If there’s one thing Iceland is famous for, it’s waterfalls.

With thousands of waterfalls scattered across the country, you’ll struggle to drive for more than a few minutes without spotting another one cascading down a mountain or disappearing into a dramatic canyon.

Some are enormous and powerful, others are hidden away in peaceful valleys, but each one offers something unique.

We’ve been lucky enough to visit many of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls during our road trips, and these are the ones we think every visitor should add to their itinerary.

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1. Skógafoss

📍 South Coast

Without a doubt, Skógafoss is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls.

Dropping around 60 metres, its sheer power is incredible.

On sunny days, you’ll often see double rainbows forming in the spray.

Don’t forget to climb the staircase to the viewing platform at the top—the views are spectacular.

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2. Seljalandsfoss

📍 South Coast

Seljalandsfoss is famous because you can walk behind it.

Standing inside the cave while thousands of litres of water crash down in front of you is an experience you’ll never forget.

Just make sure you wear waterproof clothing—you’ll definitely get wet!

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3. Gullfoss

📍 Golden Circle

One of Iceland’s most famous attractions.

Gullfoss plunges into a dramatic canyon in two stages, creating one of the most powerful waterfalls in the country.

During winter, frozen edges make it even more spectacular.

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4. Goðafoss

📍 North Iceland

Known as the “Waterfall of the Gods”, Goðafoss is one of our personal favourites.

Its horseshoe shape makes it incredibly photogenic from almost every angle.

We could happily spend hours here just watching the water flow.

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5. Dynjandi

📍 Westfjords

If you’re exploring the Westfjords, this is a must.

Dynjandi isn’t just one waterfall—it’s a series of waterfalls cascading down the mountainside.

The short walk to the top offers increasingly impressive views with every step.

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6. Háifoss

📍 South Iceland

Standing at 122 metres, Háifoss is one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls.

The surrounding canyon makes it feel incredibly remote and wild.

It’s well worth the journey if you have a 4×4 during summer.

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7. Dettifoss

📍 North Iceland

Europe’s most powerful waterfall.

You don’t just hear Dettifoss…

You feel it.

The roar and vibration are unforgettable.

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8. Selfoss

📍 North Iceland

Just upstream from Dettifoss sits the much quieter Selfoss.

Often overlooked, it’s one of Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls and well worth visiting while you’re already in the area.

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9. Aldeyjarfoss

📍 North Iceland

One of Iceland’s hidden gems.

Surrounded by striking black basalt columns, Aldeyjarfoss looks like something from another planet.

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10. Brúarfoss

📍 Golden Circle

Known for its unbelievably blue water, Brúarfoss has become one of Iceland’s most photographed waterfalls.

Although smaller than many others, the colour of the water makes it unforgettable.

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11. Kvernufoss

📍 South Coast

Located just a short walk from Skógafoss, Kvernufoss is often missed by visitors.

Like Seljalandsfoss, you can also walk behind it.

It’s usually much quieter too.

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12. Öxarárfoss

📍 Þingvellir National Park

Located within Þingvellir National Park, this beautiful waterfall sits between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

It’s a fantastic stop on the Golden Circle.

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13. Gljúfrabúi

📍 South Coast

Hidden behind a narrow canyon just a few minutes from Seljalandsfoss.

Many visitors don’t even realise it’s there.

Prepare to get wet—but it’s absolutely worth it.

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14. Hengifoss

📍 East Iceland

One of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, famous for the striking red clay layers in the surrounding cliffs.

The walk is steep but the views are spectacular.

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15. Svartifoss

📍 Skaftafell National Park

Probably Iceland’s most famous basalt-column waterfall.

The dramatic black hexagonal columns surrounding the waterfall inspired the design of Hallgrímskirkja church in Reykjavík.

It’s one of Iceland’s most unique waterfalls.

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Which Waterfall is Our Favourite?

This is always a difficult question.

If we had to choose just one…

We’d probably say Goðafoss.

It combines incredible scenery, easy access and a peaceful atmosphere that makes it feel incredibly special.

That said, Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss are close behind!

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Best Time to Visit

Waterfalls look spectacular throughout the year.

Summer

• Easier walking conditions.
• Longer daylight.
• Lush green scenery.

Winter

• Snow-covered landscapes.
• Frozen edges.
• Fewer visitors.
• Incredible photography opportunities.

You really can’t go wrong.

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How to Visit the Waterfalls

Many of Iceland’s best waterfalls are spread across the country.

The easiest way to explore them is by hiring a car.

We’ve always had excellent experiences with Blue Car Rental, giving us the freedom to stop whenever we spotted another incredible waterfall.

🚗 Hire your car here:

https://www.bluecarrental.is/?affiliate=IcelandicAdventure

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Exploring by Campervan

Many of these waterfalls are perfectly positioned along the Ring Road, making them ideal stops during a campervan adventure.

We travelled Iceland with CampEasy, and it allowed us to explore at our own pace without worrying about hotel check-in times.

Book through our link and you’ll also receive an exclusive FREE Easy Start Pack.

🚐 Book your CampEasy campervan here:

https://campeasy.com/?tap_a=107011-a856e5&tap_s=8902128-1989f0

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Stay Connected

Whether you’re navigating to your next waterfall or checking weather conditions, reliable mobile data makes travelling around Iceland much easier.

We always use Saily eSIM.

📱 Save 10% here:

https://go.saily.site/aff_c?offer_id=101&aff_id=15717

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Tips for Visiting Iceland’s Waterfalls

• Wear waterproof clothing.
• Use sturdy waterproof boots.
• Keep your camera protected from spray.
• Arrive early for quieter conditions.
• Respect barriers and warning signs.
• Take your time—every waterfall is different.

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Final Thoughts

Iceland’s waterfalls are one of the biggest reasons people fall in love with the country.

Whether you’re standing behind Seljalandsfoss, feeling the raw power of Dettifoss or admiring the turquoise waters of Brúarfoss, every waterfall offers something unforgettable.

No matter how many you visit, you’ll almost certainly find yourself stopping at countless unnamed waterfalls along the way—and sometimes, those become the most memorable of all.

Happy waterfall chasing, and enjoy every moment of your Iceland adventure!