city guide

The best waterfalls in Vatnajokull National Park

A hand-picked guide to 1 of the most stunning waterfalls in Vatnajokull National Park. Each entry below has our personal notes, photos, driving directions and the practical detail you need to plan a visit — from parking and hike lengths to swimming rules and the best time of year to go.

Geology

#1 · 44 m drop

Dettifoss

Vatnajokull National Park · Northeastern Region · Iceland

Dettifoss — heroDettifoss — photo 2

Dettifoss, the filming location of the movie *Prometheus*, feels like a truly desolate wilderness where there is almost no one around. Along the road, there are only occasional wooden poles with yellow-painted tops to guide the way.

Clambering over dark volcanic rocks, I felt like a small creature moving through an ancient, untamed landscape. I took many live photos, trying to preserve this moment—the sound of the wind, the roar of the water, my footsteps, even the friction of my clothes.

The slanted sunlight seemed to reveal the shape of the wind itself. In that moment, I was so overwhelmed by the experience that I almost teared up.

Waterfall canyon
Safety first

Stay safe at every waterfall

Wet rocks, hidden currents and fast-changing weather catch out experienced hikers every year. Read our quick safety guide before you head out.

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