Location: Tungufljót River in South Iceland
Distance from Reykjavík: About 100 kilometers or 1 hour and 20 minutes by car
Type: Wide waterfall with calm surroundings and salmon ladder
Parking Fee: Around 900 ISK per vehicle
Best for: Travelers looking for a quieter stop along the Golden Circle with fewer crowds than Gullfoss

Overview

Faxi Waterfall, also known as Vatnsleysufoss, is a calm and beautiful waterfall located along the Golden Circle route in South Iceland. Sometimes called a mini Gullfoss, this waterfall offers a peaceful break from the more crowded stops and gives visitors a chance to get very close to the flowing water.

The waterfall is wide rather than tall and is surrounded by open landscapes and gentle hills, creating a relaxing and scenic setting. It is also known for its salmon ladder, a unique structure built to help fish swim upstream during the spawning season.

What to Expect at Faxi Waterfall

• Easy Parking and Access
There is a dedicated parking area with plenty of space for cars and campers. A parking fee of around 900 ISK per vehicle applies and is used for maintaining the area. The site is easy to access and suitable for all types of travelers.

• Short Walk to the Waterfall
From the parking lot, take a few minutes to walk all the way down to the riverbank where you can get up close to the waterfall. The sound of the cascading water and the fresh air make this a perfect photo spot or picnic stop.

• Cross Near the Salmon Ladder
Visitors with good balance can carefully cross near the salmon ladder to get even closer to the waterfall on the opposite side. This offers a great perspective for photos and a quiet moment right next to the water.

• Quiet Campsite Nearby
There is a campground close to the waterfall which is often less crowded than other campsites in the region. It is a good option for travelers looking to stay overnight in the area without large crowds.

Visitor Tips

• Have some cash or card ready for the parking machine at the entrance
• Stop here before or after visiting Gullfoss and Geysir for a calmer experience
• The area is great for photography thanks to the wide waterfall and natural light
• Toilets may be available in the parking area depending on the season