The 8 Best Waterfalls in North Iceland

1. Dettifoss Waterfall

Dettifoss is not only the strongest waterfall in Europe but also one of the most amazing sights in North Iceland. It's in Vatnajökull National Park, about 150 km from Akureyri, and is 45 meters tall and 100 meters wide. The huge amount of water, around 500 cubic meters per second, falls down so hard that you can feel the ground shake under your feet.

You can get there two ways—Route 862 (west) and Route 864 (east). The east side has the best up-close views, but the road can be rough. On the west side, you'll find a paved road and parking, making it easier to get to.

Besides the waterfall itself, the area is great for hiking, with paths leading to Selfoss and further into the amazing landscapes of Vatnajökull National Park. Visiting at sunrise or sunset gives you great lighting for photos, with mist and rainbows often showing up above the falls.

2. Goðafoss Waterfall

Goðafoss, known as the "Waterfall of the Gods," is one of North Iceland's prettiest waterfalls, just 50 km from Akureyri along the Ring Road. This 12-meter-high and 30-meter-wide waterfall got its name from a story where, in 1000 AD, Icelandic leader Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði threw his old religious statues into the falls after Iceland became Christian.

Goðafoss is easy to get to, with several spots offering great views. The falls are split into a wide horseshoe shape, with the blue-green water making a beautiful contrast against the black rock cliffs. There's a viewing area on both sides of the river, and you can take a short walk to get even closer to the falls.

Nearby, the Skjálfandafljót River and surrounding areas offer nice walking trails, perfect for a short hike. You can visit Goðafoss along with a trip to Lake Mývatn, where you can see hot springs, lava fields, and even take a swim in the Mývatn Nature Baths.

3. Selfoss Waterfall

Just upstream from Dettifoss, you'll find Selfoss, a wide and pretty horseshoe-shaped waterfall. Though not as strong as its neighbor, Selfoss is just as nice to look at. At 11 meters tall, it's a gentler waterfall, making it perfect for a calm walk and some great photo chances. The waterfall's wide, curving shape and surrounding black rocks create a peaceful setting.

The walk to Selfoss from Dettifoss is short and easy, about 1 km along the river, making it a great add-on to a Dettifoss visit.

The surrounding Vatnajökull National Park has lots of hiking options, including trails leading further into Ásbyrgi Canyon. While Selfoss isn't as big as Dettifoss, its calm beauty is just as striking, especially when seen in the soft morning or evening light. The area is also a great place for watching birds, as many types live in the river valley.

4. Aldeyjarfoss Waterfall

Aldeyjarfoss, about 85 km from Akureyri, is a hidden gem on the Skjálfandafljót River. The 20-meter waterfall is famous for its eye-catching black rock columns, which look great next to the white water falling into the deep blue pool below.

The waterfall is a bit out of the way, needing travel on a gravel road, but it's worth the trip for anyone looking for a quieter spot in nature. The rock columns that frame the falls are like those found at Svartifoss in the south, but Aldeyjarfoss is less crowded.

Hiking around the area shows more of the volcanic land, and the waterfall is especially beautiful in the winter when the surrounding rocks are covered in snow and ice. For people who love taking photos, Aldeyjarfoss is a must-visit, offering unique shots from different angles.

Nearby, you can also visit Hrafnabjargafoss, another stunning waterfall on the same river, making for a perfect day of exploring.

5. Hrafnabjargafoss Waterfall

Hrafnabjargafoss is a less-known waterfall along the Skjálfandafljót River, but it's just as beautiful as its more famous neighbors. Located a short distance from Aldeyjarfoss, Hrafnabjargafoss is surrounded by green fields in summer, offering a calm and peaceful setting for visitors. The waterfall splits into multiple streams that fall over volcanic rocks, creating a mesmerizing view. This spot is often missed by tourists, so you'll most likely be alone.

The drive to Hrafnabjargafoss takes you through Iceland's highlands, offering wide views of the landscape. It's a bit of a rough road, but the quiet beauty of the waterfall is worth the trip. In winter, the waterfall freezes over, creating a stunning ice cascade.

Nearby hiking trails give you a chance to explore more of the area, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

6. Fosslaug Waterfall

Hidden away near Varmahlíð, Fosslaug is a secret spot that has both a pretty waterfall and a warm, relaxing hot spring to soak in. The waterfall itself is small but charming, with the hot spring giving you the perfect place to relax and enjoy the view. It's just a short walk from the parking area, and the quiet surroundings make it a great place to get away from the crowds.

After your soak, you can check out the nearby town of Varmahlíð, known for its old-style turf houses and beautiful countryside. Fosslaug is also close to Glaumbær, a historic turf house museum where you can learn about how Icelanders lived in the past.

For those looking for more adventure, the area is popular for horseback riding, with local farms offering rides through the pretty landscape.

7. Kolugljúfur Waterfall (Kolufossar)

Kolugljúfur, also called Kolufossar, is a dramatic waterfall set deep in the Kolugljúfur canyon. Located about 160 km from Akureyri, this waterfall is a bit off the main tourist path, making it a great destination if you're looking for a more secluded experience. The falls drop into the deep gorge, creating an awesome sight, especially when viewed from the canyon's edge.

The area around Kolugljúfur is mostly untouched, giving it a wild and natural feel. There's a small viewing platform where you can take in the view, but otherwise, it's just you and nature. While you're there, you can take a scenic drive through the surrounding farmland, which offers beautiful views of Iceland's countryside.

The Kolugljúfur canyon itself is worth exploring, with its rough cliffs and winding river. For photographers, the dramatic scenery provides plenty of chances to capture the beauty of North Iceland.

8. Geitafoss Waterfall

Geitafoss is a small but pretty waterfall located just downstream from Goðafoss. While not as powerful as its neighbor, Geitafoss offers a peaceful and quiet setting, perfect for a quick stop or a picnic. The waterfall is easy to miss, but it's worth taking a few minutes to enjoy its gentle beauty.

The flowing water creates a calm atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to relax after visiting Goðafoss. The surrounding area is part of the Skjálfandafljót River, and the green fields add to the peaceful vibe.

After visiting Geitafoss, head back to Goðafoss for a more dramatic view or continue exploring the Lake Mývatn area. The region offers plenty of activities, from hiking in lava fields to soaking in the Mývatn Nature Baths. Geitafoss may be small, but it's a perfect spot to enjoy the calm beauty of Iceland's nature.

Conclusion

North Iceland has some of the best waterfalls in the country, each with its own unique charm. Whether you’re into the raw power of Dettifoss or the peaceful beauty of Geitafoss, there’s something for everyone. Along the way, you’ll find hot springs, hiking trails, and plenty of quiet spots to enjoy the stunning views. If you’re looking for an adventure in nature, North Iceland is the place to go!

Frequently Asked Questions About North Iceland's Waterfalls