Skogafoss Iceland

Iceland is well known for its feats of geography and volcanic past, which have created otherworldly landscapes and features, much to the delight of visitors from all over the world. Waterfalls are just one of these popular sights, the largest and most picturesque ones drawing hundreds of visitors a day in some cases. And for good reason - waterfalls like Skógafoss are a great place to experience the true power of nature.

Skógafoss is one of the largest waterfalls in the country, stretching 25 meters across (82 feet) with a drop of 60 meters (200 feet). Glacial water flows over the basalt cliffs 12 months of the year in a stunning curtain. The volume at which the water hits the rock below is famous for creating dramatic spray, conjuring rainbows, and often drenching delighted tourists.

Where Is Skógafoss?

Its location close to Reykjavík is another reason that Skógafoss is such a popular waterfall - it is often included within the Golden Circle itinerary along with waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss. If you drive straight from Reykjavík without stopping at any of the other attractions on the route, your journey will take you around 2 hours. The waterfall lies on the Skógá River in southern Iceland and is actually the former sea cliffs of the south of the island before the coastline receded some 5 kilometers. 

How To Get There

Driving a rental car is the best way to get to Skógafoss, especially from the capital city. From Reykjavík, you’ll simply need to take Route 1 out of town until you see signs to Skógafoss, which will be a turn to your left.

You’ll then find the free parking lot, where there are toilets and a small hut offering some refreshments. 

 

Things To Do at Skógafoss Waterfall

Skógafoss is a beautiful place to just sit and marvel at the power of the water dropping some 200 feet onto the basalt below. However, there are some things that visitors often include on their visit here.

• Enjoy Views From Above: Via a staircase to the right of the waterfalls, you can climb on top of the cliffs to enjoy stunning (and slightly daunting!) views over the falls and beyond on a clear day.
• Fimmvorduhals Trailhead: From the top of the staircase over Skógafoss, you can easily embark on the Fimmvorduhals trail, hiking through otherworldly landscapes and spotting further smaller waterfalls, leading to Þorsmork if followed far enough.
• Photography: The spray and the dramatic black basalt make for beautiful views and even prettier photographs. If you are a whizz with a lens, make sure to make the most of your visit to Skógafoss.

Best Time to Visit Skógafoss

Like most of Iceland, you’re guaranteed good weather and clear skies during summer. What’s more, the hike from the top of the falls is also best enjoyed in clear conditions, reducing the risk of slippery surfaces underfoot and ensuring beautiful views over lava fields and rocky plains. 

In terms of the day, it’s also worth considering that the site can get incredibly busy during the day, particularly during peak season. To avoid crowds, we recommend setting off fairly early to reach the falls. Early morning or later in the evening, made easier with the midnight sun during summer months, is your best bet for photographs free of other people.

Legend of Skógafoss 

Another aspect of Skógafoss is its stories. There is an old legend that the first Viking to settle in the area, by the name of Þrasi Þórólfsson, hid his treasure behind the sheet of water here. The legend goes that many years later, villagers were able to grasp the ring on the side of the chest, but the ring broke off before the chest disappeared into the water again. 

So if you’re at Skógafoss and catch a glimpse of something shining behind the falls, it might just be Þórólfsson’s treasure chest! 

Skógafoss in Modern Media

If the pictures of Skógafoss seem familiar to you, don’t be surprised - the waterfall has actually played host to countless celebs on film! Hollywood has loved to utilise Iceland’s ethereal natural landmarks in its films over the past 20 years, including the following:

• Thor: The Dark World (2013)
• The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
• Vikings (2017) - Season 5, Episode 2
• (Music Video) I’ll Show You - Justin Bieber

If you’re excited to create your own movie magic or simply enjoy the power of nature, Skógafoss waterfall is a great place to stop at on your travels. Whether you’re dedicated to seeing as many waterfalls as possible or simply looking for a pitstop on a longer road trip, Skógafoss is a must-see spot in southern Iceland.  

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