Gufufoss Waterfall Featured Among Iceland’s Most Dramatic Waterfalls in The Sunday Times
In its article, “Nowhere does waterfalls better than Iceland — these are the most dramatic,” published on 22 October 2026, The Sunday Times travel writer Mike MacEacheran celebrates some of Iceland’s most spectacular waterfalls, from the iconic Kirkjufellsfoss in West Iceland to the impressive Dynjandi in the Westfjords. Among the five waterfalls featured is Gufufoss, located just a short drive from the picturesque town of Seyðisfjörður in Austurland (East Iceland).
Describing Seyðisfjörður as his favourite fishing village in Iceland, MacEacheran highlights the town’s distinctive character, creative atmosphere and striking surroundings. Alongside its colourful rainbow street, welcoming hotels and unique Tvísöngur Sound Sculpture, Gufufoss earns its place as one of the area’s standout natural attractions.
Photographer: Þráinn Kolbeinsson
Standing approximately 27 metres tall, Gufufoss is known for its powerful cascade and the mist that rises as the water crashes into the rocks below. On sunny days, the interplay of sunlight and spray can create beautiful rainbows, adding another layer of magic to the experience.
Gufufoss is just as captivating in winter, when freezing temperatures transform the waterfall into a spectacular landscape of ice and snow. With its cascading water gradually giving way to intricate ice formations, the waterfall takes on an entirely different character, offering a new perspective on one of East Iceland’s natural gems.
Winter also brings opportunities to experience the surrounding landscape at a slower pace. Snowshoeing through the snowy scenery around Gufufoss offers a wonderful way to explore the area, immerse yourself in the stillness of the season and discover another side of Seyðisfjörður.
Photographer: Ragnhildur Aðalsteinsdóttir
Whether visited in summer, when rainbows often appear in the rising mist, or in winter, when ice and snow create an almost otherworldly scene, Gufufoss is a reminder that the natural beauty of Austurland changes with every season.
Located around 3 kilometres from Seyðisfjörður, Gufufoss is easily accessible by road, making it a rewarding stop for travellers exploring the Eastfjords. Its proximity to the town also makes it easy to combine a visit to the waterfall with a stroll through Seyðisfjörður’s charming streets, a meal at a local restaurant or a walk to discover more of the area’s natural beauty.
The recognition in The Sunday Times offers an opportunity to introduce more international travellers to the waterfalls, dramatic landscapes and distinctive experiences that make Austurland, East Iceland, such a memorable destination.
While Iceland is renowned for its waterfalls, some of its most rewarding discoveries lie beyond the country's busiest tourist routes. In Austurland, visitors can experience spectacular scenery, vibrant small towns and a sense of space that invites them to slow down and explore.
For those planning a trip to Iceland, Gufufoss is another reason to venture east and discover the remarkable landscapes of Austurland.
Read the full feature in The Sunday Times: Nowhere does waterfalls better than Iceland — these are the most dramatic.