My Unforgettable Day Visiting Iceland’s Top 3 Waterfalls
Iceland is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes – from steaming geothermal fields and endless lava plains to the dramatic cliffs and glaciers that seem straight out of a fantasy film. But among all of Iceland’s natural wonders, its waterfalls truly steal the show. You’ve probably seen them before – those majestic cascades tumbling over moss-covered cliffs that flood your social feed every summer.
After finally visiting Iceland myself, I can confirm: they’re even more magical in person. Each waterfall has its own personality – from powerful torrents that thunder into misty canyons to serene falls that sparkle in the midnight sun. In this post, I’m sharing the top three waterfalls in Iceland that you simply can’t miss on your trip. The best part? They’re all within a 30-minute drive of each other, making it easy to see them all in one unforgettable day!
The best way to see these waterfalls in one day? Join a guided tour
Skógafoss
A true showstopper, Skógafoss is one of Iceland’s most iconic and powerful waterfalls. This majestic curtain of water drops an incredible 60 meters into the river below, creating a constant mist that often catches the sunlight – perfect for spotting a rainbow or two. You can walk right up to the base of the falls, but be prepared to get drenched by the spray!
For a completely different perspective, climb the 500 steps to the top. It’s a bit of a workout, but the panoramic views from the cliff’s edge make it more than worth it. Whether it’s under a glowing sunset or shrouded in mist on a moody day, Skógafoss never fails to take your breath away.
Seljalandsfoss
Like Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss plunges an impressive 60 meters, but what truly sets it apart is the pathway that leads behind the waterfall. Walking through the mist and standing in the hollow behind the cascading water is an unforgettable experience – it’s one of those rare places where you feel completely surrounded by nature’s power.
The trail circles around the falls, offering countless chances for stunning photos from every angle. And if you’re visiting after dark, floodlights illuminate the falls, creating a magical nighttime view. In a country with over 10,000 waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss still manages to stand out. Just remember to pack your wet weather gear – you will walk away soaked, but smiling.
*I recommend a jacket that works as both a fleece and waterproof layer so you can have both warmth and protection from the elements!
Gljúfrabúi
Just a 500-meter walk from Seljalandsfoss, you’ll discover a hidden gem tucked away in a secluded canyon. Some visitors snap photos from the entrance, but if you venture through the narrow canyon where the water flows (yes, wet feet are almost unavoidable), you’ll be rewarded with the iconic view of Gljúfrabúi.
The waterfall cascades 40 meters into the canyon below, and its name, which means “canyon dweller” in Icelandic, perfectly captures its secretive charm. For the best photos, climb onto the rock in front of the waterfall and shoot upward – the result is truly breathtaking and guarantees incredible photos every time. In my opinion, Gljúfrabúi is a must-see, and those wet feet are a small price to pay for the up-close experience. For a good pair of waterproof boots check out these combat boots – perfect for the colder weather and keeping your outfit looking fashionable at the same time!
Funny story: My tour bus only gave us 30 minutes at Seljalandsfoss, but I knew I had to see Gljúfrabúi too. So I ran to the entrance, through the flowing water (embracing that my feet would get soaked), snapped my photos, and sprinted back to the bus – arriving just two minutes late. Was it worth it? Absolutely.
If you’re planning to see several waterfalls in one day and aren’t keen on joining a tour, renting a car gives you the freedom and convenience to explore at your own pace.
Iceland is home to literally thousands of waterfalls, each with its own unique charm and beauty. But if you’re short on time, these three are non-negotiable – do not skip them. From the thunderous power of Skógafoss to the magical walk-behind experience at Seljalandsfoss, and the hidden, enchanting Gljúfrabúi, each waterfall offers something unforgettable. You can explore all 3 with a South Coast Tour, stopping at Reynisfjara Beach & Sólheimajökull glacier too!
Seeing them in person is an experience that goes far beyond photos – the sound, the mist, the sheer scale of nature at work will stay with you long after you leave. So pack your waterproof gear, bring your camera (or just enjoy the view with your own eyes), and prepare to be amazed. Trust me, this is one part of Iceland you absolutely will not regret exploring!