Exploring Iceland’s waterfalls is a dream for photographers and nature lovers—but the same mist, wind, and rugged terrain that make them magical can be tough on your gear. Whether you’re chasing the cascades of West Iceland for that perfect shot or simply want to keep your phone and camera safe, a little preparation goes a long way.
Staying with Ourhotels.is in West Iceland puts you close to some of the country’s most beautiful waterfalls, and also gives you a comfortable base to dry off, recharge batteries, and sort through your photos after a day out in the elements.
Here’s how to protect your gear while waterfall-hopping around the region.
First, think waterproof. Even on a calm day, waterfalls create a fine mist that can soak cameras, phones, and backpacks surprisingly fast. A simple rain cover for your camera, a dry bag for your daypack, and a waterproof pouch for your phone are essential. If you’re staying at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, you’re perfectly placed to explore nearby waterfalls and rivers along the Hvítá and in the Borgarfjörður area—pack your gear in dry bags before you leave the inn, and you’ll be ready for anything the weather throws at you.
Lens protection is just as important. A UV or clear filter can save your lens from water spots and tiny scratches from wind-blown grit. Keep a microfiber cloth or two in a sealed plastic bag so they stay dry; you’ll use them constantly to wipe away mist. When you return to Hvítá Inn after a day out, take a few minutes to gently clean your lenses and filters in your room so they’re ready for the next adventure.
Tripods and stabilizers also need care. Waterfall viewpoints can be slippery, and tripod legs often end up in wet ground or shallow streams. Extend only the thicker sections of the legs when possible and rinse them with fresh water back at your accommodation if they’ve been in contact with sand or salt spray. At Stykkishólmur Inn, you can easily set up your gear in your room or common areas to dry and clean everything after exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and its dramatic coastline and falls.
Don’t forget about your backpack. Even if your camera is weather-sealed, your spare batteries, memory cards, and filters are not. Use small, sealable pouches or cases inside your bag to keep accessories dry. Pack batteries in a separate, waterproof container—cold and damp conditions can drain them faster than you expect. When you return to Stykkishólmur Inn, lay out your accessories on a desk or table to air out overnight, and charge everything while you rest.
For those heading further north and west, Ísafjörður Inn is an ideal base for exploring the waterfalls and fjords of the Westfjords. The weather here can be more unpredictable, with sudden showers and strong winds. A lightweight rain jacket for yourself and a dedicated rain cover for your backpack are must-haves. Before leaving Ísafjörður Inn each morning, check the local forecast and pack an extra dry bag or two—conditions can change quickly, and you’ll be glad to have backup protection for your gear.
Moisture control doesn’t end when you get back indoors. After a day near waterfalls, avoid sealing damp gear in your bag. Instead, open your camera bag in your room at Ísafjörður Inn, remove lenses and bodies, and let them breathe. Silica gel packets or other moisture absorbers in your camera bag can help pull out any remaining humidity overnight.
Finally, think about safety and comfort as part of protecting your gear. Use a secure camera strap or wrist strap when shooting near edges or on slippery rocks, and never step closer to a waterfall than feels safe just for the sake of a photo. The beauty of West Iceland’s waterfalls can be captured from many angles—there’s no need to risk your equipment or yourself.
By combining simple protective measures with the convenience of well-located accommodation, you can enjoy Iceland’s waterfalls without worrying about your gear. Ourhotels.is offers welcoming stays at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords—three perfect bases for a waterfall-focused road trip through West Iceland. With the right preparation and a cozy place to return to each night, you can focus on what matters most: experiencing and capturing the raw power and beauty of Iceland’s waterfalls.
