Chasing Cascades: The 5 Best Waterfalls in Iceland

Iceland, known as the “Land of Fire and Ice,” is a country that boasts breathtaking landscapes around every corner. From its dramatic volcanic terrain to its pristine glaciers, this Nordic gem has it all.

One of the most enchanting features of Iceland’s wilderness is its stunning waterfalls, each with its own unique charm. Here are the 5 best waterfalls that you must visit on your trip to Iceland. You might even recognize some of these famous waterfalls from TV shows such as Game of Thrones.

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The 5 best waterfalls in Iceland span across the country, showcasing a diverse range of natural beauty. Some are not the easiest to access. I would highly recommend making a full itinerary and adding on the waterfalls that you want to stop at.

In my opinion Iceland is best done with a personal vehicle such as rental car or campervan . Both of these will give you the flexibility of being able to create your own itinerary and not be on a schedule.

However, if you’re making Reykjavik your home base for you trip you can still visit some of these falls with day trips. One great way is to do a Golden Circle tour. Not only will you be able to see one of the Top 5 Waterfalls, but also many other great sights.

You could also take a Southern Iceland Day Trip that will allow you to see 2 of the 5 waterfalls on the list below.

It is also important to know when the best time to visit Iceland is before we get into the waterfalls. The country experiences diverse seasons, each offering a unique experience:

• Summer (June to August): This is the peak season for visits in Iceland. The summertime has pleasant weather while it is almost perpetual 24-hour sunshine during that time. It is during this season that one is able to have a good water fall exploration due to its luxuriant vegetation and beautiful scenery.
• Winter (October to March): The wonderful northern lights and a winter wonderland transforms inland to a winter scene during winter. Some of the roads would, however, be cut-off but you wouldn’t fail to appreciate the magic of the icy falls and surrounding snow.
• Spring (April to May) and Fall (September to October): The interseasonal periods are moderate in terms of not being extremely summer or winter. The coming of spring sees nature being revived while the autumn shows the beautiful leaves changing their color. They both make good periods for a visit to Iceland.

Let’s hit the road to uncover the five greatest waterfalls of Iceland now.

Located in the southern region of Iceland, Seljalandsfoss is approximately 120 kilometers from Reykjavik. It’s easily accessible from the Ring Road, making it a popular stop on the way to the South Coast’s many attractions.

Seljalandsfoss, standing at 60 meters in height, is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. What sets it apart is the walking path that allows visitors to venture behind the cascading water curtain.

Prepare to get wet, but you’ll experience an unparalleled view from behind the waterfall. Seljalandsfoss is at its prime during the summer months when the weather is mild, and the surrounding greenery is in full bloom. The golden hues of the midnight sun add an extra layer of enchantment to this experience.

Also in the southern region, Skógafoss is around 150 kilometers from Reykjavik. You’ll find it near the village of Skógar, which is not far from the town of Vik.

Just a short drive from Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss is another must-see waterfall in Iceland. Plunging from a height of 60 meters, it creates a constant mist, painting colorful rainbows when the sun is shining.

Climb the adjacent staircase to get a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding landscape. Skógafoss is accessible year-round, offering a different kind of magic in each season. In winter, it’s a frozen wonderland, while in summer, the lush green surroundings create a postcard-worthy setting.

It has also been featured in several films and TV series, including the popular TV show “Vikings.”

Gullfoss is part of the famous Golden Circle route, about 100 kilometers from Reykjavik. It’s situated in the canyon of the Hvítá River in southwest Iceland.

Gullfoss, which means “Golden Falls,” is located in the Golden Circle, one of Iceland’s most famous tourist routes. This two-tiered behemoth roars as it plummets into a dramatic canyon. In the summer, the falls are framed by vibrant greenery, while in winter, they create an enchanting ice-sculpture display.

Visiting Gullfoss is ideal in the spring or early summer when the surrounding nature comes to life. This will probably one of the busiest areas on your trip as the golden circle sees many tourists. Don’t forget to explore the nearby geothermal wonders of Geysir and Thingvellir National Park while in the area.

Hidden in the remote landscapes of North Iceland, Dettifoss is known as Europe’s most powerful waterfall. Its sheer force and the vast, barren surroundings create a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere. You can find this waterfall on the Diamond Circle itinerary, and it’s worth visiting despite its remote location.”

Summer is the best time to visit Dettifoss, as the road leading to it is often inaccessible during winter. To check for road conditions use the website road.is. Road.is will give you the most update to date information and even planned closures. The rugged beauty of the region, along with the deafening roar of the falls, creates an awe-inspiring experience.

Iceland is a land of breathtaking beauty, and its waterfalls are some of the most mesmerizing natural wonders you’ll encounter. Whether you visit in summer or winter, each season offers its unique charm, making Iceland a destination worth exploring year-round. S

So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to discover the five best waterfalls in Iceland. “You’ll find the raw, untouched beauty of these majestic falls and the surrounding landscapes captivating.” Iceland’s waterfalls are a testament to the country’s natural wonders and the awe-inspiring power of nature.