Iceland · Southeast Iceland
Svartifoss
Black Falls
Dark hexagonal basalt columns frame the falls like a natural pipe organ, a formation that directly inspired the design of Reykjavík's Hallgrímskirkja church. It's reached by an hour-long uphill walk from the Skaftafell visitor center in Vatnajökull National Park.
Dark hexagonal basalt columns frame the falls like a natural pipe organ, a formation that directly inspired the design of Reykjavík's Hallgrímskirkja church. It's reached by an hour-long uphill walk from the Skaftafell visitor center in Vatnajökull National Park.
Svartifoss drops 20 metres (66 ft) on the Stjórnarós, inside Vatnajökull National Park. It is a plunge-type fall, and the nearest base for a visit is Skaftafell. Access to the main viewpoint is rated moderate.
Summer keeps the hiking trail from Skaftafell visitor center clear of snow and ice.
What you can do here
Hiking
From ten-minute boardwalks to multi-day approaches through cloud forest.
Photography
Light angles, moonbows, spray management and the hours that actually work.
When to go
Summer keeps the hiking trail from Skaftafell visitor center clear of snow and ice.
Entry: Free; Skaftafell parking fee
Getting there
- Base townSkaftafell
- CountryIceland
- RegionSoutheast Iceland, Europe
- AccessModerate — a real walk — expect stairs, uneven ground or an hour on the trail
On the map
64.0175, -16.9758
Quick answers
How tall is Svartifoss?
Svartifoss drops 20 metres (66 feet). It is a plunge-type waterfall on the Stjórnarós.
When is the best time to visit Svartifoss?
Peak flow is June to September. Summer keeps the hiking trail from Skaftafell visitor center clear of snow and ice.
What can you do at Svartifoss?
Beyond the viewpoints: hiking and photography. Access to the main viewpoint is rated moderate — a real walk — expect stairs, uneven ground or an hour on the trail.
How do you get to Svartifoss?
The usual base is Skaftafell. A real walk — expect stairs, uneven ground or an hour on the trail from there. Free; Skaftafell parking fee.
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