Svartifoss Waterfall

Overview

Svartifoss Waterfall is a striking waterfall located in Vatnajökull National Park, known for its black basalt columns that frame the cascading water.

The unique basalt columns inspired the architectural design of Hallgrímskirkja, a famous church in Reykjavík.

Waterfall Hiking Photography

Location

Address

Coordinates: 64.02796, 16.97529

Neighborhood: Vík

Coordinates

64.027960, 16.975290

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 24/7 (accessible at all times)

tuesday 24/7 (accessible at all times)

wednesday 24/7 (accessible at all times)

thursday 24/7 (accessible at all times)

friday 24/7 (accessible at all times)

saturday 24/7 (accessible at all times)

sunday 24/7 (accessible at all times)

Admission

Adults

Free

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

May-September

Best Time of Day

Mid-morning or afternoon

Good lighting for photography and fewer crowds

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

30 minutes

Recommended

1-2 hours

Full Experience

Half day (including hike)

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild, unpredictable

• Melting ice
• Spring blooms

summer

Warm, pleasant

• Lush greenery
• Long daylight hours

autumn

Cool, crisp

• Fall colors
• Clear skies

winter

Cold, icy

• Frozen waterfall
• Snowy landscapes

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Wear appropriate footwear
Check weather conditions
Carry water and snacks

What to Bring

essential

Hiking boots Waterproof jacket Camera

seasonal

Crampons (winter) Sunglasses (summer)

not allowed

Drones without permit Littering

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate

• Uneven terrain
• Slippery rocks

Medical facilities: Nearest medical facility in Vík

Payment Information

Accepted

Credit cards, Cash (limited)

Currency

Icelandic króna (ISK)

Typical Costs

entry $0

parking $5

food $15

souvenirs $20

Dress Code

Weather-appropriate clothing, Layered clothing, hiking boots, Waterproof hiking boots, Inappropriate footwear (flip-flops, high heels)

Booking Tips

• Not required, but recommended for guided tours
• Official Vatnajökull National Park website
• Varies by tour operator
• Guided tours

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Vatnajökull National Park

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Park information, Weather updates

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Keflavík International Airport

Distance: 200 km

Travel Time: 3-4 hours

car

$100 3-4 hours

public_transport

$50 4-5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 180 km

car

$80 3 hours

bus

$30 3.5 hours

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique natural beauty, cultural significance

Historical Significance: Inspired Icelandic architecture and art

Insider Tips

Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light
Combine with a visit to the nearby Reynisfjara Beach for a full day of exploration

Local Recommendations

• Visit the nearby Reynisfjara Beach
• Try local Icelandic cuisine in Vík

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Halló

thank_you Takk

where_is Hvar er

how_much Hversu mikið kostar þetta

beautiful Fagurt

ticket Inngangseinkenni

Guide Languages: Icelandic, English, German

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Base of the waterfall

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide angle for the full view

Result: Stunning waterfall shot

#Iceland #Waterfall #Nature

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas

prohibited areas None

flash photography Allowed

commercial photography Permit needed for professional shoots

drone policy Permit required

tripod policy Allowed

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Reynisfjara Beach

Distance: 1km

Walking: 15 min

Type: Beach

Dyrhólaey

Distance: 30km

Walking: Not walkable

Type: Viewpoint

Skaftafell

Distance: 100km