Iceland Waterfalls Golden Circle 2024

In Iceland, "foss" is commonly used as a suffix in the names of many waterfalls, as there are numerous stunning waterfalls throughout the country.

"Foss"
is an Icelandic word that translates to "waterfall" in English.

Iceland rightly earns its nickname as, "The Land of Fire and Ice," due to its unique juxtaposition of fiery volcanic activity and icy glaciers, a contrast that not only sculpts its landscapes but also gives rise to the multitude of majestic waterfalls cascading from glacial meltwaters and volcanic rivers.

Godafoss Game of Thrones

Yes, that's right! If you're a Game of Thrones fan, you will definitely want to have this waterfall on your itinerary. In fact, there are so many scenes from this series filmed against Iceland's beautiful backdrops. After all, what better way to add an element of mystique and grandeur to the show.

Prepare to have your breath taken away as you come upon Godafoss, a majestic and iconic waterfall located in northern Iceland.

Popular Waterfalls in Iceland

It is one of the most famous and visited waterfalls in the country. The name "Godafoss" translates to "Waterfall of the Gods" in Icelandic, which alludes to its historical significance and the stories associated with it.

Godafoss is renowned for its unique horseshoe-shaped cascade, where the river plunges over a cliff edge that spans approximately 98 feet in width and drops around 39 feet into the gorge below.

The surrounding landscape is striking, characterized by dramatic rocky cliffs and lush greenery during the summer months.

Where is Godafoss Waterfall in Iceland?

You couldn't ask for an easier waterfall to access! This waterfall is located in the North East part of Iceland, directly off of Ring Road 1.

Where is Seljalandsfoss Waterfall?

This waterfall is a little less than a 2 hour drive Reykjavik! What sets Seljalandsfoss apart from many other waterfalls is the narrow cave-like opening that allows you to walk behind the cascading water curtain.

This waterfall is one of my favorites because of this feature! You get to experience the waterfall from a unique perspective and to feel the sheer power and beauty of the rushing water up close.

The feeling is incredible and the amazing sound of the water just gushing over the cliff is insane. The waterfall is situated along the Seljalandsá River, which originates from the Eyjafjallajökull glacier volcano.

The cascade drops about 197 feet (60 meters) from the cliff's edge into a serene and tranquil pool below.

Iceland's Tallest Cascade: Glymur Waterfall

The highest waterfall in Iceland is Glymur, a majestic natural wonder nestled within the scenic Hvalfjörður (Whale Fjord) area. Glymur cascades down a dramatic 198-meter (650-foot) drop, making it not only Iceland's tallest waterfall but also one of its most breathtaking.

Accessible via a scenic hike through lush valleys and alongside glistening rivers, the journey to Glymur is an adventure in itself. Visitors are treated to stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and fjords as they make their way to the waterfall's thundering plunge pool below.

At Glymur, the raw power of nature is on full display, creating an unforgettable experience for those who venture to witness its awe-inspiring beauty firsthand.

Check out Trip Advisor's guide on Glymur!

Dettifoss Parking East

I recommend you use the east parking lot. You can then take a short walk, about 1/2 mile, to see the falls. Wear good shoes as the little trek to view Dettifoss is a steep rocky trail.

The waterfall is formed by the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river, which originates from the Vatnajökull Glacier, one of Europe's largest glaciers.

Dettifoss has a height of about 148 feet and a width of approximately 328 feet, making it the most powerful waterfall in Europe in terms of water volume.

The sheer force of the water plummeting into the canyon below generates a massive amount of spray and mist, which often creates rainbows on sunny days, adding to the natural spectacle.

The surrounding landscape is stark and volcanic, with black basalt rocks and rugged terrain, giving visitors a glimpse of Iceland's raw and untamed beauty.

Svartifoss Waterfall: Iceland's Majestic Black Waterfall

This waterfall is a bit different than what you might think of when you're talking about waterfalls in Iceland. But, it is just as grand as Seljalandsfoss in is own way.

Svartifoss is a stunning waterfall located in Skaftafell National Park, part of Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland. It is one of the most famous and unique waterfalls in the country, known for its breathtaking beauty and distinctive basalt column formations that surround it.

The most striking feature of Svartifoss is its dramatic backgrop of basalt columns that form a natural amphitheater around the waterfall.

These hexagonal basalt columns were created by the slow cooling of lava flows, and they give the waterfall its signature appearance, resembling a set of organ pipes or large crystalline structures.

Skogafoss Waterfall Coordinates

Skógafoss is situated along the Skógá River, which originates from the Eyjafjallajökull glacier volcano.

Here are the coordinates: N63° 31' 54.500" W19° 30' 43.187"

The waterfall drops approximately 197 feet (60 meters) from a cliff into a large, serene pool below.

The cascade is known for its impressive width, spanning approximately 82 feet (25 meters), which adds to the sheer grandeur of the waterfall.

Visitors can get close to Skógafoss by walking up a staircase on the right side of the falls.

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, a hiking trail continues past the top of the waterfall and leads to further exploration of the Skógá River canyon and additional smaller waterfalls upstream.

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~Mary
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