Guide to the Waterfalls of South Coast Iceland 

If you only have time for one road trip in Iceland, the South Coast is usually the top contender. The geography here is unique: ancient sea cliffs create natural drop-offs where glacial rivers plunge dramatically toward the lowlands.

When it comes to waterfalls, the South Coast is one of the most rewarding regions to explore. Along this stretch of coastline, you’ll find an extraordinary concentration of cascades, from world-famous icons to lesser-known streams. This guide highlights the best waterfalls South Coast Iceland has to offer.

Must-See Waterfalls on the South Coast of Iceland

Seljalandsfoss

Visible from kilometers away on the Ring Road, Seljalandsfoss is a 60-meter (197-foot) drop that looks like a classic postcard. There’s plenty to love about this famous cascade. However, the highlight is the recess behind the falls, where a well-worn (and very misty) path allows you to walk entirely around the waterfall.

Seljalandsfoss is a bucket-list experience, but come prepared: the spray is constant, and the path can be slippery. In the evening, the falls are sometimes illuminated by floodlights, offering a completely different perspective from the midday crowds.

Skógafoss

Just a 25-minute drive east of Seljalandsfoss is Skógafoss, perhaps the most perfectly shaped waterfall in Iceland. It is 60 meters (197 feet) tall, a massive wall of white water plunging over an ancient sea cliff. On sunny days, the heavy mist almost always produces a vivid rainbow.

While the view from the base is iconic, don't skip the staircase to the right. It’s a steep climb (over 500 steps), but well worth the effort. The observation deck at the top offers views of the Skógá River continuing inland. When the day is clear, you can also gaze out toward the coastal plains.

Svartifoss

Found within Vatnajökull National Park, Svartifoss requires a bit more effort to reach. The journey involves a 1.5-kilometer (1-mile) uphill hike from the visitor center. The payoff? One of the most uniquely beautiful waterfalls of South Coast Iceland.

The water drops over a cliff of dark, hexagonal basalt columns, so perfectly formed they look man-made. These organ-pipe-like formations helped inspire the famous design of Hallgrímskirkja Church in Reykjavík.

Gljúfrabúi

Just a few hundred meters from the crowds at Seljalandsfoss lies Gljúfrabúi. For many, this is the highlight of the trip as it still feels hidden despite its growing popularity. To see it, you’ll have to pass through a narrow opening in a cliff face. Once inside the cavern, you’re standing at the foot of a 40-meter (131-foot) cascade enclosed by steep rock walls. Some itineraries might overlook Gljúfrabúi, but this is one of the most unique waterfalls South Coast Iceland has to offer.

Kvernufoss

Tucked away in a gorge near the Skógar Museum is Kvernufoss, a quieter waterfall that’s often overlooked by visitors. It looks straight out of a fantasy novel, with the 30-meter (98-foot) cascade tumbling into a green, narrow canyon. Much like Seljalandsfoss, you can hike behind the curtain of water. Only here, the experience is far more intimate.

Foss á Síðu

Located east of Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Foss á Síðu is among the striking roadside waterfalls South Coast Iceland travelers will encounter. It drops 82 meters (269 feet) from a cliff behind a historic farm in a region settled since Iceland’s earliest days.

Its most famous feature appears during strong winds. When the gusts get powerful enough, they push the falling water back, creating the illusion that it’s flowing upward. While the waterfall sits on private land, a convenient pull-off across the road offers a great vantage point. Foss á Síðu is often paired with a visit to the nearby Dverghamrar basalt columns.

Gluggafoss

Also known as Merkjárfoss, this waterfall is a fascinating study in geology. The name translates to “Window Falls,” referring to the openings the water has carved into the soft volcanic tuff rock. Watching the water stream through these natural “windows” before cascading down is a uniquely Icelandic sight. The waterfall flows in multiple tiers, with the upper section showcasing these distinctive formations. On clear days, it also offers a striking backdrop of the Eyjafjallajökull Volcano.

Urriðafoss

While many waterfalls on the South Coast of Iceland are known for their height, Urriðafoss stands out for its sheer volume. Located on the Þjórsá river, it’s often considered the most water-rich waterfall in the country. Rather than a dramatic vertical drop, it spreads across a wide, powerful cascade. The surrounding river is also an important area for salmon fishing, adding to the site’s local significance.

Systrafoss

As you reach the village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur, look up at the cliffs to spot Systrafoss. These “Sister Falls” consist of two parallel streams that spill over the cliff side-by-side from a lake on the plateau above. In winter, the cascades often freeze into delicate ice formations. In spring and early summer, increased meltwater brings them to life as bright white ribbons against the dark rock.

Rauðárfoss

Rauðárfoss isn’t your typical waterfall in Iceland. Its name translates to “Red River Waterfall,” a nod to the iron-rich rocks that give the riverbed a rusty-red hue. It’s an easy five-minute walk from a small parking area near the Systrastapi rock. While smaller in scale than Skógafoss, the contrast between the white water and the reddish-brown stones makes it a standout.

Tips for Exploring the South Coast Waterfalls

Seeing these famous waterfalls is straightforward, but preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth trip.

• Check the Conditions Daily: Before leaving your accommodation, always check SafeTravel.is and Vedur.is. The weather along the waterfalls of South Coast Iceland can change rapidly.
• Seasonality and Vehicle Choice: Most South Coast waterfalls are accessible via the paved Ring Road in a standard sedan. However, if you plan to explore more remote areas, a 4x4 vehicle is required for navigating F-roads and river crossings.
• Timing Your Visit: Avoid peak crowds on South Coast tours by visiting major landmarks before 9 a.m. or after 6 p.m. Compared to the Golden Circle, the South Coast is best explored at a slower pace to avoid rushing between stops.
• Tread Carefully and Stay on Paths: The Icelandic landscape is exceptionally fragile, especially during the spring thaw. Ancient mosses can take decades to recover from a single footstep. Always stay on marked paths, even if they are muddy, to protect the environment and your own safety.
• Gear Up for the Spray: Regardless of the forecast, bring high-quality waterproof layers. The mist from a waterfall in Iceland can soak through standard clothing in minutes, especially at high-volume sites like Skógafoss.
• Respect the Wildlife: Spring is a critical nesting time for Iceland’s birdlife, such as the golden plover. Give wildlife plenty of space and follow the "Leave No Trace" philosophy to protect the beauty of the coast.

FAQs

What are the best waterfalls on the South Coast of Iceland?

Some of the most popular waterfalls include Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Svartifoss. However, quieter spots like Gljúfrabúi and Kvernufoss are excellent choices if you want to avoid crowds.

What is the most beautiful waterfall in Iceland?

This is subjective, but Skógafoss is often cited for its symmetry and frequent rainbows. Svartifoss is another favorite, known for its striking basalt columns.

What is the famous waterfall in southern Iceland?

Seljalandsfoss is one of the most iconic waterfalls in the region. It is known worldwide for the path that allows visitors to walk entirely behind the cascading water.

What makes the Skógafoss waterfall so special?

It is one of the largest and most powerful waterfalls that South Coast Iceland offers. The beautiful waterfall features a 60-meter (197-foot) drop and a staircase providing a sweeping view from the top.

Are the waterfalls on the South Coast free to visit?

Most are free to visit. However, sites like Seljalandsfoss and those in the national park charge a small parking fee for maintenance.

How long does it take to see all these South Coast waterfalls in Iceland?

You can see the main highlights in one long day from the Golden Circle or Reykjavík. If you have time, a two-day “slow travel” itinerary is ideal for exploring the waterfalls at a more relaxed pace.