Svartifoss
Svartifoss, or "Black Falls," is a stunning waterfall located in Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland. It is famous for its unique appearance, as the water tumbles down from a height of about 20 meters (65 feet) over striking black basalt columns. These columns resemble giant hexagonal shapes and were formed by volcanic activity. The dark color of the rock gives Svartifoss its name. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery during the warmer months, creating a beautiful contrast with the dark rocks. In winter, ice can form around the falls, adding another layer of beauty. Svartifoss is accessible via a hiking trail that starts at the park's visitor center. The hike to the waterfall takes about 45 minutes and offers scenic views along the way. Svartifoss has inspired many works of art and architecture in Iceland, including the design of Hallgrímskirkja, Reykjavik's iconic church. Its natural beauty and unique geological formations make it a popular destination for visitors to Iceland who are interested in nature and geology. Whether you're an avid hiker or simply appreciate natural wonders, Svartifoss offers a memorable experience.
The Area
Top ways to experience
Svartifoss
What other travelers are saying about
Svartifoss
We walked up to the waterfalls from the car park, the entire walk and back took about two hours. It was foggy when we left but we were still able to get some lovely photographs once at the waterfall. The path was mostly easy to walk on but the descent to the waterfall itself was rocky, slippy, and uneven, all of our party managed it fairly easily though. We went early and avoided the crowds.
Svartifoss is a beautiful waterfall tucked inside Skaftafell National Park, and it’s definitely worth the short hike. What makes it stand out are the dark basalt columns framing the falls - kinda like a natural art installation. The trail is about 1.5 km each way and a gentle uphill, so it’s easy enough for most people and gives you a chance to enjoy the forest and glacier views along the way. When you reach the falls, the contrast between the white water and the black hexagonal rocks is striking. It’s peaceful, not too crowded, and perfect for a relaxing stop or some scenic photos. A lovely little highlight on any South Coast route.
It’s one of the most beautiful waterfall in Iceland. Many tourists come here. There is a long walk to reach at the fall. Anyone needs to walk in the high plateau. It takes more than 45 minutes to walk in the terrain ups and down. Even though the weather is cool I got sweat profusely. On the way there are benches to sit and rest for a while. There are two other falls on the way, Hundafoss & Magnusarfoss. They are from the same stream. The last 200 meter is tricky to walk as there is chance of getting skid easily. The ultimate view is awesome. The basalt rocks are typically arranged with a strange look, like nature has kept the rock crystal hanging from above. On the way there is a view point from where the full stretch of the nearest glacier is visible.
Nearby attractions to see
Frequently asked questions
What makes Svartifoss Waterfall unique compared to other waterfalls in Iceland?
Svartifoss is renowned for its stunning backdrop of dark hexagonal basalt columns, which resemble a pipe organ. This unique geological formation gives Svartifoss its name, meaning 'Black Falls' in Icelandic.
How can visitors access Svartifoss Waterfall?
Svartifoss is located in Vatnajökull National Park, and visitors can reach the waterfall by hiking a well-marked trail that starts at the Skaftafell visitor center. The hike is approximately 1.5 kilometers each way and takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
What is the best time of year to visit Svartifoss?
The best time to visit Svartifoss is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is milder and the trail is easily accessible. However, visiting in winter offers a magical experience as the waterfall and basalt columns are often covered in ice and snow.
Are there other attractions near Svartifoss worth visiting?
Yes, the surrounding area of Skaftafell within Vatnajökull National Park offers several other attractions such as glacier hikes on Vatnajökull glacier, visits to the nearby Svínafellsjökull glacier tongue, and exploring various hiking trails with breathtaking views.
What should visitors know before hiking to Svartifoss?
Visitors should wear sturdy hiking boots due to uneven terrain and bring water and snacks for the hike. It's also advisable to check weather conditions beforehand and be prepared for sudden changes, as Iceland's weather can be unpredictable.
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