Waterfalls near Reykjavík

Waterfalls near Reykjavík: The most scenic day trips

Iceland is famous for its breathtaking waterfalls, and some of the best are only a short drive from Reykjavík. Before you know it, you could be standing before roaring cascades, walk behind misty curtains, and find quiet streams hidden in green valleys.

This guide highlights the most scenic waterfalls a short drive from Reykjavík, with travel tips and ideas to help you make the most of your visit.

Why Reykjavík is the perfect starting point for waterfall day trips

Reykjavík is an ideal base for exploring Iceland’s natural wonders. Well-maintained roads connect the city to major natural attractions, and the most famous waterfalls are only within 2-3 hours by car.

You can head east toward the South Coast to see Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, or north through Hvalfjörður to hike to Glymur, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls. The Golden Circle loop, which includes the mighty Gullfoss, is another easy route that begins and ends in the capital. Along the way, you’ll pass volcanic hills, small villages, and open plains where Icelandic horses graze under wide skies.

Golden Circle waterfalls worth visiting

The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most popular routes. It’s close to Reykjavík, easy to drive, and packed with natural highlights like geysers, lava fields, and waterfalls. You can see all of these on a single scenic day trip.

1. Gullfoss

Gullfoss, or “Golden Falls,” is the crown jewel of the Golden Circle. The Hvítá River plunges into a deep canyon in two dramatic stages, creating a powerful mist that often catches the sunlight. On bright days, you’ll see rainbows forming above the gorge. Viewing paths lead to several platforms, each offering a different perspective of the falls.

2. Oxararfoss

Located in Þingvellir National Park, Öxarárfoss combines history and nature in one spot. The waterfall sits along the Almannagjá Rift, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. It’s smaller than some of Iceland’s giants but incredibly scenic, surrounded by moss-covered rocks and walking trails.

3. Bruarfoss

Brúarfoss is often called Iceland’s “Blue Waterfall” because of its vivid turquoise colour. The waterfall flows through narrow lava channels, forming delicate cascades that converge into a single foamy pool. It’s a bit hidden compared to other waterfalls near Reykjavík, but a short hike from the parking lot rewards you with one of the most photogenic spots in the region.

4. Þórufoss

A quieter stop on the route, this wide, elegant waterfall is located on the Laxá River, near Þingvellir. Þórufoss is best known for appearing in Game of Thrones as one of the series’ filming locations. The waterfall is surrounded by open countryside, and because it’s less crowded, you can often have the place to yourself.

5. Faxafoss

Faxafoss, also known as Vatnsleysufoss, sits just a few minutes from the Geysir geothermal area. It’s a wide, calm waterfall with gentle slopes and salmon ladders built into the rock, allowing fish to travel upstream. There’s a small viewing area nearby where you can stop for photos or a picnic.

6. Helgufoss

Helgufoss is located in Mosfellsdalur Valley, about a 30-minute drive from Reykjavík’s city center. This small waterfall flows in a single drop, with a large rock partway down that gives it a stepped appearance. A short, easy walk leads through open green hills, where Icelandic horses often graze nearby. It’s a peaceful stop and a nice way to begin or end a Golden Circle day trip.

South Coast waterfalls you can See in a day

The South Coast is one of Iceland’s most beautiful drives, lined with cliffs, black-sand beaches, and famous waterfalls. Following the Ring Road on Route 1 toward Vík makes for an unforgettable day.

1. Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss is one of the most photographed waterfalls in Iceland. The water drops from a high cliff into a shallow pool, and a walking path leads all the way behind the curtain of water. Standing there, surrounded by mist and sunlight, is an unforgettable experience. It’s visible from the main road, so it’s an easy first stop on a South Coast day trip.

2. Gljufrabui

Just a few minutes’ walk from Seljalandsfoss is a hidden waterfall called Gljúfrabúi, which means “Canyon Dweller.” It’s partly concealed by a cliff, and to see it, you need to walk through a narrow opening where a small stream flows out. Bring waterproof shoes and raingear, as you’re guaranteed to get soaked.

3. Skogafoss

Farther along Route 1, you’ll find Skógafoss, one of the biggest waterfalls in Iceland. It’s 60 m (197 ft) tall and perfectly rectangular, making it one of the most striking sights in South Iceland. You can walk right up to the base, where the spray fills the air, or climb the staircase beside it for a sweeping view of the landscape. On a sunny day, rainbows often form in the mist.

4. Kvernufoss

Just a short walk from Skógafoss, Kvernufoss is a smaller, quieter waterfall tucked into a narrow gorge. It’s one of those places that feels secret, even though it’s close to a main attraction. A short trail leads to the base, where you can also walk behind the falling water.

5. Urriðafoss

On the way back toward the capital, make a stop at Urriðafoss near the town of Selfoss. Although it’s not tall, it’s one of the most powerful waterfalls near Reykjavík, carrying an incredible volume of water through the Þjórsá River. It’s easy to visit with a short detour from the main road, and the open landscape around it gives a sense of calm after a day of sightseeing.

Other waterfalls and hidden gems near Reykjavík

Beyond the Golden Circle and the South Coast, several impressive waterfalls lie within a few hours of Reykjavík City Centre. Some are well-known in their own regions, while others are quieter places to enjoy nature away from the crowds.

1. Kirkjufellfoss

Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall is one of the most photographed waterfalls in Iceland, despite its relatively small size. What makes it special is its setting beneath the cone-shaped Mount Kirkjufell on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The waterfall has two gentle drops that frame the mountain perfectly, especially at sunrise or sunset.

2. Glymur

Located in Hvalfjörður, about an hour from Reykjavík, Glymur is Iceland’s second-tallest waterfall. Reaching it requires a moderate hike through a beautiful valley, with river crossings and steep paths that open to incredible views. The trail can take two to three hours round trip, but the reward is a panorama of cliffs and the thundering waterfall below.

3. Hraunfossar and Barnafoss

In Borgarfjörður, you’ll find two very different waterfalls side by side. Hraunfossar flows through dark lava rock, with dozens of small streams pouring out of the moss-covered cliffs into the river below. Just upstream, Barnafoss rushes through a narrow canyon, creating a strong contrast in color and shape. Both are easy to reach and perfect for photography.

4. Haifoss

Háifoss lies in the Þjórsárdalur Valley in the Southern Highlands. The name means “High Waterfall,” and at 122 m (400 ft), it’s one of the tallest in Iceland. The falls drop into a dramatic canyon surrounded by rugged cliffs. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for the gravel road leading there, but the view from the top is unforgettable, especially on a clear day.

Guided tours to experience Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls

If you’d rather not drive, guided tours make visiting waterfalls near Reykjavík easy and enjoyable. Choose the style that best fits your travel pace and interests:

• Classic bus tours: Great for first-time visitors who want to see major sights in one day through South Coast or Golden Circle tours. Reykjavík Excursions by Icelandia offers several comfortable, reliable options that stop at Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss, and Skógafoss.
• Small-group and eco-friendly tours: Perfect for travellers who prefer smaller groups and a relaxed pace. These tours focus on sustainability and extra time at each location. Travelling Iceland specializes in eco-friendly trips, including visits to waterfalls along the South Coast and the Ring Road.
• Private experiences: Best for visitors who want flexibility and a personalized experience. These tours can be customized around your schedule and interests, covering the Golden Circle, South Coast, or both. Your Friend in Reykjavík offers private and small-group options led by local guides.
• Adventure and off-road tours: These 4x4 tours explore the Golden Circle by mountain tracks and remote valleys that most buses can’t reach. Volcano Trails offers several adventurous routes for those who want to get off the beaten path.
• Combination tours: Great for seeing more in a single day. Some tours combine the Golden Circle with glacier hiking or the Blue Lagoon, while Special Tours offers a version that pairs the Golden Circle with a Northern Lights boat cruise from Reykjavík's Old Harbour.
•  And just in case you want more adventure, check out the great hiking trails near Reykjavík.

Tips for visiting waterfalls in Iceland

Iceland’s waterfalls are easy to explore, but the weather and terrain can be unpredictable. These quick tips will help you stay safe and enjoy your trip:

• Dress in layers: The weather can change quickly, so bring a waterproof jacket and warm base layers. Good shoes with traction are essential on wet or uneven ground.
• Protect your camera and phone: Waterfall spray can reach farther than you might expect. Use a waterproof case or carry a dry bag to keep your gear safe.
• Stay on marked paths: Trails and viewing areas are designed to protect both visitors and the delicate moss-covered ground. Avoid climbing on rocks or crossing barriers.
• Check road and weather conditions: Before heading out, visit road.is or vedur.is for the latest updates, especially in winter.
• Go early or late in the day: The light is softer for photos, and you’ll likely avoid the crowds that gather mid-day.
• Bring snacks and water: Many waterfall sites are remote, with few cafés or stores nearby. Pack what you’ll need for the trip.
• Carry a little cash, a card or download an app for parking: Some waterfalls charge a small fee for parking or restrooms, so be prepared.

How to travel responsibly around Iceland’s natural wonders

Iceland’s landscapes are delicate, and even small actions can make a difference. Keep these points in mind to help protect the waterfalls and the surrounding nature.

• Stay on marked trails: Footsteps can damage moss and soil that take decades to recover.
• Leave no trace behind: Take everything with you, even biodegradable waste.
• Avoid disturbing wildlife: Keep a safe distance from birds, sheep, and horses.
• Follow parking and drone rules: Check local signs before flying drones or stopping on roadsides.
• Use restrooms at visitor centers: Water sources near waterfalls are clean and should remain so.
• Support local communities: Buy food, fuel, or souvenirs from nearby towns when possible.

FAQ: Waterfalls near Reykjavík