24 Beautiful Waterfalls in Iceland You Can’t Miss
Are you wondering what the best waterfalls in Iceland are? These are our 24 favourite waterfalls, from hidden gems to the most popular in the country.
Iceland is often called the Land of Fire and Ice, but it could just as easily be called the Land of Waterfalls. There are over 10,000 waterfalls across the country, ranging from tiny trickles to some of the most powerful waterfalls in Europe.
With its endless rivers, dramatic landscapes, and glacial meltwater, the country is home to some incredible waterfalls.
Some are famous icons, drawing visitors from all over the world, while others are hidden gems, tucked away in quiet corners of the countryside.
We’ve explored Iceland many times, and honestly, these waterfalls are magical all year round; whether you’re visiting in the height of summer when they’re surrounded by wildflowers or in winter when everything is frozen and icy.
So, to help you plan your trip, here are 24 incredible waterfalls in Iceland – from the most famous sights to a few lesser-known gems which we think are well worth the detour.
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Top Waterfall Tours in Iceland!
These are 4 bucket-list tours we recommend to everyone who wants to see waterfalls in Iceland! ❤️
1. Gljúfrabúi
Let’s start with a bit of a hidden gem! This waterfall is tucked away just a short walk from one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland, Seljalandsfoss.
Gljúfrabúi is one of our favourite waterfalls in Iceland.
What makes it special is its location, and you honestly would never find this waterfall unless you knew it was there. It’s hidden inside a narrow canyon, partially concealed by rock.
You’ll actually need to walk across a small stream and head inside the cave to see it. But, trust us, it’s so worth it and is absolutely beautiful.
Once inside, you’ll be able to see the powerful waterfall cascading down inside the cave. There’s a rock in front, which is where we took the photo above.
Also, you’ll definitely need waterproofs if you’re visiting this place, as the spray will get you soaked!
👉 Check out our guide to visiting Gljúfrabúi here.
2. Háifoss
One of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, Háifoss, is located on the way to the Highlands. It’s a great stop-off on the way to Landmannalaugar. This is how we visited it, on our day tour to the Highlands.
You can drive here yourself, but you’ll definitely need a 4×4. Although it’s not technically an F-Road, the road to get here is worse than some of the roads in the Highlands, so we don’t recommend travelling here in a small car.
You’ll also likely only be able to get here in summer. But the waterfall is definitely worth the drive.
Haifoss plunges 122 meters into a rugged canyon, and it’s absolutely jaw-dropping. The view from the top is unforgettable, but you can also hike down to the bottom as well which we highly recommend doing for a unique perspective.
3. Svartifoss
Located in Skaftafell National Park, near Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Svartifoss (also known as the “Black Waterfall”) is famous for its dramatic backdrop of dark basalt columns.
It’s actually the inspiration behind the famous Hallgrimskirkja Church in Reykjavik.
To get here is around a 45-minute hike from the visitor centre, and it’s mostly uphill on the way there. You’ll also pass several other smaller waterfalls before you reach the main attraction.
Once you arrive, you’ll find several viewing platforms, and the contrast between the white water and the black rock is striking. This is one of the most unique waterfalls in Iceland and a must-visit if you’re exploring the South Coast.
4. Skógafoss
Of course, we couldn’t write a post about the best waterfalls in Iceland and not include Skogafoss. This is an absolute icon, and one of Iceland’s most visited waterfalls — and for good reason.
This thundering wall of water is 60 meters high and incredibly powerful. You can walk right up to the base (prepare to get soaked!) or climb the steps to the viewing platform for a completely different perspective.
On sunny days, you’ll often see rainbows forming in the mist.
We’ve visited Skogafoss in many different seasons, and in summer, you’ll find lots of lupins nearby and in winter, it’s surrounded by ice. No matter when you visit Iceland, this waterfall is an absolute must-see.
👉 Check out our guide to Skogafoss in winter here.
5. Stuðlafoss
You may have heard of the beautiful Studlagil Canyon, but did you know that there’s also a waterfall at the start of the walking trail that’s just as unique?
Stuðlafoss is a lesser-known but stunning waterfall located in East Iceland. It’s surrounded by basalt columns similar to Svartifoss but sees far fewer visitors, making it a great hidden gem.
If you’re doing a Ring Road trip, this is a brilliant stop to add to your itinerary.
6. Seljalandsfoss
This is another of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls! Seljalandsfoss is the one you can walk behind in summer (though the path is often closed in winter for safety).
It’s an absolutely beautiful place and, if you time it right with the sunset, the views from behind the waterfall are so magical.
It’s right off the Ring Road, so very easy to access and is somewhere that’s worth stopping all year round. Plus, it’s easy to combine this with the very first waterfall on this list – so you kind of get a two-for-one!
7. Þórufoss
This is much more of a hidden gem, and many people drive straight past this waterfall without seeing it at all!
It’s actually located not too far from Reykjavik, so it is easy to combine with a visit to the city. We actually went here on our way back to Reykjavik after our road trip around the Ring Road.
Þórufoss is a wide, picturesque waterfall made famous after appearing in Game of Thrones. It’s not as powerful as some of the others on this list, but the setting is gorgeous, and it’s often quiet, making it a peaceful stop.
8. Helgufoss
This is another smaller waterfall and a great hidden gem if you love getting off the beaten track. It’s also located just outside Reykjavik, and when we visited, we saw lots of locals here having picnics and listening to music.
Helgufoss is perfect if you want a scenic spot without the crowds. It’s a short, easy walk from the car park (although it’s a little bit downhill) and is especially lovely in autumn when the surrounding foliage turns golden.
9. Hjálparfoss
Hjálparfoss is a twin waterfall located in Þjórsárdalur Valley. We also visited this spot on a guided tour on a day trip to Landmannalaugar, and it was our very first stop of the day.
It’s incredibly scenic and was formed when two streams merged into one dramatic cascade. It’s easy to access, and the parking area is just a few meters from the waterfall itself, but the surrounding lava fields give it a unique, otherworldly look.
10. Dettifoss
This is one of our favourite waterfalls in Iceland and also the most powerful waterfall in all of Europe – and, trust us, it truly feels like it!
It’s located in the North of Iceland, not too far from Akureyri and is another fantastic stop along the Ring Road. It’s easy enough to get to, and you’ll walk from the car park along several rocky pathways before reaching the falls.
It’s an awe-inspiring sight as thousands of tons of glacial water thunder over the edge every second. You can visit from either the east or west side, each offering incredible views.
There are several different viewpoints when you arrive, either looking over the falls from above or allowing you to walk right up to the front of the waterfall. It’s a pretty epic view, but a high chance that you’ll get soaked, so don’t forget your waterproofs!
The west side allows you to get closer to the falls, but it is a much longer hike from the car park.
11. Selfoss
Just upriver from Dettifoss, Selfoss is completely different in character. It’s wide, elegant, and incredibly beautiful, with multiple small cascades stretching across the river.
It’s not as powerful, but we loved it here and found it more peaceful than Dettifoss. If you’re visiting Dettifoss, don’t skip this one – it’s a short walk and well worth it.
12. Kvernufoss
Now, this is one of our favourite waterfalls in all of Iceland! It’s tucked away inside a canyon and, if you don’t know it’s there, you’d probably miss it completely!
All the guided tours that go to Skogafoss tend to miss this one completely, so it’s also much quieter.
To get here is a short 15-20 minute walk along the river. You’ll head into the canyon, and then Kvernufoss will start to appear.
The best part? You can walk behind this one too, and because it’s less busy, it feels far more peaceful than its famous neighbour.
👉 Check out our full guide to Kvernufoss here.
13. Kirkjufellsfoss
This is one of the most photographed spots in Iceland. Located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Kirkjufellsfoss is famous for the view of Kirkjufell mountain rising perfectly behind the waterfall.
It’s often one of the final stops people visit on a tour of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and the entire area is well worth a road trip.
It’s known as Iceland in miniature, and Kirkjufellsfoss is well worth a stop. If you visit at sunrise or sunset, it’s pure magic.
14. Glymur
Glymur is Iceland’s second-tallest waterfall, and reaching it involves one of the most rewarding hikes in the country.
The trail is fairly steep in parts, and you’ll need to use ropes to pull yourself up. Plus, you’ll need to cross a river via a log bridge (which is only placed down in summer).
But, this hike is so much fun, one of our favourite hikes in Iceland, and the views from the top are well worth it
You’ll be looking back down into a huge mossy canyon with lush greenery and birds swooping about. There are mountains in the distance, and the plunge of the waterfall over the drop.
It’s gorgeous, and the views from the top are spectacular and well worth the effort.
15. Öxarárfoss
Most people who visit Iceland will visit Thingvellir National Park at some point. Located on the Golden Circle route, this park is the most visited in the country, and Oxararfoss is its most beautiful waterfall.
Öxarárfoss is easily accessible and fairly popular. It’s located along a short hike from the visitor centre in Thingvellir. The loop takes around an hour, but could be quicker if you’re a fast walker.
It may not be the tallest or most powerful waterfall on this list, but the setting – right in the middle of a historic rift valley – is special.
👉 Check out our full guide to hiking Oxararfoss here.
16. Brúarfoss
Brúarfoss is often called ‘Iceland’s bluest waterfall’ and once you see it, you’ll understand why. Its vibrant turquoise water is absolutely stunning. In fact, the first time we saw photos of it, we thought it was photoshopped!
It used to involve a hike to reach, but now there’s a car park right next to the falls. It’s just a quick 5-minute stroll to reach the Bruarfoss from the car park.
Once you get there, you’ll find a bridge crossing the falls, and you can view it from either side. We thought this was one of the most unique waterfalls in Iceland, and it truly is stunning.
👉 Check out our full guide to visiting Bruarfoss.
17. Rjúkandi
This is a true hidden gem. Located right off the Ring Road in East Iceland, Rjúkandi is easy to miss if you’re not looking for it. But it’s a beautiful multi-tiered waterfall and a great quick stop on a road trip.
We stopped quickly here on the way to Studlagil Canyon, and it was well worth the quick stop. It’s literally on the side of the road, so you can pull into the layby and walk up to it.
There’s a short but fairly steep pathway up to a small viewing platform where you can watch the water tumbling down into the valley.
18. Gullfoss
This is another of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland. Gullfoss is part of the Golden Circle trio. This two-tiered waterfall is incredibly powerful and dramatic, and cascades into a narrow gorge.
We’ve visited Gullfoss both in winter and in summer, and the difference is striking. In winter, it’s partially frozen, which makes the waterfall look even more dramatic in our opinion – it’s well worth a stop if you’re on the Golden Circle in winter.
It’s easy to access the falls in any month. As a popular tourist attraction, there are several different viewing platforms, including a small path which lets you walk right up to the waterfall in the summer months.
There’s also a visitor centre with a shop and cafe.
19. Goðafoss
Nicknamed “The Waterfall of the Gods,” Goðafoss is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in North Iceland. Its wide, horseshoe-shaped cascade is breathtaking, and it’s especially impressive at sunset or in winter with snow all around.
Like many waterfalls in Iceland, there are two sides to Godafoss, and you can view the waterfall from each side.
The right side is our favourite as you can get much closer to the falls, plus you can walk down to view the waterfall from the waterside in the summer months, which gives a whole new perspective.
But, no matter where you view it from, this place is gorgeous and well worth a visit.
20. Thakgil Waterfall
Technically, Thakil is an entire area, and this waterfall doesn’t have a name, but it’s so pretty that we wanted to include it anyway.
Located down a dirt track in south Iceland, about 45 minutes from Vik, Thakgil technically isn’t the highlands, but it looks like it! Plus, it’s easily tricky enough to drive there that it might as well be.
This waterfall is a beautiful hidden gem. It isn’t as famous as many others, which is exactly why we love it. The short hike to get there is peaceful and scenic through a canyon and along the riverside. It’s stunning and peaceful, and the scenery is unreal.
21. Hengifoss
Of the waterfall hikes in Iceland, this is one of the toughest that we’ve done. Hengifoss is one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls and is a striking sight with its red clay and basalt rock layers.
The hike to the waterfall takes about an hour and is absolutely worth it for the view, although you’ll definitely need to bring plenty of water
Once you reach the falls, you’ll find several boardwalks where you can get closer to the water. It’s a completely stunning waterfall and easily one of the most unique in Iceland.
22. Litlanesfoss
On the way to Hengifoss, you’ll pass Litlanesfoss, which is equally stunning. The waterfall is smaller than Hengifoss and framed by tall basalt columns.
It’s about halfway up the hike, so it is a nice place to stop and have a little breather. The waterfall has a unique, almost cathedral-like feel and is really impressive.
23. Gýgjarfoss
This lesser-known waterfall is located near the Highlands, and it’s a beautiful stop if you want something quieter.
It’s located along the route F-35 into Kerlingarfjoll, and you can simply pull into a layby on the side of the road to admire it. There are also some picnic benches here, which is a great place for a bite to eat or a coffee.
The flow of the water can vary a lot depending on the season, but it’s a scenic and peaceful spot. If you want, you can also climb further down to get closer to the water.
24. Sigöldufoss
Our final spot on this list is another hidden gem tucked deep in the Highlands. You’ll need a 4×4 to reach this spot, as it’s along a rough F-road, and we also stopped here on a small detour on the way back to Reykjavik from Landmannalaugar.
Located in the stunning Sigoldugljufur Canyon, one of the most beautiful canyons in Iceland, you’ll find a series of about 5 different waterfalls all cascading into a bright turquoise river.
Known for its bright blue water, Sigöldufoss is often called the “Valley of Tears” due to the many small streams cascading into the valley. It’s one of the most unique waterfalls in Iceland and a great stop if you’re exploring the Highlands in summer.
FAQs
How many waterfalls are there in Iceland?
It’s estimated that there are over 10,000 waterfalls in Iceland – and honestly, that number keeps growing as glaciers melt and rivers shift.
You’ll find waterfalls almost everywhere in the country, from tiny trickles on the side of the road to the most powerful waterfall in Europe.
What is the most famous waterfall in Iceland?
The most famous waterfall in Iceland is probably Gullfoss, located on the Golden Circle. It’s easily accessible, incredibly powerful, and one of the country’s most visited natural wonders. It was also the first waterfall we ever visited in Iceland.
Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss are also iconic and should definitely be on your itinerary.
Are Iceland’s waterfalls free to visit?
The vast majority of waterfalls in Iceland are completely free to visit. However, in many places, you will have to pay for parking. This ranges from 500 to 1000 ISK per car, but there’s no entrance fee to see the waterfalls themselves.
Are the waterfalls in Iceland easy to access?
Some are and some aren’t.
Many of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls are right off the Ring Road and are very easy to access with a short walk from the car park.
Others, like Hengifoss or Glymur, require a hike to reach, and some, like Haifoss, require a 4×4 vehicle, and you can only get to them in summer.
Always check the route ahead of time – especially if you’re visiting Iceland in winter, when some areas may be closed due to snow or ice.
TOP TIP: We always use safe.is to check for road closures and vedur.is to check for weather warnings in Iceland.
Can I walk behind waterfalls in Iceland?
Yes! Seljalandsfoss and Kvernufoss are two of the best waterfalls in Iceland, where you can walk behind the water. Just note that the path behind Seljalandsfoss is usually closed in winter for safety due to ice.
Do I need a tour to visit Iceland’s waterfalls?
No, if you have a rental car, you can easily visit most waterfalls independently.
However, if you’re staying in Reykjavik or don’t want to drive in winter conditions, joining a guided tour is a great way to see several top waterfalls in one day without the stress of navigating or worrying about weather conditions.
Final Thoughts
The truth is, this list could be much longer – discovering waterfalls is one of the best things to do in Iceland. There are waterfalls everywhere in Iceland, and we have loads more to explore.
The thing is, some you’ll plan to see, and others will just appear on the side of the road, and you’ll end up stopping unexpectedly as you drive.
That’s part of the magic of doing a road trip around Iceland.
As we explore more, I’m sure we’ll be adding to this list. We have more waterfalls to see in the Eastfjords, and the West and most certainly in the Highlands. So, we’ll keep you posted as we discover more!
But our biggest tip, if you love waterfalls, is to leave a little flexibility in your itinerary.
Sometimes the most memorable stops are the ones you didn’t plan, and there are so many amazing waterfalls in Iceland that you’ll be very unlikely to get bored!
We hope this article helped you plan your trip to Iceland, but if you have any questions, head to our Facebook Group!
👉 Still planning your trip to Iceland? Check out our ultimate Ring Road itinerary!
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