Imagine this: you and your soulmate, standing in front of one of Iceland’s most breathtaking waterfalls, the mist swirling around you like something straight out of a Viking love story. The sound of Skógafoss roaring in the background, the wild Icelandic wind tousling your hair, and maybe even a few sheep photobombing your wedding portraits (because, Iceland).
If you’ve ever dreamed of an intimate elopement or a dramatic, adventure-filled destination wedding, Skógafoss is calling. And lucky for you, getting married here is absolutely possible. But before you pack your wedding dress and thermal leggings, let’s dive into everything you need to know to say “I do” in front of this legendary waterfall.
Why Get Married at Skógafoss?
First things first—why this waterfall?
✔ It’s drop-dead gorgeous. At 62 meters (203 feet) high and 25 meters (82 feet) wide, Skógafoss is one of Iceland’s most powerful waterfalls. It’s dramatic, cinematic, and straight-up magical in photos.
✔ It’s accessible. No hours-long hikes or helicopter rides required. Skógafoss is right off the famous Ring Road, so your wedding day won’t feel like an episode of Survivor: Wedding Edition.
✔ It has a legendary love story. According to local folklore, a Viking settler hid treasure behind the waterfall. And what’s more romantic than starting your marriage in front of a literal treasure trove?
✔ It’s perfect for adventure lovers. Want to say your vows and then hike into the Icelandic highlands? Or drive to a black sand beach for your wedding portraits? Skógafoss is surrounded by jaw-dropping landscapes that will make your wedding day feel like an epic road trip.
Best Time to Get Married at Skógafoss
Icelandic weather is unpredictable, but here’s what you can expect:
🌿 Summer (June–August): Midnight sun, lush greenery, and the best chance of mild weather. Downside? More tourists.
🍂 Autumn (September–November): Fewer crowds, stunning golden landscapes, and moodier skies for dramatic photos.
❄️ Winter (December–February): Snowy wonderland, possible Northern Lights, and serious Game of Thrones vibes. Just prepare for icy conditions.
🌸 Spring (March–May): A mix of everything—melting snow, wildflowers, and still plenty of unpredictability.
⏰ Pro Tip: For the most intimate experience, aim for sunrise or late evening. The soft lighting is unreal, and you’ll avoid the crowds.
How to Legally Get Married in Iceland
Good news: Foreigners can legally get married in Iceland!
The trickier part? The paperwork. Here’s what you need:
📜 Valid passports
📜 Birth certificates
📜 Certificate of marital status (proof that you’re not already married—an important detail)
📜 Divorce decree (if applicable)
📜 Two witnesses (don’t worry, your photographer can be one!)
Your documents must be submitted to the Icelandic National Registry at least three weeks before the wedding. More info can be found here.
Want to skip the paperwork? Many couples legally marry at home and have a symbolic ceremony at Skógafoss. That way, you skip the bureaucracy and focus on the romance.
Where Exactly Should You Say “I Do”?
1️⃣ Right in front of the falls – The most epic (and wettest) option. The mist will make your hair look “effortlessly windswept” (or like you just stepped out of a storm—embrace it).
2️⃣ On the cliffs above – There’s a staircase that leads to an insane panoramic view. Just be ready for leg day.
3️⃣ A more secluded spot nearby – If you want more privacy, consider eloping near the Skógá River, just a short walk away.
What to Wear for a Skógafoss Wedding
👰 For the Bride:
✔ Flowy dress that moves beautifully in the wind (channel your inner elven queen)
✔ Thermal leggings underneath (because Iceland doesn’t care about your fashion choices)
✔ Waterproof boots (yes, even on your wedding day)
✔ A warm cape or faux fur shawl for that Viking goddess look
🤵 For the Groom:
✔ A wool suit or something warm
✔ Sturdy boots (soggy socks on your wedding day? No, thanks)
✔ Layers, because Iceland can’t decide if it’s winter or summer
⛔ What NOT to bring: Umbrellas. Icelandic wind will turn them into weapons.
Where to Stay Near Skógafoss
🏡 Hotel Skógafoss – Right next to the waterfall, so you can wake up to the sound of rushing water.
🌿 UMI Hotel – A sleek, stylish hotel with unreal views of glaciers and mountains.
🏕 Camping at Skógafoss – For the adventurous souls who don’t mind a bit of cold.
Making It a Full Icelandic Adventure
Why stop at just Skógafoss? Turn your wedding trip into the ultimate Icelandic road trip:
🌊 Seljalandsfoss – A waterfall you can walk behind (yes, really).
🏝 Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – Dramatic basalt columns and crashing waves.
✈️ Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck – An abandoned plane in the middle of nowhere.
🧊 Vatnajökull Glacier – Because who doesn’t want wedding photos in an ice cave?
Final Thoughts: Your Love Story, Your Way
At the end of the day, your wedding should be about you two and your adventure together. Whether it’s an intimate elopement in front of Skógafoss or a full Icelandic road trip wedding, this country will give you a love story straight out of a fairytale.
And if you’re looking for someone to capture every breathtaking moment—from misty waterfalls to windblown kisses—I’d love to be your photographer.
📸 See my work: Your Happy Moments Blog
💰 Explore wedding photography packages: Investment
📩 Let’s plan your epic elopement: Contact Me
I promise stunning photos, lots of laughter, and maybe even an accidental splash from Skógafoss.
