Best Waterfalls to Visit in Iceland During Winter

Planning a winter escape to Iceland is an adventure like no other—and if chasing frozen waterfalls is on your radar, get ready for an unforgettable journey. This guide is your ultimate companion to exploring Iceland’s most stunning cascades in their icy winter glory. From towering falls surrounded by snow-covered cliffs to partially frozen giants roaring through the cold, Iceland’s waterfalls are nothing short of magical in winter. Crafted for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike, this experience will have you embracing the raw beauty of Iceland.

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Where I stayed:

Hvolsvöllur: Stóra-Mörk III Guesthouse

Jökulsárlón: Old Cottage - Reynivellir II

I chose my accommodation with the goal of staying outside the city center as much as possible to maximize my chances of seeing the Northern Lights. A special mention goes to Stóra-Mörk III Guesthouse—it was incredibly cozy and comfortable. I can't recommend this place enough! I was staying here when the Northern lights showed up.

Practical Information:

• Location: Iceland is a Nordic island nation located in the North Atlantic Ocean, just south of the Arctic Circle, between Greenland and Norway.
• Transportation & Exploration: You can reach Iceland via Keflavík International Airport (KEF), located about 50 km (31 miles) from Reykjavík, the capital, or Akureyri Airport (AEY) in the north, which offers domestic and some international flights.

  Renting a car is a popular choice for exploring Iceland, especially if you want to experience the scenic routes of the Golden Circle, the South Coast, or venture into remote areas. During winter, make sure to rent a suitable vehicle for better control on icy roads. The road network is well-maintained, but weather conditions can affect driving, so always check road safety updates on the official website. I booked mine through Rentalcars. Public transportation is limited outside Reykjavík, but guided tours are widely available for popular sites like the Blue Lagoon, waterfalls, and glaciers. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather—roads can be icy, and storms may cause closures, especially in rural areas. Always check weather forecasts (vedur.is) and road conditions (road.is) before heading out.

• Weather: Iceland experiences a subarctic climate with cold winters, though not as extreme as one might expect due to the warming effects of the Gulf Stream. During winter temperatures range from -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F) along the coast, while inland areas can be colder. Expect short daylight hours (4–6 hours per day), frequent snow, icy conditions, and strong winds. Despite the cold, winter is an excellent time to witness the Northern Lights, soak in geothermal hot springs, and explore ice caves.
• Money: Iceland is an expensive destination, from accommodation to dining out. Based on my experience, it's best to bring as much food as possible in your luggage, as even supermarkets are pricey. I opted for affordable guesthouses with kitchen facilities, allowing me to prepare my own meals instead of eating out every night. A typical dinner (main course plus a soda) costs around €50–60, while breakfast is about €20.

1 - Gullfoss Waterfall (Golden Circle)

The Golden Circle is a must-do route that covers three iconic sites:

• Thingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this stunning park is not only historically significant but also geologically fascinating. It's where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating breathtaking landscapes.
• The Geysir Geothermal Area: A short 5-minute walk from the main entrance leads you to the famous Great Geysir, which erupts approximately every 10 minutes. The sight of hot water shooting up into the air is truly spectacular, and the surrounding geothermal activity adds to the area’s beauty.
• Gullfoss Waterfall: Known as the "Golden Waterfall," Gullfoss is a must-see marvel. The waterfall cascades dramatically in two stages, creating a powerful display of nature's force. It’s just a short 10-minute walk from the parking lot, making it easily accessible for visitors of all ages. 

Easily accessible from Reykjavik, it’s an ideal choice for a day trip. In fact, many tourists flock here during winter, drawn by its proximity to the capital and the opportunity to experience these stunning natural wonders in the unique winter landscape. You can book your experience on Viator or Get your Guide.

2 – Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most iconic and picturesque waterfalls, plunging 60 meters (197 feet) from rugged, ancient cliffs. What makes it truly unique is the trail that runs behind the waterfall, offering a breathtaking perspective. Unfortunately, this path is closed during the winter months due to safety concerns. This tour from Reykjavik will include also this waterfall.

3- Skógafoss

Just a short drive from Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss is another breathtaking waterfall plunging 60 meters (197 feet) with an impressive 25-meter (82-foot) width. The mist from the falls often creates vivid rainbows on sunny days. Climb the staircase to the viewing platform above for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This tour from Reykjavik will include also this waterfall.

4 - Svartifoss

Nestled within Vatnajökull National Park, Svartifoss (the 'Black Waterfall') is framed by striking basalt column formations that have even inspired Icelandic architecture. For those with extra time, there’s a 1.5-hour loop trail that leads to the waterfall and several other scenic viewpoints. However, I didn’t have enough time, so I took the direct path to Svartifoss, which takes about 20 minutes. Keep in mind that in winter, the trail can be icy, so you may need crampons, which can be rented at the tourist information center. This waterfall is unique for its dramatic setting, surrounded by rugged lava landscapes and lush greenery in the summer, while in winter, it takes on a magical, frozen appearance.

5- Kirkjufellsfossar 

Kirkjufellsfoss, located near the iconic Mount Kirkjufell on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, is a photographer’s paradise. The perfectly symmetrical mountain, complemented by the cascading waterfalls, forms one of Iceland’s most stunning landscapes. It’s particularly enchanting when the Northern Lights dance above or during winter when a light dusting of snow adds to its beauty. Unfortunately, I couldn’t make it as it’s quite a distance from Reykjavik—around a 4-hour drive. If you don't have a car you can arrange a day trip from Reykjavik.

Iceland in winter is a paradise for adventure seekers, where snow-covered landscapes, shimmering glaciers, and the magical Northern Lights create an otherworldly backdrop. From glacier hiking on Svínafellsjökull to chasing waterfalls like Skógafoss, exploring ice caves beneath Vatnajökull, and soaking in geothermal hot springs, every moment is unforgettable. Pack your winter gear, embrace the elements, and let the adventure begin!