Morsárfoss is Iceland's tallest waterfall at 227 meters. It was revealed in 2007 when the retreating Morsárjökull glacier uncovered the cliff face. It can only be viewed from a distance, as the terrain is too dangerous to approach.

How can you see Morsárfoss waterfall?

Morsárfoss is visible from certain viewpoints in the Skaftafell area, including a challenging hike to the Kristínartindar ridge. Binoculars or a telephoto lens are essential for a good view.

How has Morsárjökull's retreat changed the landscape?

The retreat of Morsárjökull exposed Morsárfoss and uncovered terrain that was previously under ice. Few places show as clearly how glacier retreat reshapes Iceland's landscape.

Can you hike to Morsárjökull?

You can hike in the Morsárdalur valley in the Skaftafell area, which brings you into the glacial landscape. However, walking on the glacier itself requires a guide and equipment. The Morsárfoss viewpoint involves a strenuous ridge hike.

Where is Morsárjökull?

Morsárjökull is in the Skaftafell area of Vatnajökull National Park, flowing into the Morsárdalur valley. It is accessed from the Skaftafell visitor center via hiking trails.

Morsárjökull, Source of Morsárfoss

A Vatnajökull outlet glacier in the Skaftafell area whose retreat revealed Morsárfoss, Iceland's tallest waterfall at 227 meters, first documented in 2007.

Last reviewed March 3, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel TeamEditorial policy

Region

Southeast Iceland

In Skaftafell. Viewable from Kristínartindar ridge.

Morsárjökull holds an odd record. As the glacier retreated, it exposed a 227-meter cliff face that became Morsárfoss, Iceland's tallest waterfall, first documented in 2007. The retreat continues to reshape the Morsárdalur valley in Skaftafell, and new landscape features keep emerging from beneath the ice.

Sources and last reviewed

Last reviewed: 2026-03-03

The terrain around Morsárjökull is unstable and dangerous. Do not approach the glacier face. The Kristínartindar ridge hike for waterfall views is strenuous and requires good fitness and weather.

Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.

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Best for

Iceland's tallest waterfall

Morsárfoss (227m) revealed by glacial retreat.

Access

Skaftafell hiking trails

Ridge hike needed for best views of the waterfall.

Pro tip

Bring binoculars

The waterfall is best viewed from a distance.

What to Expect

Distant views of Morsárfoss, Iceland's tallest waterfall (227m)
A retreating glacier exposing new landscape features
Strenuous hiking for the best viewpoints on Kristínartindar ridge
The Morsárdalur valley leading toward the glacier
Newly exposed rock and terrain emerging from beneath the ice
A clear example of climate-driven glacial change

Nearby Attractions

Svartifoss basalt waterfall in Skaftafell (easy hike)
Skaftafellsjökull and Svínafellsjökull glacier hiking
Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and Diamond Beach (45 min east)
Falljökull glacier for guided ice walks from Skaftafell
Skaftafell visitor center with exhibits and ranger programs
Ingólfshöfði headland with puffin colony tours in summer

How to Get There

Start from Skaftafell visitor center in Vatnajökull NP
About 330 km from Reykjavik via Route 1
Morsárdalur valley hike: 6–8 hours round trip
Kristínartindar ridge for waterfall views: full day hike
Good hiking gear and fitness required

Best Time to Visit

June–September for the ridge hike to see Morsárfoss
Summer for longest daylight on long hikes
Clear weather essential for views from Kristínartindar
Snow may block high trails into early summer
Start early for full-day hikes

Planning help

Morsarjokull (Morsárjökull) Glacier FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

All glaciers