The Best Waterfalls in Iceland
Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls, from roadside classics to hidden ones worth the detour, and how to see them.
Few countries pack in as many dramatic waterfalls, this easily reached, as Iceland — here are the ones most worth planning your route around.
On the Golden Circle
Gullfoss, the "Golden Falls", drops in two tiers into a rugged canyon and is the natural finale of a [Golden Circle](/tours/category/golden-circle) day — framed in ice in winter, often with a rainbow in summer spray.
On the South Coast
- Seljalandsfoss — walk on a path behind the falling water.
- Skógafoss — broad and thunderous, with a staircase up to a viewing platform at the top.
- Svartifoss, in Skaftafell — framed by distinctive dark basalt columns, a short hike from the car park.
Off the beaten path
Goðafoss, near Akureyri in the north, is a wide, horseshoe-shaped falls with a striking legend attached. Dynjandi, in the remote Westfjords, cascades down a tiered, widening shape many regular visitors rate among the most beautiful in the country — and it’s far quieter than the South Coast classics.
The South Coast waterfalls are famous for a reason, but the ones that require a detour are often the ones people remember most.Ready to book?See South Coast waterfall tours
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