Iceland has thousands of waterfalls (up to 10,000 by some estimates) scattered across its breathtaking landscape. Each is shaped by the volcanic and glacial forces that define the rest of the island. Best of all? Many are also strikingly accessible and just a short hike from the main road. In winter, these natural wonders undergo a stunning transformation, revealing a world of contrasts: icy blues, frosty whites, and rugged black lava rock. Some even freeze. This all comes together to make Iceland one of the world’s most picturesque winter destinations for waterfall seekers, landscape photographers, and those who just want to find solace in nature and who don’t mind the cold.
From iconic sites like Gullfoss and Skógafoss to lesser-known falls like Brúarfoss and Dynjandi, each waterfall unveils its own unique character in winter. This visual guide will lead you through Iceland’s most stunning winter waterfalls, showcasing the beauty that lingers long after the summer crowds and the midnight sun have faded.
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Gullfoss is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. In winter, the surrounding landscape is often blanketed in snow, and the powerful falls partially freeze, creating layers of glistening ice.
Height: 105 feet
How to get there: Gullfoss is located along the Golden Circle just 1.5 hours from Reykjavik. The Gullfoss Visitor Center and a dedicated parking area are just a short walk from the falls.
Nearby activities: The nearby Geysir geothermal area and the Thingvellir National Park are must-see stops along the Golden Circle. The Gulfoss Visitor Center hosts the locally run Gullfoss Café, where you can enjoy local food and refreshments. Don’t want to think about planning and transportation? It’s easy to explore the geology of the Golden Circle with a tour.
Famous for the trail that lets you walk behind it, Seljalandsfoss transforms in winter with ice formations around the cave behind the falls. The snow-covered landscape and frozen mist add an otherworldly vibe to the already stunning waterfall.
Height: 200 feet
How to get there: Seljalandfoss is a two hour drive from Reykjavik toward the South Coast. There is a parking lot next to the falls but no visitor center. Note that the walking path behind the falls may be icy in winter.
Nearby activities: Skógafoss, another must-see waterfall, and the black sand beach of Reynisfjara are close by. You can also find the LAVA Centre, a volcano and earthquake exhibition, in the town of Hvolsvöllur. A tour of the South Coast on an Arctic truck makes navigating the season easier.
Known for its wide, powerful cascade, Skógafoss is even more striking in winter when the icy surroundings and frosty river below create a monochromatic spectacle of winter beauty.
Height: 197 feet
How to get there: Located in Iceland’s South Coast, Skógafoss is easily accessible and has a nearby parking lot. A staircase alongside the waterfall offers stunning views from above.
Nearby activities: The Skógasafn Folk Museum in the nearby Skógar village is a great option to immerse yourself in Icelandic history. The village also offers guesthouses and cafes.
Located in Vatnajökull National Park, Svartifoss is framed by distinctive black basalt columns. The contrast between the dark basalt and snowy landscape creates a stark, beautiful scene that can only be appreciated during the winter months.
Height: 65 feet
How to get there: Svartifoss is located in the Skaftafell Nature Reserve within Vatnajökull National Park. Skaftafell is a four hour drive east of Reykjavik, but the impressive amount of sights along the road — including Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss — usually make it longer. Getting to the falls requires a 45-minute hike from the Skaftafell Visitor Center.
Nearby activities: The national park has plenty of trails and highlights including the Svínafellsjjökull Glacier and the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.
Dettifoss is considered one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls. In winter, the falls’ characteristic grayish tint, derived from volcanic sediment, is intensified by the surrounding snowy terrain, making this one of Iceland’s most imposing winter sights. The falls are located in the Vatnajökull National Park.
Height: 144 feet
How to get there: Dettifoss is located north of the Ring Road. Two gravel roads connect the main road to Dettifoss and conditions may vary depending on the weather. There is a parking area, but a short hike to the falls is required.
Known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” Godafoss is one of the most picturesque falls in Iceland, especially when the icy blue waters contrast with snow-laden banks. The falls partially freeze during winter and create a mesmerizing spectacle that’s best appreciated during sunrise or sunset.
Height: 39 feet
How to get there: Located just outside the Diamond Circle in Northern Iceland, Godafoss is just a 45 minute drive from Akureyri. The falls are easily accessible with nearby parking. Both sides of the falls are viewable after a short walk.
Nearby activities: The town of Akureyri, just a 30-minute drive away, has restaurants, hot springs, and museums. The scenic Mývatn region is also nearby, perfect for further exploration.
With Kirkjufell mountain in the background, Kirkjufellsfoss is a favorite for photographers despite being significantly shorter than some of the other highlight waterfalls in Iceland. In winter, the frozen falls and snow-covered landscape with Kirkjufell looming behind make it look like a scene from a fantasy world.
Height: Approximately 16 feet
How to get there: Kirkjufellsfoss is located near the picturesque town of Grundarfjördur on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. There is a dedicated parking area just a short walk from the falls.
Nearby activities: Kirkjufell mountain, a top photo destination, is just steps away. The town of Grundarfjördur offers dining options and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula has plenty of scenic viewpoints and trails.
These neighboring waterfalls have unique appeal in winter. Hraunfossar is a series of small streams cascading over a lava field that create intricate ice formations. The nearby Barnafoss, which means “children’s falls,” flows more violently, adding a dramatic contrast.
Height: Barnafoss drops about 30 feet while Hraunfossar spans about 295 feet across
How to get there: These falls are located in west Iceland, near the settlements of Reykholt and Borgarnes. Parking is available near the falls, with short pathways leading to viewing platforms.
Nearby activities: The nearby Reykholt village is a picturesque small town with historical significance. There’s also Deildartunguhver, the highest flowing hot springs in Europe, and the Krauma geothermal baths.
Located in the Northern Highlands, Aldeyjarfoss combines powerful water flow with striking basalt columns. Snow and ice emphasize the unique rock formations during the winter months, making this a very popular spot for photographers.
Height: 65 feet
How to get there: Aldeyjarfoss is located in the northern Icelandic Highlands, halfway between Akureyri and Lake Myvatn. The rough road leading to the falls requires a 4WD vehicle. Aldeyjarfoss can be approached from two sides. Each side has its own parking lot and requires a short hike.
Nearby activities: Húsavík, the whale-watching capital of Iceland, is a reasonable drive away with several dining and museum options.
Located near the Hekla volcano in the southern Iceland valleys, Háifoss is one of the country’s tallest waterfalls. Winter makes the hike challenging but rewarding, with views of both the falls and its neighbor, Granni, amid a serene, snowy expanse. It feels remote and otherworldly, with ice formations accenting the dramatic drop.
Height: 400 feet
How to get there: Háifoss is located in the Fossárdalur Valley in South Iceland. Reaching Háifoss in winter requires a 4WD vehicle due to gravel road conditions. A short, rugged trail from the parking area leads to a viewpoint.
Nearby activities: The falls are close to the Hekla volcano and its surrounding valley. Limited dining options mean packing a meal might be necessary.
Known as the “Jewel of the Westfjords,” Dynjandi is a stunning multi-tiered waterfall that cascades down like a bridal veil over a 100-meter drop. In winter it looks like a natural ice sculpture. Reaching Dynjandi in winter can be challenging due to its remote location in the Westfjords, but those willing to make the journey will be rewarded with a perfect winter postcard.
Height: 328 feet
How to get there: Dyjandi is located in the Westfjords, one of Iceland’s most remote and stunning locations. The falls are accessible by car with a short hike from the parking lot, though road conditions in winter can be challenging.
Nearby activities: Nearby towns like Ísafjördur offer dining and accommodations. Sites such as the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve and the Látrabjarg Birdwatching Cliffs are great for nature lovers wanting to spot arctic foxes and puffins in their natural habitats.
Known for its vivid blue color, Brúarfoss is a lesser-known waterfall hidden along Iceland’s Golden Circle. In winter, the icy blue water contrasts beautifully with the snow-covered landscape, creating a surreal sight. The smaller size of the falls means it freezes partially, forming delicate ice crystals, and since it’s off the beaten path, you can often enjoy its tranquil beauty without crowds.
Height: Approximately 10 feet
How to get there: Brúarfoss is part of the Golden Circle in South Iceland. There’s accessible parking near the falls with a short, easy path and a bridge that goes directly above the falls.
Nearby activities: The falls are close to the Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss. Dining options are available in nearby Laugarvatn.
Just a short hike from Skógafoss, Kvernufoss is a lesser-known spot where you can experience the thrill of walking behind the waterfall. In winter, Kvernufoss takes on a mystical quality as ice forms around the edges and the landscape becomes blanketed in snow. The waterfall itself remains partially unfrozen, creating beautiful contrasts between the flowing water and icy surroundings.
Height: Approximately 98 feet
How to get there: The falls require a short, half-mile hike each way from the parking area near Skógafoss. The trail isn’t the most marked, but it’s easy to follow. After 20 minutes you’ll reach the Kvernugil Gorge where the waterfall is located.
Nearby activities: Visit Skógafoss for more waterfall views. You can also visit the LAVA Center in the nearby town of Hvolsvöllur.
