Skógafoss is one of Iceland's biggest waterfalls. The river Skógá drops about 60 metres over a former sea cliff in a single, 25-metre-wide curtain, and on sunny days the spray often throws a rainbow.
You can walk on the flat gravel right up to the base, then climb the long staircase on the east side to a platform above the falls. From the top, a path follows the river upstream past a string of smaller waterfalls.
Getting there
Skógafoss is signposted just off Route 1 at Skógar, about 30 km east of Seljalandsfoss. The car park beside the falls has paid parking, and Skógar has a hotel, hostel, campsite, restaurants and the Skógar Museum.
When to go
All year. Summer has long days and the most water; in winter the stairs and paths can be icy, so take care. Arrive early or late to avoid the tour buses.
Good to know
- The stairs have over 500 steps, so take your time.
- Fulmars nest on the cliffs and are protected: keep out of the fenced, vegetated areas below the falls.
- The trail upstream is the start of the Fimmvörðuháls hike to Þórsmörk (about 24 km); go only well prepared and check Safetravel first.
- Bring a waterproof layer if you walk close to the base.
Sources: Skógafoss: about the area (Environment Agency of Iceland), Skógafoss (Wikipedia), Skógafoss: visiting by car hire (Blue Car Rental), Parking fees in Iceland (Go Campers). Facts checked October 2026.
Drive times are approximate and depend on weather and road conditions. Check road.is and vedur.is before you set off.
