Iceland is a small but mystical place. This incredible island is filled with gorgeous geological structures, enormous ice caves, never-ending waterfalls, and fascinating geothermal energy pools. Here are some of my favorite waterfalls and geysers I explored while trekking through Iceland.
Seljalandsfoss
The first waterfall I recommend traveling to is located in Southern Iceland. It is only 1.5 hours (120 km) south east of Reykjavik by way of the Route 1 highway. All the locals know where it is and you can drive very close to it. The best part about this waterfall is that you can go inside the cave behind it and lookout through the falling water. Absolutely breathtaking!
Looking towards the waterfall – There is a bridge on the left-hand side. It crosses the water and leads up to a small hike around the back end of the falls, opening up to a gorgeous plateau.
Skogafoss
If you continue along the Route 1 road, the next waterfall is only a short drive away. It is located ~30 km south of Seljalandsfoss outside a town called Vik, also very easy to find. Around the right-hand side, this one has a stairway-like area you can climb. It leads to a small hike up over the lookout point. My body looks like a tiny dot compared to this massive natural behemoth!
Viewpoint on top of the Skogafoss waterfall
Gullfoss (Golden Falls and the Golden Circle)
This next waterfall is located northeast of Reykjavik. A 1.5 hour (100 km) drive through windy roads and icy terrain is required to reach this destination. Considered the Queen of all waterfalls in Iceland, this is definitely one you do not want to miss!
Gullfoss is located on the Hvita (White) River, fed by Iceland´s second biggest glacier, the Langjökull. The water plummets down 32 meters in 2 stages into a rugged canyon. The walls of this canyon reach up to 70 meters in height.
On a sunny day, a shimmering rainbow can be seen over the falls. The drop looks small from this angle; however, if you peek over the rocks, there is a 70 meter drop.
Gullfoss Geothermal Geysir
Around 87% of the domestic heat from Iceland comes from geothermal energy, making it the world’s largest renewable energy provided per capita. All throughout the country, there are natural underground geothermal pools.
The great geyser at Geysir first began spouting in the 14th century and all the others around the world are named after it. Despite being dormant, it’s successor, the hot spring Strokkur, shoots a column of water into to the air every 4 – 8 minutes to the delight of visitors.
The geothermal geyser area is located 10 min south of Gullfoss
These are some of the easiest and most beautiful waterfalls & geysers to access from Reykjavik. If your looking to visit Iceland, visit SkyScanner to find the best price. Keep exploring this world. Cheers!
