blown off course.
Foss á Síðu is right by the Ring Road. You’ll see it from the road and you’ll need to pull up right next to it – there’s some space on the side of the road on the waterfall side and also parking next to the Hamrafoss Café on the other side of the road.
The waterfall is on private land, so you can’t walk right up to the falls. But you can get a great view from the gate to the farmland, and also from the stream that runs from it. There’s no charge to park and no hike to get to it, making Foss á Síðu one of the easiest waterfalls to see in Iceland!
By Martha from MayCauseWanderlust.com
10. Svartifoss
Svartifoss is a stunning waterfall in the Skaftafell Nature Preserve area of Vatnajökull National Park (where you can do one of my absolute favorite Iceland activities – hiking a glacier). One interesting aspect of Svartifoss is its unique basalt columns, which inspired the architect that constructed Reykakjavik’s famous church, Hallgrímskirkja.
Svartifoss is a perfect stop while driving through South Iceland, and is located near other popular sights, such as Glacier Lagoon. When arriving at the Skaftafell Nature Preserve entrance, there is a parking lot, campground, and information center.
Getting to Svartifoss involves a short hike starting from the information center. This is an out-and-back style hike that is around 1.5km each way. It is relatively easy and takes about 45 minutes one way, although the first portion goes uphill. There is also an option to take an alternate longer route back.
The hike provides great views over Skaftafell and you’ll pass by smaller waterfalls on the way. Once arriving at Svartifoss, the area is calm and serene, making it well worth the hike.
By Amber of Get Lost in Wanderlust
11 & 12: Hangandifoss and Mulafoss
If you’re looking for a set of impressive waterfalls in Iceland that are a bit further off the well-trodden trail, then you need to make the hike to Múlagljúfur Canyon to see the waterfalls Hangandifoss and Múlafoss.
Múlagljúfur Canyon is located not far from the Fjallsárlón glacier lagoon in South Iceland, and is marked on Google Maps. But the lack of any signage and a bumpy unpaved road to reach the parking area means that not many people visit this spot.
Once you get to the parking area, you’re in for a 45 minute uphill hike to reach the best views of the canyon – and of the waterfalls. There are two small river crossings, and some exposed bits of not-well-marked trail, so be sure to wear good hiking boots for this one.
The first waterfall you’ll see is Hangandifoss, which is actually one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland! You’ll see the top of it first as you start ascending toward the canyon, and eventually will be able to see the entire 123 meters.
If you luck out with decent weather for your hike, then you’ll also be able to spy Múlafoss at the head of the canyon. From certain vantage points, you can actually see Hangandifoss, Múlafoss, and a third waterfall all at the same time, and the scenery looks otherworldly.
These waterfalls aren’t the easiest to see, but they definitely deserve inclusion in your Iceland road trip itinerary.
From Amanda of A Dangerous Business Travel Blog
13. Skútafoss
If you have a vehicle rated for water crossings (F roads) or are willing to walk a few minutes, and want to see a waterfall off the beaten path, consider going to see Skútafoss.
A cool feature of Skútafoss is that, similar to Seljalandsfoss, there is a small cave at the base of the fall and you can go a bit behind the fall. It’s not crazy tall or big (probably about 20 to 30 feet tall), but it has a pretty pool and the scenery around is a beautiful mountain valley.
There is a smaller falls close to the road with an old building next to it, but this is not the main fall – the main fall is farther in, about ¼ mile farther (½ mile from the road).
14. Sveinsstekksfoss
While working our way through the mountains up to Seyðisfjörður, we saw a gorgeous waterfall off in the distance. When we got closer, we saw there was a little stop-off point and we quickly swung up to take a closer look.
The river itself is called Fossá (“waterfall river”) – because it has around 30 different waterfalls in its path! The cascade we saw was gorgeous! The water was a similar milky blue as we saw at The Blue Lagoon. Matthew said it was one of his top favorite waterfalls!
15. Faxi Waterfall
Faxi Waterfall is located in southern Iceland, just a short detour on the Golden Circle route. It is a wide waterfall with one drop. The waterfall flows from the Tungufljót River and is fed by glaciers and other smaller lakes.
In order to view the falls, no strenuous hike is needed. In fact, most road-trippers would stop by the viewing platform for a quick peek at the waterfalls.
There is a small parking lot where you can park your vehicle, and a short walking path leads to the viewing area. You can go to the lower level to soak in the view (and the drizzle) from the falls. The parking fee is 700 ISK, and there are washrooms available at the site.
The area in and around the falls is known for salmon fishing and hikes. Other than hikes and bird watching (in the summer), you can visit the Vid Faxa restaurant to take in the view of the falls, whilst enjoying a nice meal.
Faxi Waterfall is one of the offbeat places in Iceland that absolutely worth visiting.
By Mayuri from ToSomePlaceNew
16. Hengifoss
One of the most unique waterfalls in Iceland is the striking Hengifoss on Iceland’s East Coast. The towering Hengifoss is surrounded by black basalt rock and red clay, giving it a distinct and rather special appearance. As well as its colourful backdrop, this waterfall is one of the tallest in the entire country at 128 metres (420 ft).
It will take a little bit of work to reach here, with the waterfall being 4.7km from the free car park. It’s a gradual uphill walk and will take you around 45 minutes to reach the waterfall. Thankfully, the scenery on the walk is beautiful as you walk next to the stunning gorge and pass other waterfalls on route.
As you get closer to the magnificent red colours of Hengifoss, you’ll need to cross the river. It’s a well-trodden path with plenty of stepping stones, but then you can finally sit and admire the waterfall up close.
By Emily of Journey by Backpack
17. Stuðlafoss
Stuðlafoss is a spectacular waterfall right on the 3 mile trail to Stuðlagil. These large falls have the same basalt columns as the Stuðlagil canyon itself, which all makes sense as these names mean “Basalt Column Waterfall” and “Basalt Column Ravine”. The effect of the waterfall in front of those columns was striking!
And of course, Stuðlafoss has many similarities to Svartifoss, the waterfall in Vatnajokull National Park that is famous for it’s basalt columns. Stuðlafoss is another gorgeous variation on basalt column waterfall, but it’s much less well-known.
On our Iceland waterfalls map , this waterfall is just marked as part of “Stuðlagil canyon” because really the only way to see or access it is by hiking to the canyon.
18. Gufufoss (+ Seyðisfjörður Valley)
Coming down into the valley to Seyðisfjörður (the town with the Rainbow Road) was probably the most waterfall-laden place I have ever been. These unnamed waterfalls aren’t going to be highlighted on any Iceland waterfalls map, but the combined effect was stunning.
There were literally waterfalls every few hundred feet streaming down the canyon walls. There were even more on the valley floor, as the main river flowing into the valley cascaded several times.
Every way we turned our heads there was another waterfall peeking out from behind some rocks or around the bend. It was insane!
There is one, main, named waterfall in this area that’s definitely worth stopping at. This waterfall, Gufufoss, means Steam Waterfall, and is just off of a pull-off point along Highway 93, with a short path to go down to the riverbanks and explore. The falls were about 40 feet tall and very scenic.
If you’re heading to Seyðisfjörður , definitely pay attention to all the waterfalls around you – it was a top highlight!
19 & 20: Selfoss and Dettifoss
Dettifoss and Selfoss are two waterfalls along the same river, not even ½ mile from each other. The same trail will take you to both! You can view Dettifoss/Selfoss from either the east or west side.
To access either side requires a completely different drive and parking lot; it takes an hour to drive between the two. So you most likely will just want to pick one side to visit; we chose the west side.
Selfoss
Selfoss is much smaller than Dettifoss, but it’s upstream so we went there first. I really liked how Selfoss curved around a ridge and had several little streams going over the edge.
Dettifoss
While Selfoss is relatively gentle (about 30 feet tall), Dettifoss roared with power. It’s over 150 feet tall and is known as the most powerful waterfall in all of Europe! It was so loud and generated a huge amount of mist and wind! Dettifoss roughly means “Collapsing Waterfall” and the waterfall lives up to that image of a building implosion. It had a LOT of force behind it!
The waterfall has a pretty straight edge that goes at a slant to the shoreline. There are several viewpoints along the edge of the falls to enjoy. At the farthest point, facing the closest to the falls, you are directly in the mist coming off and it is INTENSE!
For both of these falls, you view the waterfalls at the top of the waterfalls, and the cliffs leading down to the river are steep! It makes for a cool view, but definitely be careful.
Other things to note are:
- The east side has no facilities and a much smaller parking lot that can get filled up, whereas the west side has 24 hour bathrooms and a much larger parking lot.
- Speaking of which, we were really impressed with the bathrooms at Dettifoss – they were actually latrines, but were super, super nice, very clean, and had NO smell.
- With all that mist the waterfalls produce, if it’s sunny you can get a great rainbow. Visit the east side in the morning and west in the afternoon for the best rainbow effect.
21. Goðafoss
In north-central Iceland you’ll find a relatively short waterfall that was nonetheless delightful. While Goðafoss (waterfall of the idols) was only 40 feet tall. This was one of my favorite waterfalls on our waterfalls in Iceland map.
The falls were a graceful horseshoe cascading into a deep pool that made for a mesmerizing, churning roil. I loved it! If you are in the north of Iceland, definitely don’t miss Goðafoss.
22. Reykjafoss (Fosslaug waterfall)
Reykjafoss (Smokey Falls), was the last Icelandic waterfalls we visited, and we technically didn’t even come for it – we came for the hot pot right next to it! “Foss” means waterfall, and “laug” means hot pot – literally a hot pot at the falls.
And that’s what it was! It was definitely a unique experience relaxing, in the 106 degree Iceland hot spring just feet from the 40 degree river as it tumbled down a 60 foot, multi-step cascade.
To get here, search for “Reykjafoss parking”, and then continue driving all the way to the fence by the horse pasture. You’ll then walk for about 10 minutes to reach the waterfall.
23. Kirkjufellsfoss
It’s a beautifully peaceful waterfall on the north side of Snaefellsness Peninsula, in the shadow of Kirkjufell Mountain, that sees millions of visitors yearly. When I first visited, I was enamored by the famous mountain view and the serenity of the scene.
But unlike the towering waterfalls to the south and west, Kirkjufellfoss is a milder sight, allowing visitors to come close without the fear of getting soaked or knocked over.
Getting here requires hardly more than a short walk, and you’ll quickly spot the visitors filing to and from the parking lot to the idyllic waterfall near the coast. Last time I checked, there was no cost to view the waterfall, and when we visited, there was ample parking available. For those taking photos, try to bring a tripod and an ND filter to make your long exposure possible. This will help smooth out the water and make it silky.
Furthermore, head upstream to find the Inmost Waterfall for those looking at a longer walk and to ditch the crowds. On Google Maps, it seems to be a half-mile walk.
From Reykjavik, it’s about a two-and-a-half-hour drive, making it easily accessible to tourists of Iceland. Lastly, if you’re looking for Black Sand Beaches, there’s one within 45 minutes of here.
By Alec Sills-Trausch Explore with Alec
24. Hraunfossar
Hraunfossar is a remarkable series of waterfalls stretching over half a mile in Iceland. They cascade out of the Hallmundarhraun Lava Field, which inspired their name. If you’re traveling through the region, it’s worth taking a break to visit these falls.
The water’s color is captivating, particularly against the lava backdrop. One unique thing about Hraunfossar is how many small waterfalls make it up. It is truly impressive and will leave you in awe of its magnificence. You can also stroll along the trail opposite the falls.
Barnafoss is also located in this area, and you can view both waterfalls on the same short walk. Barnafoss is a very rapid waterfall and is mesmerizing in its unique way.
We visited Hraunfossar after our Into The Glacier ice tunnel tour, which was convenient since it was on our way back from Húsafell – a convenient stop in any Iceland itinerary.
Hraunfossar is situated in West Iceland and is a 1-hour and 45-minute drive from Reykjavík. There is no cost to park at the parking lot, and the waterfalls are just a short walk from your vehicle.
By Janae of Adventures With TuckNae
Iceland Waterfalls Map
Dropping this map again at the end for your convenience!
Final Thoughts
The waterfalls of Iceland are incredible and ubiquitous! Make sure to consult our Iceland waterfalls map, and have a good time chasing waterfalls as you explore this unforgettable country.