The top 5 Waterfalls in Iceland: the best to visit on ring road

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Updated: January 2026

If there’s one thing Iceland doesn’t lack, it’s waterfalls. On my 12-day Iceland road trip, they quickly became impossible to keep count of – some towering, some tucked into canyons, others right beside the highway.

With so many options, it can feel overwhelming to know which waterfalls are actually worth stopping for. If you’re planning a full Ring Road trip or spending more time in Iceland, this guide helps you choose the top five waterfalls in Iceland to prioritize.

1. Kirkjufellsfoss

Location: Snæfellsnes Peninsula (north side)

Height: 49 feet (15 meters)

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you may recognize this waterfall. In the background you’ll see Kirkjufell Mountain, also known as “Church Mountain.” With the mountain and waterfall both in view, it makes for one of the more interesting and best waterfalls in Iceland.

The hike is short and accessible for most people. Unlike other spots in Iceland, wind and mist are less of a concern here. Your biggest problem when visiting this waterfall will be parking. The parking lot is fairly small, so either visit during “off hours” like early morning, or plan to wait for a spot to open up.

👉 Check out this full day Snaefellsnes Peninsula tour

2. Gullfoss

Location: Golden Circle

Height: 105 feet (32 meters)

Gullfoss is a popular stop on the Golden Circle, about a two hour drive from Reykjavik. It’s a magnificent two-tiered waterfall that showcases Iceland’s raw power and beauty.

There are two main viewpoints – upper and lower.

Gullfoss - top 5 waterfalls in iceland — One perspect of Gullfoss from the lower viewpoint

The upper viewpoint will be better for those with accessibility issues. If you plan to visit the lower viewpoint, prepare for heavy mist that will leave you damp.

Both are worth the trek, but I preferred the lower viewpoint, which offers a particularly dramatic perspective of the rushing water!

👉 Check out this Golden Circle & Secret Lagoon Tour or this Golden Circle & Kerid Crater Tour

seljalandsfoss and sheep — Grazing Icleandic sheep posing in front of Seljalandsfoss

3. Seljalandsfoss

Location: Southern Iceland

Height: 197 feet (60 meters)

Out of all the waterfalls I visited on my 12 day trip – Seljalandsfoss is my favorite.

There’s more parking than at Kirkjufellsfoss, but it’s a little more limited than Gullfoss. Since this is an extremely popular destination, it’s best to get here early or plan for time to wait around in the parking lot.

Most people, including myself, love this waterfall because the trail allows you to go behind the falls. It’s a unique perspective – but plan to get wet!

👉 Consider checking out Iceland’s south coast on this tour from Reykjavik

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Looking into
Skógafoss
Skógafoss

4. Skógafoss

Location: Southern Iceland

Height: 197 feet (60 meters)

About 30 minutes from Seljalandsfoss, you’ll find Skógafoss. It’s another one of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland.

With a wide, powerful drop and a flat beach that allows you to walk right up to it – it’s no wonder why people love this waterfall.

A legend tells of a hidden treasure chest buried behind the falls, but it has yet to be found!

To the right of the falls you will see a staircase – climb it for a bird’s-eye view.

For those seeking adventure, the Fimmvörðuháls hiking trail begins here and continues into Thorsmork.

👉 Check out this South Coast Iceland tour that includes Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

5. Dettifoss

Location: Northeastern Iceland, Diamond Circle

Height: 144 feet (44 meters), with a width of 330 feet (100 meters)

This waterfall has to make the top five list, as it’s Europe’s most powerful waterfall. The water flow of an average of around 6,816 cubic feet per second!

The waterfall has two viewing options: The west side (route 862) and the east side (route 864).

I recommend taking route 862 to the west side as the road is safer and suitable for all vehicles. The hike is a little longer on this side and getting to the viewing platform can be challenging as it can get slippery.

The roads to Dettifoss are partially gravel, so be sure to check weather conditions before heading out.

👉 Check out this Diamond Circle tour

Final Thoughts on the top 5 waterfalls in iceland

Iceland’s landscapes are unforgettable, and its waterfalls were some of the most memorable stops of my trip. While these are my top 5 waterfalls in Iceland, there are countless others scattered across the country – many you’ll stumble upon without even trying.

If you’re planning your own Iceland adventure, check out this 12-day Iceland itinerary.

👉 Shorter on time? Read up on this 48-hour Iceland Itinerary and this 5-day Iceland guide break down how to make the most of your time on the road.

Hi, I’m Amber —

A Michigan native now living in Washington with a deep love for travel and the outdoors. What started with church mission trips and years of traveling across the U.S. as a nurse has grown into a passion for exploring destinations across Asia and America through hiking, scenic landscapes, local food, wildlife encounters, and underwater adventures. Sometimes I’m joined by my goldendoodle, Millie, but I’m always traveling with my camera. My goal is to help you feel inspired and confident that travel is possible — no matter where you’re starting from.