The Ultimate Guide To Eloping At Skogafoss

A magnificent, roaring waterfall lies along the Southern stretch of Iceland’s Ring Road. Skogafoss, one of Iceland’s most famous cascades, is so large that you can see it while driving along Route One. Skogafoss never fails to take my breath away! The massive waterfall spills over a cliff made of age-old volcanic rock, surrounded by caves and rock faces covered in lush green moss. The 60-meter tall cascade falls year-round and is a popular elopement location for couples from all around the world! Iceland is home to over 10,000 waterfalls, but Skogafoss’ enchanting lore and inspiring beauty make it one of Iceland’s best waterfalls to elope at in the country. It’s one of the most magical elopement backdrops in Iceland, and I’m excited to share all the best Skogafoss elopement planning tips and tricks I’ve collected over the years down below!

All About Skogafoss

Skógafoss is one of the most famous (and gorgeous) waterfalls along the Southern coast of Iceland! Skogafoss is 60 meters tall and 25 meters wide and produces a dazzling single or double rainbow when the sun shines through the fall’s mist just right! The inspiring cascade is easily accessible via a paved road and gravel parking lot just off Route One. Visitors can get very close to the base of the falls, but beware, you and your partner WILL get wet if you get too close! Skogafoss is created as the mighty Skógá River spills over the ancient volcanic rock ledge that overlooks Ring Road, spraying a refreshing mist of cool glacial water on the ground (and people) below!

Why You Should Elope At Skogafoss

There are many reasons why Skogafoss is a special place to elope in Iceland. Here are a few of my top reasons you should elope at Skogafoss!

01. You Can Get SUPER Close To Skogafoss

One of the best things about Skogafoss is that you and your partner can get super close to the waterfall’s base. This makes for INCREDIBLE adventure elopement photos. While I don’t recommend standing right at the base of the falls during your vow ceremony, I encourage some fun and safe exploration around the base after your vows! Many people are surprised by just how loud Skogafoss’ cascade is the closer you get to the base. You and your partner want to be able to hear one another (and not get wet) during your vow ceremony! Just be cautious when exploring, as the icy mist falls from Skogafoss, this makes the area around the waterfall very slippery. 

02. It’s Home To Hidden Viking Treasure

Earlier, I spoke about some enchanting lore that surrounds Skogafoss! A legend told amongst locals tells of a treasure-loving Viking named Thrasi! Long ago, Tharasi hid a treasure chest full of gold in the chilly pool of water that collects at the base of Skogafoss. While many have tried to find the treasure chest of gold over the centuries, they have failed. One man came close to surfacing the treasure by tying a rope to a ringed handle on the chest. However, the handle broke off before he could pull it up, and he could only recover the ring! It’s said that the ringed handle now hangs on a church door in the small, nearby village of Skogar! While I don’t recommend diving for treasure during your Skogafoss elopement, it’s a unique tale to bring back to friends and family after you elope!

03. Skogafoss Is The Gateway To The Icelandic Highlands

Skogafoss is the gateway to the Icelandic Highlands. After venturing up a 527-step staircase, couples can trek along the 25km long Fimmvörðuháls Trail into the Highlands for a full or multi-day elopement experience! Along the way, you’ll discover 25 waterfalls, walk between the Eyjafjallajokull and Myrdalsjokull glaciers, and maybe even see some sheep! If you’re visiting during colder seasons in Iceland, be cautious of the stairs that lead to the top of the falls, as they can get icy. Additionally, always be alert to ever-changing weather conditions when hiking, especially in the Icelandic Highlands. 

04. There’s Plenty Of Space To Relax And Explore

You could easily spend 4-8 hours at Skogafoss, and there’s plenty of space to celebrate your elopement intentionally. You can have your vow ceremony near the waterfall, then celebrate with a picnic in a nearby grassy area before dancing under the cascade’s refreshingly cool mist! If you and your partner are feeling up to it, you can also hike to the top of the waterfall and explore the beauty of the surrounding Icelandic landscape! 

05. Skogafoss Is Completely FREE!

Yes, you read that right! Skogafoss is entirely FREE, with no additional cost for parking or restroom use. Unlike many popular outdoor elopement locations in Canada and the United States, Skogafoss doesn’t require any permits or ceremony fees for couples or elopement photographers. This makes eloping at Skogafoss one of the world’s most stress-free and flexible elopement locations! 

THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO ELOPE AT SKOGAFOSS 

TIME OF YEAR – LATE SUMMER | EARLY FALL

August and September are the best months to visit Iceland for your Skogafoss Elopement. The Midnight Sun gives the island 14-16 hours of daylight instead of long, bright “nights” like in June. This shift makes room for deep, night skies, perfect for stargazing and watching the Northern Lights. While the weather is unpredictable year-round in Iceland, temperatures are generally very comfortable during August and September. Many activities are also available during this time of year, from river rafting to sea kayaking, whale watching, puffin spotting, camping, hiking, festivals, and, of course, waterfall chasing! You and your partner won’t run out of things to do and places to explore.

TIME OF WEEK 

Skogafoss is a very popular tourist attraction in Iceland, but with some planning, you can avoid peak crowd levels on your elopement day! Planning your elopement at Skogafoss for a weekday will ensure you have the best chance of an intimate elopement setting. Crowd levels tend to dip Monday through Thursday, making it more likely that Skogafoss will be quieter and less busy. 

TIME OF DAY – SUNRISE OR SUNSET?

Truthfully, it’s totally up to you and your partner! You can plan a Sunrise elopement that starts with breakfast in bed or a Sunset elopement that ends with stargazing. Here are some things to consider when deciding between a Sunrise or Sunset elopement:

• What type of lighting are you going for in your pictures? This is a great question to discuss with your photographer!
• What experience(s) do you and your partner hope to share? 
• Are you and your partner morning or evening people?
• What is the weather like at Sunrise/Sunset during your elopement season?
• Is ceremony privacy important to you as a couple?

THE BEST ACCOMODATIONS NEAR SKOGAFOSS 

01. Skalakot Manor Hotel

This countryside boutique hotel is less than a 20-minute drive from Skogafoss and offers 14 cozy rooms and suites, a relaxing spa, and a fine dining restaurant. For four generations, the farm that Skalakot Manor Hotel is located on has raised Icelandic Horses! Experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and embark on an Icelandic Horseback riding excursion when staying at the Skalakot Manor Hotel!

02. Umi Hotel

Umi Hotel is a luxurious modern escape amidst the vast Icelandic countryside, less than a 15-minute drive from Skogafoss! With beautiful mountain views, a first-class restaurant, a cozy bar area, and elegantly curated rooms, you and your partner can rest and enjoy Iceland’s serenity at the Umi Hotel.  

03. Aurora Lodge Hotel

Along Route One, between Reykjavik and Skogafoss, sits a warm and welcoming lodge with panoramic mountain views. Aurora Lodge Hotel offers homey, rustic rooms and outdoor jacuzzis that face the rolling Icelandic countryside. Aurora Lodge is a great place to relax and enjoy Iceland’s mysterious landscape!

04. Magical Airbnb Cottages Near Seljalandsfoss Waterfall 

Want to wake up on the morning of your elopement with a waterfall in your backyard? These Magical Airbnb Cottages near Seljalandsfoss Waterfall are elevated, cozy cabins just 45 minutes from Skogafoss! With modern amenities, incredible cascade views, and a delicious morning breakfast option, these beautiful Icelandic cottages are in the perfect location to unwind and explore! 

05. The Farmhouse

A quiet and secluded stay near Vestmannaeyjar and Eyjafjallajökull, The Farmhouse is about a 40-minute drive from Skogafoss. Beautiful mountains surround the cottage in a charming, widespread Icelandic valley with waterfalls and horses. Its quaint and serene ambiance will make you feel at home during your elopement!

06. Icelandic Country Place Airbnb

The charming Icelandic Country Place is located in the Southern heart of Iceland, a beautiful 45-minute drive from Skogafoss. This stunning accommodation features an observation deck and geothermal hot tub, with all the best modern luxuries that make cottage stays rejuvenating and enjoyable. In Autumn and Winter, the Northern lights can be seen in the sky above this cozy Airbnb while also being in close proximity to some small-town shopping and dining. 

THE BEST ACTIVITIES NEAR SKOGAFOSS 

If you and your partner are interested in embarking on an extreme or adventurous excursion in addition to your Skogafoss ceremony, here are some of the best (and my favorite) Iceland activities:

• Visit Iceland’s black-sand beaches.
• Explore a volcano!
• Sightsee around Iceland’s most beautiful natural wonders.
• Embark on a whale-watching cruise.
• Try your eyes and go puffin spotting.
• Hiking!
• Go on a guided glacier exploration trip.
• Chase waterfalls!
• Soak in a hot spring.
• Go stargazing and watch the Northern lights.
• Experience the Midnight Sun!

TRAVELING TO ICELAND AND SKOGAFOSS 

Keflavík International Airport is the biggest airport in Iceland, with direct flights to and from many other countries like Canada and the United States. Couples can conveniently rent a car from on-site companies like Hertz or a 4×4 before exploring Iceland and Skogafoss along Route 1! 

Route 1 is the main highway that encircles Iceland, passing popular locations, accommodations, and towns along the way. In Winter, roadways will be icy, so extreme caution should be practiced when driving. High winds and other unpredictable weather hazards occur year-round and regularly create dangerous driving conditions in Iceland. It’s essential to stay aware of weather conditions during your visit.

HOW TO MAKE YOUR SKOGAFOSS ELOPEMENT OFFICIAL 

01. PERMITS

Unlike many National Parks, Wilderness Areas, National Forests, and other public lands in North America, you can elope anywhere out in nature in Iceland without a permit. 

02. MARRIAGE LICENSE

While it is possible to marry in Iceland as a non-resident or non-citizen legally, the process can be complicated. I recommend making the marriage official in your country of residence or citizenship and then flying to Iceland to celebrate with vows and adventures.

If you want to get legally married in Iceland (and have an awesome Icelandic marriage certificate), here are some tips to help guide you through the process:

Eligibility Requirements

• ANY couple in love 18+ years or older can get married in Iceland (18+)!
• Neither partner can already be married to someone else. 
• Proof you and your partner are in Iceland legally (Visa, stamped passport, etc.)
• An officiant and two witnesses

Marriage License Steps

Compile and complete the following. All must be mailed at least 21 days before the ceremony date (I recommended doing it 6-8 weeks before):

• Hjónavígsluskýrsla or Marriage Notification (to be signed by two friends or family members)
• Original Copies of Birth Certificates 
• Copies of Passports
• Certificate of Marital Status (issued within eight weeks of ceremony date) 
• Iceland Itinerary (list of accommodations, locations you’re visiting, ceremony location, round-trip plane ticket proof, etc…)

May be needed:

• If previously divorced, provide official divorce documentation.
• If widowed, provide official decedent documentation.

Pack ALL original documents submitted via mail. Then, set an appointment at the district commissioner’s office in Iceland at the closest location to the ceremony spot. Here, they will review your documents and grant you a marriage license. 

To learn more about obtaining an Icelandic marriage license, click here. 

SAFETY AT SKOGAFOSS

Iceland is home to many natural wonders, which are much bigger than ourselves. While beautiful, Iceland’s rugged coastline, glistening glaciers, desolate highlands, and ever-changing weather conditions can be unpredictable and hazardous. Through education, caution, and respect for the environment, you and your partner can enjoy all Iceland has to offer safely.

01. UNPREDICTABLE WEATHER CONDITIONS

Icelandic weather changes quickly and constantly; staying updated on weather conditions is a must. Always travel with layers, an emergency pack, and ample water. 

Due to the unpredictability of the weather in Iceland, I recommend couples book a few days for their elopement with me just in case we run into bad weather. I recommend you and your partner have a backup indoor ceremony location, like a cute Airbnb, especially if you have some guests attending. On your elopement trip, I’ll constantly watch the weather and communicate with you and your partner if any changes need to be made to your elopement day itinerary. Upon booking, we will discuss this more in-depth to ensure you are aware of all elopement day scenarios and options!

02. RISK-FILLED EXPERIENCES

For multi-day or rough terrain hikes, hike with a guide or exploration group that is professionally trained in exploring places like glaciers, volcanoes, and remote routes. Unstable glaciers and rough terrain can lead to fatal accidents. 

03. DRIVING IN ICELAND

Sheep are abundant in Iceland and freely roam the island. Be alert, especially at night. Avoid driving on icy roads and during periods of high wind. Also, most rental vehicles in Iceland are manual. Book an automatic vehicle if you don’t know how to drive a stick shift. 4×4 vehicles are also a great option to help you and your partner navigate rugged and uneven terrain!

To learn more about safety when visiting Iceland, click here.

LEAVE NO TRACE WHEN YOU ELOPE AT SKOGAFOSS 

The beauty of eloping lies not just in the simplicity and intimacy of the experience but also within the location where it’s celebrated. We want to keep that scenery beautiful during your elopement! That way, generations to come can also enjoy Mother Nature and all her amazing wonders. Leave No Trace is an organization that focuses on educating people on sustainability. I’m proud to be a Leave No Trace Aware Photographer and intentionally practice the seven principles of Leave No Trace below!

THE 7 PRINCIPLES:

• Plan Ahead & Prepare
• Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces
• Dispose of Waste Properly
• Leave What You Find
• Minimize Campfire Impacts
• Respect Wildlife
• Be Considerate of Others

You can learn more about Leave No Trace on their website.

SKOGAFOSS ELOPEMENT ESSENTIALS PACKING LIST

• Passport / ID / Credit Cards / Icelandic Króna
• Elopement Attire
• Garment Bags (Shop here for the BEST eco-friendly garment bags)
• Vow Books
• Rings
• GPS + Paper/Printed Map(s)
• Ski Pants + Ski Coat For Glacier Exploration
• Base Layers
• Thermals
• Swimsuits
• Hiking boots
• Jackets
• Pants
• Shorts
• Long + Short Sleeved Shirts
• Hats + Scarves + Gloves
• Umbrella + Poncho
• Sunglasses
• Adaptors + Chargers 
• First Aid Kit + Medications + Toiletries 
• Flashlights + Headlamps 
• Binoculars 
• Hiking Packs
• Snacks
• Reusable Water Bottles

SKOGAFOSS ELOPEMENT TIMELINE

4:00 AM – Breakfast in bed at Umi Hotel!

4:30 AM – Get ready for your Sunrise elopement.

6:00 AM – Drive to Skogafoss!

6:30 AM – Sunrise Vow Ceremony at Skogafoss!

7:00 AM – Take Sunrise portraits.

8:00 AM – Explore the base of Skogafoss and share celebratory mimosas!

9:00 AM – Hike to the top of Skogafoss and look for sheep.

10:00 AM – Walk back down to the base of Skogafoss and stop off at the upper viewing platform.

11:00 AM – Eat a picnic brunch!

12:00 PM – Lace up your hiking boots and trek the Fimmvörðuháls Trail.

READY TO ELOPE AT SKOGAFOSS?

If you and your partner love the idea of a Skogafoss elopement and need help figuring out all the details of your dreamy waterfall ceremony, you can share your love story, vision, and more with me here! You can also check out where I’m headed this year on my travel page and download my free ‘How To Choose Your Dream Elopement Destination’ guide! If you want to learn more about Iceland, check out my blog, How To Plan An Iceland Elopement. I can’t wait to help you and your partner create an intentional elopement experience at Skogafoss!