13 Beautiful Waterfalls in Iceland Near Reykjavik (Within 2.5 Hours)

Iceland is home to some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the world, many of which are conveniently located near Reykjavik.

Whether you’re exploring the famous Golden Circle or heading along the southern coast, there are plenty of different types of waterfalls to explore.

In this guide, we’ll highlight 13 amazing waterfalls in Iceland near Reykjavik, all within a 2.5-hour drive, making them ideal for day trips or additions to your Iceland itinerary.

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13 Waterfalls in Iceland Near Reykjavik

I have curated this blog post to only list waterfalls within a 2.5 hour drive from Reykjavik, making them perfect for day trips if you’re using the city as your base.

Below, you will find a downloadable Google Maps that you can use for driving directions to get to these waterfalls.

I also recommend downloading the AllTrails app, which provides both driving directions and walking routes from the parking areas to the falls.

The links you will see for each of the waterfalls below will be to the AllTrails app.

1. Bruarfoss

About 1.5 hours from Reykjavik, Bruarfoss is located close to the Golden Circle area, making it a great addition to add to your itinerary if you’re already visiting the Golden Circle.

Bruarfoss is well-known for its beautiful blue water and multi-tiered cascading waterfalls.

It is significantly less crowded than the nearby Golden Circle sights as well, making for a more peaceful experience.

Please note that you will have to drive on an unpaved road with potholes for a short amount of time to reach the parking lot. There is a small fee to park there as well.

The walk to get to Bruarfoss is short and easy. You can check out the route and driving directions here.

The striking bright blue waters of the large Bruarfoss waterfall in Iceland near Reykjavik making it a perfect addition to your Golden Circle itinerary. — **Bruarfoss**

2. Faxafoss (Vatnsleysufoss)

Located about 1.5 hours from Reykjavik, Faxafoss is a great stop to add to your Golden Circle itinerary, especially if you’re also visiting the previously mentioned Bruarfoss.

Faxafoss is also known as Vatnsleysufoss.

It is a picturesque and wide waterfall that tends to be less crowded than the nearby Golden Circle sights, making for a more relaxed visit.

It is easily accessible by car, with parking nearby and only a short walk to reach the falls. You will have to pay to park there.

Here is the route and driving directions.

Also, if you’re visiting the famous Friðheimar tomato restaurant, it is close by it!

3. Gulfoss

Gullfoss is located about 1.5 hours from Reykjavik, along the Golden Circle route. It is a very popular day trip from Reykjavik.

The Golden Circle includes three famous sights in Iceland, featuring Gulfoss, a Geysir, and Þingvellir National Park.

Gullfoss, known as the “Golden Falls,” is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. It is a stunning two-tiered waterfall.

It can be easily reached by car, with a large parking area nearby. There is a well-maintained path you will walk to reach the falls.

Here are the driving directions and the walking route. It is free to park there!

The large and wide Gulfoss waterfall surrounded by the mossy covered cliffs making it one of the highlights of the Golden Circle in Iceland. — **Gulfoss**

➡️ Check out my detailed 4-Day Iceland Itinerary if you’re looking for some of the best things to do in Iceland!

4. Seljalandsfoss & Gljúfrabúi

Seljalandsfoss is located about 1.5 hours from Reykjavik along the southern coast.

It is one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls! What sets it apart is the path that allows you to walk behind the waterfall, providing a super cool experience.

It is easily accessible from the main road, with plenty of parking available, but it does get very crowded. A short walk along a well-maintained path will lead you to the falls.

Gljúfrabúi is located just a short walk from Seljalandsfoss, making it easy to visit both waterfalls in one trip!

Gljúfrabúi is a hidden waterfall, partially obscured by a cliff. After visiting Seljalandsfoss, you will continue along the path until you reach the narrow canyon that encloses Gljúfrabúi inside of it.

Its secluded setting makes it super unique! When we visited during the middle of the day in July, it was very busy.

So, we did have to wait about 10 to 15 minutes to walk inside the canyon to view Gljúfrabúi since not many people can stand in there at once.

Here is the route to follow to reach both Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi. You do have to pay to park there.

The super tall Seljalandsfoss which is one of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland near Reykjavik due to its walking path behind it. — **Seljalandsfoss**

The partially obscured Gljúfrabúi waterfall near Seljalandsfoss on the southern coast of Iceland. — **Gljúfrabúi**

5. Gluggafoss

Gluggafoss is about 2.5 hours from Reykjavik and not far from the South Coast, making it a great addition if you’re already visiting Seljalandsfoss & Gljúfrabúi.

Gluggafoss is a beautiful waterfall that flows through rocky cliffs, creating a series of tiers.

What makes it unique are the “windows” in the cliffs, allowing you to see the water flow.

You can reach the waterfall via a short hike from the nearby parking area.

It is quite steep uphill but nothing unmanageable. Be sure to continue on the hike to access another waterfall that is not visible from the road.

Here are the driving directions and walking route. Parking is free.

6. Glymur

Glymur is located about 1.5 hours from Reykjavik, making it a great destination for a day hike near Reykjavik.

Glymur is Iceland’s second-highest waterfall, and the hike to it has stunning scenery along the way. The trail is moderately challenging, and it is a 4-mile loop.

I would plan for it to take around 3 hours. The hike involves some elevation gain and a few stream crossings, so be sure to pack some water shoes and a towel to wipe off your feet.

Be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks with you, and I would recommend wearing hiking boots due to the terrain.

Here is the hiking route to follow. The parking is free.

➡️ Be sure to check out my summer packing list for Iceland to see everything I brought with me on my trip in July 2024!

7. Skógafoss

Skógafoss is located about 2 hours from Reykjavik along the south coast.

Skógafoss is one of Iceland’s largest and most iconic waterfalls.

It is known for its impressive power and the mist it generates, so be sure to wear your rain jacket if you’re wanting to get up close – which you should!

It is easily reached from the main road, with a large parking lot next to it. You can walk to the base of the falls shortly from the parking lot.

There is also a set of stairs off to the right, with over 400 steps, that brings you to an observation platform at the top, offering breathtaking views. I recommend climbing the stairs, it is worth the effort!

There is a new parking lot being constructed for Skógafoss which is slightly further away and it will have a fee.

The tall and powerful misty waterfall in Iceland called Skogafoss surrounded by mossy covered cliffs and dark black sand. — **Skógafoss**

The set of steps to the right of Skogafoss that lead to an observation platform above the waterfall. — **Stairs to Top of Skógafoss**

➡️ If you have a long flight to Iceland coming up, check out some of the best things to do on long flights to help pass the time!

8. Kvernufoss

Kvernufoss is located near the famous Skógafoss waterfall, making it a must stop while visiting Skógafoss.

With its stunning moss-covered cliffs and the opportunity to walk behind the waterfall, it became my favorite waterfall in Iceland that I visited. Plus, it’s far less crowded than Skógafoss.

The hike to Kvernufoss is easy and takes about 20-30 minutes from the parking lot.

Here are the driving directions and the walking route. You do have to pay to park there.

After visiting Skógafoss and Kvernufoss, be sure to stop by Mia’s Country Van for amazing local fish and chips!

The beautiful landscape surrounding Kvernufoss waterfall in Iceland with moss covered cliffs and a stream of water. — **Kvernufoss**

The beautifully tall Kvernufoss waterfall near Skogafoss in Iceland with its moss covered background.

The view of Kvernufoss from the walking path that runs behind the waterfall offering a unique perspective.

➡️ Kvernufoss is located near the town of Vik which I recommend staying there for a couple nights on your Ring Road journey. Check out my blog post on the best things to do in Vik!

9. Hraunfossar & Barnafoss

Hraunfossar is located about 1.5 hours from Reykjavik in west Iceland.

Hraunfossar is a unique series of waterfalls that flow out of a lava field.

The waterfall spans 3,000 feet and creates a stunning view with the contrasting blue water and dark basalt rock.

The waterfalls are easily reached by a walking path that runs alongside the falls

Be sure to add the nearby Barnafoss to your list as it is just a short walk away from Hraunfossar.

Barnafoss is known for its bright blue water that flows through a narrow canyon.

Here is the walking route to visit both Hraunfossar and Barnafoss. Parking is free.

10. Öxarárfoss

Öxarárfoss is located in Þingvellir National Park, which is about 45 minutes from Reykjavik, and is part of the Golden Circle.

Öxarárfoss is a picturesque waterfall that flows over a rocky ledge into the river.

It’s located at the point where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, known as the Silfra Fissure.

The waterfall is easily accessible via hiking trails within Þingvellir National Park. Here is one of the hiking trails I recommend. It does cost to park there.

11. Kirkjufellsfoss

Kirkjufellsfoss is located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, about 2.5 hours from Reykjavik.

It is a stunning waterfall that is in front of the iconic Kirkjufell mountain, which is one of the most photographed mountains in Iceland.

The waterfall is easily reached from the main road, with a parking area nearby.

Here are the driving directions and short walking route from the parking lot. You do have to pay to park there.

➡️ Be sure to check out these carry-on packing tips to help you save space in your luggage for your upcoming trip to Iceland!

12. Bjarnarfoss

Bjarnarfoss waterfall is located near the iconic Búðakirkja black church on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, approximately 2 hours from Reykjavik.

While not as famous as some of Iceland’s other waterfalls, Bjarnarfoss waterfall is a charming spot!

The waterfall is easily accessible from the parking area near Búðakirkja. A short walk will bring you to the falls, allowing you to enjoy both the waterfall and the church in one visit.

Consider pairing your trip with a visit to the nearby beach at Djúpalónssandur for stunning views.

Here are the driving directions and walking route to reach the falls. Parking is free.

13. Þjófafoss

Þjófafoss is located near Þingvellir National Park, about 45 minutes from Reykjavik.

Þjófafoss is a beautiful waterfall that cascades over a rocky ledge into the river.

The waterfall is less visited than some of the more well-known waterfalls in Iceland, making it a great choice if you’re wanting to escape the crowds.

It can be reached via a short walk from the nearby road, making it easy to include in a trip to Þingvellir National Park in the Golden Circle area. Parking is free.

Conclusion

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful, less crowded experience or want to witness the most famous waterfalls in Iceland, each of these showcase the stunning beauty and diversity of Iceland’s landscape.

Make sure to include a few or all of these epic waterfalls in Iceland near Reykjavik on your itinerary!

I have plenty of other blog posts about my trip to Iceland if you’re looking for more resources to help plan your trip!