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There are nearly 1,000 Iceland waterfalls, scattered across the island, that showcase Iceland’s natural beauty. Formed by the glacial waters carving through the volcanic landscape, these natural wonders captivate the visitor with their beautiful forms, resounding sounds, and magical surroundings. For an unforgettable adventure, immerse yourself in the sights of these wonderful Iceland waterfalls. It is interesting to note that many names of the waterfalls in Iceland end with the word”-foss,” which is the Icelandic word for waterfall.
Top 10 Waterfalls To Visit In Iceland
Here are some of the Iceland waterfalls, you can explore on your trip to Iceland:
1. Skogafoss Waterfall
Photo: Anonymous / Image For Representation Only
Skogafoss, near the village of Skógar on the South Coast of Iceland, is a 197-foot high and 82-foot wide waterfall. It is the waterfall which is most often featured, when it comes to showing the Iceland waterfalls. It is one of Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls, combining impressive size, power, and beautiful scenery. It is easily accessible from Reykjavik city and could be an excellent addition to any traveller’s itinerary during their Iceland trip. On sunny days, when sunlight meets the mist, you might catch a magical rainbow—an enchanting detail to enhance your collection of Iceland waterfall photos.
Things To Do: Hiking, photography, and sightseeing
2. Bruarfoss Waterfall
Photo: Milan Nykodym / Wikimedia Commons
Bruarfoss, located in the Bruará River in Southwest Iceland’s Grímsnes area, is a beautiful waterfall, with its blue waters flowing into a deep gorge. Once accessible only by an hour-long hike, it is now easier to reach, thanks to a nearby parking lot (a small fee applies to park here). While not as tall or powerful as the previous waterfall, Bruarfoss’s vivid colour, makes it a dream for photographers. Bruarfoss Waterfall is one of the most scenic of all the Iceland waterfalls.
Things To Do: Hiking, photography, and enjoying the turquoise blue waters
3. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Photo: adriankirby / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most popular and photographed waterfalls on the South Coast, about 80 miles (128 kilometres) from Reykjavik. Standing 197 feet (60 meters) tall, it is famous for its trail that lets visitors walk behind the waterfall. This unique vantage point offers clicking beautiful Iceland waterfall photos, though you’ll likely get wet in the process. Nearby, you’ll find another beautiful spot, Gljúfrabúi waterfall; this name means “Canyon Dweller” because this waterfall is tucked between tall cliffs, which you’ll need to pass through to see this beautiful spot up close.
Things To Do: Walk behind the waterfall, photography, and sightseeing
4. Aldeyjarfoss Waterfall
Photo: LalouBLue / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Aldeyjarfoss is a stunning waterfall known for its unique basalt columns framing its icy blue waters as they drop 65 feet (20 metres) into a pool below. Found in Iceland’s northern Highlands, the bright white water against the dark rocks and colourful columns, makes it a favourite spot for photographers. The yellow and red shades come from sulphur and iron, giving it a unique look. During the winter season, the icy basalt makes this waterfall even more visually appealing, making winters the best time to visit the Iceland waterfalls.
Things To Do: Photography of basalt column formations, hiking
5. Dynjandi Waterfall
Photo: Martin Cígler / Wikimedia Commons
Dynjandi, called “the Jewel of the Westfjords,” is near Dynjandi Vogue Bay and Arnarfjörður fjord. It is famous for its birdlife and stunning views. The waterfall cascades 328 feet (100 metres) in a unique trapezoid shape. At the top, it’s 98 feet (30 metres) wide, and at the bottom, it stretches to 196 feet (60 metres). Its size and the roaring sound that it makes has earned this waterfall the name “Dynjandi”, which is the Icelandic word for “Thundering.” Admirers of nature and photographers adore this Iceland waterfall location, capturing its beauty from every angle.
Things To Do: Hiking to the upper tiers of the waterfall, photography
6. Hraunfossar Waterfall
Photo: Dmitrij Rodionov / Wikimedia Commons
Where is Iceland waterfall Hraunfossar? It is located in Borgarfjörður in West Iceland, flowing peacefully from the edge of the Hallmundarhraun lava field. An eruption formed this lava field from a volcano beneath Langjökull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier. “Hraunfossar” means “Lava Falls,” as the water streams through porous lava rock. A nearby viewing platform provides a perfect place for photographing this wonderful waterfall. Though not as tall or powerful as the other waterfalls, Hraunfossar’s unique beauty and lava field views make it a must-see waterfall in Iceland.
Things To Do: Photography, exploring nearby volcanic landscapes
7. Dettifoss Waterfall
Photo: makabera / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Dettifoss is the most powerful waterfall in Iceland and the second strongest in Europe. It is famous for its raw, powerful flow and beauty. It is located in Vatnajökull National Park in North Iceland. It is 330 feet (100 metres) wide and drops 144 feet (44 metres), sending 7,000 cubic feet (200 cubic metres) of water per second into the canyon below. Its name, “Tumbling Falls,” perfectly suits the roaring sound of its sediment-filled grey-white waters. Dettifoss, one of the most famous among the Iceland waterfalls, even appeared in the opening scene of some movies.
Things To Do: Photography, sightseeing, and hiking
8. Svartifoss Waterfall
Photo: LalouBLue / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Svartifoss, located in the Skaftafell Nature Reserve in Southeast Iceland, is a 65-foot waterfall known for its striking appearance. The falls are framed by dark hexagonal basalt columns, giving it a unique, almost otherworldly look. The sharp rocks at the base add to the effect. The design of the Hallgrimskirkja church in Reykjavik and the National Theatre’s ceiling were inspired by this waterfall. The hike to Svartifoss is about 1 mile from the Skaftafell visitor centre and it is open all year-round.
Things To Do: Hiking, photography, and exploring basalt column formations
9. Selfoss Waterfall
Photo: Anonymous / Image For Representation Only
The Selfoss waterfall in North Iceland is a must-see if you admire nature. It is located 100 miles from Akureyri and is part of the Dettifoss waterfall system. What sets it apart is its broad, powerful flow, which distinguishes it more for its width and force than for its height. The water drops 36 feet and spans 330 feet, with mist and spray adding a magical touch. There is this short, easy hike that leads you to a great spot where you can enjoy viewing the falls and taking photographs. If you were wondering how to reach Iceland waterfalls, follow route 864 or 862 to reach this magnificent waterfall.
Things To Do: Photography, sightseeing
10. Gullfoss Waterfall
Photo: therongexperiment / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Gullfoss, one of the most famous Iceland waterfalls, is part of the popular Golden Circle route, including the Geysir Geothermal Area and Thingvellir National Park. Located in South Iceland, its Hvita River feeds it and drops 105 feet into a narrow gorge. On a clear day, visitors can feel the spray up close, but stay behind the fence and be extra careful in winter as it can be slippery. In the early 1900s, Sigridur Tomasdottir fought to stop a hydroelectric plant from being built at the falls.
Things To Do: Photography, sightseeing, and part of the Golden Circle tour
Iceland waterfalls, from the powerful Dettifoss to the vibrant Bruarfoss, offer stunning sights shaped by glaciers and volcanoes. These natural wonders are perfect for hiking, photography, or simply enjoying the views. Explore Gullfoss, Svartifoss, and more as part of Iceland’s diverse landscapes, including glaciers and hot springs. Plan your trip with TripXL today and see the incredible waterfalls and other wonders Iceland has to offer.
Cover Photo: Herm / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
