Top 7 waterfalls in Iceland You Can Visit by Car

Iceland is home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world, and no self-drive road trip is complete without stopping at a few of them. The good news is that many of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls are easy to reach by car, often just minutes from the Ring Road or main sightseeing routes.

Whether you are traveling Iceland on a budget, planning a short stopover, or doing a full road trip, these are our picks for the top seven waterfalls in Iceland and exactly how to visit them by rental car.

1. Skógafoss

Skógafoss is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls and sits beside Route 1 on the South Coast. With a width of 25 meters and a drop of 60 meters, it is powerful, loud, and impossible to miss. On sunny days, you will often see a single or double rainbow stretching across the spray.

There is a large parking area just off the Ring Road, making Skógafoss one of the easiest waterfall to visit in Iceland. Walk right up to the base, then climb the staircase beside the falls for panoramic views over the South Coast and surrounding countryside.

Best for: Easy access, photography, South Coast road trips.

2. Seljalandsfoss

Another famous South Coast waterfall, Seljalandsfoss is also visible from the Ring Road and just a short drive from Skógafoss. What makes it special is the footpath that allows you to walk behind the waterfall, offering a completely different perspective.

Park at the designated car park and follow the short trail. Expect mist and slippery ground, especially in winter. Before leaving, walk a few minutes further to Gljúfrabúi, a hidden waterfall tucked inside a narrow rock gorge.

Best for: Unique experience, short walks, combining multiple waterfalls in one stop.

3. Gullfoss

Gullfoss is one of the highlights of the Golden Circle route, making it perfect for travelers with limited time in Iceland. From Reykjavík, the drive takes around two hours, depending on road conditions.

The waterfall forms where the Hvítá River plunges into a deep canyon in two dramatic stages. Viewing platforms on both upper and lower allow you to feel the power of the water up close. Gullfoss is accessible year-round and well maintained, even in winter.

Best for: Golden Circle itinerary, first-time visitors, powerful scenery.

4. Dettifoss

Located in North Iceland, Dettifoss is Europe’s most powerful waterfall. Fed by glacial meltwater from Vatnajökull, the sheer force and volume of water are unforgettable.

You can reach Dettifoss from either side:

• Road 862 (west side): Paved and easier access
• Road 864 (east side): Rougher but offers wide panoramic views

Both sides have parking areas and walking paths. If road conditions allow, driving to both sides gives you two very different experiences.

Best for: Northern Iceland road trips, dramatic landscapes.  

5. Goðafoss 

Goðafoss sits right next to the Ring Road in North Iceland, close to Lake Mývatn. Its name means “Waterfall of the Gods” and its curved shape makes it one of the most visually pleasing waterfall in the country.

Walking paths lead along the river canyon, offering several viewpoints. In summer, Goðafoss glows blue under clear skies. In winter, frozen edges and icicles create an entirely different atmosphere.

Best for: Easy stops, year-round visits, North Iceland itineraries.

6. Kirkjufellsfoss

Kirkjufellsfoss may be smaller than other waterfalls on this list, but its setting makes it one of the most photographed spots in Iceland. The waterfall sits in front of Kirkjufell mountain, located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Drive north from Reykjavík and follow Road 54 around the peninsula. The waterfall is just a short walk from the parking area, In winter, this is a popular Northern Lights photography locations.

Best for: Photography, Snæfellsnes Peninsula road trips.

7. Svartifoss

Svartifoss, or Black Falls” is located in Skaftafell Nature Reserve within Vatnajökull National Park. It requires more walking than the other waterfalls on the list, but the reward is unique basalt columns framing the waterfall.

Park at the Skaftafell visitor center and follow the marked hiking trail uphill. The walk takes around 45 minutes each way. The contrast between dark basalt and white water makes Svartifoss one of Iceland’s most distinctive waterfall.

Best for: Short hikes, unique geology, South Coast exploration. 

Waterfall Road Trip in Iceland – FAQs

• Are Iceland’s waterfalls easy to visit by car?

  Yes. Many of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls are located directly next to the Ring Road or main sightseeing routes like the Golden Circle and Snæfellsnes Peninsula. A standard 2WD car is sufficient for most waterfall stops in summer.

• Do I need a 4×4 to visit waterfalls in Iceland?

  Not usually. Most waterfalls listed above are accessible on paved roads. A 4×4 is only needed if you plan to drive F-roads or visit remote Highland areas, travel in winter when road conditions can be icy or snow-covered.

• Are waterfalls in Iceland free to visit?

  Yes, the waterfalls themselves are free. However, some locations now charge for parking, especially in the South Coast and Golden Circle areas.

• What is the best time of year to see waterfalls in Iceland?

  Waterfalls are impressive year-round. Summer offers easier access and higher water flow from glacial melt, while winter creates frozen scenery and fewer crowds. Always check road and weather conditions before driving.

• Can I visit multiple waterfalls in one day?

  Absolutely. Many waterfalls are close together, especially along the South Coast and Golden Circle. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to stop at several Waterfalls in one day.

Ready for Your Iceland Waterfalls Road Trip?

A self-drive trip is the easiest and most cheap way to explore Iceland’s waterfalls at your own pace with many of the best spots located right by the road, you do not need an expensive tour to see Iceland’s highlights.

Book your cheap car rental with Firefly and start planning your waterfall road trip today, before availability runs out.