Location: Map
Height: 82 ft (25 m)
Svartifoss, which translates to "Black Falls" in Icelandic, is one of Iceland's most distinctive and photogenic waterfalls, renowned not for its size or power but for its stunning geological backdrop. Unlike many of the country's more thunderous cascades, Svartifoss features a modest drop where crystal-clear water tumbles gracefully over a cliff adorned with dark, hexagonal basalt columns that resemble the pipes of a massive natural organ. These columns, formed from ancient volcanic activity, create a dramatic contrast against the surrounding lush greenery, moss-covered rocks, and occasional bursts of wildflowers in summer. The waterfall's name derives from the deep, almost black hue of these basalt formations, which frame the falling water like a gothic amphitheater. At the base, shattered fragments of these columns litter the ground, adding to the raw, untamed beauty of the site. Though it may not overwhelm with volume, Svartifoss captivates visitors with its symmetrical elegance and the serene pool that collects at its foot, often reflecting the surrounding scenery in calm weather. Svartifoss Waterfall is located in Vatnajökull National Park (former Skaftafell National Park) in Iceland.
Nestled in the heart of southeast Iceland, Svartifoss is situated within the Skaftafell Nature Reserve, which forms part of the larger Vatnajökull National Park—the largest national park in Europe. This area is characterized by a diverse landscape of birch woodlands, glacial tongues, lava fields, rivers, and streams, all dominated by the massive Vatnajökull glacier. The waterfall is tucked away in a gorge, accessible via hiking trails from the Skaftafell Visitor Center, which lies along Iceland's Ring Road (Route 1), about 327 kilometers (203 miles) east of Reykjavík. Its remote yet reachable position makes it a popular stop for those exploring the South Coast, with coordinates approximately at 64.0278° N, 16.9753° W.
Svartifoss measures approximately 20 meters (66 feet) in height, making it relatively small compared to giants like Seljalandsfoss or Skógafoss. The flow is fed by meltwater from the nearby Svartifossjökull glacier, resulting in a steady but not overpowering cascade that varies seasonally—stronger in summer with increased melt and potentially frozen or reduced in winter. The water plunges into a shallow, rocky pool surrounded by vegetation, creating a misty atmosphere that enhances the site's ethereal quality. The surrounding cliffs curve gently, amplifying the visual symmetry of the basalt formations.
The hallmark of Svartifoss is its hexagonal basalt columns, a geological phenomenon resulting from volcanic processes dating back around 300,000 years. Iceland's position on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates diverge, led to extensive lava flows from ancient eruptions. As the molten lava cooled slowly and contracted, it fractured into polygonal patterns—predominantly hexagons—forming these columnar joints. Over millennia, erosion from glaciers, wind, water, and the river itself carved through the softer rock layers, exposing the more resistant basalt and creating the waterfall's dramatic alcove. This process continues today, with water gradually wearing away at the columns, causing pieces to break off and accumulate below. Similar formations can be seen elsewhere in Iceland, such as at Reynisfjara Beach or Gerðuberg Cliffs, but Svartifoss's integration with a waterfall makes it uniquely striking.
By Car (Recommended for Flexibility)
Driving is the easiest and
most popular option, giving you control over stops along the scenic
South Coast route.
Route: Head east from Reykjavík on Route 1
(the Ring Road) for about 200 miles (320 km). The drive takes
approximately 4 hours without stops, but plan for 5-6 hours to account
for photo opportunities at landmarks like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss
waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, or the Dyrhólaey cliffs.
Turnoff: Look for the signposted exit to Skaftafell just off Route 1,
about 30 minutes past the town of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. It's well-marked
and leads to a short side road (Road 998) to the visitor center parking
lot.
Parking: Free parking is available at the Skaftafell Visitor
Centre, though a small fee may apply in peak season (check on-site). No
4x4 is needed; a standard 2WD vehicle is fine year-round on paved roads,
but winter tires or chains may be required from November to April.
From Other Points: If coming from the east (e.g., Höfn or Jökulsárlón
glacier lagoon), it's about 1-1.5 hours west on Route 1. From Vík, it's
roughly 1.5 hours east.
Renting a car in Iceland is
straightforward via airports or city centers—opt for insurance covering
gravel and ash damage.
By Public Bus
Public transport is
limited but possible, especially in summer (June-August), when schedules
are more frequent. It's a longer journey and less flexible for day
trips.
Main Operator: Straeto (straeto.is) runs bus line 51 from
Mjódd bus terminal in Reykjavík to Skaftafell. The trip takes 6-7 hours
one way, with departures once daily in summer and less often in winter
(check schedules, as weather can cancel services). Cost is around
10,000-15,000 ISK round-trip.
Other Options: Sterna buses offer
similar routes with more stops along the South Coast. For a direct-ish
service, Þingvallaleið (bustravel.is) connects Reykjavík to Skaftafell
in about 6 hours, continuing to Höfn. In winter, options drop to a few
times per week.
Drawbacks: Buses don't run early/late enough for
short visits, and you may need to overnight in Skaftafell (camping or
hotels available). Not ideal for solo travelers without a car.
If
you're not driving, consider joining a guided day tour from Reykjavík,
which often includes transport, a guide, and stops at Svartifoss—book
via sites like Guide to Iceland or Reykjavik Excursions.
Once at Skaftafell Visitor Centre, the waterfall is accessible only
on foot—no vehicles allowed beyond the parking area.
Trail Start:
Begins right from the visitor center, where you can grab maps or info
from rangers.
Details: The well-marked path (S2 trail) is about 1
mile (1.5 km) one way, with a 300-foot (90m) elevation gain. It's
moderately steep at the start but levels out, passing through birch
forests and offering views of glaciers and other small waterfalls.
Expect uneven terrain, steps, and possibly muddy sections after rain.
Time and Difficulty: 30-45 minutes up, 20-30 minutes down—total round
trip 1-1.5 hours at a leisurely pace. Rated moderate; suitable for most
fitness levels, but not wheelchair-accessible due to stairs and
inclines. Kids can manage with supervision.
Extensions: For a longer
adventure, continue on loop trails to viewpoints like Sjónarnípa
(glacier views) or combine with the nearby Skaftafellsjökull glacier
tongue hike.
While Svartifoss lacks ancient folklore ties like some Icelandic sites, its geological features have profoundly influenced modern Icelandic culture and architecture. The basalt columns inspired renowned architect Guðjón Samúelsson in designing iconic structures, including the ceiling of the National Theatre (Þjóðleikhúsið) in Reykjavík and the facade of Hallgrímskirkja, Iceland's tallest church, which mimics the columnar patterns. Additionally, American artist Richard Serra drew from similar formations for his "Milestones" installation on Viðey Island. Historically, the Skaftafell area was a farming settlement before becoming a protected reserve in 1967 and integrating into Vatnajökull National Park in 2008, preserving it as a symbol of Iceland's volcanic heritage.
Preparation: Dress in layers with waterproof clothing, as weather can
change rapidly and spray from the falls can make paths slippery. Bring
water, snacks, and trekking poles if needed for stability.
Access: No
entrance fee for the park or waterfall (as of 2021), but expect a
parking fee at the visitor center. Self-drive is recommended; rent a car
or join a South Coast tour from Reykjavík.
Safety and Etiquette:
Stick to marked paths to prevent erosion, avoid getting too close to the
falls' edge, and pack out all trash. In winter, crampons may be
necessary for ice.
Crowds: Visit early morning or late afternoon to
avoid peak tourist times, especially in summer.
Guided Options: While
no specific tours are required, glacier hiking excursions in nearby
Svínafellsjökull often include a stop here.
Svartifoss is accessible year-round, but summer (June-August) offers the mildest weather, longer daylight, and vibrant greenery, making hikes more enjoyable. Winter visits provide a frozen wonderland aesthetic with icicles and snow, but trails can be icy and challenging, requiring extra caution. Spring and fall bring fewer crowds and colorful foliage or early snow, though weather is unpredictable.
Within Vatnajökull National Park, explore glacier tongues like Svínafellsjökull for hiking or ice climbing. En route along the South Coast, stop at Seljalandsfoss (where you can walk behind the falls) and Skógafoss, or visit the black-sand beaches of Reynisfjara with its own basalt columns. Further east, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach are about 30 minutes away, offering stunning icebergs and seals. For a deeper dive into Iceland's geology, the Perlan Museum in Reykjavík features exhibits on volcanic formations similar to those at Svartifoss.