What are the Most Scenic Waterfalls in Iceland?

Did you know that there are an estimated 10,000 waterfalls in Iceland? Unfortunately, there’s no official count to confirm this, but we can assure you that it seems like there’s a waterfall around every corner here! With rugged volcanic landscapes creating valleys and cliffs, a surge of glacial meltwater when the temperatures climb, and plenty of precipitation throughout the year, conditions are perfect for a waterfall paradise.

Be it on our Iceland adventure activities or our own explorations around the Land of Fire and Ice, we have seen plenty of our country’s thundering falls, from the famous to the hidden gems.

With so many to choose from, narrowing down a list of the most scenic waterfalls in Iceland isn’t easy! So, this is far from an exhaustive list, but more of an introduction to the incredible sights you can see during your time here.

So, let’s dive into our picks for some of the most picturesque waterfalls in Iceland. If you have any questions for us in the meantime, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Is Gulfoss Iceland’s Most Famous Waterfall?

When it comes to big names in the waterfall world, Gulfoss is hard to beat. But it more than lives up to its reputation. Renowned as one of Iceland’s most celebrated cascades, Gulfoss is part of the world-famous Golden Circle, a stone’s throw from Reykjavik.

On the initial approach to the falls, the narrow gorge obscures the view of the Hvítá River flowing over the edge of a dizzying drop. It seems to just vanish from sight. It’s only when you reach the canyon’s edge that the grandeur of the 32-meter, dual-tiered cascade unfolds.

Prepare for a sensory feast as you stand before this natural wonder: the thunderous roar of the water floods your ears, the sheer power and abundance of the rushing flow will widen your eyes, and the hazy spray drifting in the air will dampen your skin.

Gullfoss, aptly named “Golden Falls,” effortlessly justifies its status as one of Iceland’s best waterfalls. And be sure to explore the rest of this region! We included a Golden Circle Tour in our picks for Iceland tours that tourists should take!

Walk Behind the Falls at Iceland’s Famous Seljalandsfoss

Around 90 minutes from Gullfoss, along Iceland’s famed ring road, stands Seljalandsfoss. Here, you can find a waterfall experience like no other. At first glance, a thin, picturesque waterfall gracefully descends from a former sea cliff into a canvas of vibrant green and stark black. Yet, there’s more than meets the eye! 

Behind the cascading water lies a mossy cavern, inviting visitors to view the falls from a truly unique angle. Prepare to embrace the mist — and a slight dampness! The payoff is a spectacle that offers breathtaking views and outstanding photo opportunities.

Do you want to explore the glaciers that feed so many of our country’s waterfalls? Be sure to read our choices for the best glaciers in Iceland when you have finished here.

Is There a More Picture-Perfect Waterfall in Iceland than Skógafoss?

After a short drive east along the Ring Road from Seljalandsfoss, you’ll encounter Skógafoss. As a near-perfect depiction of a waterfall, this cascade more than deserves its spot on our list! Skógafoss’ waters form a neat rectangular plunge. Standing 197 feet tall and stretching 82 feet wide, it’s a testament to the uncanny precision and beauty of nature’s design.

The torrent plunges over an ancient sea cliff, producing an ever-present rumble and a refreshing mist. And as if that’s not enough, expect regular appearances of vibrant rainbows. Venture closer for an awe-inspiring photo op; but remember, the closer you get, the more you’ll appreciate the need for waterproof gear!
We love Skógafoss so much that we wrote a blog all about it! Read 5 Things To Know About Skógafoss Waterfall in Iceland and find out more about this remarkable place.

Hear Titan’s Roar at Dettifoss in Northern Iceland!

In Iceland’s northern reaches, listen out for Dettifoss’s almighty call. This rough and rugged spectacle redefines beauty through sheer scale and power. The sediment-rich runoff is a light grey, lending it an otherworldly quality. It’s no surprise that Dettifoss appeared in Ridley Scott’s sci-fi movie Prometheus!

With an impressive width of 330 feet and a dizzying 144-foot drop, Dettifoss dominates the landscape. Its thunderous roar commands attention, drowning out all other sounds. This remarkable cascade is believed to be Europe’s second most powerful waterfall, behind only the Rhine Falls in Switzerland.

If getting off the beaten path like this appeals to you, check out our picks for the best hidden gems in Iceland.

Iceland’s Goðafoss is Steeped in Myth and Majesty

Our final pick, Goðafoss, lies to the west of Dettifoss and is an icon rich in legend. Part of the famed Diamond Circle, Goðafoss, or “waterfall of the Gods,” immortalises Iceland’s transition to Christianity. It is here that Thorgeir is said to have thrown the idols of the old Pagan faith into the water, symbolically marking the shift from one religion to another.

Today, two cascades tumble 39 feet over a horseshoe-shaped cliff. A smaller fall to the side adds a touch of elegance to the scene! In a land teeming with majestic waterfalls, Goðafoss is another contender for the title of most picturesque.

Feel the Thrill of Our Iceland Adventure Activities!

So, what are the most scenic waterfalls in Iceland? The short answer is these and many more! And the good news is that waterfalls are just one of the natural wonders you can explore here.

Check out our range of Iceland adventure activities to find out more about the wild and wonderful experiences waiting for you in the Land of Fire and Ice.

If you have any questions about anything you see while browsing, please contact us for the answers you need.