9 Most Beautiful Waterfalls in South Iceland: A Complete Guide
Planning a trip to Iceland’s South Coast? Here’s Monika from PlanPackExplore to share the best waterfalls you won’t want to miss along this stunning route!
Iceland is famous for its breathtaking scenery, and with over 10,000 waterfalls, the landscape is nothing short of spectacular.
If you’re looking to experience the magic of Iceland’s natural beauty, South Iceland is the perfect place to start.
From the iconic Seljalandsfoss, where you can stroll behind its cascades, to the massive Skógafoss, with its famous rainbows forming in the mist, the waterfalls here are simply stunning. Plus, they’re all super accessible, making it easy to hop from one jaw-dropping spot to another.
This guide to the best waterfalls in South Iceland will help you plan your waterfall-chasing adventure, covering both the iconic falls and some less touristy hidden gems!
How To Get To The Waterfalls Of South Iceland?
The best way to explore this area is by self-driving. Having a rental car gives you the flexibility to see everything at your own pace and spend as much time in each spot as you desire!
Most of these waterfalls are located along the Ring Road (Route 1), making them very easy to reach from Reykjavik or other South Iceland towns.
The drive itself is easy and very scenic, adding to the overall experience.
Are There Tours To The Waterfalls Of The South Coast?
Absolutely! If you don’t have a rental car, there are plenty of tours you can choose from that will incorporate many of the waterfalls from this list into their itineraries. Here are some highly rated options:
Map Of Waterfalls In South Iceland
Follow this map to create a wonderful waterfall-chasing itinerary.
1. Urriðafoss
You can find Urriðafoss just off the Ring Road, before you get to the better-known waterfalls in South Iceland. It’s a great first stop on your waterfall itinerary. Many travelers drive by without stopping to see it as it’s not very tall and more of a rapid cascade than a typical waterfall, but it has some unique features making it worth your time.
It’s located on the longest river in Iceland, Þjórsá. It is also very powerful, dropping the equivalent of about half the volume of water per second of the most powerful waterfall in Europe – Dettifoss (located on the Diamond Circle in North Iceland)
It is also a great salmon fishing spot in the summer months!
Time needed: 15 – 30 minutes
2. Seljalandsfoss
Seljalandsfoss is one of the most famous waterfalls on the South Coast and the first iconic stop on this itinerary.
It’s massive, powerful, and best known for one unique feature: the large cavern behind its cascade, allowing visitors to walk behind the thundering water.
There is a path leading you to the iconic photo spot in the cave and in the summer months (peak season), it can get crowded, but this unique “behind the scenes” experience is absolutely worth it the wait.
Please note: You WILL GET WET! It’s part of the charm and the experience, but make sure you put on your raingear!
If you’re lucky, you may see an amazing rainbow!
Spoiler alert: Seljalandsfoss is not the only waterfall in South Iceland you can walk behind… Keep reading to find out where to find the second one!
Time needed: about 1 hour, depending on how busy it is.
3. Gljúfrabúi
This hidden gem is located only a few minutes’ walk from Seljalandsfoss. You don’t even have to move your car!
Just follow the paved path and a small sign for Gljúfrabúi. It literally IS hidden in a narrow canyon, but after a short walk, you’ll come to the opening and a beautiful waterfall coming down into the cave from the opening atop a cliff.
Climb on the large boulder in the opening for another epic waterfall photo!
You will need to step on some wet rocks to get there, so make sure to wear good waterproof boots and keep the rain gear on!
It’s one of the most unique waterfalls in South Iceland and definitely worth adding to your itinerary.
Time needed: 30-45 minutes.
For more practical information, read my guide to Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi – how to visit two stunning waterfalls.
4. Skógafoss
Skógafoss is another iconic waterfall of this region. About 60 m tall, this majestic cascade comes down from the top of the cliff, hitting Skóga river with enough force to produce a huge mist cloud that will surely get you wet if you’re standing close enough.
That same mist is also responsible for the famous Skógafoss rainbows! You have the best chance of seeing them on a sunny day, but we got a chance to see one on an overcast evening during our first visit!
For an even better view, climb the staircase on the right side of Skógafoss to reach a viewing deck, allowing you to see this mighty waterfall from the top.
You can also walk at least a short distance of the Waterfall Way trail that starts from there. It’s one of the most scenic hiking trails of the South Coast, and even a few minutes of hiking will take you through some incredible landscapes.
Time needed: 30 – 45 minutes, plus the time to climb the staircase and walk part of the Waterfall Way trail if you choose to add some hiking to your experience.
Read my guide to Skógafoss for more tips for your visit!
5. Kvernufoss
Kvernufoss is the lesser-known neighbour of Skógafoss and another South Iceland waterfall that you can walk behind!
Yes, it’s much smaller than both Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, but it’s just as beautiful. And since it’s still somewhat of a hidden gem, as not many people know about it, you can have a much less crowded experience.
It takes a short, easy hike to get to the waterfall and the cavern behind it. The trail starts from the Skógar Museum parking lot, and leads through the peaceful, lush green valley -it’s just magical… (yes, it IS my favourite word to describe Iceland!)
Time needed: 60 – 90 minutes
Find out more about this scenic spot in my guide to visiting Kvernufoss!
6. Systrafoss
This is a small but very pretty waterfall that not many people visit, but if you happen to be in Kirkjubæjarklaustur, it’s a good idea to check it out, especially if you’re a fan of less traveled destinations.
Systrafoss is located in a small, secluded wooded area near the Klausturhoff Guesthouse. You’ll find an information sign and a couple of picnic tables there as well, which makes it a nice spot for a quick scenic break during your Ring Road travels.
Time needed: 15 – 30 minutes
7. Foss á Síðu
At only 30 meters high, Foss á Síðu is not as tall or impressive as some of the other waterfalls in South Iceland, but it’s very picturesque and absolutely worth visiting.
It’s located on the old farm, dating back to the first settlement times, and, like many places in Iceland, it’s connected to a folk tale. It is said that there is a ghost dog in this area, carrying a curse against a local family that’s supposed to last for 9 generations. No one seems to know whether the curse has run its course already or not…
The farm is still operating today, and since the waterfall sits on private property, you are only allowed to view it from the parking area. The boundary is marked by a low fence – please respect it and don’t cross it!
Foss á Síðu is also known for being easily blown sideways or even upwards on windy days, making it quite a sight to see. I was lucky enough to have seen it during my recent trip on a glorious sunny but extremely windy day – it certainly makes you appreciate the power of Icelandic winds!
Helpful tip: Foss á Síðu can also be spotted from Dvergharmar Cliffs, located on the opposite side of the Ring Road. You do get a much better view by driving directly up to the small parking area by the waterfall.
Time needed: 15 – 30 minutes
8. Fossálar
Fossálar is yet another small South Coast waterfall that most tourists often overlook on the way to more famous sights.
However, it is worth stopping at as it is very pretty. It’s wide but shallow, and its surroundings are so peaceful that you definitely don’t want to miss it!
Especially that it’s located literally on the Ring Road, with a small gravel parking area just waiting for you to stop, stretch your legs, and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Fun fact: if you’re lucky, you might see locals fishing in the river! We did!
Time needed: 15 – 30 minutes
9. Svartifoss
Svartifoss is a unique waterfall located in Vatnajökull National Park. Out of all the South Iceland waterfalls listed in this article, this is the only one that requires a short uphill hike. The view is worth the effort!
It sits in a cove lined with Iceland’s signature basalt columns that are said to have been an inspiration for the design of the Hallgrímskirkja Church in Reykjavik.
To get to Svartifoss, you need to park your car at the Skaftafell Visitor Centre (Skaftafellstofa) parking lot and hike for about 45 minutes.
Time needed: 1.5 – 3 hours, depending on your hiking pace and time spent by the waterfall.
Best Time Of Year To Visit The Waterfalls In South Iceland
There is never really a bad time to visit the waterfalls of Iceland’s South Coast. They are accessible year-round and beautiful in all seasons, each offering a different experience.
Most of them are located right on the Ring Road, which is very well maintained, even in the winter.
However, the best time to see them, in my opinion, is the summer and early fall. You have the best chance for nice weather and sunshine, and with the sun comes rainbows! Additionally, the days are nice and long, giving you plenty of time to explore!
Can You Visit The Waterfalls In The Winter?
As I mentioned above, yes, you can visit the South Coast waterfalls in the winter. However, like with any winter activity in Iceland, you should always check the weather forecast and the road status before you head out.
The only ones you may not be able to visit in the winter months are Svartifoss and Kvernufoss, as the trails may be covered in snow.
What To Pack For Visiting The Waterfalls In South Iceland?
- waterproof gear – both the jacket and the pants, as well as hiking boots, especially for Seljalandsfoss, Gljúfrabúi and Kvernufoss, where you can really get wet.
- Waterproof phone/camera case – for the same reason, cover your electronics.
- A backpack – for the short hikes to Svartifoss and Kvernufoss, make sure you have a day pack to carry your extra layers, snacks, and water.
Final Thoughts
South Iceland’s waterfalls are truly some of the most breathtaking sights in the country, each offering its own unique charm and experience. With easy access along the Ring Road, you can explore them in any season.
If you have more time and would like to explore other Icelandic waterfalls, head to the iconic Golden Circle and visit Oxararfoss in Thingvellir National Park and the mighty Gullfoss – you won’t regret it! And don’t miss out on the often-overlooked detour to Bruarfoss – it’s worth a stop!
Huge thanks to Monika for writing such a beautiful piece about her experience along Iceland’s South Coast!
