Skógafoss

Famous waterfall falling over the edge of a cliff

Skógafoss is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland. And it is located along the Golden Circle, so you can visit it easily. This waterfall is fed by the Skógá River. The water drops over the edge of a cliff. It is a waterfall with a special past. In this article you'll find the best tips for your visit of Skógafoss.

Only a few know that this was once Iceland’s coastline. After a number of volcanic eruptions, the island had grown. Scientists discovered this relatively recently. So back then, this waterfall fell into the ocean, although there is a good chance that there was not even a waterfall. This is because the landscape of Iceland has changed a lot over the millions of years.

Watch My Video

Skógafoss has a width of 25 meters and is 60 meters high. This makes it one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland, but also one of the most beautiful. It falls beautifully over the rocky edge.

Second Waterfall: Hestavaðsfoss

The 'hidden' waterfall Hestavaðsfoss. ©Corno van den Berg

Not everyone knows that there is still a waterfall to visit. This is called Hestavadsfoss and is located behind the Skógafoss waterfall. You can visit it by taking the hiking trail to the right of Skógafoss. First you will see Skógafoss from above. But about 150 meters away is the beautiful Hestavaðsfoss. It is the start of a famous trail as well.

Fimmvörðuháls Trail

Skogafoss is the start (or end) of the famous Fimmvörðuháls Trail. This ends after 25 kilometers in the green valley of Thorsmork. I suggest you hike a small part, in the vicinity are several nice waterfalls. If you follow the path you will see waterfalls with other beautiful names such as Fosstorfufoss, Steinbogafoss, Femri-Fellsfoss, Innri-Fellsfoss, Rollutorfufoss and Skalabrekkufoss. The latter is a 30-minute walk from Skógafoss, so getting there and back is easy in an hour.

Northern Lights at Skógafoss

Northern Lights at Skogafoss.

In the winter months, Skógafoss is popular for seeing the Northern Lights. The waterfall is easy to reach and is less affected by clouds than many other places. So you can regularly see the natural phenomenon here. Make sure you have a tripod so you can shoot 15 to 20 seconds.

Waterfall and water spray

In addition to a large amount of water that flows down, this waterfall also has a continuous water mist. As a result, you regularly see one or more rainbows. You will find several hiking trails around the waterfall. Including to the top of the waterfall.

In the summer the waterfall is less strong. You can then walk behind the water. Which gives beautiful photos, especially on the longer days. The sun is low on the horizon and the light is remarkably soft. It is also a wonderful place to relax and have a picnic, for example.

How do I get to Skógafoss?

You will find Skógafoss in the south of Iceland not far from the town of Skógar. And so it is located on the popular Golden Circle. There is a large car park, although it can get busy here. 

Try to avoid weekends, especially in summer. This is the high season and it is best to go very early in the morning. Or even at night, when it only gets dark for a few hours. Or not at all during the midsummer night.

Book a tour online

My Tips

Show all Bucket List Tips on Iceland

Read My Tips

all 27 articles on Iceland

Show all articles