Skógafoss Waterfall: A Must-See (and Accessible!) Stop in Southern Iceland
If you’re planning a road trip through southern Iceland, Skógafoss Waterfall is one spot you absolutely can’t miss. Towering at 60 meters high and 25 meters wide, this stunning cascade is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls—and the best part? It’s highly accessible, making it a fantastic stop even for travelers with chronic illness, mobility challenges, or those just looking to keep it low-effort.
We visited in early September, during the shoulder season, which meant fewer crowds and more time to simply enjoy the beauty without feeling rushed. We actually went twice—once in the evening and again early the next morning—and were able to skip the mid-day tour bus rush both times.
How to Get There
Skógafoss is about a 2-hour drive from Reykjavík. Just head east on Route 1 (the Ring Road) and you’ll see the waterfall off to the left—it’s hard to miss! Parking is right next to the falls, and it’s just a short, flat walk from your car to the base of the waterfall.
If you’re traveling in a camper van, you can even park in the lot and enjoy the waterfall views right from your vehicle—we loved sipping coffee from the back of our camper van, doors open, taking in the falls.
If you’re feeling up for it, there’s an optional overlook hike that takes you up about 500 steep steps to the top of the falls. I (Emily) hiked it 9 years ago on my first trip to Iceland, but with POTS and adrenal insufficiency, it wasn’t in the cards for me this time—and that’s okay. The view from below is just as magical.
Amenities at Skógafoss
This area is well set up for travelers, with:
Public bathrooms
A nearby campground
Hotel Skógafoss, located right at the base of the falls
Skógafoss Bistro Bar — where we had dinner!
We tried the lamb burger and lamb shank—both delicious, hearty meals that hit the spot after a day of exploring. It’s a cozy, casual spot to warm up and take in the views.
Skógafoss offers that perfect mix of epic scenery and easy access, which isn’t always easy to find when you’re traveling with chronic illness or just prefer slower-paced adventures. Whether you’re road-tripping Iceland in a camper van or staying in boutique hotels, this stop belongs on your itinerary.
Have you been to Skógafoss? We’d love to hear about your experience—and if you’re planning a trip soon, feel free to ask questions in the comments or reach out on Instagram.
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