Faxi Waterfall Iceland
A charming, wide cascade on the Tungufljót River, Faxi Waterfall is a peaceful Golden Circle stop with a unique salmon ladder and picnic area.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Faxi Waterfall Iceland
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, wide cascade on the Tungufljót River, Faxi Waterfall is a peaceful Golden Circle stop with a unique salmon ladder and picnic area.
"A lovely stop that tour busses pass on by. For those driving through its worth seeing."
🚗 Parking Fee
Expect a small parking fee (around 700 ISK). It's worth it for the well-maintained lot and easy access.
💦 Prepare for Mist
You can get close to the falls, so bring waterproof gear to stay dry from the spray.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Wide Cascade
Main viewing area
A broad, powerful waterfall with a beautiful blue hue, offering a refreshing natural spectacle.
Salmon Ladder
Side of the falls
Observe the impressive fish ladder designed to help salmon navigate the rapids. A unique engineering feat amidst nature.
Picnic Spot & Cafe
Near the parking area
Enjoy a snack or meal with a view at the designated picnic area, with a cafe nearby for convenience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Golden Circle Detour
Embrace the Spray!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fee
Expect a small parking fee (around 700 ISK). It's worth it for the well-maintained lot and easy access.
💦 Prepare for Mist
You can get close to the falls, so bring waterproof gear to stay dry from the spray.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Great spot for photos, especially from the boardwalk and near the salmon ladder.
🚶♀️ Easy Access
A quick and accessible stop, perfect for a short break on your Golden Circle tour.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fee
Expect a small parking fee (around 700 ISK). It's worth it for the well-maintained lot and easy access.
💦 Prepare for Mist
You can get close to the falls, so bring waterproof gear to stay dry from the spray.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Great spot for photos, especially from the boardwalk and near the salmon ladder.
🚶♀️ Easy Access
A quick and accessible stop, perfect for a short break on your Golden Circle tour.
🤫 Hidden Gem
Often missed by tour buses, making it a more peaceful experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Faxi Waterfall for its accessibility, beauty, and status as a less crowded gem on the Golden Circle. It's a perfect quick stop for a refreshing natural experience, with the salmon ladder adding a unique point of interest. Some note the small parking fee and the potential to get wet from the spray.
"Quick stop right on the side of the road in the Golden Circle that leads to a beautiful waterfall. If you keep going past the boardwalk, you can get right up next to the falls by crossing the salmon ladder. Easy and accessible hike that is a little lesser known. You will have to pay for parking, but it is really cheap."
Henry Southworth
"A very large and wide set of falls that is easy to access. The parking costs $ but provides you with a well paved parking lot and easy path down to get up close to this large set of falls. Was a fun and quick visit."
Kev Zhu
"Faxafoss is a beautiful, broad waterfall that’s easy to reach and not too crowded. The water has a really nice blue color, and you can get fairly close for some great photos. There’s a small parking lot with a modest fee, and it’s a quick walk from there to the falls. Definitely a nice, peaceful stop along the Golden Circle."
Paulomi Roy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Faxi Waterfall is located on the Golden Circle route, about an hour's drive from Reykjavik. Take Route 1 East, then turn onto Route 35 towards Geysir. Faxi is well-signposted shortly after the Geysir area.
While not always a primary stop on every organized Golden Circle tour, Faxi Waterfall is conveniently located along the route and is easily accessible for self-drive tours.
Public transport options to Faxi Waterfall are limited. It's best visited with a rental car or as part of an organized tour that includes it.
The best way to explore Faxi Waterfall is by car, allowing you to stop at your own pace. You can walk along the boardwalk and get close to the falls.
Yes, Faxi Waterfall is well-signposted and easy to find off Route 35 as part of the Golden Circle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a small parking fee, typically around 700 ISK, which helps maintain the facilities.
Faxi Waterfall is a natural attraction and is accessible year-round. The parking area may have specific hours, but the falls themselves are always visible.
No, advance booking is not required for Faxi Waterfall. You pay a parking fee upon arrival.
Generally, there are no major restrictions, but always respect the natural environment and any posted signage.
While the falls are visible, visiting at night might be less safe due to limited lighting and potentially icy conditions in winter.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the wide cascade, walk along the boardwalk, and explore the salmon ladder. There's also a picnic area and a cafe nearby.
Most visitors spend about 30-60 minutes at Faxi Waterfall, making it a perfect quick stop.
Yes, Faxi Waterfall is very accessible and safe for children, with a clear path and viewing areas.
Yes, you can get quite close to the falls, and you might get a bit wet from the spray.
Restroom facilities are typically available near the parking area and cafe.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon can offer beautiful light. The mist can create interesting photographic effects. +1
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the breadth of the falls. A polarizing filter can help with reflections and water detail.
Drone usage may be restricted or require permits. Always check local regulations before flying.
Yes, the boardwalk provides excellent viewpoints, and you can get closer by carefully navigating near the salmon ladder.
You can capture wide shots of the cascade, close-ups of the water, and details of the salmon ladder.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers & Golden Circle Explorers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Faxi Waterfall: A Golden Circle Gem
One of the unique features of Faxi Waterfall is the salmon ladder built alongside it. This impressive structure allows salmon to migrate upstream, providing a fascinating glimpse into the local ecosystem. Visitors can observe this natural phenomenon up close, adding an educational element to their visit. The area also features a designated picnic spot and a cafe, making it a convenient place to rest and refuel.
For photographers, Faxi Waterfall offers ample opportunities. The wide cascade is best captured with a wide-angle lens, while the mist can create ethereal effects. The golden hour during sunrise or sunset can cast a magical glow on the water, enhancing its visual appeal. Remember to bring waterproof gear if you plan to get close, as the spray can be quite significant.
Navigating the Golden Circle and Faxi
When planning your visit, consider that there is a small parking fee (around 700 ISK) which contributes to the upkeep of the facilities. This fee ensures a well-maintained parking lot and easy access to the falls. While some tour buses may bypass Faxi, those driving themselves will find it a worthwhile and easily accessible stop.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, venturing closer to the falls is possible, but be prepared to get wet! The mist from the waterfall can be quite substantial. The area is generally safe and accessible for all ages, making it a family-friendly stop.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit