Iceland is a land of fire and ice, but it’s also home to some of the most stunning waterfalls in the world. Whether you’re on a road trip along the famous Ring Road or venturing into remote highlands, these waterfalls are must-visit destinations. Here’s everything you need to know about the top 10 waterfalls in Iceland, including travel time, accessibility, and what makes each one unique.

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1. Dettifoss – The Most Powerful Waterfall in Europe

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Location: Northeast Iceland
Height: 44 meters (144 feet)
How to Get There: From Akureyri, drive about 2.5–3 hours (150 km) via Route 1 and Route 864 or Route 862.
Why Visit: Dettifoss is the most powerful waterfall in Europe, with an incredible volume of water plunging down from the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river. The surrounding lunar-like landscape makes it an unforgettable sight.

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2. Skógafoss – The Iconic Beauty

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Location: South Coast, Skógar
Height: 60 meters (197 feet)
How to Get There: A 2-hour drive from Reykjavík (155 km) along Route 1.
Why Visit: One of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, Skógafoss is known for its symmetrical cascade and frequent rainbows. You can climb 527 steps for a breathtaking view from the top.

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3. Seljalandsfoss – Walk Behind the Falls

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Location: South Iceland, near Route 1
Height: 60 meters (197 feet)
How to Get There: About 1 hour and 45 minutes from Reykjavík (120 km).
Why Visit: This is one of the few waterfalls in the world where you can walk behind the cascading water. Visit at sunset for a magical experience.

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4. Strútsfoss – A Hidden Highland Gem

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Location: East Iceland, near Fljótsdalur
Height: 120 meters (394 feet)
How to Get There: A 30-minute drive from Egilsstaðir (35 km), followed by a 5 km hike (1.5–2 hours).
Why Visit: One of the lesser-known but most stunning waterfalls, Strútsfoss tumbles down in two majestic tiers within a remote canyon.

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5. Kirkjufoss – The Hidden Gem of the Waterfall Circle

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Location: East Iceland
Height: 50 meters (164 feet)
How to Get There: A 40-minute drive from Egilsstaðir, followed by a short hike.
Why Visit: Often overshadowed by its famous neighbor Hengifoss, Kirkjufoss offers solitude and pristine nature, making it a peaceful spot for photography.

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6. Gullfoss – The Golden Waterfall

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Location: Golden Circle, Southwest Iceland
Height: 32 meters (105 feet)
How to Get There: A 1.5-hour drive from Reykjavík (116 km) along the Golden Circle Route.
Why Visit: One of the most visited waterfalls in Iceland, Gullfoss features a dramatic two-tiered drop into a rugged canyon, creating a misty and powerful spectacle.

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7. Háifoss – Iceland’s Fourth Tallest Waterfall

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Location: Þjórsárdalur Valley, Central Highlands
Height: 122 meters (400 feet)
How to Get There: A 2-hour drive from Reykjavík (140 km) via F26 and a rough gravel road (4x4 recommended).
Why Visit: This towering waterfall offers one of the most awe-inspiring views in the highlands, with its deep canyon and rugged surroundings.

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8. Gljúfrabúi – The Hidden Waterfall

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Location: South Iceland, near Seljalandsfoss
Height: 40 meters (131 feet)
How to Get There: A 1-hour and 45-minute drive from Reykjavík, with a short 10-minute walk inside a canyon.
Why Visit: Tucked inside a narrow canyon, Gljúfrabúi feels like a secret oasis. Step into the misty cave and witness this hidden wonder up close.

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9. Nauthúsagil – The Waterfall of the Narrow Gorge

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Location: South Iceland, near Þórsmörk
How to Get There: A 2-hour drive from Reykjavík, followed by a short but adventurous walk through a canyon.
Why Visit: This waterfall is accessed by scrambling through a lush gorge, making it a fun and rewarding hidden treasure for adventurous travelers.

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10. Ketubjörg – The Cliffside Waterfall

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Location: Skagi Peninsula, North Iceland
Height: 120 meters (394 feet)
How to Get There: A 4-hour drive from Reykjavík (300 km), with a short walk to the cliff.
Why Visit: One of Iceland’s most dramatic waterfalls, Ketubjörg plunges directly into the ocean from a towering cliff, creating a breathtaking coastal spectacle.

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Final Thoughts

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Iceland is a paradise for waterfall lovers, offering everything from towering cascades to hidden gems tucked within remote canyons. Whether you’re looking for an easy roadside stop or a challenging hike to a secluded spot, these waterfalls showcase the raw beauty of Iceland’s landscapes. Which one will you visit first?

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