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Skogafoss Waterfall

A 60-meter waterfall on the South Coast, known for frequent rainbows in the spray and a 527-step staircase to an upper viewpoint.

Last reviewed March 3, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel TeamEditorial policy
Region
South Iceland
Easy access from the Ring Road. Expect crowds midday in summer.
Skogafoss waterfall in South Iceland, a 60-meter cascade with rainbow in the mist
A classic rectangular waterfall, 60 meters high and 25 meters wide. It throws up a large amount of spray, which often produces double rainbows when the sun hits it. It is the beginning (or end) of the Fimmvörðuháls trail.
Sources and last reviewed
Last reviewed: 2026-03-03

This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Waterfall viewpoints can be slippery and wind can be intense; check official forecasts and road status before you drive, and follow on-site closures.

Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.

Official sources to check
Best for
Rainbows + heavy spray

Wind decides how wet you get, so keep a shell handy.

Access
Very easy

Short walk from parking; stairs to the top viewpoint.

Pro tip
Go early

Sunrise and late evening are the quietest times to visit.

What to Expect at Skogafoss

  • A huge curtain of water with constant mist
  • Stairs to the top viewpoint (weather-dependent)
  • Strong winds; spray can soak cameras and glasses

Nearby Attractions to Skogafoss

  • Kvernufoss (short hike, quieter)
  • Seljalandsfoss (walk-behind, conditions permitting)
  • Vík + Reynisfjara (black sand beach)

How to Get to Skogafoss

  • Located on Route 1 (Ring Road), about 150 km east of Reykjavik
  • Drive time from Reykjavik is approximately 2 hours
  • Large free parking lot directly at the waterfall base
  • The viewpoint is just 2-3 minutes walk from parking
  • 527 steps lead to the upper viewpoint and Fimmvörðuháls trail

Best Time to Visit Skogafoss

  • Summer (June-August): Best for rainbows and midnight sun photography
  • Early morning or evening visits avoid peak tour bus crowds
  • Late morning sun gives the best chance of rainbows
  • Winter visits bring ice formations but slippery paths
  • Check weather forecasts; wind strongly affects the spray

Planning help

Skogafoss FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.