Top 5 Waterfalls Near Vik You HAVE To Visit
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Waterfalls near Vik are some of the most beautiful spots in southern Iceland, and skipping them would be like going to Paris and ignoring the Eiffel Tower – just don’t do it.
In this blog post, I’m sharing my top 5 waterfalls near Vik that you absolutely have to see, from the famous must-stops to hidden gems without any crowds. Each waterfall has its own personality, and yes, they all love being photographed.
Bring a waterproof jacket and your camera, because visiting these waterfalls can get a little wet but it’s 100% worth it.
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Know Before You Go
Before you go, here are some essential things to make planning your trip to Iceland easier. I know planning can feel overwhelming, but a little prep goes a long way in saving you time, money, and stress. Below, I’m sharing my personal recommendations to help you get the most out of your trip.
Beautiful Hotels Nearby
- Fjallsarlon igloo – is a unique igloo on the water, so you’re practically alone on a glacial lagoon, with icebergs drifting by. Definitely a one-of-a-kind stay worth experiencing!
- Hótel Skógafoss – is a cozy, welcoming hotel with amazing views and a great location, perfect for exploring the area!
- Hótel Jökulsárlón – Glacier Lagoon Hotel – is a beautiful hotel with an outdoor hot tub, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
Epic Once-in-a-Lifetime Tours You Can’t Miss in This Area
- Northern Lights Hunt & Glacier Lagoon Tour – Chase the Northern Lights and explore the stunning Glacier Lagoon on this unforgettable tour.
- Glacier Lagoon Boat Ride – Take a scenic boat ride through the Glacier Lagoon and take incredible photos.
- Into the Glacier Ice Cave Tour – Go inside an actual glacier on this epic ice cave tour and discover a whole new world beneath the surface!
Stay Connected
I always use eSIM when I travel, and Airlo makes it simple to stay connected without having to remove your current SIM card.
Never Travel to Iceland Without Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is an absolute must when visiting Iceland – the wild weather can completely mess up your plans in minutes!
SafetyWing is an affordable travel insurance designed for travelers who want to explore freely without worrying about the unexpected.
Rent a Car to Explore the Best of Iceland
Renting a car is the best way to explore the stunning landscapes and hidden gems of Iceland at your own pace, and Discover Cars is great for comparing prices and finding the best deal.
Where To Stay In Vik
Vík is the perfect base for exploring the south coast of Iceland, especially the amazing waterfalls near Vik and black sand beaches. Even though Vík is a tiny town with just over 300 people, it still has a nice mix of guesthouses and comfortable hotels, all set close to nature.
Here are three great options to consider for your stay:
- Hotel Vík í Mýrdal – This modern hotel is right in town and offers fantastic views of the surrounding cliffs and coastline. Rooms are very comfortable, and the on-site restaurant serves tasty Icelandic dishes.
- Hotel Kría – Hotel Kría has a very unique design and is located just a short walk from Vík’s main street, making it easy to explore local cafes and shops. The rooms are spacious, and some have balconies with amazing views of the mountains.
- Vík Cottages – For a more private experience, Vík Cottages are a great choice. These standalone cottages come with kitchens, making them ideal for longer stays. Surrounded by the countryside, you’ll enjoy peace, quiet, and easy access to nearby natural attractions.
My Top 5 Waterfalls Near Vik Iceland
I’ve explored quite a few of these waterfalls myself, and every single one looked beautiful. The best part? They’re all pretty easy to get to whether you’re driving a rental car or tagging along on a tour.
The area around this small town is packed with incredible waterfalls. Here are my top 5 waterfalls near Vik Iceland that you should check out.
Skógafoss
Distance from Vik: 30 minutes drive
What the name means: Forest Falls
How tall is it: 60 meters
Just a half-hour drive from Vík, Skógafoss is one of the most famous waterfalls near Vík Iceland everyone should see. It’s tall, powerful, and easy to get to. You can walk right up to the base and feel the water crashing all around you.
The spray covers the ground nearby, so be ready to get a little wet if you get close. If you want a different view, a staircase next to the waterfall takes you to the top, where you can enjoy some amazing views.
Standing at the base of Skógafoss was kind of mind-blowing. The water is so loud you can barely hear yourself think, and you can’t help but just stop and watch for a while.
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Kvernufoss
Distance from Vik: 35 minutes drive
What the name means: Watermill waterfall
How tall is it: 30 meters
If you are looking for something quieter, Kvernufoss is about 35 minutes from Vík and tucked in a small canyon near Skógafoss. Among the waterfalls near Vik Iceland, this one often gets less attention, which is what makes it such a nice stop.
The short walking path is easy, and the waterfall itself feels peaceful compared to the larger crowds at the more famous spots. You can step off the main road for just a little while and explore the waterfall not many people heard about.
Out of all the Vik waterfalls, this one is a great option for people who like less crowded stops in Iceland.
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Seljalandsfoss
Distance from Vik: 1 hour drive
What the name means: The Falls of Seljaland
How tall is it: 60 meters
About an hour north of Vík sits Seljalandsfoss, one of the most popular waterfalls near Vik because you can actually walk behind it. That makes it one of the most unique waterfalls in Iceland.
The area around the falls is really open, so you can see the water from every angle. Since I visited in winter, the path behind the falls was very slippery and dangerous, so I couldn’t go all the way behind it. Even from the side, the view was incredible and totally worth it.
Standing there, feeling the spray in the air and watching the water fall, it is a sight that sticks with you long after your trip.
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Gljúfrabúi
Distance from Vik: 1 hour
What the name means: Canyon Dweller
How tall is it: 40 meters
Not far from Seljalandsfoss, you’ll find Gljúfrabúi, a waterfall hidden behind rocks and greenery. At about 40 meters tall, it drops into a small gorge, quiet and tucked out of sight (and crowds).
This waterfall is smaller than some of the other Vik waterfalls, but it stands out because it’s partly tucked inside the cliffs. Many people miss it because they go straight to Seljalandsfoss, which makes it a nice quiet stop if you want fewer crowds.
If you’re visiting both on the same drive, Gljúfrabúi is very close to Seljalandsfoss, so it’s easy to stop by and see both in one trip.
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Stjórnarfoss
Distance from Vik: 1 hour 30 minutes
What the name means: Steering Falls
How tall is it: 25 meters
Head east from Vík for about an hour and a half and you will reach Stjórnarfoss. It is not the tallest of the waterfalls near Vik Iceland, but the green cliffs around it make this waterfall feel like it belongs in a fantasy world. Stjórnarfoss gave me some serious Game of Thrones vibes!
Locals enjoy this area as a peaceful picnic spot, and there are plenty of places to sit nearby. The waterfall drops about 25 meters, and the whole landscape around it feels magical.
If you are looking for a quieter stop away from the bigger waterfalls, Stjórnarfoss is a great choice and a nice addition to your southern Iceland itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to see between Vik and Selfoss?
If you’re wondering what to see between Vik and Selfoss, there are plenty of stops along the way. You’ll find black sand beaches near Vík, green hills, and small waterfalls. I like stopping at Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi to stretch and take photos. It’s easy to make a few quick stops and still enjoy the drive.
Is Vik Iceland worth visiting?
If you’re asking whether Vik Iceland is worth visiting, the answer is yes. Even though it’s a small town, it has black sand beaches, cliff views, and easy access to nearby waterfalls. It’s also a great base for seeing Reynisfjara beach and the southern coast.
What are the waterfalls on the way from Reykjavík to Vik?
For those wondering what are the waterfalls on the way from Reykjavík to Vik, the main stops are Seljalandsfoss, Gljúfrabúi, and Skógafoss. Each of these waterfalls near Vik is unique, so it’s worth stopping at all three. Make sure your camera is ready because every one of them is beautiful.
What is the most beautiful waterfall in Iceland?
When people ask what is the most beautiful waterfall in Iceland, I usually say Skógafoss makes the top of the list. It’s big, powerful, and the spray hits you as you get close. Standing at the bottom really shows you why it’s one of the most visited waterfalls near Vik.
What is the secret waterfall in Iceland?
If you’re curious about what is the secret waterfall in Iceland, Kvernufoss is the one to check out. It’s tucked away near Skógafoss and doesn’t get many visitors. I loved how quiet it was, and you can even walk behind the falls without dealing with a crowd.
Is Skogafoss worth it?
If you’re asking is Skogafoss worth it, the answer is definitely yes. The waterfall is huge and the mist makes it fun to get close. Climbing the stairs gives you a great view of the river stretching toward the coast. Even a quick stop is worth it, as it has a very easy access from the road.
What is the waterfall next to Skógafoss?
For anyone wondering what is the waterfall next to Skógafoss, it’s Kvernufoss. It’s smaller and much quieter than Skógafoss, which makes it feel more private. The short hike to get there is really nice and not too tiring.
How long does it take to see Skógafoss waterfall?
If you’re wondering how long does it take to see Skógafoss waterfall, a quick visit of 20 to 30 minutes is enough to see the base and take photos. If you climb the stairs to the top and explore a bit, plan for about an hour.
Final Thoughts On Waterfalls Near Vik
The waterfalls near Vik are a must-see for anyone exploring southern Iceland. From famous waterfalls like Skógafoss to hidden gems like Kvernufoss, each one has something special that makes it worth the stop.
Each waterfall has its own personality, and the best part is that they’re all close enough to visit in a single day. No matter which ones you pick, the waterfalls near Vik Iceland from this list are all worth a stop.
If you enjoy discovering hidden spots, you’ll want to check out my post on 13 Iceland Hidden Gems You Have to See to Believe. Many of these places are absolutely incredible and completely crowd-free!
Which of these waterfalls would you want to see first? Drop a comment below. I’d love to hear your favorites!
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Hi, I’m Vladana! I’m always on the lookout for unique travel experiences and destinations that are a little different from the usual. I love sharing my adventures on my blog with people who are looking for something they won’t find in typical travel guides. I also have a thing for unique boutique and luxury hotels that are an experience in themselves, not just a place to sleep.
