Did you know that there are around 10,000 waterfalls in the Land of Fire & Ice?  Yes, you read that number right!  World-renowned for its magnificent landscape, Iceland has some of the most beautiful and unique waterfalls in the world.  Check out the 10 waterfalls you must see while in Iceland! 

1. Aldeyjarfoss 

Aldeyjarfoss – This stunning waterfall immediately stands out from the rest due to its surrounding features.  Set meters away from a lava field in a bowl of basalt columns, this massive waterfall is often said to be the best in Iceland.  Located in the Highlands region, this waterfall is a bit off the main road and not the easiest to get to.  There are no restroom facilities anywhere remotely close and the final part of the drive puts the 4-wheel drive to the test.  All this effort is worth it in the end though.  To see the massive, white river clash with the turquoise blue waters below.

2. Gullfoss

Gullfoss – Easily Iceland’s most famous waterfall, due to the sheer size, this waterfall features a unique characteristic of being two-tiers.  The tiers meet at a right angle and produced so much mist as a result of all the crash water.  This waterfall will be popular with tourists, though make sure you don’t skip it.  Keep an eye out for rainbows here, you’ll often see multiple and they can make for some amazing photos! 

3. Goðafoss

Goðafoss – Often known as “The Waterfall of the Gods”, Goðafoss has a view that is simply serene. With a river running from a 7,000-year-old lava field, clear, dark blue water spills out into several different waterfalls all along the horseshoe-shaped canyon it sits in.  The result leaves a super bright turquoise-colored water below.  

4. Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss – The waterfall you walk behind!  Yes, you can actually walk up and behind these beautiful falls.  Easily accessible in the Southern Region of Iceland, this waterfall stands almost 60 meters high!  View the falls from the front and then take the narrow path along the back end to see the falls in a whole new way. 

5. Skogafoss

Skogafoss – Super easy to get to, this waterfall is a short drive from the town of Vik and the Black Sand Beach!  Rainbows are seen here almost daily, though at times you can catch multiple!  Easily add this waterfall to a day trip from Reykjavik for an incredible experience. 

6. Fagrifoss 

Fagrifoss – A waterfall for those seeking a difficult find.  Down a bumpy dirt road and crossing through a river are only two things to expect on this expedition.  Though the trip to the falls may be rough, expect anything from that with this waterfall.  Water elegantly rolls down the side of the cliff, flowing to the Laki Craters.  Enjoy this waterfall in almost complete privacy, as tourists rarely visit here as much. 

7. Dettifoss

Dettifoss – Often coined with the nickname of the most powerful waterfall in Europe, Dettifoss literally shacks the ground you walk on due to the sheer force of the falls.  Head toward the east side of the falls to get the best views and make sure to bring a rain jacket! 

8. Kirkjufellfoss

Kirkjufellfoss – This waterfall is famous not only because of its’ falls but more for the mountain its near.  Mt. Kirkjufell stands proudly on the Snæfellsnesnes peninsula, overlooking the fishing village of Grundarfjörður below. Located along the Ring Road, this waterfall is relatively easy to visit and there is even free parking.  Grab the best picture of Mt. Grundarfjörður and Kirkjufellfoss Waterfall together!  

9. Svartifoss

Svartifoss – Located in Vatnajökull National park, this waterfall stands 20 meters high and is surrounded by dark, black basalt columns.  Nestled in Skaftafell’s wilderness, this darkly surrounded waterfall pops from the bright green land that surrounds it.  A hike is required to see this waterfall and it usually takes visitors around 90 minutes roundtrip. 

10. Gljufrabui 

Gljufrabui – Quietly Iceland’s hidden gem in the south, this beautiful waterfall is a magnet for photographers.  What makes this waterfall such a gem is its naturally hidden nature that it is situated in.  Tucked in a cleft in a cliff, visitors every day miss this beauty.