Did you know there are more than 10,000 waterfalls in Iceland? That’s because melting glaciers in summer, and frequent snow and rain in the fall and winter — coupled with an extremely rugged volcanic landscape — create the perfect conditions for waterfalls.

Which are the best? Every Icelander has his or her opinion. But some make everyone’s list:

Dettifoss: Europe’s most powerful waterfall may not be the island’s prettiest cascade, but whatever it lacks in scenic beauty is more than compensated by the immense amount of water tumbling over the edge.

Selfoss: Like Dettifoss, the waters gushing over the precipice are fed by runoff from Europe’s largest icecap.

Godafoss: According to Icelandic legend, this elegant “Waterfall of the Gods” got its name when Christianity first came to the island 1,000 years ago and all the old Norse idols were thrown over this cascade. 

Skógafoss: One of the island’s highest cascades (197 feet) is also one of the most photogenic. On sunny days is often flaunts double rainbows.

Gullfoss: Iceland’s most famous waterfall tumbles into a deep gorge along a Golden Circle route that also includes Geysir Strokkur and Thingvellir National Park.   

Iceland ProTravel can design a self-drive waterfall itinerary that includes these five and others. Find out more here!