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Faxi Waterfall, also widely known as Faxafoss or Vatnsleysufoss, is one of the most captivating yet underrated waterfalls in Iceland. Nestled along the world-famous Golden Circle sightseeing route in South Iceland, this wide and graceful cascade delivers a peaceful, crowd-free experience that stands in welcome contrast to the busier stops like Gullfoss and the Geysir Geothermal Area. For travelers seeking an authentic encounter with Iceland’s natural beauty, Faxi Waterfall is an unmissable detour.
Stretching roughly 80 to 91 metres across the Tungufljot River and dropping about seven meters over a single basalt ledge, Faxi Waterfall creates a stunning curtain-like cascade that has earned it the affectionate nickname “little Gullfoss.” Yet Faxi is far more than a smaller sibling to its famous neighbour. It offers its own distinct personality: a serene atmosphere, a fascinating salmon ladder, lush surrounding vegetation, and a rich connection to Icelandic cultural heritage.
The name Faxi originates from the Icelandic word “fax,” which means “mane” – specifically the mane of a horse. When you watch the water cascade over the wide basalt ledge, the rippling motion closely resembles the flowing hair of an Icelandic horse’s mane blowing in the wind. Icelandic horses are among the country’s most beloved national symbols, so the name Faxi carries deep cultural resonance.
According to Icelandic literary tradition, the poet Stephan G. Stephansson is credited with popularising the name Faxi. When he visited the falls – then known primarily as Vatnsleysufoss – he felt the waterfall deserved a more evocative name and declared that it reminded him of a horse’s mane.
The alternate name Vatnsleysufoss translates roughly to “Empty Falls,” which seems contradictory for a waterfall that flows powerfully year-round. Scholars believe the name derives from the nearby Vatnsleysa farm (meaning “shortage of water”) rather than describing the waterfall itself. Meanwhile, the name Faxafoss is simply a compound of Faxi and the Icelandic word “foss” for waterfall.
Faxi Waterfall is located in the municipality of Blaskogabyggd in South Iceland, directly along the celebrated Golden Circle tourist route. Sitting on the Tungufljot River approximately 104 kilometres east of Reykjavik, the waterfall occupies a strategic position between several of the Golden Circle’s most popular attractions.
Faxi Waterfall Distance from Major Golden Circle Attractions
The waterfall is situated in a broad, flat farming area where the presence of a cascade comes as a genuine surprise. This unexpected setting is part of Faxi’s charm – rolling pastoral countryside suddenly gives way to the rush and spray of glacial water tumbling over volcanic rock.
The most common route from Reykjavik follows Road 1 (Vesturlandsvegur) northeast to Mosfellsbaer, then joins Road 361 (Thingvallavegur). Continue past Lake Thingvallavatn on Road 365 (Lyngdalsheioavegur) to reach Laugarvatn village.
From there, take Road 37 (Laugarvatnsvegur) and connect to Road 35 heading south. The clearly signposted turnoff to Faxi Waterfall is on Road 35, approximately six kilometres south of the Route 37/35 junction. Follow the signs for about 100 metres along a short gravel track to reach the parking area.
If you are already driving the Golden Circle, reaching Faxi Waterfall requires only a quick five-minute detour. At the junction of Route 35 and Route 37 near Geysir, continue south on Route 35 toward Reykholt and Selfoss. Look for the sign reading “Vid Faxa” on your left.
The short gravel road leads directly to a well-sized car park with views of the falls. Because Faxi sits between Geysir and Gullfoss on the route, many travellers slot it in as a peaceful midday break.
Faxi Waterfall is included on several Golden Circle guided tours and minibus excursions departing from Reykjavik, though not all operators feature it. Private Golden Circle tours, often available by luxury SUV or Jeep, frequently include Faxi as a special off-the-beaten-path stop. For those who prefer maximum flexibility, a self-drive rental car allows you to linger at Faxi as long as you wish.
The centerpiece of any visit to Faxi is its wide, single-tier cascade. Glacial water from the Tungufljot River flows over a broad basalt ledge in a smooth, unbroken curtain that stretches nearly the full width of the river. The relatively gentle slope allows visitors to approach remarkably close to the water’s edge, feeling the cool mist and hearing the soothing rush.
In summer, vibrant green vegetation frames the white foam; in winter, the falls often partially freeze into intricate ice sculptures. Faxi’s elegant width has earned it the popular nickname “little Gullfoss,” though its atmosphere is far more serene than its thundering neighbour.
One of the most distinctive and fascinating features at Faxi is the salmon ladder (fish ladder) built along the left side of the waterfall. This man-made structure consists of a series of cascading steps and pools designed to help Atlantic salmon overcome the seven-metre drop during their upstream migration to spawning grounds. The ladder plays a vital role in preserving the salmon population in the Tungufljot River and represents Iceland’s deep commitment to ecological stewardship.
During the salmon season in late summer and early autumn (roughly July through September), visitors can often witness the remarkable sight of salmon leaping their way up the ladder – a compelling natural spectacle. The Tungufljot River is widely regarded as one of the finest salmon and brown trout fishing locations in Iceland, with around 400 salmon making the journey each year.
The site features well-maintained observation platforms providing panoramic views of the entire cascade and the river stretching downstream. Boardwalks connect the upper and lower viewing areas, allowing visitors to experience Faxi Waterfall from multiple perspectives. The upper platform offers a sweeping overview, while the lower level brings you close enough to feel the spray and appreciate the raw scale of the cascade.
The constant moisture from the waterfall’s spray creates a micro-environment that supports lush vegetation rarely found in Iceland’s drier interior. Mosses and ferns carpet the rocks near the water, while native shrubs, wildflowers, and even lupine blooms flourish along the banks during summer.
The surrounding countryside is also a rewarding destination for birdwatching, with a rich diversity of indigenous Icelandic bird species nesting in the area. Visitors exploring nearby hiking trails may also spot Icelandic horses grazing in the neighbouring fields.
Faxi Waterfall sits on the Tungufljot River, which originates in the Icelandic highlands and is fed primarily by glacial meltwater from Langjokull, Iceland’s second-largest ice cap. The Tungufljot runs parallel to and eventually joins the Hvita River, which itself feeds the mighty Gullfoss Waterfall downstream. This interconnected network of glacially-fed waterways defines much of South Iceland’s dramatic landscape.
Geologically, the waterfall flows over layered volcanic basalt formations characteristic of Iceland’s Mid-Atlantic Ridge rift zone. The relatively uniform ledge creating Faxi’s signature curtain-like cascade is the product of millennia of water erosion working on successive lava flows. The basalt’s columnar structure and horizontal layering give the waterfall its distinctive flat, wide profile – a shape more reminiscent of a weir than a vertical plunge.
Interestingly, historical records indicate there was once an old fording point above the waterfall, used before bridges made crossing the Tungufljot straightforward. This detail underlines how integral the river and its waterfall have been to the area’s human geography for centuries.
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The name Faxi – meaning “horse’s mane” – ties the waterfall to one of Iceland’s most iconic cultural symbols. Icelandic horses have been an inseparable part of island life for over a thousand years, brought by the original Norse settlers. The association between the waterfall’s flowing cascade and the horse’s mane infuses Faxi with a poetic quality that resonates deeply in Icelandic tradition.
Just 17 kilometres from Faxi lies Skalholt, one of Iceland’s most historically significant sites. Skalholt served as one of the country’s two episcopal seats from the 11th to the 18th century and was a major political, cultural, and religious centre throughout the medieval period.
Today, visitors can explore Skalholt Cathedral and the museum in its basement, which chronicles the settlement’s profound role in shaping Icelandic religious and intellectual life.
The village of Reykholt, located approximately 40 kilometres northeast of Faxi, was once the intellectual heart of Iceland. It was home to Snorri Sturluson, the 13th-century chieftain, poet, and historian whose literary masterworks – including the Prose Edda and Heimskringla – are foundational pillars of Scandinavian cultural heritage. The proximity of Faxi Waterfall to Reykholt connects the natural wonder to this rich intellectual legacy.
Every September, the area around Faxi Waterfall becomes the stage for Rettir, Iceland’s centuries-old annual sheep round-up. During summer, over 800,000 sheep roam freely across the Icelandic highlands. Before winter arrives, farmers gather them using horses, sheepdogs, ATVs, and local volunteers, then sort them in traditional circular pens. A sorting corral is visible from Faxi’s viewing platform.
If you visit during September, you may witness this ancient tradition firsthand – and even join the festivities that follow, which typically include lamb feasts and community celebrations. The Rettir has been a defining social and cultural event in Iceland since the 9th century.
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There is no entrance fee to view Faxi Waterfall. However, the site is privately owned, and a small parking fee applies. As of recent visitor reports, the cost is approximately 900 ISK (roughly 6–7 USD) per regular vehicle. Payment is made at a barrier or self-service pay station near the car park entrance.
The walk from the car park to the viewing platforms is short and suitable for most fitness levels, making Faxi one of the most accessible waterfalls in Iceland. Well-maintained boardwalks connect the upper and lower viewing areas. However, in winter, icy and snowy conditions can make paths slippery, requiring extra caution and proper footwear.
Faxi and Gullfoss are connected by the same river system and both feature wide cascades, but they deliver very different experiences. Here is a detailed comparison to help you decide – though we strongly recommend visiting both.
Our recommendation: visit both. Gullfoss delivers jaw-dropping power, while Faxi offers the kind of peaceful, intimate waterfall experience that many travellers remember most fondly. Since they are only 20 kilometres apart, combining both is effortless on a Golden Circle day trip.
Since Faxi sits between Geysir and Gullfoss on the Golden Circle route, a logical itinerary begins at Thingvellir National Park, then continues to the Geysir Geothermal Area, followed by Faxi Waterfall as a serene midday break.
After Faxi, continue 20 kilometres to Gullfoss, then loop back south via Kerid Crater and the Secret Lagoon at Fludir. This order allows you to experience the Golden Circle’s highlights in a natural geographic flow while giving Faxi the unhurried attention it deserves.
Most visitors spend 15 to 30 minutes at Faxi Waterfall. However, those who wish to explore the walking trails, photograph the salmon ladder, enjoy a picnic, or dine at the Vid Faxa restaurant should plan to allocate 45 minutes to one hour. If you are visiting during September’s Rettir sheep round-up, you may wish to stay even longer.
24 Hours
Faxi Waterfall, also widely known as Faxafoss or Vatnsleysufoss, is one of the most captivating yet underrated waterfalls in Iceland. Nestled along the world-famous Golden Circle sightseeing route in South Iceland, this wide and graceful cascade delivers a peaceful, crowd-free experience that stands in welcome contrast to the busier stops like Gullfoss and the Geysir Geothermal Area. For travelers seeking an authentic encounter with Iceland’s natural beauty, Faxi Waterfall is an unmissable detour.
Stretching roughly 80 to 91 metres across the Tungufljot River and dropping about seven meters over a single basalt ledge, Faxi Waterfall creates a stunning curtain-like cascade that has earned it the affectionate nickname “little Gullfoss.” Yet Faxi is far more than a smaller sibling to its famous neighbour. It offers its own distinct personality: a serene atmosphere, a fascinating salmon ladder, lush surrounding vegetation, and a rich connection to Icelandic cultural heritage.
The name Faxi originates from the Icelandic word “fax,” which means “mane” – specifically the mane of a horse. When you watch the water cascade over the wide basalt ledge, the rippling motion closely resembles the flowing hair of an Icelandic horse’s mane blowing in the wind. Icelandic horses are among the country’s most beloved national symbols, so the name Faxi carries deep cultural resonance.
According to Icelandic literary tradition, the poet Stephan G. Stephansson is credited with popularising the name Faxi. When he visited the falls – then known primarily as Vatnsleysufoss – he felt the waterfall deserved a more evocative name and declared that it reminded him of a horse’s mane.
The alternate name Vatnsleysufoss translates roughly to “Empty Falls,” which seems contradictory for a waterfall that flows powerfully year-round. Scholars believe the name derives from the nearby Vatnsleysa farm (meaning “shortage of water”) rather than describing the waterfall itself. Meanwhile, the name Faxafoss is simply a compound of Faxi and the Icelandic word “foss” for waterfall.
Faxi Waterfall is located in the municipality of Blaskogabyggd in South Iceland, directly along the celebrated Golden Circle tourist route. Sitting on the Tungufljot River approximately 104 kilometres east of Reykjavik, the waterfall occupies a strategic position between several of the Golden Circle’s most popular attractions.
Faxi Waterfall Distance from Major Golden Circle Attractions
The waterfall is situated in a broad, flat farming area where the presence of a cascade comes as a genuine surprise. This unexpected setting is part of Faxi’s charm – rolling pastoral countryside suddenly gives way to the rush and spray of glacial water tumbling over volcanic rock.
The most common route from Reykjavik follows Road 1 (Vesturlandsvegur) northeast to Mosfellsbaer, then joins Road 361 (Thingvallavegur). Continue past Lake Thingvallavatn on Road 365 (Lyngdalsheioavegur) to reach Laugarvatn village.
From there, take Road 37 (Laugarvatnsvegur) and connect to Road 35 heading south. The clearly signposted turnoff to Faxi Waterfall is on Road 35, approximately six kilometres south of the Route 37/35 junction. Follow the signs for about 100 metres along a short gravel track to reach the parking area.
If you are already driving the Golden Circle, reaching Faxi Waterfall requires only a quick five-minute detour. At the junction of Route 35 and Route 37 near Geysir, continue south on Route 35 toward Reykholt and Selfoss. Look for the sign reading “Vid Faxa” on your left.
The short gravel road leads directly to a well-sized car park with views of the falls. Because Faxi sits between Geysir and Gullfoss on the route, many travellers slot it in as a peaceful midday break.
Faxi Waterfall is included on several Golden Circle guided tours and minibus excursions departing from Reykjavik, though not all operators feature it. Private Golden Circle tours, often available by luxury SUV or Jeep, frequently include Faxi as a special off-the-beaten-path stop. For those who prefer maximum flexibility, a self-drive rental car allows you to linger at Faxi as long as you wish.
The centerpiece of any visit to Faxi is its wide, single-tier cascade. Glacial water from the Tungufljot River flows over a broad basalt ledge in a smooth, unbroken curtain that stretches nearly the full width of the river. The relatively gentle slope allows visitors to approach remarkably close to the water’s edge, feeling the cool mist and hearing the soothing rush.
In summer, vibrant green vegetation frames the white foam; in winter, the falls often partially freeze into intricate ice sculptures. Faxi’s elegant width has earned it the popular nickname “little Gullfoss,” though its atmosphere is far more serene than its thundering neighbour.
One of the most distinctive and fascinating features at Faxi is the salmon ladder (fish ladder) built along the left side of the waterfall. This man-made structure consists of a series of cascading steps and pools designed to help Atlantic salmon overcome the seven-metre drop during their upstream migration to spawning grounds. The ladder plays a vital role in preserving the salmon population in the Tungufljot River and represents Iceland’s deep commitment to ecological stewardship.
During the salmon season in late summer and early autumn (roughly July through September), visitors can often witness the remarkable sight of salmon leaping their way up the ladder – a compelling natural spectacle. The Tungufljot River is widely regarded as one of the finest salmon and brown trout fishing locations in Iceland, with around 400 salmon making the journey each year.
The site features well-maintained observation platforms providing panoramic views of the entire cascade and the river stretching downstream. Boardwalks connect the upper and lower viewing areas, allowing visitors to experience Faxi Waterfall from multiple perspectives. The upper platform offers a sweeping overview, while the lower level brings you close enough to feel the spray and appreciate the raw scale of the cascade.
The constant moisture from the waterfall’s spray creates a micro-environment that supports lush vegetation rarely found in Iceland’s drier interior. Mosses and ferns carpet the rocks near the water, while native shrubs, wildflowers, and even lupine blooms flourish along the banks during summer.
The surrounding countryside is also a rewarding destination for birdwatching, with a rich diversity of indigenous Icelandic bird species nesting in the area. Visitors exploring nearby hiking trails may also spot Icelandic horses grazing in the neighbouring fields.
Faxi Waterfall sits on the Tungufljot River, which originates in the Icelandic highlands and is fed primarily by glacial meltwater from Langjokull, Iceland’s second-largest ice cap. The Tungufljot runs parallel to and eventually joins the Hvita River, which itself feeds the mighty Gullfoss Waterfall downstream. This interconnected network of glacially-fed waterways defines much of South Iceland’s dramatic landscape.
Geologically, the waterfall flows over layered volcanic basalt formations characteristic of Iceland’s Mid-Atlantic Ridge rift zone. The relatively uniform ledge creating Faxi’s signature curtain-like cascade is the product of millennia of water erosion working on successive lava flows. The basalt’s columnar structure and horizontal layering give the waterfall its distinctive flat, wide profile – a shape more reminiscent of a weir than a vertical plunge.
Interestingly, historical records indicate there was once an old fording point above the waterfall, used before bridges made crossing the Tungufljot straightforward. This detail underlines how integral the river and its waterfall have been to the area’s human geography for centuries.
/
The name Faxi – meaning “horse’s mane” – ties the waterfall to one of Iceland’s most iconic cultural symbols. Icelandic horses have been an inseparable part of island life for over a thousand years, brought by the original Norse settlers. The association between the waterfall’s flowing cascade and the horse’s mane infuses Faxi with a poetic quality that resonates deeply in Icelandic tradition.
Just 17 kilometres from Faxi lies Skalholt, one of Iceland’s most historically significant sites. Skalholt served as one of the country’s two episcopal seats from the 11th to the 18th century and was a major political, cultural, and religious centre throughout the medieval period.
Today, visitors can explore Skalholt Cathedral and the museum in its basement, which chronicles the settlement’s profound role in shaping Icelandic religious and intellectual life.
The village of Reykholt, located approximately 40 kilometres northeast of Faxi, was once the intellectual heart of Iceland. It was home to Snorri Sturluson, the 13th-century chieftain, poet, and historian whose literary masterworks – including the Prose Edda and Heimskringla – are foundational pillars of Scandinavian cultural heritage. The proximity of Faxi Waterfall to Reykholt connects the natural wonder to this rich intellectual legacy.
Every September, the area around Faxi Waterfall becomes the stage for Rettir, Iceland’s centuries-old annual sheep round-up. During summer, over 800,000 sheep roam freely across the Icelandic highlands. Before winter arrives, farmers gather them using horses, sheepdogs, ATVs, and local volunteers, then sort them in traditional circular pens. A sorting corral is visible from Faxi’s viewing platform.
If you visit during September, you may witness this ancient tradition firsthand – and even join the festivities that follow, which typically include lamb feasts and community celebrations. The Rettir has been a defining social and cultural event in Iceland since the 9th century.
There is no entrance fee to view Faxi Waterfall. However, the site is privately owned, and a small parking fee applies. As of recent visitor reports, the cost is approximately 900 ISK (roughly 6–7 USD) per regular vehicle. Payment is made at a barrier or self-service pay station near the car park entrance.
The walk from the car park to the viewing platforms is short and suitable for most fitness levels, making Faxi one of the most accessible waterfalls in Iceland. Well-maintained boardwalks connect the upper and lower viewing areas. However, in winter, icy and snowy conditions can make paths slippery, requiring extra caution and proper footwear.
Faxi and Gullfoss are connected by the same river system and both feature wide cascades, but they deliver very different experiences. Here is a detailed comparison to help you decide – though we strongly recommend visiting both.
Our recommendation: visit both. Gullfoss delivers jaw-dropping power, while Faxi offers the kind of peaceful, intimate waterfall experience that many travellers remember most fondly. Since they are only 20 kilometres apart, combining both is effortless on a Golden Circle day trip.
Since Faxi sits between Geysir and Gullfoss on the Golden Circle route, a logical itinerary begins at Thingvellir National Park, then continues to the Geysir Geothermal Area, followed by Faxi Waterfall as a serene midday break.
After Faxi, continue 20 kilometres to Gullfoss, then loop back south via Kerid Crater and the Secret Lagoon at Fludir. This order allows you to experience the Golden Circle’s highlights in a natural geographic flow while giving Faxi the unhurried attention it deserves.
Most visitors spend 15 to 30 minutes at Faxi Waterfall. However, those who wish to explore the walking trails, photograph the salmon ladder, enjoy a picnic, or dine at the Vid Faxa restaurant should plan to allocate 45 minutes to one hour. If you are visiting during September’s Rettir sheep round-up, you may wish to stay even longer.
Fishing is possible on the Tungufljot River, but anglers must obtain the necessary permits and adhere to local fishing regulations. The river is particularly known for salmon and brown sea trout.
Yes. The Vid Faxa restaurant overlooks the waterfall and serves Icelandic dishes including fish and chips, soups, burgers, and lamb chops. However, its opening hours are seasonal and may be limited, so bringing your own food is recommended as a backup.
The area around Faxi Waterfall has pathways that are relatively flat, but the terrain can be uneven, so it may be challenging for those with limited mobility.
Faxi Waterfall can be visited year-round, but summer and early autumn offer the most favorable conditions for sightseeing and photography.
Besides enjoying the waterfall, visitors can hike the surrounding trails, enjoy a picnic, or engage in fishing activities along the river.
Why should you?
