As I stood at the edge of Dettifoss, feeling the raw power of Europe’s most voluminous waterfall, I couldn’t help but be humbled by Iceland’s natural majesty. The country’s dramatic landscape, shaped by millennia of volcanic activity and glacial movement, has blessed us with some of the world’s most spectacular waterfalls.
Iceland boasts over 10,000 waterfalls, each telling its own story of geological wonder. From thundering giants that shake the earth to delicate veils of mist hidden behind cave walls, these cascades have captivated visitors for generations. Join me as we explore the most awe-inspiring waterfalls that make Iceland a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
The Crown Jewel: Gullfoss
The ‘Golden Falls’ lives up to its name, especially during sunset when the cascading waters shimmer with an otherworldly golden hue. Part of the famous Golden Circle route, Gullfoss drops 32 metres over two dramatic steps into a narrow canyon, creating an impressive sight that draws over 800,000 visitors annually. Visit in either winter or summer, you won’t be disappointed.
Pro tip: Visit early mrning or late evening to avoid the crowds and capture the best lighting for photographs.
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Skógafoss: The Legend Bearer
At 60 metres high and 25 metres wide, Skógafoss is one of Iceland’s largest waterfalls. Local folklore tells of a Viking settler who hid his treasure chest behind the falls. While the chest remains unfound, this magnificent waterfall offers its own treasure: a perfect rainbow on sunny days.
Pro tip: Take the steps to the right hand side and take a look down when you get to the top!
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Seljalandsfoss: Walk Behind the Veil
One of Iceland’s most photographed waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss offers a unique experience, a path that leads behind the curtain of water. During summer evenings, the setting sun creates an unforgettable display through the falling water. As you can see from the image above, the waterfall is incredible!
Note: You can’t go behind the waterfall in winter as it too dangerous
Further reading:
Dettifoss: Europe's Most Powerful Waterfall
Standing before Dettifoss feels like witnessing nature’s raw power unleashed. With 193 cubic metres of water crashing down every second, the spray can be felt hundreds of metres away. According to the Icelandic Tourist Board, this magnificent waterfall featured in the opening sequence of Ridley Scott’s “Prometheus” has seen a 40% increase in visitors since 2015.
Continue below…
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The Hidden Gem: Gljúfrabúi
Just a stone’s throw from its famous neighbour Seljalandsfoss, Gljúfrabúi (the ‘Canyon Dweller’) remains relatively unknown to most tourists. This ethereal falls is partially hidden behind a rocky cliff, requiring a brief wade through a shallow stream to reach its inner sanctum. Trust me, the wet feet are worth it!
What to know How to Plan or Save for a Trip? Here are our best:
Goðafoss: The Waterfall of the Gods
When Iceland converted to Christianity in 1000 AD, legend says that Law Speaker Þorgeir threw his pagan idols into these falls, giving Goðafoss its name. The horseshoe-shaped falls span 30 metres and drop 12 metres into the glacial river Skjálfandafljót.
Fancy Something a Little Different:
The Svartifoss Experience
Surrounded by dark hexagonal basalt columns, Svartifoss (Black Falls) in Vatnajökull National Park showcases nature’s geometric perfection. These distinctive columns inspired the design of Hallgrímskirkja church in Reykjavík. It’s mind boggling!
Hraunfossar: The Lava Falls
Unlike traditional waterfalls, Hraunfossar emerges from beneath a lava field, creating a series of rivulets that stretch for 900 metres. The crystal-clear water, filtered through ancient lava, creates a stunning blue colour against the volcanic rock.
Seasonal Spectacles
- Spring: Witness the power of melting snow
- Summer: Enjoy midnight sun illuminating the falls
- Autumn: Experience fewer crowds and stunning fall colours
- Winter: See magnificent ice formations
Conservation and Respect
The Icelandic Environment Agency reports that increased tourism has led to new protective measures around several waterfalls. Always follow marked paths and respect barriers, they protect both you and these natural wonders.
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Iceland’s waterfalls are more than just tourist attractions, they’re living monuments to the country’s geological heritage. Each cascade tells a story of fire meeting ice, of ancient legends, and of nature’s endless capacity to inspire awe. It doest matter you’re a photographer, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking adventure, these waterfalls promise experiences that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home. They are INCREDIBLE!
Your Turn to Share Your Thoughts!
Have you visited any of Iceland’s magnificent waterfalls? Share your experiences in the comments below! Did you discover a hidden gem we haven’t mentioned? We’d love to hear about your adventures in the Land of Fire and Ice.
Note: Always check weather conditions and road accessibility before travelling. Respect local guidelines and practice responsible tourism to help preserve these natural wonders for future generations.
Related Articles for Iceland:
- The Ultimate Guide to Iceland’s Golden Circle
- The Ultimate Guide to Iceland’s East Fjords
- Iceland Folklore: Legends in the Land of Ice and Fire
- Iceland in Winter vs Summer: When to Visit!
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Your Questions, Answered
When is the best time to visit Iceland's waterfalls?
Each season offers unique experiences. Summer (June-August) provides the best accessibility and midnight sun, while winter (November-March) offers stunning ice formations but requires more careful planning.
Are Iceland's waterfalls accessible year-round?
Most major waterfalls are accessible year-round, but some remote locations may be inaccessible during winter months. Always check road conditions via road.is before travelling.
Do I need special equipment to visit the waterfalls?
Good waterproof hiking boots and rain gear are essential. For winter visits, additional gear like crampons might be necessary.
How much time should I allocate for visiting waterfalls?
Plan at least 30-60 minutes per waterfall. Popular sites like Gullfoss or Seljalandsfoss might require longer due to crowds and various viewing points.
Are there entrance fees for Iceland's waterfalls?
Most waterfalls are free to visit, though some locations charge for parking. Always carry small change for parking meters.
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Travel Planning Resources
Ready to book your next trip? These trusted resources have been personally vetted to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Book Your Flights: Kick off your travel planning by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. Our years of experience with them confirm they offer the most competitive prices.
Book Your Hotel: For the best hotel rates, use Booking.com if you’re in Europe. For other destinations, TripAdvisor is your go-to resource.
Find Apartment Rentals: For affordable apartment rentals, check out VRBO. They consistently offer the best prices.
Travel Insurance: Never travel without insurance. Here are our top recommendations:
- SafetyWing for occasional travellers.
- Medjet for global air medical transport and travel security.
Book Your Activities: Discover walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more on Get Your Guide. They have a vast selection of activities to enhance your trip.
Need More Help Planning Your Trip? Visit our Resources Page to see all the companies we trust and use for our travels.
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