Fall for Iceland’s Falls!
Ravish Kumar
| 09-04-2025
· Travel Team
Iceland's landscape dances with liquid silver ribbons that plunge from ancient cliffs and cascade through basalt cathedrals.
These thundering wonders range from roadside spectacles to hidden canyon gems, each telling its own geological story while taking your breath away.

Hengifoss' Striped Majesty

The third-highest waterfall in Iceland dazzles with red clay stripes between black basalt layers. The 2.5 km hike (1.5 hours) climbs steep trails but rewards with prehistoric beauty.
Pro tip: Visit May-September when the trail is snow-free. Parking is free at the marked lot.

Litlanesfoss' Basalt Columns

Just 20 minutes up from Hengifoss' trail lies this basalt-encased wonder. The tallest column formations in Iceland frame the falls perfectly. Catch your breath here before continuing to Hengifoss.
Photography tip: Morning light creates stunning contrasts on the columns.

Gullfoss' Golden Power

Iceland's most famous falls throws 140 cubic meters per second down two massive steps. The lower viewpoint (accessible via stairs) delivers a misty thrill - bring waterproof gear!
Facilities: Café and souvenir shop at main parking (free). Winter visits reveal frozen sculptures.

Goðafoss' Divine Curves

The "Waterfall of Gods" spreads its horseshoe veil across 30 meters. The east bank path leads to river-level views perfect for long exposure shots.
Access: 24/7 parking on both sides (free). Summer midnight sun creates magical lighting.

Dettifoss' Raw Power

Europe's most powerful falls roars with 200 cubic meters per second. The west bank approach (open year-round) delivers chest-thumping vibrations you'll feel before seeing.
Caution: Stay behind safety rails - the currents are deadly. Toilets available at parking.

Selfoss' Liquid Curtain

A short 15-minute walk upstream from Dettifoss reveals this 100-meter wide beauty. Summer glacial melts transform it into a thundering curtain worth the detour.
Best time: July-August for maximum flow from Vatnajökull Glacier.

Múlagljúfur's Secret

This hidden canyon cradles two delicate falls with mountain backdrops. The 3 km hike (moderate) rewards with solitude and fairytale views.
Navigation: Follow Fjallsárlón Glacier signs, then look for the small parking area.

Stuðlagil's Basalt Beauty

The unnamed companion to the famous canyon features towering basalt framing its drop. Park at the east lot (rough road) and walk 200 meters to this geological wonder.
Unique feature: Rare chance to touch basalt columns up close.

Gluggafoss' Windows

The "Window Falls" lives up to its name with water-carved holes in the cliffside. A 5-minute walk from parking leads to picnic spots with perfect views.
Local secret: Climb the right-side path to peer through the actual windows.

Þórufoss' Game Connection

This 18-meter cascade starred in Game of Thrones as a dragon hunting ground. The downhill path from parking reveals its full grandeur.
Timing: Visit late afternoon for best photography light.

Fjaðrárgljúfur's Canyon

The 1 km deep canyon hides Mögáfoss near its viewing platform. Walk the marked trails (30 mins) for aerial perspectives of this ancient wonder.
Preservation: Stay on designated paths - the delicate moss takes decades to regrow.

Conclusion

Iceland's waterfalls are living sculptures that change with seasons and light. Whether you seek iconic powerhouses or hidden canyon gems, each offers a unique water dance. Pack your rain gear, charge your camera, and prepare for nature's grand performance!