Your Guide to Iceland's Waterfalls: Top Sites to Visit

There are waterfalls, and then there are Iceland’s waterfalls. Some drop into deep canyons, others flow over ancient lava, and a few even let you walk behind the falling water. With glaciers, frequent rains, volcanic landscapes, and plenty of dramatic changes in elevation, Iceland has just the right ingredients for waterfalls. And there are a lot of them.

Planning a trip to Iceland? Here are some of the most popular and impressive waterfalls in Iceland, region by region. Plus, practical information to help you visit them safely.

Map of Iceland’s Most Popular Waterfalls

Iceland’s waterfalls are scattered right around the country. So, there’s a good chance you’ll encounter several without making much of a detour. Many sit close to Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1), while others require a short walk or a proper hike.

Use the map to get your bearings, then explore the regions below to find waterfalls that fit naturally into your route.

Top Waterfalls in South Iceland

Several of the country’s best-known waterfalls are in South Iceland. This makes them easy additions to the Golden Circle or a South Coast road trip.

1. Gullfoss

There’s a reason Gullfoss is one of Iceland’s most famous natural sights. The Hvítá River rushes over two stages before disappearing into a rugged canyon, sending spray high above the falls. Its name means “Golden Falls.” And that’s where the Golden Circle route got its name, featuring Gullfoss, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Þingvellir National Park.

Several viewing areas let you experience this beautiful waterfall from different angles. Depending on the Icelandic weather, you might get sunshine and rainbows, moody mist, or a snow-covered winter landscape. Gullfoss handles all three rather well.

Practical information about Gullfoss Waterfall:

• Location: Golden Circle, South Iceland
• Access: Easy; short paths lead from the parking area to viewing platforms
• Accessible in winter? Yes, although individual paths may close when conditions are icy
• Good to know: The upper walkway gives you a panoramic view, while the lower path brings you closer to the rushing water

2. Seljalandsfoss & Gljúfrabúi

What makes Seljalandsfoss special is the chance to walk behind the waterfall. A path curves behind its tall curtain of water, giving you a unique perspective of the South Coast landscape.

Keep walking, and you’ll reach the nearby Gljúfrabúi. It’s partly concealed inside a narrow gorge and feels completely different despite being only a short distance away. Reaching the best view involves stepping into the opening of the gorge, so waterproof shoes are a very good idea.

Practical information about Seljalandsfoss & Gljúfrabúi waterfalls

• Location: South Coast, just off the Ring Road
• Access: Seljalandsfoss is a short walk from the parking area; Gljúfrabúi is a few minutes farther on foot
• Accessible in winter? Yes, conditions permitting; paths can become icy
• Good to know: The path behind Seljalandsfoss may close when ice makes it unsafe

3. Skógafoss & Kvernufoss

Skógafoss is one of South Iceland's most recognizable waterfalls. The broad waterfall drops about 60 metres (197 feet) from the region's former sea cliffs. When it is sunny, the spray often creates colourful rainbows.

You can admire it from below or climb the staircase beside the falls for a higher viewpoint. Nearby, Kvernufoss offers a different experience. A short walk leads into a gorge where, in suitable conditions, a path also curves behind the waterfall.

Practical information about Skógafoss & Kvernufoss waterfalls:

• Location: Near Skógar, South Iceland
• Access: Skógafoss is beside the parking area; Kvernufoss requires a short walk
• Accessible in winter? Generally, yes, but snow and ice can affect trails and steps
• Good to know: If you climb the stairs at Skógafoss, the trail continues into the Highlands past many more waterfalls

4. Svartifoss

Dark basalt columns surround Svartifoss as it drops through the Skaftafell landscape. These distinctive rock formations also inspired the design of Hallgrímskirkja Church in Reykjavík.

Svartifoss lies in Skaftafell, part of Vatnajökull National Park. And unlike the roadside giants of the South Coast, you’ll need to stretch your legs to see it. Maintained trails, particularly S2-Svartifoss, lead through the Skaftafell landscape to the falls.

Practical information about Svartifoss Waterfall:

• Location: Skaftafell, Vatnajökull National Park
• Access: A 3-kilometre (1.9-mile) out-and-back hike required from the parking area
• Accessible in winter? Potentially, but trail conditions vary with snow and ice
• Good to know: The trail to the site passes a few smaller waterfalls like Hundafoss and Magnúsarfoss

5. Háifoss

Háifoss means “High Waterfall,” and at around 122 m (400 ft), it certainly lives up to its name. The Fossá River plunges into a deep canyon in Þjórsárdalur, with neighbouring Granni adding another waterfall to the scene.

Stranger Things fans might recognise this landscape, too. Háifoss and Granni made an appearance in the show’s final season, giving you one more reason to visit it. You can admire it from the viewing platform above or hike down to its base.

Practical information about Háifoss Waterfall:

• Location: Þjórsárdalur, South Iceland
• Access: Reached by a rough gravel road; check vehicle and road requirements before travelling
• Accessible in winter? Access is highly dependent on road and weather conditions
• Good to know: Check current road conditions before setting out; this isn’t a casual winter roadside stop

6. Hjálparfoss

Hjálparfoss is a smaller waterfall where two streams of the Fossá meet among lava formations before flowing into a broad pool. The name roughly translates to “Help Falls.” Why? That’s because it’s traditionally linked to travellers finding grazing land for their horses after crossing harsher Highland terrain.

Practical information about Hjálparfoss Waterfall:

• Location: Þjórsárdalur, South Iceland
• Access: A short walk from the parking area
• Accessible in winter? Conditions permitting; check the road before travelling
• Good to know: Pair it with other Þjórsárdalur sights, like the Stöng Viking-era longhouse, for a slower day away from the main road

Top Waterfalls in West Iceland

Waterfalls in West Iceland come in all shapes and sizes, from gentle cascades to tall falls tucked into deep valleys. Many are also easy to add to a road trip through Borgarfjörður, Hvalfjörður, or the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

1. Kirkjufellsfoss

Kirkjufellsfoss is modest compared with Iceland’s biggest waterfalls, but it has a rather famous neighbor. Kirkjufell Mountain rises behind the falls, creating one of Iceland's most photographed landscapes. 

The scenery is also one of Iceland's most famous film sights. Kirkjufell stood in for “Arrowhead Mountain” beyond the Wall in Game of Thrones, appearing in Seasons 6 and 7.

Practical information about Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall:

• Location: Near Grundarfjörður, Snæfellsnes Peninsula
• Access: Short walk downhill from the designated parking area
• Accessible in winter? Generally yes, depending on road and path conditions
• Good to know: Stick to marked paths and viewpoints, particularly when snow or ice covers the ground

2. Hraunfossar & Barnafoss

Hraunfossar looks quite different from many of Iceland’s waterfalls. Rather than one river dropping over a cliff, clear groundwater emerges through the edge of a lava field in countless little streams. The vivid blue water contrasts beautifully with the dark lava, especially when surrounded by the autumn colors. A short walk upstream brings you to Barnafoss, where that same blue river water squeezes through a narrow rocky channel.

Practical information about Hraunfossar & Barnafoss waterfalls:

• Location: Borgarfjörður, West Iceland
• Access: Easy; viewpoints and walking paths connect these two Icelandic waterfalls
• Accessible in winter? Yes, weather and road conditions permitting
• Good to know: You get to visit two different beautiful waterfalls in Iceland in one stop

3. Glymur Waterfall

Glymur is for travelers who like to pair hiking with a waterfall visit. The falls plunge nearly 200 m (650 ft) into the deep Botnsdalur Valley in Hvalfjörður, offering striking scenery. The 3–4 hour round-trip hike takes you along steep canyon edges, through a small cave, and across a river. Along the way, you’ll get to enjoy several viewpoints that open up over Glymur and the surrounding canyon.

Practical information about Glymur Waterfall:

• Location: Hvalfjörður, West Iceland
• Access: Challenging hike; allow several hours
• Accessible in winter? The trail exists year-round, but winter hiking in Iceland can be hazardous and isn’t suitable without the right experience and equipment
• Good to know: Glymur is among Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, so this one is as much about the journey as the final view

4. Glanni Waterfall

Glanni Waterfall tumbles across the Norðurá River near Bifröst, surrounded by lava and low woodland. Its name roughly means “brightness,” which suits the way the water catches the light as it rushes over the rocks.

The surrounding landscape also carries a touch of Icelandic folklore, with stories of elves and trolls connected to the area. For the best views, follow the marked trail to a viewing platform overlooking the falls.

Practical information about Glanni Waterfall:

• Location: Near Bifröst, Borgarfjörður
• Access: Easy, with a short walk from the parking area
• Accessible in winter? Generally yes, when paths and roads are safe
• Good to know: Nearby Paradísarlaut, a quiet little lake, makes an easy addition to the walk

Top Waterfalls in the Westfjords

With steep mountains rising directly from the fjords, the Westfjords are made for scenic Icelandic waterfalls. You’ll find everything from large roadside cascades to waterfalls reached by hiking trails.

1. Dynjandi Waterfall

Dynjandi cascades down the mountainside, gradually spreading wider as it reaches the bottom. The main waterfall drops roughly 100 m (328 ft), with a series of smaller cascades tumbling below it.

The walk from the parking area takes around 20–30 minutes, but there’s plenty to see along the way. You’ll pass several smaller Icelandic waterfalls and viewing platforms before reaching Dynjandi itself. The lower path is paved, then becomes rockier and more uneven as you climb.

Practical information about Dynjandi Waterfall:

• Location: Arnarfjörður, Westfjords
• Access: About a 20 to 30-minute uphill walk from the parking area
• Accessible in winter? Road access can be restricted or impossible when mountain roads are closed by snow
• Good to know: Check current Road 60 conditions before traveling outside the main summer season

2. Valagil Waterfall

Valagil Waterfall is tucked into the mountains of Álftafjörður in the Westfjords. Reaching it involves an easy-to-moderate hike through the valley, with views of the fjord and surrounding mountains along the way. The waterfall itself drops between steep, layered cliffs at the end of the trail.

Practical information about Valagil Waterfall:

• Location: Álftafjörður, Westfjords
• Access: Hiking required; around 4 km (2.5 mi) round trip
• Accessible in winter? Technically open but not recommended; snow and ice can make the trail more challenging
• Good to know: Wear sturdy footwear, as sections of the trail can be wet, muddy, and uneven

3. Fossfjörður Waterfall

Fossfjörður Waterfall is an easy stop along Route 63, where the water tumbles down the mountainside toward the fjord below. The road crosses a small bridge beside the falls, bringing you surprisingly close to the rushing water. While you’re there, look out for the abandoned A-house barn nearby, known for its distinctive architecture and connection to the area’s farming history.

Practical information about Fossfjörður Waterfall:

• Location: Fossfjörður, Arnarfjörður, Westfjords
• Access: Easy roadside stop along Route 63
• Accessible in winter? Depends on road and weather conditions
• Good to know: Use a safe designated place to stop rather than pulling over wherever the waterfall catches your eye

Top Waterfalls in North Iceland

North Iceland is home to some of the country’s most powerful waterfalls. Goðafoss and Dettifoss are the big names, with smaller Icelandic waterfalls and basalt-lined canyons also worth exploring.

1. Goðafoss

Goðafoss means the “Waterfall of the Gods,” and its name comes with one of Iceland’s best-known legends. Around the year 1000, lawspeaker Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði is said to have thrown his pagan idols into the falls after Iceland officially adopted Christianity.

The waterfall curves in a wide horseshoe shape across the Skjálfandafljót River. Several streams drop about 12 m (39 ft) into the water below. Today, Goðafoss is a highlight of the Diamond Circle and an easy stop when driving in Iceland’s northern region.

Practical information about Goðafoss Waterfall:

• Location: Skjálfandafljót River, near Akureyri, North Iceland
• Access: Easy, with paths and viewpoints near the parking areas
• Accessible in winter? Generally yes, although paths may be snowy or icy
• Good to know: The west side has easier access and a paved path. Meanwhile, the east side gets you closer to the falls and offers more panoramic viewing angles.

2. Dettifoss & Selfoss

Dettifoss is known for the sheer power of its rushing water. Fed by the glacial river Jökulsá á Fjöllum, it is often considered Europe’s most powerful waterfall. The water plunges into Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon in Vatnajökull National Park, sending clouds of mist and spray into the air. Just upstream, Selfoss offers a striking contrast, with water cascading across a much wider section of the river.

Practical information about Dettifoss & Selfoss waterfalls:

• Location: Northernmost part of the Vatnajökull National Park, Northeast Iceland
• Access: Road access and walking trails vary by which side of the river you approach from. Road 862 is generally easier to navigate, while Road 864 offers a more rugged journey.
• Accessible in winter? Access depends heavily on current road and weather conditions, with the east side via Road 864 generally inaccessible
• Good to know: Hafragilsfoss is just a few minutes’ drive north of Dettifoss and makes an easy addition to your visit

3. Aldeyjarfoss

Aldeyjarfoss brings together two Icelandic favorites: powerful water and dramatic basalt columns. Here, the Skjálfandafljót River drops about 20 m (66 ft) into a wide pool, surrounded by dark hexagonal columns. The waterfall is located deep in Bárðardalur, near the edge of the Icelandic Highlands. Getting there takes more planning than Goðafoss, so check road and vehicle requirements before setting out.

Practical information about Aldeyjarfoss Waterfall:

• Location: Upper Bárðardalur, North Iceland
• Access: Remote road access via F-road 26
• Accessible in winter? Generally difficult and condition-dependent
• Good to know: The Lake Mývatn area makes a great base for exploring Aldeyjarfoss

4. Kolufossar

Kolufossar rushes through the rugged Kolugljúfur Canyon, where several cascades tumble along the Víðidalsá River. You can follow the viewpoints for different angles of the falls and the rocky gorge below.

There’s a good story behind the name, too. According to local legend, a giantess named Kola once lived in the canyon and caught fish straight from the river. Today, Kolufossar makes an easy detour while driving the Ring Road through Northwest Iceland.

Practical information about Kolufossar Waterfall:

• Location: Kolugljúfur Canyon, Northwest Iceland
• Access: Short walk from the parking area
• Accessible in winter? Conditions permitting; check local roads
• Good to know: A wooden pedestrian bridge crosses the canyon right in front of the falls, offering an excellent view of Kolufossar

Top Waterfalls in East Iceland

East Iceland combines impressive waterfalls with some fascinating geology. Expect red rock layers, basalt columns, fjord scenery, and Iceland waterfalls that pair naturally with a Ring Road adventure.

1. Hengifoss

At around 128 m (420 ft), Hengifoss is one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland. Its narrow stream drops from a high plateau into a dramatic gorge, framed by dark basalt cliffs. Look closely, and you’ll see red layers between the dark basalt. These come from ancient soil formed between Iceland’s volcanic eruptions.

The uphill trail offers increasingly wide views over Fljótsdalur and Lake Lagarfljót as you climb. Along the way, you’ll pass Litlanesfoss, where the water tumbles between some of Iceland’s tallest basalt columns.

Practical information about Hengifoss Waterfall:

• Location: Fljótsdalur Valley, East Iceland
• Access: Moderately steep hike, around 5 km (3.1 miles) round trip
• Accessible in winter? Yes, for experienced, well-prepared hikers when conditions allow; the trail can become very icy
• Good to know: In winter, stick to the trail and viewpoints, as falling ice can make the gorge below unsafe

2. Gufufoss

Gufufoss sits quite close to Egilsstaðir, the region’s capital, on the way to Seyðisfjörður. Its name refers to the mist or “steam” created as the water hits the rocks below. Access is straightforward, making it an easy addition to a visit to this charming fjord town. You can get surprisingly close to the falls, so expect to feel some of that famous mist for yourself.

Practical information about Gufufoss Waterfall:

• Location: Near Seyðisfjörður, East Iceland
• Access: Easy; close to Road 93
• Accessible in winter? Potentially, but Fjarðarheiði conditions should always be checked
• Good to know: The smaller Uðafoss waterfall is just a short walk away from it

3. Nykurhylsfoss (Sveinsstekksfoss)

Nykurhylsfoss is one of several waterfalls along the Fossá River near Djúpivogur. Here, the river rushes over dark rock and drops into a narrow gorge before continuing toward the coast. You may see it called Sveinsstekksfoss or Fossárfoss as well as Nykurhylsfoss, depending on the map or source you’re using.

Practical information about Nykurhylsfoss (Sveinsstekksfoss) Waterfall:

• Location: Northwest of Djúpivogur, East Iceland
• Access: Just off the Ring Road (Route 1)
• Accessible in winter? Generally possible when Ring Road conditions are safe
• Good to know: You can find a campground and another waterfall further up the road

4. Stuðlafoss Waterfall

Stuðlafoss makes a great introduction to Stuðlagil Canyon, with water tumbling over the same columnar basalt that defines the area. You’ll find this beautiful waterfall along the eastern hiking route. From the east parking area, it’s about 2.5 km (1.6 mi ) onward to Stuðlagil. So, you can easily combine both sights in one visit.

Practical information about Stuðlafoss Waterfall:

• Location: Near Stuðlagil Canyon, East Iceland
• Access: Reached from the eastern Stuðlagil hiking route/parking area
• Accessible in winter? Conditions permitting; trails can be snowy and slippery
• Good to know: Consider joining a guided tour in winter for an easier way to explore the area in snowy or icy conditions

Explore Iceland’s Waterfalls

Iceland’s waterfalls vary widely in size, setting, and accessibility. Some are located just off the Ring Road, while others require a longer hike to reach. Conditions also change throughout the year, with stronger water flow common in summer and frozen sections possible in winter. With waterfalls found across the country, it’s easy to include several in almost any Iceland itinerary.