Along with the region’s beaches and glaciers, the waterfalls of South Iceland are a high priority for visitors putting together a self-drive itinerary. In this guide, we’ll take a look at which waterfalls you should absolutely include in your plans as you try to create the perfect blend of hidden gems alongside more famous landmarks. We’ll round off with some tried and tested tips for all seasons.
What Waterfalls Should You Include in Your Self-Drive Itinerary for South Iceland?
There are an estimated 10000 waterfalls in Iceland of which around two to three hundred are significant enough to have been named. Many of the country’s most spectacular examples are found in South Iceland. Here, we suggest six of our favorites.
Seljalandsfoss
Coming from Reykjavik, Seljalandsfoss is the first major waterfall you’ll see. It’s visible from the ring road so it’s hard to miss. This 60 metre high waterfall is one of the most photogenic in this region of Iceland and taking a walk behind Seljalandfoss features on many visitor wish lists. Peering out through the curtain of water to the countryside beyond is especially lovely at sunset.
Gljúfrabúi
It would be a pity to admire Seljalandfoss and leave without a nose at its rock-shrouded neighbor. Just a short stroll away, concealed behind a cleft in the rock, you’ll find Gljúfrabúi. It’s no secret anymore, but still worth a look. You can get a glimpse of it from the path but to really experience it, you’ll need to be prepared to wade in – just check the water level first to make sure it’s safe to do so.
Skógafoss
Skógafoss is one of South Iceland’s standout waterfalls, and it’s not hard to see why as soon as you set eyes on it. An impressive volume of water plunges about 60 metres as a broad cascade; often at Skógafoss waterfall rainbows are present – an added bonus. And there’s more: climb the steps of the adjacent staircase to take in the magnificent coastal views from the top of the falls.
Kvernufoss
As with Seljalandfoss, you’re in a two-for-one situation at Skógafoss. Comparatively few visitors make the effort to reach Kvernufoss, yet to reach it takes less than half an hour from its more famous neighbour. Tucked away down an attractive gorge, it’s definitely worth allowing time in your schedule to tack this onto your Skógafoss stop.
Urriðafoss
Urriðafoss probably isn’t on most tourists’ radar, yet we’d venture to say it’s possibly the best waterfall you’ve never heard of. This is one of Iceland’s most voluminous waterfalls – what it lacks in height compared to Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, it certainly makes up for in width. You won’t want to miss this delightful waterfall which tumbles over a vast lava field.
Svartifoss
Rounding out our picks is the most remarkable of Skaftafell’s waterfalls. Named for the color of the basalt rock columns that flank it, the “black waterfall” is a striking sight and not to be missed. The hike to see it can get slippery in winter, but if you’re careful, the place is even more extraordinary when the landscape turns monochromatic under a blanket of snow.
Four Essential Tips for Visiting South Iceland’s Waterfalls
Parking
Road-trippers keen to see South Iceland’s waterfalls should be prepared for some busy parking lots, especially in peak season. Fortunately, it gets light early in summer and so if you’re hoping to visit the most crowded waterfalls, come early or late in the day when you’re more likely to find a space. Alternatively, buck the trend and head for overlooked gems such as Urriðafoss instead.
Make sure you dress for the conditions
What you need to wear to visit waterfalls in South Iceland will depend a lot on the season and what the weather is like. Even in summer, it pays to dress in layers which you can pull on or shrug off to warm up or cool off. Sturdy footwear with a decent tread and ankle support will be a bonus on slippery surfaces, whether they’re wet from spray or slick with ice. Make sure you have on waterproof gear if you intend to step into the water, such as at Gljúfrabúi, and carry crampons to slip on over your shoes in anywhere it’s likely to be icy.
Allow yourself time to appreciate the essence of each place
One of the biggest mistakes first-timers make when planning a South Iceland itinerary is underestimating how much time they’ll want to spend in each place. Schedule fewer places but stay for longer to give yourself the chance to properly appreciate the region’s waterfalls. For instance, hike inland from the top of the waterfall at Skógafoss or consider securing a permit to fish at Urriðafoss.
Mix and match: pair busy beauty spots with time spent off the beaten track
While nobody is disputing the appeal of popular waterfalls such as Skógafoss and Seljalandfoss, their position beside the ring road means that they see a lot of traffic. Compensate by combining such visits with places that are quieter, for example to Urriðafoss, so you get a better sense of Iceland’s untamed wilderness and the sense of calm and peace that comes with immersing yourself in unspoilt nature.
