Iceland‘s waterfalls are a symphony of glacier melt and volcanic rock, creating powerful cascades that roar and mist in the crisp air. The sound of rushing water fills the landscape, with basalt cliffs framing the falls, making each one a unique spectacle. This country stands apart from others with its dramatic contrasts, where roadside waterfalls meet challenging hikes, offering something for every type of traveler. The verdict: don’t miss the south-coast trio.
The 14 waterfalls range from easy-access sites like Gullfoss to the challenging Glymur, each offering distinct experiences. Expect a mix of drive-up and hike-in options, with the best months for visiting being June to October. If you want accessible views, this guide will tell you which falls to prioritize; if you want challenging hikes, check the hiking page instead.
Key takeaways
- Gullfoss is best visited in summer months for full flow; skip it in winter due to ice.
- Skógafoss offers easy access and is perfect for families; visit early to avoid crowds.
- Seljalandsfoss allows for a walk behind the falls; be cautious of slippery rocks.
- Glymur is the tallest waterfall in Iceland at 198 m; expect a challenging 90-minute hike.
- Dynjandi is underrated; visit in July for the best water flow and fewer tourists.
- Hjálparfoss is a scenic spot with a short walk; ideal for a quick stop.
- Aldeyjarfoss is remote and requires a 4×4; visit in late summer for best access.
- Svartifoss features unique basalt columns; the hike is moderate and worth the effort.
Waterfalls at a glance
| Waterfall | Nearest town | Difficulty | Best months | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gullfoss | Gullfoss | Easy | Jun – Oct | Best easy-access waterfall on the island. |
| Skógafoss | Skógar | Easy | Year-round | Perfect for families; visit early to avoid crowds. |
| Seljalandsfoss | Seljalandsfoss | Easy | Jun – Sep | Walk behind the falls; be cautious of slippery rocks. |
| Dettifoss | Dettifoss | Moderate | Jun – Sep | Powerful falls; expect a longer hike for the best views. |
| Goðafoss | Goðafoss | Easy | Year-round | Easily accessible; great for a quick stop. |
| Selfoss | Selfoss | Moderate | Jun – Sep | Best viewed in summer; requires a short hike. |
| Háifoss | Háifoss | Hard | Jun – Sep | Challenging access; worth it for the adventurous. |
| Glymur | Hvalfjörður | Hard | Jun – Sep | Tallest waterfall; expect a challenging 90-minute hike. |
| Dynjandi | Dynjandi | Moderate | Jul – Sep | Underrated; visit in July for best flow. |
| Aldeyjarfoss | Aldeyjarfoss | Hard | Jul – Sep | Remote; requires a 4×4 for access. |
| Hraunfossar | Hraunfossar | Easy | Year-round | Unique lava falls; easy access for all. |
| Svartifoss | Svartifoss | Moderate | Jun – Sep | Features basalt columns; worth the moderate hike. |
| Kirkjufellsfoss | Kirkjufell | Easy | Year-round | Iconic view; best at sunrise or sunset. |
| Hjálparfoss | Hjálparfoss | Easy | Year-round | Great for a quick stop; scenic and accessible. |
Where the waterfalls are
The waterfalls in detail
Gullfoss – The Canyon Lip View That Most Miss
- Difficulty:Easy
- Best months:May – Sep
- 32-metre two-tier drop
- Lower viewpoint 5-minute walk
- Rainbow 11 AM – 2 PM
- Free parking, paid toilets
Gullfoss drops 32 metres in two sharp tiers into a deep, right-angled canyon carved by the Hvítá river near Selfoss. The upper fall plunges 11 metres, then the water turns abruptly before the 21-metre lower drop, disappearing into a slot canyon. Access is straightforward from Selfoss via the Golden Circle route, with free parking at the visitor centre. Most visitors stop at the upper viewpoint, but the real experience is the short 5-minute descent to the canyon lip, where the roar and spray hit you directly. The midday sun often creates a rainbow here, and the canyon’s depth is clear from this vantage. The visitor centre offers paid toilets and a café, but the lower path is the highlight.
Visit Gullfoss between May and September for safe access; the lower path closes in winter due to ice, and the upper viewpoint can be dangerously slippery. The best photo window is 11 AM to 2 PM when the sun hits the falls for rainbows. The rocks near the canyon lip stay wet and slippery, so wear sturdy shoes and keep control on the descent. Avoid the lunch-hour café queue and the bus crowds that peak in August midday. Pair Gullfoss with the Golden Circle stops but skip it if icy conditions block the lower path or if you dislike crowds. The payoff is the canyon lip view few take, making the short extra walk worth it.
Skógafoss – Spray and Stair Climb on the South Coast
- Difficulty:Easy
- Best months:May – Oct
- 60-metre vertical drop
- 370-step stair climb
- Free campground parking
- Strong flow May – Oct
Skógafoss is a 60-metre vertical curtain of water on the Skógá river at the village of Skógar. The waterfall drops from a flat cliff left by the retreating coastline, creating a wide 25-metre curtain. Visitors can walk right up to the base where the spray soaks you, then climb 370 steps on the eastern side to reach the cliff top for a lip view. Parking is free at the campground below, which is the better option than the new paid lot above. The trail is well-maintained and family-friendly, making it a straightforward stop on the south coast route.
Skógafoss is best visited from May through October when the weather is stable and the flow is strong. Morning light works well for photos from the base, but the spray can fog lenses, so keep a cloth handy. The stair climb is safe but steep; take your time and hold the railing. Avoid parking in the paid lot to save money and walk down instead. Combine Skógafoss with Seljalandsfoss, 30 minutes west, for a solid south coast waterfall day. Skip Skógafoss if you have mobility issues or dislike crowds, as it draws many visitors in summer. The payoff is the powerful base view and the rewarding stair climb with a panorama.
Seljalandsfoss – Walk Behind the Water Curtain
- Difficulty:Easy
- Best months:May – Sep
- 60-metre drop with behind path
- 700 ISK parking fee
- Path closed in winter ice
- Near Gljúfrabúi waterfall
Seljalandsfoss drops 60 metres from the edge of the old south Iceland coastline near Hella. Its defining feature is the path that runs behind the waterfall curtain, the only sizeable Icelandic fall where you can circle behind the water. The parking lot charges approximately 700 ISK and fills quickly from 9 AM in summer. The walk behind the falls is wet and slippery, so waterproof clothing is essential. The trail is short and easy, making it accessible for most visitors. The waterfall’s wide drop and the ability to view it from behind create a unique perspective.
Visit Seljalandsfoss from May to September when the path behind the falls is open; winter ice closes it most years. Early morning or late afternoon light reduces crowds and softens shadows for photos. The spray behind the curtain can soak cameras and lenses, so protect your gear. The nearby hidden Gljúfrabúi waterfall, 600 metres north, is often missed but worth a quick stop if time allows. Pick Seljalandsfoss if you want a short, easy walk with a unique viewpoint; skip it in winter or if you dislike slippery trails. The payoff is the rare chance to stand behind a large waterfall curtain safely.
Dettifoss – Europe’s Most Powerful Waterfall
- Difficulty:Easy
- Best months:Jun – Sep
- 44-metre drop, 100-metre wide
- 193 m³/s average flow
- Paved west bank access
- Near Mývatn town
Dettifoss is a 44-metre high, 100-metre wide waterfall on the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river near Mývatn in north Iceland. It holds the title of Europe’s most powerful waterfall by volume, with an average flow of 193 m³/s. The water is grey-brown due to volcanic sediment carried by glacial melt. The west bank, accessed via paved Route 862, offers the best viewpoint with a stable platform about 30 metres from the lip. The east bank is closer but less accessible, with a gravel road and exposed trail. The site is easy to reach by car and requires only a short walk from parking.
Dettifoss is best visited June through September when the paved west bank road is open and the flow is strong. The platform is safe but can be slippery from spray, so watch footing. The grey water reduces contrast in photos, so use a polarizing filter and shoot wide-angle to capture the full curtain. Combine Dettifoss with Selfoss, just 1 km upstream, for a fuller canyon experience. Pick Dettifoss if you want raw power and easy access; skip the east bank unless you have a high-clearance vehicle and want a closer but riskier approach. The payoff is the sheer force visible from the west bank platform.
Goðafoss – Horseshoe Curtain Near Akureyri
- Difficulty:Easy
- Best months:May – Sep
- 12-metre horseshoe drop
- 30-metre wide curtain
- 10-minute walk between sides
- 50 km from Akureyri
Goðafoss is a 12-metre high horseshoe-shaped waterfall on the Skjálfandafljót river, located 50 km east of Akureyri on Route 1. The curtain spans about 30 metres, wrapping around a basalt cliff. The site is easily accessible from the Ring Road with parking and facilities nearby. Visitors should stop on both sides of the bridge: the west side offers the full horseshoe view, while the east side provides an eye-level angle plus better café and toilet facilities. The walk between viewpoints is short and flat, suitable for all fitness levels.
Goðafoss is best visited May through September when the weather is mild and the flow steady. Morning light works well for photos from the west side, while the east side is better for midday shots. The site is safe with paved paths and no tricky terrain, but watch for slippery rocks near the water’s edge. Combine Goðafoss with Akureyri’s other attractions or nearby Selfoss and Dettifoss for a north Iceland waterfall circuit. Pick Goðafoss if you want an easy, quick stop with historical significance; skip it if pressed for time on the Ring Road. The payoff is a wide, accessible waterfall with multiple viewpoints.
Selfoss – Broad Tiered Curtain Above Dettifoss
- Difficulty:Easy
- Best months:Jun – Sep
- 10-metre drop, 100-metre wide
- 20-minute walk from parking
- Flat, easy trail
- Near Mývatn
Selfoss is a wide, low waterfall on the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river, located 1 km upstream of Dettifoss near Mývatn. It drops about 10 metres but stretches over 100 metres wide, with canyon edges fanning out to create a tiered curtain effect. The gravel road to the east bank parking lot of Dettifoss leads to a 20-minute walk upstream to Selfoss. The trail is flat and easy, making it accessible for most visitors. The water shares the same grey glacial sediment as Dettifoss, giving it a muted tone. Selfoss is often skipped by visitors focused on Dettifoss but offers a broader, more photogenic curtain in midday light.
Visit Selfoss June through September when the east bank road is open and the trail is clear. The walk is safe but exposed, so bring sun protection and water. The best photos come in flat midday light when the wide curtain is evenly lit. Selfoss pairs well with Dettifoss and Hafragilsfoss downstream for a full canyon day. Pick Selfoss if you want a quieter, broader waterfall experience; skip it if short on time or if the east bank road is closed. The payoff is a wide, tiered curtain that photographs better than Dettifoss in certain light.
Háifoss – Tall Twin Ribbons in Þjórsárdalur
- Difficulty:Moderate
- Best months:Jun – Sep
- 122-metre drop
- 4×4 recommended gravel road
- Near Hella town
- Half-day trip option
Háifoss is Iceland’s third-tallest waterfall at 122 metres, located near Hella in Þjórsárdalur valley. It shares a canyon with the parallel Granni waterfall, which drops 102 metres. Visitors view the falls from the canyon rim, as there is no safe trail to the base. Access requires driving a rough gravel road (Route 332), where a 4×4 vehicle is recommended. The hike from the parking area is short but steep, leading to viewpoints over the canyon edge. The surrounding landscape includes the reconstructed Þjóðveldisbær turf farm and Stöng longhouse ruins, making this a half-day trip off the south Ring Road.
Visit Háifoss June through September when the gravel road is passable and the weather stable. The viewpoint is exposed with no shade, so prepare for wind and sun. The cliff edge is steep and unguarded; maintain control and avoid the lip. Morning light is best for photos to avoid harsh shadows on the falls. Combine Háifoss with the nearby Þjóðveldisbær and Stöng sites for a cultural and natural day. Pick Háifoss if you have a 4×4 and want a tall, dramatic waterfall; skip it in winter or if you dislike rough roads. The payoff is the height and twin-fall view few other Icelandic waterfalls offer.
Glymur: Iceland’s Second-Tallest with a Tough Hike
- Difficulty:Hard
- Best months:Jul – Sep
- 198 metres tall
- 3-hour round-trip hike
- River crossing on log bridge
- 70 km north of Reykjavík
Glymur drops 198 metres into a narrow canyon at the head of Hvalfjörður, 70 km north of Reykjavík. The return hike takes about three hours over rough terrain, including a river crossing on a log bridge (no bridge October to June) and a steep path along canyon edges with significant dropoffs. Proper hiking boots are mandatory; running shoes will fail. The trail is narrow and exposed, demanding attention every step. The payoff is the waterfall’s height and the canyon views from the base and rim.
Attempt Glymur in July through September when the river crossing is usually swimmable and the trail is clear. Avoid early summer or winter when the log bridge is gone and the crossing becomes dangerous. The hike is physically demanding and not suited for beginners or those afraid of heights. Photo conditions peak on sunny days when light hits the falls from the right side mid-morning. Combine this with the scenic drive around Hvalfjörður instead of the tunnel for a fuller day. Control slippery rocks by moving deliberately and avoid the edge on windy days.
Dynjandi: Easy Access to a Wide Multi-Tiered Cascade
- Difficulty:Easy
- Best months:Jun – Sep
- 100 metres height
- 15-minute walk from parking
- Summer access only
- Six smaller downstream falls
Dynjandi is a 100-metre wedge-shaped waterfall on the south Westfjords coast near Þingeyri. The main drop fans from 30 to 60 metres wide, resembling a bridal veil over basalt steps. A 15-minute uphill walk from the parking lot leads to the base of the main fall. The trail is well-marked and easy, suitable for most fitness levels. Six smaller named falls lie downstream, but the main tier commands the visit. The road over Hrafnseyrarheiði closes October to May, so summer access only.
Visit Dynjandi between June and September for full water flow and open roads. The site is free with minimal facilities – a single toilet block. The short walk means it fits well into a Westfjords day trip. The falls attract visitors but rarely feel crowded due to the region’s remoteness. Watch footing on wet rocks near the base; the path is stable but can be slippery. Midday light flattens the falls, so aim for morning or late afternoon photos. Dynjandi is the best waterfall option in the Westfjords for those wanting a short, rewarding hike.
Aldeyjarfoss: Basalt Columns Frame a Quiet Northern Cascade
- Difficulty:Moderate
- Best months:Jul – Sep
- 20 metres tall
- Basalt column amphitheatre
- Passenger 4×4 required
- Combine with Goðafoss
Aldeyjarfoss is a 20-metre waterfall on the Skjálfandafljót river in northern Iceland, upstream from Goðafoss and inside the highlands. The falls plunge into a basin surrounded by tall, uniform black basalt columns forming an amphitheatre. Access requires a passenger 4×4 on the gravel F26 road, which is washboarded but passable in dry summer months. The hike from the parking area is moderate, with uneven ground but no major obstacles. The remote location keeps crowds low.
Plan Aldeyjarfoss visits in July through September when the F26 road is open and dry. The basalt column backdrop is the main draw, making it worth the effort if combined with Goðafoss nearby for a northern waterfall sequence. The trail is moderately challenging but manageable for hikers with some experience. Exercise caution near the water’s edge; the current is strong and rocks are slippery. Early morning light enhances the basalt’s contrast for photos. Avoid wet or rainy days to keep the gravel road and trail safe.
Hraunfossar: Easy Stop for Unique Lava-Field Cascades
- Difficulty:Easy
- Best months:May – Sep
- 700 metres of cascades
- Short flat walk from parking
- Free access
- Near Barnafoss channel
Hraunfossar consists of dozens of small waterfalls emerging from under the porous Hallmundarhraun lava field into the Hvítá river over a 700-metre stretch. Located near Húsafell in west Iceland, the falls have no single big drop but form a unique pattern along the riverbank. The site is accessible by car with a short, flat walk from the parking area. The adjacent Barnafoss, a narrow violent channel 200 metres upstream, is worth a quick look.
Visit Hraunfossar between May and September for full water flow and dry trails. The stop takes about 20 minutes and is free with no facilities beyond parking. The flat terrain makes it accessible for all travelers, including solo female visitors. Watch footing on wet rocks near the water’s edge but the main viewing areas are safe and well-maintained. The falls pair well with a visit to the nearby Surtshellir lava cave and Húsafell village for a half-day off Route 50. Midday light works fine here due to the falls’ spread-out nature.
Svartifoss: Moderate Hike to Iconic Basalt-Column Falls
- Difficulty:Moderate
- Best months:Jun – Sep
- 20 metres tall
- 45-minute uphill hike
- Basalt column framing
- Inside Vatnajökull National Park
Svartifoss is a 20-metre waterfall inside Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park. It drops into a basin framed by dark basalt columns that inspired Icelandic architecture. The hike from the Skaftafell visitor center is 1.5 km uphill, taking about 45 minutes one way on a well-marked trail with moderate elevation gain. The path is rocky but maintained, suitable for hikers with average fitness. The falls sit at the trail’s end with a clear viewpoint.
Plan visits from June to September when the trail is clear and the falls have good flow. Mid-morning light best illuminates the basalt wall for photos. The hike fits well into a full day in Skaftafell, especially combined with longer routes like Kristínartindar. Watch footing on wet rocks near the base and avoid slippery edges. The trail is safe but requires steady shoes and attention. Solo female travelers will find the route straightforward and well-traveled.
Kirkjufellsfoss: Quick Access to the Most Photographed Cascade
- Difficulty:Easy
- Best months:Mar – Apr, Sep – Oct
- 5 metres total height
- 5-minute walk from parking
- Iconic mountain backdrop
- Paid parking (~700 ISK)
Kirkjufellsfoss is a three-tiered waterfall with a total height of 5 metres on the Kirkjufellsá river in north Snæfellsnes near Grundarfjörður. The falls sit in front of Kirkjufell mountain, which rises 463 metres behind, creating the iconic Iceland photo composition. The parking lot is paid (approximately 700 ISK), and the viewpoint is a 5-minute flat walk. The site is easy to reach and requires no hiking skills.
Visit Kirkjufellsfoss at sunrise or sunset for the best light; midday sun flattens the scene. Aurora-season nights attract photographers from 8 PM onward. The falls are small but the mountain backdrop makes the spot worth a quick stop. The short walk and easy access suit all travelers, including solo females. Avoid midday visits if aiming for dramatic photos. The site is free beyond parking fees and safe with well-maintained paths.
Hjálparfoss: Quick Stop for Twin Falls in Basalt Horseshoe
- Difficulty:Easy
- Best months:May – Sep
- 10 metres tall twin falls
- 30 metres combined width
- 1-minute walk from parking
- Free access on Route 32
Hjálparfoss features twin 10-metre falls on the Fossá river in Þjórsárdalur valley, south Iceland. The two streams meet in a single pool at the base, set inside a horseshoe of contorted basalt columns from an ancient lava flow. The falls are 30 metres wide combined. The site is a one-minute walk from the car park on Route 32 between Hella and Stöng, making it an easy roadside stop.
Visit Hjálparfoss between May and September for best water flow and dry access. The site is free with no facilities beyond parking. Most visitors spend five minutes here before moving on, as the basalt formations are the main attraction rather than the falls themselves. The flat, short walk is safe and accessible for all travelers. Watch footing on wet rocks near the pool but the main viewing areas are stable. The falls fit well into a south Iceland itinerary with other nearby sites.
Compare waterfall day trips and guided hikes in Iceland
When to visit and what you’ll see
Iceland’s waterfalls peak from May to October, with a notable split between roadside falls and those requiring hikes. Expect full flows at Gullfoss, Skógafoss, and Seljalandsfoss during this window, while Glymur and Dynjandi shine in the summer months. Plan visits around these peak times for the best experience.
Gullfoss, Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, Dettifoss, Goðafoss, Selfoss, Háifoss, Glymur, Dynjandi, Aldeyjarfoss, Hraunfossar, Svartifoss, Hjálparfoss
This group thrives in warmer months, with full flow and accessibility; aim for late spring to early autumn.
| Month | Visit conditions | What carries the month |
|---|---|---|
| January | Poor | No waterfalls are accessible in January. |
| February | Poor | No waterfalls are accessible in February. |
| March | Mixed | Hjálparfoss is the only waterfall accessible in March. |
| April | Mixed | Hjálparfoss is accessible, but others remain less reliable. |
| May | Prime | Gullfoss, Skógafoss, and Seljalandsfoss are all flowing well. |
| June | Prime | Most waterfalls, including Dettifoss and Goðafoss, are at peak flow. |
| July | Prime | Glymur and Dynjandi are best visited in July. |
| August | Prime | All major waterfalls are accessible and flowing strongly. |
| September | Good | Gullfoss, Skógafoss, and Seljalandsfoss remain impressive. |
| October | Good | Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss are still flowing well. |
| November | Poor | No waterfalls are accessible in November. |
| December | Poor | No waterfalls are accessible in December. |
Weather and trail conditions
Expect temperatures between 0°C and 15°C from May to October, with rain primarily in summer. Humidity can lead to muddy trails, especially near waterfalls. Be cautious of slippery rocks and potential washouts in heavy rain, particularly around Dettifoss and Dynjandi.
Light, mist and photography
Waterfalls like Gullfoss and Skógafoss are best photographed in early morning or late afternoon for soft light. Expect mist and rainbows during peak flow in summer, but be prepared for harsh midday light. Tripods are useful for long exposures, especially in the early hours.
Crowd calendar
- Gullfoss sees heavy crowds in July and August; visit early in the morning.
- Skógafoss is busiest on weekends in summer; weekdays are quieter.
- Seljalandsfoss attracts many visitors during school holidays in June.
What to bring and how to stay safe
Gear
Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip for the rocky terrain. Bring a rain shell to stay dry from mist and potential rain. A dry-bag is essential for protecting your camera and phone. Pack swimwear and a quick-dry towel only if swimming is realistic at your chosen waterfall. A headlamp is useful for early starts, especially in darker months.
Staying safe
Be cautious of slippery rocks at waterfall bases, especially at Gullfoss and Skógafoss. Fast-moving water can pose risks at the edges of pools. Always stay behind safety barriers and avoid climbing on rock formations. Watch for sudden weather changes that can make trails slippery. Use caution when approaching edges and never venture too close to the water.
Site etiquette
Respect the natural environment by staying on marked trails and not climbing on the waterfall structures. Carry out all rubbish and avoid bringing single-use plastics to the pools. Drones are prohibited in certain areas, so check local regulations. Always respect local customs and do not disturb wildlife or vegetation.
Getting between waterfalls
Renting a car is the best way to visit multiple waterfalls, allowing flexibility in your schedule. Expect approximately 1.5 hours of driving from Gullfoss to Skógafoss and about 2 hours from Skógafoss to Seljalandsfoss. Public transport is limited, so a guided tour can be a good alternative. Be cautious of road conditions during rainy seasons, as they can affect access.
First time visiting waterfalls here?
Start with Gullfoss for an easy introduction; it’s accessible and offers stunning views without a strenuous hike. Avoid more remote waterfalls like Glymur on your first trip.
Frequently asked questions
1Can you swim at the base of Gullfoss?
No, swimming is not allowed at Gullfoss due to strong currents and safety concerns. The area is best enjoyed from designated viewpoints.
2Which Iceland waterfall has the strongest flow in dry season?
Dettifoss is known for its powerful flow, even in dry season. However, visiting in wet months is recommended for the best experience.
3Do you need a guide to reach Skógafoss?
No, Skógafoss is easily accessible by car and has a well-marked trail leading to its base. It’s suitable for solo travelers.
4What is the best time to visit Seljalandsfoss?
Visit Seljalandsfoss during the summer months, especially June to August, for the best flow and accessibility. The waterfall can be less impressive in winter.
5Is Glymur worth the effort to hike?
Yes, Glymur is worth the hike for its stunning views, but be prepared for a challenging trail. It’s not ideal for beginners or those short on time.
6What should I do if a waterfall is dry or inaccessible?
If a waterfall like Aldeyjarfoss is dry, consider visiting nearby falls like Goðafoss or Hraunfossar, which may still have good flow.
Some links on this page are affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you when you book through them.