Iceland Nauthúsagil, Iceland

Nauthúsagil is one of my favorite lesser-known waterfalls along Iceland’s South Coast. Hidden deep inside a narrow canyon, reaching it feels much more adventurous than simply walking up to one of the region’s famous roadside waterfalls. In winter, the canyon becomes especially spectacular, with huge icicles, frozen walls, and the waterfall disappearing into a world of blue ice and dark volcanic rock.

A wide-angle lens works best once you are inside the canyon, where there's little room to move and the towering walls become an important part of the composition. Adding a person gives the scene some much-needed scale and shows just how impressive the ice formations can become. Winter also creates beautiful contrast between the near-black canyon walls and the blue-white ice. Be prepared for spray around the waterfall and protect your camera accordingly.

Nauthúsagil is located on Iceland’s South Coast, not far from Seljalandsfoss, yet receives considerably fewer visitors than the region’s famous waterfalls. Reaching the waterfall requires following the narrow canyon upstream, and the final section involves walking and climbing alongside the water.

In winter, spikes or microspikes are essential in my experience. Without them, the icy rocks can make it extremely difficult – and potentially unsafe – to get far enough into the canyon to reach the waterfall. Conditions can vary significantly, so continue only when the ice, water level, and weather make it safe.