6 days
Waterfalls
Svartifoss
Rated 4.7 · 5,402 Google reviews
About 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.
Photos
3 photos
Day tours that visit Svartifoss
Browse all day tours →
Multi-day Tours2-Day South Coast, Ice Cave, Glacier Hike & Northern Lights Tour
October–April · 2 days · Pickup from 08:00
From $585
Ice Cave TourSkaftafell Ice Climbing & Glacier Hike
4 hours · Meet at Skaftafell · Minimum age 12
From $226
Ice Cave TourSkaftafell Blue Ice Cave & Glacier Hike
4 hours · Meet at Skaftafell · Minimum age 8
From $146
Multi-day trips featuring Svartifoss
All packages →
Good to know
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.
Trip planning — free, no commitment
Put Svartifoss on your route
Tell us your dates, pace and can’t-miss list — a local planner builds the route, stays and tours around it, and stays a text away while you travel.