To count the waterfalls in this country is an exercise in very large numbers. Cubic kilometers of water must drain from the highlands, where the glaciers and trolls live, and flow to the sea. Given such high contrast topography, waterfalls are around every corner.

Along Iceland’s southern coast, you can stop and gawk at many. The more popular ones are easy to access. Parking is available. Maybe even a bathroom. Have a coffee while enjoying liquid dihydrogen oxide pouring from on high. More spectacular waterfalls exist, but often require a hike or a boat to access. Some are located on private land and inaccessible up close. This does not stop some people from parking and walking toward them. Some farmers are cool with this, though don’t be a jerk.

Most of the waterfalls in this section of Iceland formed via the same process. Once upon a time, the land was covered in a very heavy glacier. We’re talking about 10,000 years ago during the last ice age. Their weight pushed the land down. As the Earth warmed and the glaciers retreated, the land rebounded. This created the cliffs over which many of these waterfalls cascade. The flat land from the cliffs to the sea used to be a shallow sea bed. Hence why it’s flat. The ocean buffed the rough edges smooth. Now it’s where most of the population lives. This sharp contrast from near flat to sheer vertical creates breathtaking scenery.

Whether liquid or solid, water is a remarkable carver of rock. U-shaped valleys indicate a glacier came through, while v-shaped valleys indicate a river. It’s fun to speculate on which form of water formed which valley, though, spoiler alert, in Iceland it’s mostly glaciers. Evidence of water carving this landscape is everywhere you look.

Unless you’re prepared to hike, the more accessible waterfalls will be crammed with people from large tours. They are as interesting to watch as the water. Still, it is possible to find a quiet space to sit and contemplate the futility of it all.

One neat thing about Iceland is how it caters to different travelers. New Zealand was like this. Mobility issues? Well, you can see these natural features from a car or bus. Advanced hikers? Well, have we got some treats for you but it will take more work. Got money? Here’s a helicopter tour of an active volcano. Budget traveler? Here are many other options to chose.

No matter who you are, there is something to enjoy.