Skógafoss: Visiting Iceland’s Iconic Waterfall by Car Hire

Magnús Jóhann Björnsson
24 Sep. 2025

If you’ve seen photos of Iceland, chances are you’ve come across Skógafoss. This towering waterfall on the South Coast is one of the country’s most photographed natural landmarks. With its 60-meter drop, powerful mist, and the chance of spotting rainbows on sunny days, it’s a sight every traveler should experience.

The best part? Skógafoss is easy to reach by car. Whether you’re driving the full Ring Road or taking a day trip from Reykjavík, it’s one of the most accessible waterfalls in Iceland. Renting a car in Iceland gives you the freedom to stop here at your own pace and continue exploring nearby attractions.

Where is Skógafoss?

Skógafoss is located in the small village of Skógar, along Route 1 — Iceland’s Ring Road.

• From Reykjavík: about 155 km (a 2–2.5 hour drive).
  
  
• From Vik: about 30 km (a 30–40 minute drive).
  
  
• From Keflavík Airport: around 220 km (about 3 hours).
  
  

Because it sits directly along the Ring Road, it’s a natural stop for anyone driving along Iceland’s South Coast. Parking is free and located right next to the waterfall.

Why Visit Skógafoss?

There are hundreds of waterfalls in Iceland, but Skógafoss stands out for a few reasons:

• Size and power: At 60 meters tall and 25 meters wide, it’s one of the biggest waterfalls in the country.
  
  
• Rainbows: On sunny days, the mist often creates a vivid rainbow — sometimes even a double rainbow.
  
  
• Legends: Folklore tells of a Viking settler, Þrasi Þórólfsson, who hid a chest of treasure behind the falls.
  
  
• Film fame: Skógafoss has appeared in films and TV shows like Thor: The Dark World and Game of Thrones.
  
  
• Different perspectives: You can walk right up to the base for a soaking view or climb the staircase to a platform above for a wide-angle view of the waterfall and coastline.

Tips for Visiting Skógafoss

Skógafoss is one of the easiest waterfalls to visit in Iceland, but a little preparation makes the experience much better. Here are some practical tips to keep in mind when you stop here on your road trip:

• Arrive early or late to avoid peak tour bus crowds.
  
  
• Best lighting: mornings for fewer people, evenings for softer golden light.
  
  
• Footwear and clothing: wear waterproof shoes or boots and bring a rain jacket. The mist is strong, and you’ll get wet if you walk close to the base.
  
  
• Parking: a large parking lot is available right next to the waterfall with an enterence fee. It’s suitable for all vehicle types, from small cars to campervans. 
  
  
• Winter visits: ice can make the stairs slippery, so use caution.
  
  
• Hiking option: the Fimmvörðuháls trail starts at Skógafoss and runs between glaciers toward Þórsmörk, one of Iceland’s most famous multi-day hikes.

Follow these easy steps and you’ll have the best waterfall experience in Iceland at Skógafoss.

Driving to Skógafoss

The road to Skógafoss is paved and open year-round, making it one of the easiest major waterfalls to visit in Iceland.

• Summer (May–September): A 2WD rental car is perfectly fine for the South Coast.
  
  
• Winter (October–April): Conditions can be snowy and icy, so a 4x4 rental is recommended for extra safety.
  
  
• Parking: a large lot is right by the waterfall and suitable for all vehicle types, including campervans.
  
  

With a rental car, you can time your visit to avoid crowds and stop at other nearby landmarks along the way.

Nearby Attractions

One of the best reasons to visit Skógafoss is how close it is to other must-see spots:

• Seljalandsfoss – a 30 km drive west, where you can walk behind the falls.
  
  
• Gljúfrabúi – a hidden waterfall near Seljalandsfoss, tucked inside a canyon.
  
  
• Sólheimajökull Glacier – only 15 minutes east, where you can join glacier hikes.
  
  
• Dyrhólaey – a viewpoint near Vik with arches, cliffs, and puffins in summer.
  
  
• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – one of Iceland’s most famous beaches, also near Vik.
  
  

A trip to Skógafoss easily becomes a full South Coast adventure. If you want more here is our guide to Kvernufoss waterfall, a hidden gem next to Skogafoss.

Car Hire with Blue Car Rental

Planning a self-drive to Skógafoss? Blue Car Rental makes it simple.

• Wide choice of cars: 2WD cars for summer road trips, 4x4s for winter conditions.
  
  
• All-inclusive insurance: including gravel protection, with no surprise add-ons.
  
  
• No deposit or credit card hold: a smoother start to your journey.
  
  
• Quick pick-up: at Keflavík International Airport, Reykjavík city office, or via key box check-in.
  
  
• 24/7 roadside assistance: peace of mind wherever you go.
  
  

With a Blue rental car, you can explore Skógafoss and beyond without worrying about hidden fees or complicated rental terms.

Visiting Skógafoss in Summer vs. Winter

Other Waterfalls to See in Iceland by Rental Car

Skógafoss is just the beginning. With a rental car, you can reach many of Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls at your own pace. Here are a few worth adding to your itinerary:

• Gullfoss – Part of the Golden Circle, just a 1.5-hour drive from Reykjavík. This two-tiered waterfall is one of Iceland’s most famous and is especially dramatic in spring and early summer.
  
  
• Dettifoss – Located in North Iceland, this is Europe’s most powerful waterfall. It’s about a 30-minute drive from the town of Húsavík, best visited during summer when roads are clear.
  
  
• Goðafoss – Known as “The Waterfall of the Gods,” this crescent-shaped fall lies along the Ring Road in the north, making it easy to include on a longer self-drive trip.
  
  
• Dynjandi – A breathtaking cascade in the Westfjords. Its layered shape looks like a bridal veil, and though it takes more driving to reach, the scenery along the way makes it worth it.
  
  
• Hraunfossar and Barnafoss – Located in West Iceland near Borgarfjörður, these waterfalls are side by side. Hraunfossar flows through lava fields, while Barnafoss is fast and narrow.
  
  

Each of these waterfalls offers something unique, from raw power to peaceful beauty. And with the flexibility of a rental car, you can plan your route to see as many as you like without being tied to bus schedules. 

Conclusion

Skógafoss is more than just a waterfall — it’s an essential stop on any Iceland trip. Its easy access, stunning beauty, and location along the South Coast make it a favorite for self-drive travelers. With a reliable rental car, you can enjoy Skógafoss at your own pace and continue exploring the many attractions nearby.

Whether you’re planning a quick day trip from Reykjavík or a longer Ring Road journey, Skógafoss deserves a place on your itinerary. And with Blue Car Rental, you can get there comfortably, safely, and stress-free.