Skógafoss
A breathtaking 60m cascade on Iceland's South Coast, famous for its rainbows and the scenic trail above.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Skógafoss
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking 60m cascade on Iceland's South Coast, famous for its rainbows and the scenic trail above.
"Witness the immense 60-meter cascade plunging over a dramatic cliff face, often adorned with a vibrant rainbow."
🎯 Park Smarter, See More
Use the larger, unmarked parking lot past the hotel for closer access and better views. Pay via machine or Parka app.
👟 Waterproof Gear is Key
Expect to get wet! Waterproof shoes and clothing are essential for enjoying the mist and slippery trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic Main Waterfall
Base of the falls
Witness the immense 60-meter cascade plunging over a dramatic cliff face. A truly awe-inspiring sight.
Rainbow Magic
In front of the falls
On sunny days, the mist often creates vibrant rainbows, adding an ethereal glow to the scene.
The Skógafoss Trail
Top of the stairs
Hike upstream from the top for more stunning waterfalls and breathtaking highland scenery.
Kvernufoss Waterfall
Short walk from Skógafoss
A less-visited gem where you can walk behind the cascade for a unique perspective.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for the Best Views
Prepare for the Spray and Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Park Smarter, See More
Use the larger, unmarked parking lot past the hotel for closer access and better views. Pay via machine or Parka app.
👟 Waterproof Gear is Key
Expect to get wet! Waterproof shoes and clothing are essential for enjoying the mist and slippery trails.
🚶♀️ Hike Beyond the Main View
Don't stop at the main platform. The trail above offers more waterfalls and stunning scenery.
🤫 Discover Kvernufoss
Just a short walk away, this hidden waterfall lets you walk behind the cascade.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Park Smarter, See More
Use the larger, unmarked parking lot past the hotel for closer access and better views. Pay via machine or Parka app.
👟 Waterproof Gear is Key
Expect to get wet! Waterproof shoes and clothing are essential for enjoying the mist and slippery trails.
🚶♀️ Hike Beyond the Main View
Don't stop at the main platform. The trail above offers more waterfalls and stunning scenery.
🤫 Discover Kvernufoss
Just a short walk away, this hidden waterfall lets you walk behind the cascade.
🏕️ Camp with a View
The campground parking lot offers incredible views of Skógafoss right from your van.
☀️ Midnight Sun Magic
Experience the falls in solitude during the midnight sun for a truly unique visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Skógafoss is overwhelmingly praised for its immense beauty and power, with many visitors captivated by the frequent rainbows. The accessibility and the option to hike further up the river for more waterfalls are highly appreciated. However, the significant crowds can detract from the experience for some, and the mist requires proper preparation.
"July 2025: Beautiful and also massive. Wear waterproof shoes to cross the stream to get better photos on the other side and not have a lot of others in your photos. Quite an incline up the somewhat rickety stairs. Some areas have railing, other spots only have it on one side. It’s worth the hike up."
Mel P
"Powerful beast of a waterfall which attracts many tourists. For a breath-raking hike pack enough rations, climb up the stairs and venture beyond the viewing platform where a breath taking hike awaits with many more waterfalls and magnificent scenery."
Daniel D. Reimer
"The fall is very easy to access with plenty of parking (see tip below). On a sunny day, you will likely see rainbow in front of the fall as well. There is a long stairs you can take to the top of the fall. View from the top is not perfect, as you can't really see the scale of the fall vs viewing it from below. But if you keep walking further, there are other water falls, large and small, along the way to reward you. If you are going to walk further, make sure you bring water and sun block. As in most part of Iceland, there is no tree to provide any shade at all.
TIP: The parking area is rather large. In stead of parking where there are marked spaces, turn right upon entering towards Hotel
Skógafoss. Once you drive past the hotel, there is a much larger parking lot with unmarked spaces which are much closer to the fall and the restrooms. You still have to pay 1,000 KR for parking using the machine or the Parka app but the view is well worth it."
Teddy Chu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Skógafoss is located on Iceland's South Coast, about a 2.5-hour drive from Reykjavik. You can rent a car and drive along Route 1 (the Ring Road). Public transport options are limited, so a car is highly recommended for flexibility.
Yes, there is a large parking lot. For better views and closer access, head past the Hotel Skógafoss to a larger, unmarked lot. Parking fees apply.
While possible, it's a long day. Many travelers opt to stay overnight near Skógafoss to fully experience it and explore the surrounding area.
Public transport to Skógafoss is infrequent and can be time-consuming. Renting a car or joining a guided tour is generally more practical.
Renting a car offers the most freedom to explore at your own pace. Guided tours are also a convenient option if you prefer not to drive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Skógafoss itself is free to visit. There is a parking fee, which helps maintain the facilities.
Skógafoss is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, the visitor facilities and the trail to the top may have seasonal hours.
The parking fee is typically around 1,000 ISK (Icelandic Króna). You can pay at a machine or via the Parka app.
The trail that starts at the top of Skógafoss is free to access.
While you can get very close to the base and feel the spray, walking directly behind the main cascade is not recommended due to the intense mist and slippery conditions. Kvernufoss, a nearby waterfall, offers a safer experience for walking behind.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the main waterfall, hike up the stairs for a view from the top, and explore the scenic trail that follows the river upstream, discovering more waterfalls.
The hike involves climbing a long set of stairs. It can be steep and tiring, but the views from the top are rewarding. Some sections have railings, but others only on one side.
Wear waterproof and windproof clothing, sturdy waterproof hiking boots, and bring a camera with protection from the mist.
You can get very close to the base, but walking directly behind the main waterfall is not advised due to the powerful spray and slippery conditions. Kvernufoss, a short walk away, offers a safe opportunity to walk behind a waterfall.
Yes, restrooms are available near the parking area.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late evening offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the waterfall's grandeur. Sunny days can create beautiful rainbows.
Experiment with different angles, including from the top of the stairs or by venturing further along the Skógafoss trail. Consider visiting Kvernufoss for a different perspective.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale. A tripod can help with long exposures, and a rain cover for your camera is essential due to the mist.
Visit during off-peak hours (early morning/late evening) or explore the trail beyond the main viewing area where crowds thin out significantly.
The view from the top is impressive, but it's hard to capture the full scale of the waterfall. The real photographic gems are found further along the trail.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with older children, the hike up the stairs to the top of the falls provides an adventurous element. The trail beyond the main viewpoint offers more exploration opportunities, but ensure children are supervised closely due to the terrain. Waterproof gear is a must for everyone, as the mist can be quite intense. Consider visiting Kvernufoss for a gentler, more contained experience where kids might enjoy the novelty of being near a waterfall.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, consider packing your own snacks and drinks, as on-site options can be pricey. Renting a car and self-driving allows for flexibility without the cost of guided tours. Camping near Skógafoss is also an option, offering stunning views and a budget-friendly accommodation choice.
📸 Photographers
+1For unique shots, explore the trail above the falls for different perspectives and to capture the series of smaller cascades. Don't forget Kvernufoss for its walk-behind feature. Essential gear includes a wide-angle lens, a sturdy tripod, and excellent rain protection for your camera. Visiting during the golden hours (early morning/late evening) will yield the best light and fewer crowds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Skógafoss Trail
Once at the top, the trail continues along the Skógá River, revealing a series of smaller, yet equally enchanting, waterfalls. This section of the Fimmvörðuháls trail is relatively easy to navigate for the first few kilometers and offers a sense of solitude away from the main tourist hub. Remember to pack water and sun protection, as there's no shade along this route.
This extended hike is perfect for nature lovers and photographers looking to capture more of Iceland's raw beauty. The further you venture, the more secluded and breathtaking the scenery becomes, offering a true escape into the Icelandic highlands.
The Magic of Rainbows at Skógafoss
+1This phenomenon makes Skógafoss a photographer's dream. The interplay of water, light, and color creates truly unforgettable images. Many visitors specifically plan their trips hoping to witness this natural wonder.
To maximize your chances of seeing a rainbow, aim for a sunny day and position yourself in front of the waterfall. The mist is pervasive, so be prepared to get a little damp while capturing this breathtaking sight.
Kvernufoss: The Hidden Gem
The highlight of Kvernufoss is the ability to walk behind its cascading water, providing a surreal and immersive perspective. This is a fantastic spot for photography and for those seeking a less crowded natural wonder.
Accessing Kvernufoss involves a short, easy hike from the Skóga Museum. It's a perfect addition to your visit to Skógafoss, offering a different kind of waterfall magic.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit