Best for
Rainbows + heavy spray
Wind decides how wet you get, so keep a shell handy.
Skogafoss Waterfall
A 60-meter waterfall on the South Coast, known for frequent rainbows in the spray and a 527-step staircase to an upper viewpoint.
Region
South Iceland
Easy access from the Ring Road. Expect crowds midday in summer.
A classic rectangular waterfall, 60 meters high and 25 meters wide. It throws up a large amount of spray, which often produces double rainbows when the sun hits it. It is the beginning (or end) of the Fimmvörðuháls trail.
Sources and last reviewed
Last reviewed: 2026-03-03
This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Waterfall viewpoints can be slippery and wind can be intense; check official forecasts and road status before you drive, and follow on-site closures.
Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.
Official sources to check
Access
Very easy
Short walk from parking; stairs to the top viewpoint.
Pro tip
Go early
Sunrise and late evening are the quietest times to visit.
What to Expect at Skogafoss
- A huge curtain of water with constant mist
- Stairs to the top viewpoint (weather-dependent)
- Strong winds; spray can soak cameras and glasses
Nearby Attractions to Skogafoss
- Kvernufoss (short hike, quieter)
- Seljalandsfoss (walk-behind, conditions permitting)
- Vík + Reynisfjara (black sand beach)
How to Get to Skogafoss
- Located on Route 1 (Ring Road), about 150 km east of Reykjavik
- Drive time from Reykjavik is approximately 2 hours
- Large free parking lot directly at the waterfall base
- The viewpoint is just 2-3 minutes walk from parking
- 527 steps lead to the upper viewpoint and Fimmvörðuháls trail
Best Time to Visit Skogafoss
- Summer (June-August): Best for rainbows and midnight sun photography
- Early morning or evening visits avoid peak tour bus crowds
- Late morning sun gives the best chance of rainbows
- Winter visits bring ice formations but slippery paths
- Check weather forecasts; wind strongly affects the spray
Planning help
Skogafoss FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.