Svartifoss Waterfall in Iceland

Svartifoss Waterfall in Iceland: Height, Flow, Location and Tours

Svartifoss is one of the top waterfalls in Iceland to visit. Some people refer to the Svartifoss Waterfall in Iceland as the “Black Falls” due to the columns of black basalt that contrasts perfectly with the white waterfall. These columns slightly resemble the pipes of a gigantic organ. This makes the Svartifoss Waterfall in Iceland the majestic wonder it is today!

These falls are in the southern part of Iceland and form part of several waterfalls that can be viewed in the Skaftafell/Vatnajökull National Park. Only a short walk into this national park will give you the opportunity to view the breathtaking Black Falls. 

The icy meltwater from the Svinafellsjokull glacier feeds the Svartifoss waterfall. These falls tumble from a height of 20 meters (or 66ft). 

What are the Tourist Activities for Svartifoss Waterfall?

The tourist activities for the Svartifoss Waterfall in Iceland include the following:

  • Hiking
  • Viewing the Svartifoss Waterfall
  • Photography

For hikers, nature lovers and people who enjoy photography, Skaftafell and the Svartifoss falls are an oasis of beauty. For many visitors of Skaftafell this waterfall is the highlight of their trip. 

What are the Hotels for Svartifoss Waterfall? 

You can enjoy your stay at one of the ideally located hotels for Svartifoss Waterfall. Hotels in Iceland that are close to the Svartifoss Waterfall are the Adventure Hotel Hof, Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon and Hotel Skaftafell. From here, you can visit the nearby attractions and popular waterfalls.

How to Get to Svartifoss Waterfall

To get to Svartifoss Waterfall, you’ll need to hike from the Visitor’s Center in Skaftafell. The hike will take you just a little longer than 30 minutes. Although it’s a fairly easy hike, it requires that you have at least a reasonable fitness level and a decent pair of hiking boots. 

What are the Facts about Svartifoss Waterfall?

Svartifoss Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall that has a 20 meter (or 66ft) high drop. It is located in south-east Iceland, and it has an interesting name by which it is also called. This name is the “Black Falls” because of the remains of columns of black rock that have broken off over many years.

These falls are great for visiting as there is no fee included. Just a little hiking effort, which is worth it!

What are the Trails in Svartifoss Waterfall?

The trails in Svartifoss hike time are magnificent. People who visit the area are encouraged to spend their time following the interesting paths. 

You can travel to Skaftafell directly from Reykjavík, going east and keeping to Route 1. Most say that it would take around 4 hours to complete this path, but be prepared as it might take a little longer. This is because there’s a lot of beauty to take in and there are awesome sites to visit.

These sites include the waterfalls popularly known as Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, the glaciers Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull, as well as the cliffs of Reynisdrangar and Dyrhólaey. 

You could also follow these hiking trails: 

  • Svartifoss hiking trail
  • Sjónarsker trail
  • Sel Loop hiking trail

Is Camping Available in Svartifoss Waterfall?

Yes, there is camping available in Svartifoss. If you want to camp in Skaftafell National Park, there is a moderate fee, and it would be worth the buck. 

Is there a National Park for Svartifoss Waterfall?

Yes, the national park of which the Svartifoss Waterfall forms part of is known as Skaftafell Nature Reserve. This national park used to stand on its own, but is now enveloped into the Vatnajökull National Park, which is one of the most popular national parks in Iceland.

Which Canyons are Connected to the Svartifoss Waterfall?

The Svartifoss Waterfall is connected to one of the canyons of Iceland, which is famously known as the Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon. Along the right side of this marvelous canyon, there’s a trail that leads to a viewing platform from where you can view the scenery. 

Which Rivers are connected to the Svartifoss Waterfall?

The river connected to the Svartifoss Waterfall in Iceland is the Stórilækur River. This river feeds the falls and after the water comes down the waterfall, it finds its end at the Skaftafellsa river, which is another one of the lovely rivers of Iceland.

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Staff Writer