One of my favorite hikes in Vatnajökull National Park is to Svartifoss waterfall, which literally translates to Black waterfall in Icelandic. What makes this waterfall so unique is that it's surrounded by black basalt columns (hence the name).

It's about 1.5 kilometers (almost a mile) from the visitor center. Expect to hike for about 45 minutes each way but there are many other hikes in this park for you to explore, if you have time. On the way to Svartifoss, you will encounter other waterfalls, such as Magnúsarfoss, Hundafoss, and Þjófafoss.

This majestic waterfall is well worth the stop and I make it a point to come here every time I am in the area because it's so beautiful.

The path is well marked and safety precautions have been put into place so it's relatively a smooth trail. While there is some elevation, it's an easy to moderate hike.

You have to pay for parking in Vatnajökull National Park, that's why I have it marked as costing about $5.