The 12 Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Iceland (and How to Reach Them)

Iceland has an impressive number of waterfalls – an estimated 10,000 throughout the country. These falls, known as foss in Icelandic, range in volume from the most powerful waterfall in Europe, Dettifoss, to those that plunge into swirling blue-green pools, cascade down black basalt columns or trickle through green landscapes and lava fields. The surreal landscapes of this Nordic island – and its mesmerizing waterfalls – have been formed over millions of years by active volcanoes and melting glaciers. Iceland is one of the most active volcanic regions in the world with geothermal energy, hot springs, geysers, lava fields and shifting tectonic plates that create this otherworldly scenery, giving the country its nickname, the Land of Fire and Ice. If that’s not enough to inspire a visit, Iceland is also known for its mystical folklore and elves or “Hidden People” – and it’s one of the best places in the world to see the aurora borealis or northern lights, especially between September and April.

While some of the most famous Icelandic waterfalls are reachable by a vehicle on a self-drive or guided tour, others are only possible to see on foot. Travelers exploring on their own will also need to become familiar with Iceland’s unpaved roads − known as F-roads or Fjalla, which translates to mountain in Icelandic − that are located in the remote highlands and mountainous regions. These roads are only open to visitors (even with the proper vehicle) during the summer…