Visiting Iceland’s Svartifoss Waterfall, otherwise known as the Black Waterfall, is one of the more popular stops on the southern side of the Ring Road. And for good reason. While not as tall or powerful as others on the island. The towering falls pouring through and down the mountain’s black basalt columns is an incredible site. One that is well worth seeing in person. So to better help you on your Iceland trip, below we’ll cover the tips for the Svartifoss Waterfall hike. What to expect and what you can’t miss when visiting.
Iceland Svartifoss Waterfall Hike – Tips and Info
AllTrails Link: Click Here
Type: Out and Back
Distance: 2 Miles / 3.2 Kilometers
Elevation Gain: 400+ Feet / 120+ Meters
The parking lot is easily accessible to all types of vehicles, requiring no 4×4 vehicles. Onsite camping is available right next to the trailhead, and there are bathrooms on-site for convenience. The hike is a 2-mile (3.2km) out-and-back journey, featuring a significant 460+ feet (120+ meters) in elevation gain. Along the trail, you’ll encounter two major waterfalls, Manusafoss being the first and Svartifoss the second. The hike begins with a steep climb but levels out afterward. Beyond the Svartifoss viewing platform, the trail continues, leading to an upper viewpoint that offers stunning vistas of the nearby glacier, mountains, and ocean. This additional section adds about a mile to the hike, along with another 400 feet (120 meters) of elevation gain, but the effort is well rewarded.
Svartifoss Waterfall Hike Tips
- The parking lot is accessible for all vehicles, no 4×4 needed.
- There is onsite camping right next to the trail head.
- There are bathrooms available on site.
- The hike is a 2 mile (3.2km) out and back.
- Featuring 460+ feet (120+ meters) in elevation gain.
- There are two major waterfalls along the trail, Manusafoss and Svartifoss.
- Manusafoss is the first waterfall on the trail and Svartifoss is the second waterfall.
- The hike starts with a good climb then levels out.
- The trail keeps going past the Svartifoss viewing platform, leading to an upper viewpoint overlooking the nearby glacier, mountains, and ocean.
- This section will add about a mile out and back along with another 400ft (120 meters) of elevation gain. But is worth the effort (see the above video).
Common Questions and Answers
What is Svartifoss Waterfall?
Svartifoss, also known as the Black Falls, is a stunning waterfall located in Skaftafell, within Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland. It is renowned for its unique appearance, as it is surrounded by dark basalt columns, giving it a distinctive and otherworldly look.
How do I get to Svartifoss Waterfall?
To reach Svartifoss, you can start your hike from the Skaftafell Visitor Center in Vatnajökull National Park. The hike to Svartifoss takes about 1.5 to 2 hours round trip and is approximately 1.8 kilometers (about 1.1 miles) one way. The trail is well-marked and offers beautiful views along the way.
Are there any unique features about Svartifoss?
Yes, one of the most unique features of Svartifoss is its backdrop of hexagonal basalt columns, which are reminiscent of organ pipes. These columns were formed by lava cooling slowly and evenly, creating this iconic geological formation that makes Svartifoss stand out among Iceland’s waterfalls.
Is it safe to visit Svartifoss Waterfall?
Yes, visiting Svartifoss is generally safe, but like any outdoor activity in Iceland, it’s important to be prepared for changing weather conditions and to stay on marked trails. The trail to Svartifoss can be slippery when wet, so appropriate footwear is essential. Also, be cautious around the waterfall’s edges, as the rocks can be slippery.
When is the best time to visit Svartifoss Waterfall?
Svartifoss is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is milder, and the trail is more accessible. The waterfall can be particularly striking in early summer when the surrounding cliffs are covered in lush green vegetation. However, the trail may be icy or closed in winter, so check with the visitor center for current conditions if you plan a visit during the off-season.
Photos
Final Thoughts
Iceland’s Svartifoss waterfall hike is one of the more popular stops along the southern ring road. And It’s easy to understand why. The stunning black basalt columns with water pouring out from over the edge like a faucet is just too special to be missed. And such an incredible reward for a relatively short hike. All that said, one of the highlights of this area is just beyond the falls. And a short hike up to the top of the basin. Providing expansive views of the mountains, glaciers, and ocean in the distance. It feels like you can see forever. And with the slightly longer hike, there will definitely be less people. So check out the images below and make sure to watch the video from our Svartifoss waterfall hike.
Below are some photos from day one stop five. Including the two waterfalls and incredible view from the top of the trail. If you have any questions about doing this hike, let me know in the comments below!