I don’t know if there is anyone who loves waterfalls as much as I do. But if you do, you must explore the waterfalls in Southwest Iceland! Traveling to Iceland was high on my bucket list, since there are over 10 000 waterfalls spread over the island. I had one week to explore, so I only did the southwest of Iceland and encountered a lot of magnificent waterfalls on the way. Some very popular and crowded, others hidden in lava fields with no one else around. I was in complete awe by the beauty of Iceland and I will definitely return to tour the whole island. When traveling to Southwest Iceland I suggest to make sure these waterfalls are on your bucket list!
Waterfalls in Southwest Iceland: the bucket list
Urridafoss
This is the waterfall with the most volume of Iceland and is often skipped by visitors. It may not look too spectacular but when you know that it is formed by the Þjórsá river falling off the margin of Þjórsárhraun lava field (360 m3/sec), which is the largest lava field that flooded on earth since the last ice age, you’ll be quite impressed. Most of the water coming from Hofsjökull, Vatnajökull and Tungnafellsjökull glaciers. It’s nearby Highway 1.
Gluggafoss
Another waterfall, aka Window Falls, that is often overlooked by tourists. The river created several holes and tunnels in the soft palagonite bedrock, through which the water flows. Icelanders call these “gluggar”, meaning windows. It’s situated near the T-junction of roads 261 and 250.
Seljalandsfoss
This is one of the most famous waterfalls in Southwest Iceland because you can walk behind the waterfall. Make sure to wear a waterproof jacket and shoes because you will get soaking wet! It’s close to Highway 1.
Gljufrabui
A little further from Seljalandsfoss you will find a waterfall hidden in a small canyon. You’ll have to walk through the river to reach the Gljufrabui waterfall.
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Skogafoss
Another famous waterfall near Highway 1. Don’t forget to climb up to get a view from different perspective.
Foss a Sidu
Maybe not one of the most spectacular waterfalls but I found it a very dreamy place because it’s a waterfall falling from beautiful cliffs next to a charming looking farm next to the ring road.
Hundafoss
This is the first waterfall I encountered at Skaftafell Park on my way to Svartifoss.
Svartifoss
This one is also quite famous. It looks spectacular because it falls down from dark basalt columns. Easy to reach after a one hour hike in Skaftafell.
Þjófafoss
Never did I see this waterfall in any guide, so I wasn’t surprised that the road to reach it was quite difficult. I even thought about turning around at a certain point, but then I looked at my favorite maps app* and saw that I was almost there, so I didn’t give up! Luckily, because the view of the waterfall, the bluegreen water and the Burfell mountain (which is actually a basalt tuya) is spectacular! Definitely one of my favorite places!
Haifoss
This is another favorite of mine. The drive up there wasn’t easy due to the bad condition of the road (giant holes), but it was so worth it! The view from the top of the cliffs is breathtaking and you can also walk down to the foot of the waterfall. Actually there are two big waterfalls because at the right side of Haifoss you’ll also see Gránni! Haifoss can be found at the end of road 332.
Gullfoss
Gullfoss is probably the best known waterfall of Iceland because it is a part of the Golden Circle. It is massive and roars into a canyon. But be prepared for the crowds.
Oxararfoss
This waterfall is one of the main attractions in Thingvellir Park at the Golden Circle.
Sjavarfoss
It’s a small waterfall, but quite charming. You’ll pass it on your way to Glymur (coming from the South). I had lunch at this magical spot.
Glymur
I never reached this waterfall, simply because the log wasn’t placed over the river yet. So I wasn’t able to cross the river and do the hike up to this wonderful waterfall. Next time I’ll definitely go in during the Summer time!
Kirkjufellsfoss
This waterfall was featured in Game of Thrones and what actually makes this place special is the Kirkjufell mountain in the background. I went there early in the morning and had this (otherwise very crowded) place all to myself.
* Read more about that app in my e-book “How to plan your trip”
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