Top 10 Best Waterfalls Near Reykjavik

Iceland is known for its extraordinary landscapes, and waterfalls are one of the nation's most iconic features. With over 10,000 waterfalls across the country, visitors near Reykjavik have plenty of opportunities to explore these natural wonders without traveling far. 

Iceland’s waterfalls offer more than just scenic beauty; they carry historical, cultural, and geological significance that adds to the magic of visiting these sites. In this guide, we’ll delve deeper into the top 10 waterfalls near Reykjavik, providing not only location details but also insights into their unique stories and characteristics.

1. Glymur Waterfall

Glymur Waterfall was once considered the tallest waterfall in Iceland until the discovery of Morsárfoss in 2007, but it still ranks as one of the most majestic at 198 meters. The waterfall is situated in Hvalfjörður, just 1.5 hours from Reykjavik, and offers an adventure for serious hikers. 

The hike to Glymur is about 3-4 hours round-trip and includes traversing a river, walking through a cave, and climbing along a steep canyon. The challenging hike provides stunning views over the fjord and the surrounding landscape, which has remained largely untouched since World War II when the fjord was a key strategic location.

• Price: Free
• Location: Hvalfjörður fjord, 1.5 hours from Reykjavik
• Nearby Attractions: Hvalfjörður fjord, whale watching spots

2. Thorufoss Waterfall

Located only 30 minutes from Reykjavik in the peaceful Mosfellsdalur valley, Thorufoss is a hidden gem that stands at 12 meters tall. It’s less frequented than other waterfalls, which gives visitors a chance to enjoy its beauty in tranquility. 

Thorufoss Waterfall flows from the river Laxá, a popular fishing river known for its rich salmon population. The area also gained fame after being featured in HBO's Game of Thrones series, specifically in scenes involving dragons. This has sparked a new wave of interest in Thorufoss among fans of the show.

• Price: Free
• Location: Mosfellsdalur, 30 minutes from Reykjavik
• Nearby Attractions: Thingvellir National Park, Laxnes Horse Farm

3. Öxarárfoss Waterfall

Set within Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Öxarárfoss Waterfall is not only visually appealing but also historically significant. The waterfall flows from the Öxará River and is 20 meters tall. Thingvellir was the site of Iceland's first parliament (Althingi) in 930 AD, making it one of the world’s oldest democratic assemblies.

Öxarárfoss Waterfall was also reportedly altered by human hands in the past to ensure a water supply for the parliament. This blend of natural beauty and historical significance makes it a key stop on the Golden Circle route.

• Price: Free (parking fee at Thingvellir National Park)
• Location: Thingvellir National Park, 45 minutes from Reykjavik
• Nearby Attractions: Silfra Fissure (famous for diving and snorkeling), Thingvellir National Park

4. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

One of Iceland’s most recognizable waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss, stands at 60 meters and is located around 2 hours from Reykjavik along Route 1. What makes this waterfall truly special is the footpath that allows visitors to walk behind the cascading water, offering a unique perspective and the opportunity for incredible photos. 

During the summer months, the area around Seljalandsfoss Waterfall is lush and green, and during the winter, the waterfall is often illuminated for a magical, icy display. The waterfall originates from the Eyjafjallajökull glacier, which famously erupted in 2010, disrupting air travel across Europe.

• Price: Free (parking fee)
• Location: Along Route 1, 2 hours from Reykjavik
• Nearby Attractions: Gljúfrabúi Waterfall, Skógafoss, Eyjafjallajökull Volcano

Also Check, Midnight South Coast tour in a small group

5. Skogafoss Waterfall

Just a short drive from Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss Waterfall is equally impressive but far more powerful. At 60 meters tall and 25 meters wide, it creates a constant mist that often results in rainbows on sunny days. According to local legend, the first Viking settler in the area, Þrasi Þórólfsson, hid a treasure chest behind the waterfall. 

While no treasure has ever been found, it adds to the mystique of Skogafoss. Visitors can climb the 527 steps next to the waterfall to reach a viewing platform that offers breathtaking views of the landscape and the river Skógá.

• Price: Free
• Location: Skógar, 2 hours from Reykjavik
• Nearby Attractions: Skógar Museum, Kvernufoss Waterfall, Fimmvörðuháls Hiking Trail

6. Gljufrabui Waterfall

Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Seljalandsfoss, Gljufrabui is a hidden waterfall that plunges down into a narrow canyon. To reach the waterfall, visitors must wade through a shallow stream and enter a moss-covered gorge. This secluded waterfall, at 40 meters tall, provides a more intimate and adventurous experience. 

Gljufrabui name means “dweller in the gorge,” and its mystical setting has made it a favorite among photographers and explorers. If you’re visiting Seljalandsfoss, Gljufrabui is just a short 5-minute walk away and well worth the effort.

• Price: Free (parking fee shared with Seljalandsfoss)
• Location: Along Route 1, 2 hours from Reykjavik
• Nearby Attractions: Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Thórsmörk Valley

7. Gullfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss, known as the "Golden Waterfall," is a must-see on the Golden Circle route. This two-tiered waterfall drops 32 meters into the Hvítá River canyon, with water flowing from the Langjökull glacier. In the early 20th century, there were plans to use Gullfoss for hydroelectric power, which would have destroyed its natural beauty. 

However, the plans were never realized, thanks in part to the efforts of Sigríður Tómasdóttir, the daughter of a local farmer who fought to preserve the waterfall. Today, Gullfoss Waterfall remains one of Iceland’s most visited and beloved attractions.

• Price: Free
• Location: Golden Circle, 1.5 hours from Reykjavik
• Nearby Attractions: Geysir Geothermal Area, Thingvellir National Park, Kerið Crater

Also Check, Private Golden Circle Iceland Tour from Reykjavik

8. Bruarfoss Waterfall

Often called “Iceland’s Bluest Waterfall,” Bruarfoss is a hidden treasure with stunningly clear, blue water. The waterfall is relatively small, standing only 3 meters tall, but it makes up for its size with its vivid blue hue, which contrasts beautifully with the surrounding dark basalt rock. Bruarfoss is located along the Golden Circle, but its remote location means fewer crowds. 

To reach the waterfall, visitors need to take a 2-3 km hike through a scenic landscape, crossing wooden bridges over the river. Bruarfoss is one of the lesser-known stops but worth seeking out for those wanting to escape the busy tourist sites.

• Price: Free
• Location: Golden Circle, 1.5 hours from Reykjavik
• Nearby Attractions: Gullfoss, Geysir Geothermal Area, Laugarvatn Fontana

9. Faxi Waterfall

Located along the Golden Circle route, Faxi (also known as Vatnsleysufoss) is a smaller but equally scenic waterfall compared to the more famous Gullfoss. At 80 meters wide and 7 meters tall, Faxi offers a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful retreat. 

The waterfall is fed by the Tungufljót River, which is known for its abundance of salmon. Fishing is popular in this area, and during the salmon run, visitors can watch these fish attempt to leap up the waterfall. There’s also a small viewing platform, making it easy to enjoy the natural beauty.

• Price: Free (small parking fee)
• Location: Golden Circle, 1.5 hours from Reykjavik
• Nearby Attractions: Gullfoss, Geysir Geothermal Area, Skalholt Cathedral

10. Hraunfossar Waterfall

Hraunfossar, meaning "Lava Falls," is one of the most unique waterfalls in Iceland. Instead of a single large cascade, Hraunfossar Waterfall consists of countless small streams that trickle out of the Hallmundarhraun lava field, flowing into the Hvítá River below. 

The water flows gently over a distance of 900 meters, creating a serene and unusual waterfall experience. The contrasting colors of the dark lava, white water, and surrounding vegetation make Hraunfossar a popular photography spot. A short walk away is Barnafoss, another waterfall with a tragic local legend about two children who drowned while attempting to cross the river.

• Price: Free
• Location: Borgarfjörður, 1.5 hours from Reykjavik
• Nearby Attractions: Barnafoss, Deildartunguhver Hot Springs, Reykholt

Why These Waterfalls Should Be on Your Itinerary

These 10 waterfalls near Reykjavik offer an array of experiences, from the towering heights of Glymur to the unique beauty of Hraunfossar’s lava flows. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat, a challenging hike, or a deep dive into Icelandic folklore, these waterfalls provide more than just photo opportunities—they offer a glimpse into Iceland’s rich natural and cultural heritage.  

Exploring these waterfalls is a journey through time, geology, and Iceland’s unique landscape, all within easy reach of Reykjavik.