Gullfoss: The Golden Giant
One of Iceland's most iconic and beloved waterfalls, Gullfoss, or the 'Golden Falls', is a must-see. Located on the popular Golden Circle route, it's a powerful, two-tiered cascade that thunders into a deep canyon. On sunny days, the mist creates shimmering
rainbows over the falls, offering a truly spectacular sight. Its sheer scale is humbling, and the viewing platforms provide fantastic photo opportunities. Most tours from Reykjavík include a stop here, making it very accessible for first-time visitors.
Seljalandsfoss: Walk Behind the Water
For a truly unique experience, head to Seljalandsfoss on the South Coast. This is the famous waterfall you can walk behind. A path leads you into a small cave behind the curtain of water, allowing for an unforgettable perspective and incredible photos. Be prepared to get wet from the spray, so a waterproof jacket and protection for your camera or phone are essential. It's easily reachable from the main Ring Road and is often the first major stop on a South Coast tour.
Skógafoss: A Classic Beauty
Just a short drive from Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss is a picture-perfect waterfall. Dropping 60 metres in a wide, powerful curtain, its classic rectangular shape is instantly recognisable. A staircase next to the falls allows you to climb to the top for a breathtaking view of the water plunging down and the coastline beyond. Legend has it that a Viking buried treasure in the cave behind the falls. On sunny days, the powerful spray frequently produces single or even double rainbows.
Goðafoss: The Waterfall of the Gods
Located in Northern Iceland, Goðafoss is not just beautiful but also steeped in history. Its name translates to 'Waterfall of the Gods'. According to sagas, in the year 1000, a lawspeaker made Christianity the official religion of Iceland and threw his statues of the Norse gods into this very waterfall. The elegant, crescent-shaped cascade is easily accessible from the Ring Road and is a highlight for anyone travelling in the north of the country.
Planning Your Trip from India
Indian citizens need a Schengen visa to travel to Iceland. You must apply for this in advance through a visa application centre like VFS Global, as there is no visa-on-arrival facility. The process requires a valid passport, flight itineraries, proof of accommodation, travel insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000, and proof of sufficient funds. There are no direct flights from India to Reykjavík. The most common routes involve a layover in European cities like Helsinki, London, Amsterdam, or Frankfurt, with airlines such as Finnair, British Airways, and Lufthansa offering connecting flights from major Indian airports.
When to Visit & What to Eat
The best time to see the waterfalls in their full glory is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is milder, the days are long, and all roads are open. Spring is also a great time, as melting snow increases the water flow. For vegetarians, Iceland, and especially Reykjavík, offers a surprisingly wide range of options. Major supermarkets like Krónan have extensive plant-based sections, perfect for stocking up for a road trip. Most restaurants, even in smaller towns, will have at least one vegetarian dish, often a soup or pasta. In Reykjavík, you will find dedicated vegan and vegetarian restaurants.
