There are so many beautiful places in Iceland, including stunning waterfalls, it can be hard to decide where to go.
If you’re looking for an impressive natural wonder only a short distance from Reykjavík, then try the Skogafoss waterfall in Iceland.
The Skogafoss waterfall is one of the most popular attractions in Iceland, and for good reason! You'll be able to see this natural wonder up close as you stand at its base and watch the powerful water flow from the top of the cliff.
What Is The Skogafoss Waterfall?
The Skogafoss waterfall is a popular tourist destination in Iceland. It is one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland. Visitors to the Land of Fire and Ice will often include this natural wonder on their trips around the Golden Circle.
The Skogafoss falls can be found on the cliffs of a former coastline in south Iceland. Over time, the sea receded, leaving this beautiful waterfall to flow freely on a pebbled bank at the bottom. You can walk right up to the waterfall, but if you do, be prepared to get a little wet!
Skogafoss falls is one of the biggest waterfalls in Iceland, with a drop of 60 meters and a width of 25 meters. The water for the Skogafoss waterfall comes from two glaciers; Eyjafjallajokull and Myrdalsjokull.
Where Is The Skogafoss Waterfall?
The Skogafoss waterfall in Iceland is located in the south of the country on the Skoga river.
Visting Skogafoss falls in Iceland is a great addition to your Golden Circle route. Many tourists choose to only visit Gullfoss waterfall along Iceland’s Golden Circle. Sadly, they do not realize it only takes another 20 to 30 minutes to visit Skogafoss waterfall.
How To Get To Skogafoss Waterfall in Iceland
If traveling to Skogafoss from Reykjavík, expect a two-hour drive (155 km or 96 miles). Follow the Iceland Ring Road eastwards from Reykjavík, and eventually, you will see Skogafoss falls from the road. There is a car park nearby for easy access to the waterfall.
Best Time To Visit Skogafoss Waterfall
Visiting Skogafoss Waterfall in Summer
Summer is considered the best time to visit Skogafoss waterfall in Iceland. The weather is warmer and drier, with temperatures in July and August reaching 20 °C (68 °F). However, the spray from the waterfall will make the area cooler, so bring a waterproof jacket.
On clear days in summer, the Skogafoss falls creates single or even double rainbows. These days will be the busiest, though, with large crowds. Try to visit earlier in the day to avoid the hustle and bustle.
During Summer, Iceland experiences the Midnight Sun. For most visitors, that automatically translates into extra daylight to explore Skogafoss falls.
Visiting Skogafoss Waterfall in Winter
Skogafoss falls is much less crowded in winter. The average winter temperature in Iceland falls to about 3°C (37°F) during this time of year deterring the more fair-weather visitors.
Skogfoss waterfall in Iceland is a fantastic sight in winter. The cliffs are covered in snow, and long icicles hang about the impressive scenery. If you’re really lucky, you’ll see the Northern Lights dancing high above.
It’s a good idea to pack sturdy winter shoes if you’re visiting Skogafoss at this time of year. The ground is covered in slippery ice, so investing in spiked shoes is a good consideration.
Places To Visit Near Skogafoss Waterfall
While you’re visiting Skogafoss falls in Iceland, consider taking in these other sites.
Skogar Museum
The Skogar Museum is a cultural heritage collection of 15,000 artifacts exhibited over three museums and six historical buildings. It is only a one-minute drive from the Skogafoss waterfall or a 15-minute walk.
Rutshellir Cave
The Rutshellir cave is a curious man-made cave with a mysterious history!
Some legends say that an evil troll lived in this cave, other legends say it was a looter on the run from the law.
The Rutshellir cave is only 3 km (2 miles) from Skogafoss waterfall.
Seljavallalaug Hot Spring
The Seljavallalaug hot spring pool is only a 10-minute drive from Skogafoss falls. The pool is hidden in the mountains, making for a beautiful scenery in which to take a soak.
Entry is free, but bear in mind that this natural geothermal pool is only cleaned a couple of times a year. Expect algae!
Hiking Around The Skogafoss Waterfall
Fans of hiking should try the Fimmvorduhals hiking trail on their visit to the Skogafoss waterfall in Iceland.
Skogafoss falls can be either the starting point or end point for one of the most popular hiking trails in Iceland; Fimmvorduhals. The hike is 25 km (15.5 miles) long. This hike is only accessible in the summer.
Skogafoss Waterfall Mythology
Skogafoss falls in Iceland is allegedly home to buried treasure!
Thrasi Thorolfsson, a Viking settler, hid the treasure chest in the Skogafoss waterfall. In the late 1800s, a lucky young man found the treasure chest and tried to retrieve it. He tried a rope of the handle of the chest and pulled.
Unfortunately, the handle broke off, and the treasure fell back into the waterfall. The handle of the chest can be seen on the door of the Skogar church, being used as a door knocker.
Hotels Near Skogafoss Waterfall in Iceland
Traveling to Skogafoss from Reykjavík is only a two-hour drive, making Skogafoss waterfall a great day trip for those using the city as a home base. There are many great hotels to choose from in Reykjavík.
For those looking for hotels near Skogafoss Iceland there are a couple of choices:
Hotel Skogafoss: This bed and breakfast has a warm and cozy atmosphere. The hotel offers three types of rooms, including family rooms with bunk beds, and two apartments. A buffet breakfast is included in the rate.
Hotel Ranga: This hotel near Skogafoss falls was built in 1999 as a countryside retreat. The hotel's timber walls, comfortable furnishings, and fine service immediately established its excellent reputation throughout Iceland.
Camping Near Skogafoss Waterfall
Camping enthusiasts will be pleased to know that unlike many popular attractions in Iceland, you can camp at Skogafoss falls in Iceland. Remember, Iceland has strict rules around camping, so you’ll only be able to camp here if you're in a tent. If you’re in a vehicle, you’ll need to camp at the Skogar campsite.
For those with campervans, camping at Skogafoss Iceland is easy; just head to the Skogar campsite. The facilities are basic but still have everything you need including toilets, showers, and an outdoor kitchen.
Skogafoss Is An Icelandic Highlight
Skogafoss waterfall in Iceland is honestly beautiful and a must-see place to visit on your trip. We consider it a nature highlight and are sure you won’t want to miss out on this natural wonder.
To fully immerse yourself in the enchanting allure of Iceland's landscapes, explore the surrounding area with a comfortable and rugged 4x4 camper rental. Embrace the adventure that awaits and create unforgettable memories at Skogafoss.