Iceland Close-up of Dynjandi Waterfall

Dynjandi is one of Iceland’s most breathtaking waterfalls, often described as the crown jewel of the Westfjords. It tumbles down a mountainside in a series of elegant tiers, with the main cascade resembling a giant, flowing veil. Standing at 100 meters tall, it starts narrow at the top and fans out beautifully as it descends. The sound is thunderous, matching the meaning of its name—“Dynjandi” translates to “resounding” or “thundering.” Its remote setting, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and untouched nature, makes it especially appealing to photographers looking to capture both the power and serenity of Icelandic landscapes.

Use a strong tripod, it can be rather windy! To photograph Dynjandi up close, use a wide-angle lens to capture its full scale while including interesting foreground elements. A tripod is essential for stability, especially if you're aiming for long exposures to create a smooth, silky water effect—an ND filter can help control brightness. Watch out for heavy spray; keep a cloth handy to wipe the lens. Low angles work well to add depth, using rocks or streams as leading lines. Soft, overcast light or evening hours are ideal to avoid harsh contrasts and highlight the waterfall’s textures.

Dynjandi is located in Iceland’s remote Westfjords, about 380 km from Reykjavík. The best way to reach it is by car—drive north from Reykjavík, following Route 1, then branch onto Route 60 towards the Westfjords. The roads are mostly paved, but some sections can be gravel, especially as you get closer. In summer, it’s accessible by regular cars, but in winter, conditions can be challenging and sometimes impassable without a 4x4. There’s a small parking area near the base, and from there, it’s a short, easy hike (around 15 minutes) up a rocky path to the waterfall.