How tall is Onno-Óltifoss?

Onno-Óltifoss is approximately 12 meters (39 feet) tall. It is a small but photogenic waterfall in the Skaftá river area of South Iceland, with basalt formations around the falls.

Where does the name Onno-Óltifoss come from?

The waterfall is named after the farmer Ólti who lived nearby. Like many Icelandic place names, it records a person who once lived in the area.

How do I get to Onno-Óltifoss?

Onno-Óltifoss is located in the Skaftárhreppur municipality in South Iceland. It is off the beaten path, so check road conditions before visiting. A regular car may suffice in summer, but road conditions vary.

Is Onno-Óltifoss safe to visit?

The waterfall is in a remote location. Always check road conditions before visiting, let someone know your plans, and carry basic supplies. The area around the falls can be slippery, so wear sturdy footwear.

When is the best time to visit Onno-Óltifoss?

The best time to visit is from June to September when roads are most accessible and daylight hours are longest. The waterfall is most photogenic in soft morning or evening light, when the basalt formations cast shadows.

Onno-Óltifoss Waterfall

A lesser-known 12-meter waterfall in the Skaftá river area of South Iceland, with basalt formations and few visitors.

Last reviewed March 3, 2026By the Iceland.org travel deskEditorial policy

Region

South Iceland

Remote location. Check road conditions before visiting.

A lesser-known waterfall in the Skaftá river area. Named after the farmer Ólti who lived nearby. Small but photogenic, with basalt formations that frame the falling water. It lies away from the popular routes in the Skaftárhreppur municipality and sees few visitors.

Sources and last reviewed

Last reviewed: 2026-03-03

Remote location. Check road conditions before visiting. This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance; always let someone know your plans when visiting remote areas.

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

Official sources to check

Best for

Off-the-beaten-path basalt

Basalt formations frame the 12m cascade.

Access

Remote

Check road conditions. Located in Skaftárhreppur municipality.

Pro tip

Golden hour

Soft morning or evening light shows the basalt best.

What to Expect at Onno-Óltifoss

A compact 12-meter waterfall with basalt formations
Quiet setting far from the main tourist routes
Remote landscape typical of the Skaftá river area

Nearby Attractions to Onno-Óltifoss

Kirkjubæjarklaustur (nearest town with services)
Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon (moss-covered gorge)
Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park

How to Get to Onno-Óltifoss

Located in the Skaftárhreppur municipality in South Iceland
Off the main Ring Road; check local road conditions
A regular car may work in summer, but conditions vary
Let someone know your plans before visiting remote areas
Carry basic supplies and a charged phone

Best Time to Visit Onno-Óltifoss

June to September: Best road conditions and longest daylight
Morning or evening light is best for photos of the basalt
Summer has the driest conditions for the remote access roads
Avoid winter; roads may be impassable
Check road.is for current conditions before departure

Planning help

Onno-Óltifoss FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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