About
Skógafoss is a waterfall in Iceland, where the Skógá River drops straight over a cliff edge in a broad, unbroken curtain of water. At around 60 metres tall, it is a striking sight from the foot of the falls, where the spray and the roar of the water are part of the experience.
What to expect
The waterfall is an easy stop for most visitors, since it sits close to the Ring Road in the south of the country. Standing at its base lets you appreciate how the water falls cleanly from the rock face, creating the sharp, even shape the falls are known for.
- A single, straight drop of about 60 metres from the Skógá River
- A wide, clear curtain of water that is best seen from the front
- Views that change with the light and the weather
Climbing for a wider view
A staircase of 527 steps runs up beside the falls to the top of the cliff. The climb takes some effort, but it rewards you with a wide view of the coastline and the surrounding landscape, and a different perspective on the water as it leaves the edge. Sturdy footwear and a layer for wind and spray are sensible choices.
Around the falls
Skógafoss makes a good visit on its own or as part of a longer journey along Iceland's southern coast. The surrounding countryside, with its open land, cliffs and the nearby sea, gives the stop a sense of the wider landscape that defines this part of the island.