Looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience? More unique and enchanting than any other place you’ve ever visited? Then Iceland is the destination! It is a must-visit country to relax, immerse yourself in nature, and find peace in the silence. But, your trip will not be complete unless you visit one of the 10,000 incredible waterfalls in Iceland. Complete with hiking trails, this activity will offer exercise and clarity along with stunning scenery. Join me while we explore the 6 most unbelievable waterfalls to hike at in Iceland.
1. Skogafoss Waterfall in Skógar
The Skogafoss is a waterfall on the Skógá River in the south of Iceland. Skogafoss is known for its outstanding hiking trails, the most famous being the Fimmvörđuháls path. Also, Fimmvörđuháls is the original eruption site of the 2010 Eyjafjallajokull volcano.
Start your hike at the tremendous Skogafoss Waterfall. Next, hike along the Skógá River. Furthermore, hike the beautiful lush green land of Iceland. It is 25 kilometres long. However, if you don’t feel like setting aside 7 to 10 hours for the hike you can walk up to the Skogafoss viewpoint. Alternatively, climb the staircase to the top for remarkable views. Beyond the staircase, you overlook the falls and Iceland’s South Coast.
Find accommodation in Skógar now on Booking.com
2. Glymur Waterfall in Hvalfjörður
Glymur is the second-highest waterfall in Iceland and you can only reach it with a hike. Luckily, the trail to the waterfall is gorgeous. Also, the entire round trip is only 7.5 kilometres. Despite its beauty, the entire hike is uphill. For this reason, wear comfortable shoes and bring enough water. Furthermore, the hike crosses two rivers. At the first cross, use the big rocks as stepping stones. The second river does not have any stepping stones or bridges. Therefore, wear your waterproof hiking gear.
Following your hike to the top of the falls, cross the river that feeds into the Glymur Waterfall. Before you panic, the river is quite calm, as well as the scenery (see what I did there?). Once you’re on the other side, follow the path down to the bottom. During the summer months June to August, Hvalfjordur fjord where Glymur is located, has almost 24 hours of sunlight. So, you can go for a hike whenever you feel like it.
Find accommodation in Reykjavik now on Booking.com
3. Goðafoss Waterfall near Akureyri
Located in northern Iceland is the wide and magical Gođafoss Waterfall. Known as one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland, you don’t want to miss this. The waterfall flows over a 30-meter-wide horseshoe-shaped rock. Sounds like a fairytale, right? Gođafoss Waterfall is nicknamed the “waterfall of the gods” for its god-like beauty.
Besides the angelic beauty of the falls, explore the 2.9-kilometre hike. Granted you are well-geared; this is an easy route. Expect to hike for about 50 minutes. What’s more, is the fact that it is dog-and-kid-friendly making this the perfect family activity.
Find accommodation in Akureyri now on Booking.com
4. Selfoss Waterfall on the Jökulsá á Fjöllum River
The Selfoss Waterfall is located in north Iceland in the Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon. The waterfall is more wide than tall. Before getting to Selfoss Waterfall, Dettifoss is on the trail. Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Iceland, is only a 10-minute walk down a steep rocky trail from the parking lot. Further into the trail is Selfoss, 1 kilometre from Dettifoss.
Although Dettifoss is a powerful waterfall, Selfoss is more graceful and calm. In total, the trail is 2.5 kilometres away from both waterfalls. Moreover, the route is fairly easy. But the river of rocks is a bit difficult to navigate.
Find accommodation in Selfoss now on Booking.com
5. Bruarfoss Waterfall in Árnessýsla
For a more remote destination and off-the-trail tourism, Brúarfoss is the location for you. Brúarfoss is an outlying spot with multiple small, rambling waterfalls. Not only are the landscapes stunning, but the water running down is beautifully bright blue. The waterfalls are a majestic sky blue. The reason for this is that the Brúarfoss is fed by the Brúará River, which is a melted glacier.
Owing to the farmland surrounding the Brúará River, the hike to the falls is easy. Your hike starts off adventurous. First, climb over a short ladder placed over a fence. Don’t worry, the fence is only in place to secure the farm animals. From there, the gravelled path is easy to follow with plenty of signs. Eventually, at Brúarfoss, you can climb down to the falls and get a close look at the shocking blue water. For more information on blue water locations, check out other must-see places to visit in dreamy Iceland.
Find accommodation in Laugarvatn now on Booking.com
6. Glanni Waterfall in Nordura River
Glanni Waterfall is hidden away from any main road. Meaning light or shining, Glanni was named after the bright white colour of the water and is truly a mystical destination. However, reaching the waterfall is only possible by foot. Simply follow the clearly allocated walking trail to Glanni. Eventually, you will find the viewing deck on your walk. Whereafter stairs lead to Paradise Hollow, a beautiful small waterhole.
Furthermore, enjoy panoramic views of the river and surrounding mountains. Additionally, if you happen to be a fan of fishing, this waterfall is the best spot for salmon fishing in Iceland.
The legend goes that Glanni Falls is home to elves and trolls. So, not only will you be greeted with magical views but possibly mythical creatures as well.
Find accommodation in Bifrost near Glanni Falls now on Booking.com
Go Chase Waterfalls in Iceland
You cannot help but fall in love with Iceland, one waterfall at a time. By almost any measure, I’m sure you will agree that this country is one of the world’s most unique lands. With so much to see, experience, and wonder about, Iceland should be your next wellness stop! Finally, as the Icelanders say; “Þetta Reddast” (it will work out okay, just visit Iceland). Enjoy!