Iceland is a land of waterfalls — hundreds of them, fed by glaciers and rain, tumbling across the dramatic landscape. Many are right off the Ring Road, while others reward a detour. Here are the best waterfalls in Iceland.
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Seljalandsfoss
Famous for the path that leads behind the curtain of water, Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland's most photogenic falls, on the popular south coast. Bring a waterproof.
Skógafoss
A thundering 60-metre wall of water on the south coast, often crowned by rainbows. Climb the stairs beside it for a view over the falls and coastline.
Gullfoss
Part of the popular Golden Circle, Gullfoss is a powerful two-tiered cascade plunging into a rugged canyon — one of Iceland's most visited natural wonders.
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Dettifoss
In the north, Dettifoss is reputedly the most powerful waterfall in Europe — a colossal, roaring torrent that's well worth the detour.
Goðafoss & Dynjandi
Goðafoss (the "Waterfall of the Gods") is a graceful horseshoe in the north, while remote Dynjandi in the Westfjords fans out like a bridal veil — a reward for those venturing off the Ring Road.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most famous waterfall in Iceland?
Seljalandsfoss (which you can walk behind) and Skógafoss are among the most famous and photographed, both on the popular south coast. Gullfoss, on the Golden Circle, is another of Iceland's most visited and powerful waterfalls.
Can you see Iceland's waterfalls on a Ring Road trip?
Yes — many of Iceland's best waterfalls, including Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Goðafoss, and Dettifoss (a short detour), are along or near the Ring Road, making them easy to include on a circuit of the island. Remote falls like Dynjandi require a Westfjords detour.
About the author
SK Kutubuddin · Founder & Editor
The founder and editor of Travel and Time. An aeronautical engineer with close to two decades in aviation, I build the site’s flight, distance, and trip-planning tools myself and check every figure before it goes live. I write from Kolkata, India.
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