Waterfall Height
20 m (66 ft)
The water drops 20 meters over a basalt column ledge into a shallow pool below.
Svartifoss: The Black Falls in Skaftafell
A waterfall curtained by dark basalt columns that inspired Iceland's most famous church
Location
South Iceland / Skaftafell
Vatnajökull National Park
Svartifoss, meaning "Black Falls," is one of Iceland's most distinctive waterfalls. Located in the Skaftafell area of Vatnajökull National Park, the 20-meter cascade is framed by an amphitheater of dark hexagonal basalt columns that hang like organ pipes. These columns formed as lava cooled slowly and contracted into geometric shapes. Architect Guðjón Samúelsson drew on the formation when designing Hallgrímskirkja, Reykjavík's landmark church, as well as the National Theatre. Reaching the falls requires a 1.5 km uphill hike through birch woodland.
Sources and last reviewed
Last reviewed: 2026-03-03
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Trail Distance
1.5 km one way
A moderate uphill hike from the Skaftafell Visitor Centre with 140 m elevation gain.
Distance from Reykjavík
~327 km
About a 4.5-hour drive east along Route 1 to the Skaftafell entrance.
What to Expect
Basalt Column Amphitheater
The waterfall is encircled by overhanging dark basalt columns in hexagonal shapes, arranged like the walls of an amphitheater.
Hallgrímskirkja Connection
The columnar formations directly inspired the facade of Reykjavík's Hallgrímskirkja church, designed by Guðjón Samúelsson in 1937.
Scenic Hiking Trail
The 1.5 km path climbs through birch and rowan woodland, passing two other waterfalls (Hundafoss and Magnúsarfoss) en route.
Fallen Column Debris
At the base of the falls, broken basalt columns litter the pool area; columns still fracture and collapse over time.
Vatnajökull National Park
Svartifoss is part of Europe's largest national park, so the hike combines easily with glacier walks and other Skaftafell trails.
Year-Round Access
In summer, the green birch canopy contrasts with dark basalt; in winter, ice and snow change the scene entirely.
Getting There
Svartifoss is located in the Skaftafell area of Vatnajökull National Park in South Iceland. From Reykjavík, drive approximately 327 km east on Route 1 (Ring Road). Turn off at the signed Skaftafell entrance and park at the Visitor Centre (parking fee applies). The trail to Svartifoss begins behind the Visitor Centre and is well-marked with signs. The path is mostly gravel and steps, with some steep sections. No 4x4 vehicle is needed to reach the trailhead.
Best Time to Visit
Svartifoss is accessible year-round, and each season looks different. Summer (June-August) provides the easiest hiking conditions, longest daylight, and green woodland around the dark columns. Autumn turns the birch foliage gold. Winter (November-February) can partially freeze the waterfall and requires microspikes for the icy trail, but the falls are much quieter then. Spring snowmelt increases water flow for a more powerful cascade. Early morning visits in any season help avoid crowds, as Svartifoss is one of Skaftafell's most popular trails.
Planning help
Svartifoss FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.