Iceland's 20 Most Underrated Waterfalls

Beyond the Instagram-famous cascades of Gullfoss and Skógafoss lies a hidden world of spectacular waterfalls that most visitors never discover. These lesser-known gems offer the same raw beauty and geological wonder without the tour buses and crowds, revealing Iceland's true wild heart to those willing to venture off the beaten path.

The Northern Secrets

Kolufossar (The Troll Falls)

Hidden in the Bárðardalur valley, 47km east of Akureyri, Kolufossar crashes down a 70-metre basalt cliff face in three distinct tiers. Local folklore claims the falls were created when trolls threw boulders at Christian missionaries, explaining the unusual rock formations at the base. The 2.8km hiking trail from Route 85 requires crossing private farmland—always close gates and respect property boundaries.

Aldeyjarfoss

This 20-metre geometric marvel in the Skjálfandafljót river showcases Iceland's columnar basalt at its finest. The hexagonal rock formations create a natural amphitheatre around the falls, best photographed during the golden hour. Located 41km south of Goðafoss via F26 (accessible only June-September), the rough highland road demands a 4WD vehicle and careful navigation.

Goðafoss's Shadow: Gljúfrafoss

Just 3km downstream from the famous Waterfall of the Gods, Gljúfrafoss tumbles 22 metres through a narrow canyon that most tourists never explore. The hidden viewpoint requires scrambling over wet rocks—wear proper hiking boots and exercise extreme caution during winter months when ice makes the approach treacherous.

Westfjords Wilderness

Dynjandi's Siblings: Hundafoss and Bæjarfoss

While everyone flocks to Dynjandi, the "Jewel of the Westfjords," these two smaller cascades 500 metres upstream offer equally dramatic scenes without the crowds. Hundafoss (Dog Falls) drops 30 metres over rust-coloured cliffs, while Bæjarfoss creates perfect reflecting pools in calm weather. The additional 15-minute walk from Dynjandi's car park rewards visitors with pristine wilderness photography opportunities.

Kvernufoss (Mill Falls)

Behind Arnarfjörður's farming community of Bíldudalur, this 30-metre waterfall powered Iceland's last working grain mill until 1946. The restored millstones remain visible, and visitors can walk behind the falls through a natural cave system. Access via Route 63 requires no hiking—the falls are visible from the road, though the behind-the-falls experience demands waterproof clothing.

Fosslaug

This geothermal waterfall near Ísafjörður creates natural hot pools where 38°C spring water mingles with the cascade. Popular with locals but unknown to most tourists, Fosslaug offers a unique bathing experience 12km east of town via Route 61. No facilities exist—bring towels and respect the natural environment.

Southern Peninsula Surprises

Brúarfoss (Bridge Falls)

Iceland's most vivid blue waterfall remains hidden despite its proximity to the Golden Circle. Located 3km northeast of Geysir via unmarked farm tracks, Brúarfoss's electric blue colour results from glacial flour and specific lighting conditions. The 4km roundtrip walk crosses private land—parking costs 500 ISK (€3.50) at Hjálparfoss, then follow the river upstream.

Háifoss's Neighbour: Granni

Standing 122 metres tall, Granni waterfall lives perpetually in the shadow of its 198-metre neighbour Háifoss. This "shorter" giant offers better photographic angles and fewer visitors. The viewpoint sits 7km from Route 32 via a rough gravel road suitable for 2WD vehicles during summer. Bring binoculars—puffins nest in the surrounding cliffs from May through August.

Þórsmörk's Secret: Stakkholtsgja Falls

Hidden within a narrow canyon 2.5km from Básar hut, this 15-metre waterfall requires serious commitment to reach. The unmarked trail follows Stakkholtsgja gorge through knee-deep river crossings—waterproof boots essential. Only accessible May through September, and only via 4WD vehicles with river-crossing capability or scheduled highland buses from Reykjavík (4,900 ISK/€34).

Eastern Revelations

Litlanesfoss (Basalt Crown Falls)

Framed by spectacular columnar basalt formations, this 30-metre cascade sits just 1.5km from Route 93 near Egilsstaðir. The geometric rock columns create a natural cathedral around the falls, particularly striking during winter when ice formations enhance the architectural effect. The well-marked trail gains 120 metres elevation over 45 minutes—manageable for most fitness levels.

Hengifoss's Hidden Twin: Strútsfoss

While tourists climb to Iceland's third-highest waterfall at Hengifoss (128m), few notice Strútsfoss cascading down the opposite canyon wall. This 80-metre fall flows year-round, unlike seasonal Hengifoss, creating superior photographic conditions during dry summers. View both falls from the midpoint platform, 2km up the Hengifoss trail.

Fardagafoss

This 80-metre giant near Seyðisfjörður drops directly into the fjord, visible only from the water or a precarious cliff-top approach. Kayak tours from Seyðisfjörður harbour (8,500 ISK/€59) offer the safest viewing method, though adventurous hikers can reach the top via an unmarked 3.2km trail starting behind the town's camping ground.

Reykjanes Peninsula Gems

Reykjanesfoss

Iceland's southwestern corner hides this 20-metre waterfall in the Reykjanes river, just 15km from Keflavík Airport. The falls flow beneath a natural stone arch—a geological rarity in Iceland. Follow Route 425 towards Grindavík, then take the unmarked track 800 metres east after crossing the river bridge.

Bjarnarfoss

This seasonal cascade near the Blue Lagoon emerges only during heavy rainfall or rapid snowmelt, creating a temporary 45-metre spectacle. Local knowledge suggests the best viewing windows occur in May (snowmelt) and October (autumn storms). Park at Grindavík's geothermal area and walk 1.2km northeast following GPS coordinates 63.8847°N, 22.4534°W.

Snæfellsnes Secrets

Kirkjufellsfoss's Shadow: Grundarfoss

While photographers crowd around overexposed Kirkjufellsfoss, this 12-metre cascade 2km west offers equally dramatic compositions with Kirkjufell mountain. The approach requires crossing boggy ground—waterproof boots essential. Best light occurs 90 minutes after sunrise when shadows define the mountain's iconic profile.

Bjarnarfoss (Bear Falls)

Named for the bear-shaped rock formation at its base, this 35-metre waterfall near Stykkishólmur flows strongest during June's snowmelt period. The 1.8km trail from Route 54 passes ancient lava formations and rare arctic flora. Parking available at the Berserkjahraun information board—look for the small waterfall symbol on hiking maps.

Highland Mysteries

Ófærufoss (Impassable Falls)

This remote cascade in the Eldgjá canyon system requires serious highland driving skills to reach. Located 23km from Route F208 via nearly impassable tracks, Ófærufoss drops 35 metres through a natural stone bridge—one of only three such formations in Iceland. Highland buses from Landmannalaugar run twice weekly during July-August (12,000 ISK/€83).

Sigöldufoss

Recently revealed when reservoir levels dropped, this previously submerged waterfall near Landmannalaugar now flows year-round. The 25-metre cascade creates a turquoise pool perfect for (very cold) swimming. Access via F208 requires 4WD vehicles and river-crossing experience—consider guided highland tours from Reykjavík (19,500 ISK/€135).

The Westman Islands Wonder

Ófærufoss Vestmannaeyjar

The Westman Islands' only significant waterfall plunges 18 metres directly into the Atlantic Ocean on Heimaey's eastern cliffs. Visible only from boat tours or the cliff-top golf course, this cascade flows strongest during spring snowmelt. The Westman Islands ferry from Lan

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