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Skógafoss
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Landmark
Skógafoss is one of Iceland's largest and most perfectly shaped waterfalls, situated on the south coast near the village of Skógar. Measuring 25 meters in width and plunging 60 meters down, it presents a powerful display of natural force. The waterfall sits on the former coastline of Iceland; the sea has since receded about five kilometers to the south. Due to the constant spray produced by the cascade, single or double rainbows are frequently visible on sunny days. According to local folklore, the first Viking settler in the area, Þrasi Þórólfsson, buried a chest filled with gold in a cave behind the falls. Skógafoss also serves as the trailhead for the famous Fimmvörðuháls hiking path, which leads over the mountains to the Þórsmörk valley. The flat terrain at the base allows visitors to walk right up to the wall of water. A steep staircase on the side leads to an observation deck providing a sweeping view of the coastal plains and the Skógá river above.
- Location: Iceland
- Top sights: Skógafoss · Skógafoss Viewpoint · Turf Houses
- Nearby: Þórsmörk (17 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 4 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 1 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 293 | 268 | 258 | 194 | 136 | 128 | 151 | 176 | 263 | 250 | 250 | 291 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Skógafoss waterfall is freely accessible at any time and can be viewed from outside. You can walk right up to the base of the falls.
Typical hours
The waterfall is accessible 24/7 with no closing times. The best time to visit is during daylight hours.
Photography
Photography is naturally possible and very popular. The spray can wet the lens, so protect your camera accordingly.
Time needed
Allow about 30 to 45 minutes for visiting the waterfall. If you climb the path beside it, it will take longer.
Combine with
Skógafoss is on Iceland's south coast near the Skógar Museum. Combine your visit with the museum and the nearby Sólheimajökull glacier.
Getting there
The waterfall is located right off the Ring Road (Route 1) and easily accessible by car. There is a large parking lot directly opposite.
Insider tip
Visit the waterfall early morning or late evening to avoid crowds. Bring rain gear as the spray gets you wet.
Geography
Facts
- Stands at a height of 60 meters with a width of 25 meters.
- Marks the location of Iceland's former sea cliffs.
- Acts as the starting point for the Fimmvörðuháls hiking trail.
- Folklore claims a chest of gold is hidden in a cave behind the falls.
- Featured as a filming location for 'Thor: The Dark World' and 'Vikings'.
- Fed by the Skógá river, which receives meltwater from Eyjafjallajökull.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Skógafoss (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How high is Skógafoss?
The waterfall is 25 meters wide and drops 60 meters down.
Can you climb to the top?
Yes, a staircase with over 500 steps leads to a viewing platform at the top.
Are rainbows often seen here?
Due to the heavy spray, you can see a rainbow almost always when the sun shines.
What does the legend say?
Legend says that a Viking hid a treasure chest behind the waterfall.
Where does the hiking trail start?
The famous Fimmvörðuháls pass trail starts right above Skógafoss.
Skógafoss: where is it located?
Skógafoss is located in Iceland.
Skógafoss: what is there to see?
Highlights include Skógafoss, Skógafoss Viewpoint, Turf Houses.
Skógafoss: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Skógafoss: why is it worth visiting?
Skógafoss is one of Iceland's largest and most perfectly shaped waterfalls, situated on the south coast near the village of Skógar.
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