Iceland Waterfalls Road Trip: Complete Itinerary from Seljalandsfoss to Dettifoss
Waterfall cascading over a cliff in the Icelandic landscape
Plan the ultimate waterfall road trip across Iceland, from the South Coast's iconic cascades to the thundering power of the North, with practical stops and accommodation tips along the route.
South Coast Waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss
Your waterfall journey begins along Route 1 on Iceland's South Coast, where Seljalandsfoss offers one of the country's most unique experiences. This 60-metre cascade lets you walk completely behind the falling water via a footpath that loops around the back—bring waterproof clothing, as the spray is constant. The waterfall sits just off the Ring Road, roughly 120 kilometres from Reykjavík, making it an easy first stop. Nearby, the hidden Gljúfrabúi waterfall waits inside a narrow canyon, accessible by wading through a shallow stream.
Continue 30 kilometres east to Skógafoss, where 25 metres of width and a 60-metre drop create one of Iceland's most photographed waterfalls. A staircase with over 400 steps climbs to a viewing platform above the falls, offering perspective on the coastal plain stretching toward the Atlantic. The town of Skógar provides accommodation options and serves as a practical base for exploring the Fimmvörðuháls hiking trail. Both waterfalls are accessible year-round, though winter ice can make pathways slippery.
