Chasing Waterfalls in Iceland: Explore the Best Natural Wonders

Iceland is home to an abundance of waterfalls; you’re unlikely to go far without encountering at least one.

We recommend visiting during the summer solstice, when Iceland’s golden hour lingers all night, giving you ample opportunity to photograph waterfalls with no crowds in your way.

Iceland’s waterfalls are an unforgettable source of visual delight and serve as a testament to the nation’s geology and cultural history, often featuring tales or legends associated with them.

Gullfoss

Gullfoss waterfall in Iceland is an iconic feature on the Golden Circle sightseeing route and an amazing demonstration of nature’s raw power.

Hvita River plunges into canyon in two stages with a total drop of 32 meters (105 feet).

It is thought that these stunning falls were formed due to glacial outbursts from Langjokull glacier during the Ice Age epoch, creating such magnificent scenes as these magnificent falls.

Named the Golden Waterfall for good reason, its meaning translates as “Golden Waterfall”.

There are various theories as to its etymology; one theory suggests a Viking dumped his treasure into the pool at the bottom of the falls to protect it after his death; or possibly rainbows appearing during sunny days remind us of pots of gold!

No matter why the waterfall earned its moniker, its beauty cannot be denied.

The Hvita River’s power can be seen every second as approximately 140 cubic meters (459 cubic feet) of water pour over its falls every second.

The falls can be enjoyed throughout the year, although the peak season for viewing them is during summer when water flows at its strongest.

Paths may become treacherous during winter so sturdy shoes or crampons should be brought along for added safety during your visit.

Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss waterfall can be found along Iceland’s south coast and is one of its most well-known sights.

Derived from Eyjafjallajokull glacier in the south, its waters cascade over the edge of an unstable high rugged cliff to form misty rainbow formations as you walk around it – perfect for taking photos!

Seljalandsfoss has also become popularly used as the backdrop of many movies and television shows such as The Amazing Race 6 (2004) as well as Justin Bieber’s music video I’ll Show You (2015).

Seljalandsfoss waterfall should be visited during summer when its path can be traversed easily behind it.

Unfortunately, during poor weather or when conditions become slippery or dangerous it may close completely – or you could hike to Gljufrabui waterfall nearby which lies hidden within a canyon.

Bring rain gear when visiting Seljalandsfoss as the spray from its waterfall will get your clothes wet, while electronic devices such as cameras could become submerged in its waters.

Also, make sure that sturdy hiking shoes are worn since the ground may be slippery.

Falls can become particularly busy during the Midnight Sun or when weather conditions are favorable.

To avoid crowds and support its maintenance, plan your arrival early or late to ensure optimal viewing experience. Also, pay for parking as these funds help support its upkeep.

Mogafoss

Mogafoss Falls are some of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland, making them a must-visit for every waterfall enthusiast.

While they are extremely popular during peak season, it would be wiser to visit during the off-season when you can appreciate their beauty without crowds of people crowding its banks.

The Mogafoss waterfall is formed when the river Fjadrargljufur flows into Skogafoss waterfall and over its cliff, producing an exquisite cascade.

Measuring 98 feet high and nestled amidst stunning canyon scenery.

Kvernufoss, another beautiful waterfall located nearby, stands 35 meters in height is surrounded by an attractive canyon, and has an iron-rich surface.

Kvernufoss can be found near Kirkjubaejarklaustur in southeast Iceland.

If you want a different perspective of the Mogafoss waterfall, follow a path leading into the deep depression in the rock surrounding it.

This will give you an incredible view from behind! However, be careful as winter can make this path very muddy and icy; therefore hiking boots and possibly rain poncho are recommended as you explore further backward from its base.

Iceland is home to numerous waterfalls, the three most well-known being Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss, and Skogafoss being easy to reach for visitors.

If you prefer more intimate experiences there are other waterfalls within close proximity that provide similar experiences if these three don’t suit.

Rjukandafoss

Iceland boasts numerous waterfalls for visitors to explore, from the iconic Skogafoss and Gullfoss in the south to Dettifoss in the north.

While these must-sees should definitely be on your itinerary, don’t overlook lesser-known falls like Rjukandi Waterfall located in eastern Iceland near Egilsstadir that offer visitors an amazing experience.

Rjukandi River is fed by two rivers that combine into it: Ysta-Rjukandi and Jokulsa a Bru (commonly referred to as Jokla).

It gets its name from an Icelandic word meaning to blow away or smoke away, which this river certainly does when viewing its dramatic drop-off.

This 93-meter waterfall is truly impressive. With a horsetail-like form and breathtaking water cascading over rock faces in a spectacular display, this spectacular attraction can even offer glimpses of rainbows during sunny days!

Rjukandi’s appeal lies in its location; just steps away from the main road in Jokuldalur’s glacier valley known for its river systems, canyons, and waterfalls, it makes an ideal stop-off point for waterfall lovers seeking something off-the-beaten-path when touring Iceland.

Add Rjukandi to your itinerary during one of our Self-Drive Tours of either 11 Days around Ring Road and Eastfjords Self Drive Tour or a week Summer Self Drive Tour to make sure that this magnificent waterfall makes an appearance!