Iceland is covered in over 10,000 waterfalls from all different shapes and sizes. Throughout the Country there are 30+ popular massive waterfalls all unique in their own way and changing with the season. It really was hard to pick the must see waterfalls in Iceland so hopefully you have time to visit most of them. We did our best to narrow down our top 11 must see waterfalls in Iceland that you can add on to your epic Iceland adventure.
11. Seljalandfoss
Location: Seljalandfoss
The first one we want to mention is this beautiful waterfall located on the South side of Iceland. Along your way on the ring road is this massive 60 meter (197 ft) Waterfall that immediately catches your eye as you are driving East towards the small village of Vik. It is easily accessible, about a 5-10 minute walk to the base from the parking lot, and is beautiful at sunset. For an added bonus you can follow the trail up to the right side which wraps behind the waterfall giving an epic view of the waterfall and the amazing Icelandic landscape.
10. Gljúfrabúi
Location: Gljúfrabúi
Up next and right next door to Seljalandfoss is this hidden waterfall. you will need to wade through a small stream and go through narrow opening to get to the base. Once inside you will be surrounded by moss covered cliffs and mist from the waterfall. But this place is something out of a movie or a waterfall from Bali. Make sure to check it out for yourself.
9. Kirkjufellsfoss
Location: Kirkjufellfoss
This waterfall includes the Kirkjufell pyramid-shaped Mountain which was made famous from the Game of Thrones TV series. It is a favorite spot for photographers and provides an ever changing landscape to experience from flowers in the summer, Snow in the winter, and even a great spot to stop to expeirence the Northern Lights. It is located on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and does not require any hiking to enjoy.
8. Skogafoss
Location: Skogafoss
Back along the southern part of the Ring road you will find this amazing Jaw dropping waterfall 60 meter (197 ft) tucked away. It is Massive and at the same time you can walk up right underneath on a gravel bed and stand right next to it. It is easy to get to and if you plan to have extra time there is a trail that heads up the right side of the waterfall which provides you a view from the top.
7. Kvernufoss
Location: Kvernufoss
Another hidden Waterfall that is right next to Skogafoss. This Beautiful 29 meters (98 ft) waterfall is surrounded by cliffs and moss and is often overlooked or just not known of. It just a 20-30 minute hike up from the Skógar Museum. Look for the small path that heads east that leads you to a small metal ladder that allows you to cross over the fence. Continue up the path and follow the river and in no time you will reach this hidden gem!
6. Svartifoss
Location: Svartifoss
How is this place even real! This is one of the best locations to view a Basalt Canyon with a waterfall and its breath taking as you can see. This is one of Icelands most popular waterfalls even though it is not the tallest or most powerful it still attracts thousands of visitors each year. It is located in South Iceland Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park. From the parking area/Camp ground it is about a 30-45 minute hike that first climbs up a steep but well maintained trail before dropping back down and at the end you will have a beautiful and Unique 20 meters (66 ft) Iceland waterfall to experience. also if you visit in the Winter time The water freezes in a cone at the bottom.
5. Litlanesfoss & Hengifoss
Location: Trail head
This is one of the most insane waterfalls in Iceland and there are two of them along the hike that you will want to add to your trip. The hike up is 5km round trip so plan for about 2-3 hours to allow time to enjoy
both waterfalls. The first waterfall you will find is Litlanesfoss after about 1.2km on the trail. You will have a top view point of this incredible waterfall which is located in a basalt pillar gorge similar to Svartifoss The waterfall is a two step fall that is 30 meters (98 ft) high
After that you will be able to see Hengifoss. This massive waterfall checks in at 128 Meters (419 ft) making it the second largest waterfall in Iceland. The coolest part about the water fall is the 5-6 different red clay layers showing off the different volcanic eruptions in the Tertiary period. If you make your way out to the East side of Iceland this is one hike you need to add.
4. Dettifoss
Location: Dettifoss
This is the second most powerful waterfall in Europe right after Rhine Falls which is on the German/switzerland boarder. This waterfall is 44 m (144 ft) and has an average discharge of 193 m3/s and to try and put that into perspective, that's 4,400,400,000 US gallons per day. That's able to fill up 667 Olympic sized swimming pools. This waterfall was also featured in the film Prometheus and it really does feel like a different planet.
3. Gullfoss
Location: Gullfoss
You can find this waterfall on the Golden Circle Route making it a popular destination to visit. It is 32 meters (104 ft) tall and has a view point from the top or the middle . On a sunny day you should be able to see a rainbow in the mist of the waterfall and the water will take on a golden-brown color which is what its named from. In Icelandic Gullfoss means "golden waterfall."
2. Goðafoss
Location: Goðafoss
This stunning Semi circle Waterfall is found along the Diamond Circle route. Its Horseshoe shape creates a beautiful curtain of falling water. Its name translates to "waterfall of the gods." The best viewing point and closest to the parking lot is the west side of the waterfall but if you want to enjoy it from the lower park head over to the east side.
1. Dynjandi Waterfall
Location: Dynjandi
Located in Icelands Westfjords is this beautiful 100 meter (328 ft) Waterfall. It is a series of waterfalls that cascade out like a bridal veil. It is the largest waterfall in the Westfjords. At the top of the falls it is 30 meters (100 ft) wide and opens up to about 60 meters (200ft) towards the bottom.
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