01
S2 · Svartifoss, Sjónarsker & Sel
The classic official circuit combines the waterfall with woodland, a viewpoint and cultural history.
- Distance
- 5.8 km
- Time
- About 2 hours
- Climb
- 250 m
The classic Skaftafell waterfall walk
The Svartifoss Hike
Plan the full S2 loop, understand the climb and decide whether to add Sel, Sjónarsker or the glacier view from Sjónarnípa.
Official loopS2 · 5.8 km
Estimated timeAbout 2 hours
ElevationAbout 250 m
StartSkaftafellsstofa
The short answer
Walk the Full Loop
The official S2 route continues beyond Svartifoss through Sjónarsker and the old turf site at Sel. That wider circuit makes the walk feel like an introduction to Skaftafell rather than a single waterfall visit. The route is listed as easy, but its ascent, steps and slippery surfaces deserve respect.
How the walk unfolds
Five Stages of the Full Loop
The path is signed, but knowing its rhythm helps visitors budget effort and understand why turning around at the first view misses much of the route.
- 01Start
Leave via the Campground
The signed trail begins beside the visitor centre. The first section is deceptively gentle before the route turns uphill.
- 02Climb
Gain height past smaller waterfalls
The approach rises through vegetation and passes views toward Hundafoss and Magnúsarfoss. The waterfall is earned through steady ascent.
- 03First view
Reach the viewpoint above Svartifoss
After roughly 1.5 km and about 140 metres of ascent, the trail reaches the upper viewpoint before descending into the ravine.
- 04Ravine
Cross below the basalt amphitheatre
The path descends, crosses the footbridge and climbs stone steps on the opposite side. Wet rock, snow and ice require care.
- 05Loop
Continue through Sjónarsker and Sel
The official S2 circuit extends beyond the waterfall to open views and the historic turf site at Sel before returning to the visitor area.
Choose the wider day
Three sensible ways to build around Svartifoss
Use the official park timings as baselines. Photography, crowds, weather and individual pace can extend the day.
Why the columns look this way
How the Basalt Columns Formed
The national park dates the lava flow behind the columns to about 300,000 years ago. Lava filled an old riverbed, cooled slowly, contracted and split into columns perpendicular to the cooling surface.
01
Look at the entire amphitheatre
The broken dark columns, not only the water, give Svartifoss its strong architectural character.
02
Stay on the managed route
The ravine is a protected landscape. Use the bridge, platforms and marked path rather than seeking a closer unofficial angle.
03
Expect changing water volume
Weather and season influence the waterfall's appearance. The basalt setting remains the defining reason to visit.
Conditions change the difficulty
How the Trail Changes by Season
The park notes compacted surfaces, mats, wooden structures and stone steps. Each reacts differently to water, snow and ice.
Summer rain
Wet compacted soil and steps can be slippery. Waterproof layers and footwear with useful grip matter even on a short plan.
Winter ice
Snow and ice can materially change footing and pace. Ask at the visitor centre what traction and route choice suit the day.
Limited daylight
Do not begin from the summer time estimate alone. Keep enough daylight for the return and for slower winter movement.
Physical limitations
The park cautions that the climb can challenge visitors with weak legs or poor health despite the easy classification.
Quick answers
Svartifoss FAQ
How long is the Svartifoss hike?
The official S2 circuit is 5.8 km and estimated at about two hours. It includes Sjónarsker and Sel rather than ending at the first waterfall viewpoint.
Is the Svartifoss trail easy?
The park labels S2 easy, but the loop gains about 250 metres and includes steps. Wet, snowy or icy surfaces increase the difficulty.
Can I combine Svartifoss with Sjónarnípa?
Yes. Official route S6 is a 7.1 km circuit estimated at 2.5-3 hours, combining the waterfall with elevated views toward Skaftafellsjökull.
Where does the trail start?
The marked route begins by Skaftafellsstofa Visitor Centre and initially passes through the campground before turning uphill.
Last checked · 30 August 2026
Check Current Trail Conditions
Surface conditions, winter ice and temporary work can change the practical experience. Use the official route page and ask at Skaftafellsstofa when conditions are uncertain.
Official Svartifoss destination guide Official S2 route details Official S6 Svartifoss and Sjónarnípa routeCompare the wider trail network