Top 10 waterfalls in Iceland

With an estimated 10,000 waterfalls in Iceland, coming up with a top 10 must-see list isn’t quite easy. Especially from a photographer’s perspective. But, for all the officially designated waterfalls of Iceland, I have been to almost all of them. Certainly all the popular ones and then some.

Below is a list of the ten best waterfalls in Iceland, in my opinion. Note, the list is biased towards a photographer’s viewpoint, where aspects like composition, and sunset/sunrise directions are strongly considered.

10. Svartifoss

Svartifoss is located in southern Iceland between the town of Vik and the Jokulsarlon Ice Lagoon, close to the southern part of the Skaftafell Glacier. It’s easy to access, off highway 1, and a short (~2 km) hike to the destination. What makes this waterfall special are the dark basalt columns, almost like someone designed the landscape for photographers. It can provide a nice shot for darker, moody frames but is also well-suited for warmer Golden Hour photography. You can also visit Hundafoss on the way there or back.

9. Hengifoss

On the eastern side of Iceland is an almost unique, less frequented waterfall that is certainly worth the drive. The volcanic landscape with red layers of stripes provides awesome geological visuals. The sun faces the falls in the morning. Using a wide-angle lens or drone shots is all useful here. But don’t forget to try the telephoto lens for more uptight shots to focus in on what makes this location special. Note that it is a bit of a steep hike up and about 5 km out and back.

8. Unknown waterfalls

If you happen to come across this random waterfall on the side of an offroad, congrats. The red and orange colours of the vegetation during Autumn provide a different side of Iceland I was not expecting. But this isn’t just about a specific waterfall. The point is, you may come across a similar, unofficial waterfall(s) that may be one of the best in Iceland.

One of the many undesignated waterfalls of Iceland

7. Kvernufoss

Kvernufoss is one of the waterfalls you can get behind and snap a photo of; that’s not what it’s known for though. The short hike leading up to the falls is one of the best I’ve done. The landscape is a canyon-like formation with an almost hidden waterfall at the end and is one of the most underrated places in Iceland. The falls, quiet river, and winding path provide multiple options for composition. Don’t forget to spend some time here and enjoy the scenery.

6. Gulfoss

One of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland is Gulfoss. A very large, powerful, multi-tier waterfall that’s easy to access. There are multiple parking lots and viewing angles, although somewhat limiting for many desired compositions. The most popular seems to be a shot from the higher viewing angles, capturing the entire area. Or, another one that has a view of the canyon. At sunrise, you’ll be shooting right into the sun at the main viewpoints. In fact, Gulfoss translates to “Golden Waterfall” as a golden colour cast is seen on the water. Note that flying drones here is strictly prohibited.

5. Oxararfoss

Oxararfoss is located in Þingvellir National Park and is easy to access from a nearby parking lot. The dark backdrop provides a perfect starting point for a darker, more moody photo. Visiting on an overcast day certainly helps as well. The black rocks and small amount of plants are the perfect compliments to this dark and beautiful scene. A black-and-white photo can also work to capture the essentials of the milieu in this special waterfall. Be sure to hike around the area after you’re done.

4. Seljalandsfoss

A very popular waterfall conveniently located right off highway 1. It’s known for the view from behind the falls. What makes this waterfall special is during either sunrise or sunset, you can get beautiful light visible from behind or side of the waterfall. Be sure to pack a wide-angle lens, at least 16mm focal length. And, be prepared for large crowds on most days.

3. Godafoss

“Waterfall of the gods”, is located in Northern Iceland and is one of the most scenic and grand waterfalls in all of Iceland. It’s believed to have been given its name when an Iceland lawmaker adopted Christianity and dumped his pagan idols into the water.

There’s a lot to take in here so walk around, and find a composition you like. You have options from the main viewing areas or even the option of climbing down to the water level. Both sunrise and sunset times are good options since it’s a large area. Godafoss is also a good location for Northern Lights viewing.

2. Skogafoss

In the show Vikings, the popular character Floki arrives to Iceland from the south at Reynisfjara beach. The first place he visits- is Skogafoss. It’s a majestic waterfall where you can walk right up to the falls. When the sun is out, a rainbow is displayed making it a good option for photography even during midday. There are stairs where you can get a view from up top as well. Furthermore, it faces north so it’s a natural destination for viewing the Aurora Borealis.

1. Kirkjufellsfoss

While the actual waterfall here may not be the grandest, it is located in arguably what is the most iconic place in Iceland, a portfolio staple for landscape photographers. It’s located on the Western side of Iceland, in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Kirkjufelssfoss provides a great foreground to the mountain Kirkjufell. Sunrise, sunset, Astrophotography- it all works here. And, with a growing online photography trend of having no main subject to photograph, you don’t have to look around too hard as compositions are easy and straightforward, literally. Don’t be afraid to try something a bit different where you can face the waterfalls and have the mountain on the right side.

Recap

With so many waterfalls from East to West Iceland, you can spend an entire day at any of the above waterfalls doing photography at sunrise and sunset. Some of them are even good options during the day as well as good options for Northern Lights or stargazing.

In addition to bringing your tripod, camera, etc., consider bringing a shower cap and a microfiber towel. Iceland is very windy and even without any wind, the strong mist from most of the above waterfalls may ruin any chance of a decent photo, if you want to get up close at least. For more information on general Iceland travel tips, you can click here.

I should point out one specific waterfall that did not make the list, Dynjandi. It’s considered by some as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland. Again, for me, it’s more about photography, not just a general tourist location. Maybe it was just the day I happened to visit and the fact it was dull flat lighting. But besides that, I looked for a while for a good composition but I wasn’t happy with any of them. Just out of curiosity I looked for some photos online of Dynjandi but none of them really stood out. So, I felt a bit better about leaving off the list. To each their own!