Most Accessible Waterfalls In Iceland

Iceland, the land of fire and ice, is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, and among its most captivating features are its stunning waterfalls. These natural wonders range from towering cascades to gentle streams, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience. What’s even better is that many of these Icelandic gems are easily accessible, allowing you to witness their beauty with minimal effort. Below are some of the most popular and easiest waterfalls to visit on your trip to Iceland. You can walk to all of these waterfalls from your parked car in 5 minutes or less, making them perfect for travelers of all ages and abilities. These accessible waterfalls provide a fantastic introduction to the raw power and serene beauty of Iceland’s natural wonders. They are ideal for short visits and those looking for readily available natural beauty.

#1: Skogafoss (+ 26 more along “Waterfall Way”)

Skogafoss is a true spectacle and one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland, boasting a width of 25 meters and a height of 60 meters. Its impressive size and easy accessibility make it a perennial favorite among visitors. Located on the South Coast, Skogafoss is easily reached by a short detour from Route 1, where you can find parking just a stone’s throw away from the misty cascade. The sheer volume of water plunging down is a sight to behold, often creating vibrant rainbows in the mist. For a different perspective, challenge yourself to climb the stairs to the right of the falls. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. If you’re feeling adventurous and have some extra time, consider embarking on a hike along the Fimmvörðuháls Trail, which follows the eastern bank of the Skógá river. This scenic trail leads you past an incredible collection of 26 additional waterfalls (give or take a few!), known as “Waterfall Way.” This section forms the initial part of the longer 25km trail to Thórsmörk, offering a truly immersive experience in Iceland’s stunning natural beauty. The area around Skogafoss provides ample opportunities for exploration and photography, ensuring a memorable experience for every visitor.

#2: Gullfoss

Gullfoss, often referred to as the “Golden Falls,” holds the title of perhaps the most popular waterfall in all of Iceland. Its prime location along the famed Golden Circle route, in close proximity to Reykjavik, contributes to its immense popularity. Gullfoss is not just one waterfall, but rather a series of interconnected cascades that create a truly mesmerizing spectacle. The massive falls are separated into a few distinct sections, giving the impression of several impressive waterfalls seamlessly combined into one. The sheer power and scale of Gullfoss are awe-inspiring, leaving visitors speechless. To fully appreciate the beauty of Gullfoss, explore the two available paths. One path leads to a vantage point above the falls, offering a panoramic overview of the cascading waters and the surrounding landscape. The other path descends closer to the falls, bringing you to the heart of the action and allowing you to feel the spray of the glacial water on your face. It is highly recommended to arrive earlier in the day to avoid the crowds of tour buses that frequent the site, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the tranquility and majesty of Gullfoss.

#3: Dynjandi + 8 others below

If your travels take you to the remote and breathtaking Westfjords region (and you absolutely should go, as the landscapes are undeniably beautiful), you simply cannot miss the magnificent Dynjandi Falls. Cascading an impressive 100 meters down the mountainside, Dynjandi is a true natural wonder. This jewel of the Westfjords stands as the region’s largest waterfall, its powerful flow creating a series of smaller, equally impressive waterfalls and cascades as it descends. The journey to Dynjandi is an experience in itself. Park your car at the base of the falls and embark on a scenic trail that winds its way upwards, allowing you to appreciate each individual waterfall along the way. Upon reaching Dynjandi at the very top, find a comfortable spot at the provided wooden tables and savor a delightful picnic. As you enjoy your meal, alternate your gaze between the awe-inspiring waterfalls and the serene beauty of the fjord below. Dynjandi offers a truly immersive and unforgettable experience in the heart of Iceland’s stunning Westfjords, far from the hustle and bustle of the more popular tourist destinations. The tranquility and raw beauty of the landscape will leave a lasting impression, making your visit to Dynjandi a highlight of your Icelandic adventure.

#4: Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss is a truly special waterfall that offers an unforgettable and unique experience. Located on the southern coast, approximately 1.5 hours from Reykjavik, this waterfall stands out from the rest due to its distinctive feature: you can actually walk behind it! The water of Seljalandsfoss flows gracefully over a cave that has been carved into the rock wall over centuries, creating a mesmerizing curtain of water. As the water plunges down 60 meters, it lands about 30 feet away from the cliff side, allowing visitors to venture behind the cascading water and witness the waterfall from a completely different perspective. Walking behind Seljalandsfoss is an exhilarating experience, offering a unique vantage point to appreciate the power and beauty of nature. However, it’s important to pay close attention to the wind direction, as you might end up getting quite wet! Be sure to wear appropriate clothing and footwear to fully enjoy this extraordinary adventure. Seljalandsfoss is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Iceland, offering a truly unforgettable and immersive experience that will leave you in awe of nature’s wonders.

#5: Kirkjufellsfoss

While Kirkjufellsfoss may not be the tallest or most powerful waterfall on this list, its breathtaking setting is what truly sets it apart and makes it a worthwhile visit. This charming waterfall flows near Kirkjufell, a distinctive pyramid-shaped mountain that has become one of Iceland’s most iconic and photographed landmarks. The combination of the cascading waterfall and the majestic mountain creates a picture-perfect scene that is simply unforgettable. Getting to Kirkjufellsfoss is easy and convenient. From the parking lot, a short walk of just a couple of minutes will take you across a small bridge to the other side of the waterfall. From here, you’ll have the perfect vantage point to recreate one of the most popular photographs in Iceland: Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall flowing gracefully with the impressive Kirkjufell mountain looming in the background. This iconic scene captures the essence of Iceland’s natural beauty and is a must-see for any traveler seeking to experience the magic of this extraordinary country. Whether you’re an avid photographer or simply an admirer of natural beauty, Kirkjufellsfoss is sure to leave a lasting impression.

#6: Godafoss, Hrafnabjargafoss, and Aldeyjarfoss

Godafoss, known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” is an essential stop on any Icelandic road trip. Conveniently located just a short distance off of Route 1, east of Akureyri in the northern region of Iceland, Godafoss is easily accessible and offers a captivating glimpse into Iceland’s rich history and natural beauty. The name “Godafoss” originates from around the year 1000, a pivotal time when Iceland transitioned to Christianity. According to legend, when Þorgeir Þorkelsson, a local chieftain and law speaker, made the momentous decision to convert the country from the old Norse gods to Christianity (in an effort to prevent war), he symbolically threw the idols of the old gods into the falls, signifying the shift in beliefs. Beyond its historical significance, Godafoss is a stunning waterfall in its own right. The powerful waters plunge over a wide, horseshoe-shaped cliff, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring spectacle. For those seeking to explore further, a journey upstream along the river (reachable by car via route 842) will lead you to Hrafnabjargafoss and Aldeyjarfoss, two equally beautiful waterfalls nestled in serene settings. Because these hidden gems are located a bit further from the main ring road, they tend to be less crowded than Godafoss, offering a more peaceful and intimate experience with nature. Be sure to visit all three to get a full scope of the raw beauty this region has to offer.

#7: Hraunfossar and Barnafoss

Hraunfossar (“Lava Falls”) and Barnafoss (Children’s waterfall) are renowned as some of the most unique and visually stunning waterfalls in Iceland. Hraunfossar is a particularly remarkable phenomenon. Instead of flowing from a river or stream, clear subterranean water seeps through the porous lava fields, emerging from countless crevices and pores in the rocks. This creates a breathtaking spectacle as the water cascades down a wide front, forming a series of countless small waterfalls that merge together. The result is a stunning display of clear, pristine water flowing through the rugged lava landscape. If you have the opportunity to visit Hraunfossar in the autumn, you’ll be treated to an even more spectacular sight. The vibrant red and orange leaves of the surrounding vegetation create a striking contrast against the milky blue waters of the falls, painting a picture of unparalleled beauty. Nearby, Barnafoss offers a different, yet equally compelling, experience. This waterfall, whose name translates to “Children’s Waterfall,” is known for its turbulent and powerful waters that rush through a narrow gorge. These two waterfalls, so close to each other, provide distinct but beautiful experiences.