Skógafoss

Follow the rainbow at Skógafoss

If you’re drawn to breathtaking landscapes and the thrill of discovery, Skógafoss is a destination that will leave you utterly spellbound. Towering at 60 meters, this mighty waterfall on Iceland’s South Coast is more than just a sight to behold—it’s a force of nature that commands your full attention. As you approach, the deep, thunderous roar of water crashing down fills the air, setting the stage for an unforgettable encounter with one of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders.

The first glimpse of Skógafoss is nothing short of mesmerizing. Whether bathed in golden sunlight or shrouded in mist, this colossal waterfall makes the rest of the world fade into the background. The sheer power of the cascading water is both humbling and invigorating. On sunny days, the constant spray in the air forms shimmering rainbows, adding a dreamlike quality to an already magical setting.

Up for a workout?

But Skógafoss isn’t just about standing back and admiring from a distance—it invites you to step closer and become part of the experience. Walk right up to the base, feel the cool mist against your skin, and listen to the rhythmic roar of water meeting the earth. If you’re up for a challenge, take on the 527-step climb to the top. The journey is a workout, but the reward is worth every step: a panoramic view of the southern lowlands, where rivers meander through green fields, and distant waves break against the coast.

A Touch of Legend

Like many of Iceland’s natural wonders, Skógafoss comes with a story. According to folklore, a Viking settler named Þrasi Þórólfsson hid a chest of treasure behind the waterfall — a reward for anyone bold enough to brave the cascade. While no one’s managed to retrieve it, legend says that for a time, part of the chest was visible from the outside. Today, it’s said that one of the rings from the chest is kept at the nearby Skógar Museum.

Truth or tale, the legend adds a layer of mystery that fits the atmosphere perfectly.

A Year-Round Showstopper

Whether you visit Skógafoss in summer’s lush green or winter’s icy stillness, the waterfall never loses its magic. In warmer months, the landscape around the falls bursts into life — perfect for picnics, photos, or a quiet pause. In winter, mist freezes along the cliffs, and if you're lucky, the northern lights may dance above, turning Skógafoss into a scene straight from myth.

Photographers, take note: there’s no bad angle here. But sometimes the best shots are the ones you don’t take — the ones you simply remember.

Make It Part of the Journey

Skógafoss is an essential stop along Iceland’s Ring Road, and it’s just a short drive from other South Coast highlights like Seljalandsfoss, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and Vík. If you have extra time, we highly recommend visiting the Skógar Museum nearby for a deeper look into local heritage, traditional Icelandic turf houses, and tales from centuries past.