south iceland
Skógafoss
Skógafoss is one of Iceland's biggest classic waterfalls — a 60 m wall of water on the South Coast that you can walk right up to.
Key facts
- Height
- 60 m
- Region
- South Iceland
- Free?
- Yes
- Time needed
- 30–60 minutes
- Best months
- apr, may, jun, jul, aug, sep, oct
- Free?
- Yes
- Family friendly?
- Yes
- Good in rain?
- Yes
- Winter accessible?
- Yes
- 4×4 needed?
- No
- Price level
- free
What is Skógafoss?
Skógafoss is a wide, powerful waterfall on the river Skógá, dropping 60 m over what was once Iceland’s south coastline. It’s right next to the Ring Road and one of the most visited single sites on the South Coast.
What to do here
- Walk to the base — flat 5-minute path from the parking lot.
- Climb the staircase (right side) for the upper viewpoint.
- From the top, the Fimmvörðuháls trail leads inland past more waterfalls and eventually over the volcanic pass between Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull.
- The Skógar Folk Museum is a short walk away and worth the stop if you have time.
Safety
The base of the falls is wet and the spray can freeze in winter — watch your footing. The staircase is steep and has no shelter — don’t climb it in strong wind.
Frequently asked questions
Can you climb to the top of Skógafoss?
Yes. A long steel staircase on the right (east) side leads to a platform at the top of the falls. The view down the canyon to the sea is excellent. The staircase is steep and exposed; not ideal for those afraid of heights.
Will you get wet at Skógafoss?
Almost certainly. Spray reaches well back from the base, especially in summer flow. Bring a rain shell.
How does Skógafoss compare with Seljalandsfoss?
They're 30 minutes apart and very different. Skógafoss is broader, more powerful and harder to walk behind. Seljalandsfoss is narrower but you can walk behind it. Most visitors do both.