Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most emblematic waterfalls. This impressive waterfall, 60m high, offers an experience many people love: walking behind it in a natural grotto carved out by erosion. We were fascinated by this spectacle, which allows us to admire the landscape through the curtain of water.
Here are some useful tips to help you prepare for your visit and have a wonderful time!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
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Why visit Seljalandsfoss waterfall?
Is the Seljalandsfoss waterfall worth a visit? Our opinion:
Absolutely! This iconic Icelandic waterfall offers a unique experience. We were seduced by the possibility of walking behind the waterfall, offering a spectacular view of the surrounding plains through the water curtain. The main waterfall is an impressive 60m high, and the water coming from the Eyjafjallajökull glacier adds a special dimension to the site.
This is one of Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls.
Our favorite moments
Our visit to Seljalandsfoss offered us several memorable experiences. We particularly enjoyed the walk behind the waterfall, which offers a unique multi-sensory experience: the roar of the water, the freshness of the spray and the spectacular view through the curtain of water. The sunset is a magical moment, as the waterfall faces west, offering an exceptional play of light.
In winter, it’s not possible to walk behind it. Find out more about this waterfall in winter.
OUR GUIDES TO PLAN YOUR Dream trip
How to get to Seljalandsfoss: access and map
Where is Seljalandsfoss?
- On Iceland’s south coast
- Between Seljalandsfoss and Vik
- Less than 5 minutes from Route 1
- From Reykjavik = 1h40 drive
- From Vik= 1h min drive
- Here is a map to help you find your way:
RENTING A CAR IN Iceland
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On Route 1, no 4WD required, off Route 1, it depends on your plans.
How to get there? Access road
By car:
The Seljalandsfoss waterfall is easy to reach.
It takes less than 5 minutes on a secondary road from Route 1. The waterfall is clearly signposted from the main road.
This access road is quickly cleared in winter.
On an organized tour
Most organized tours of Iceland’s dusky coast from Reykjavik include a stop at the Seljalandsfoss waterfall.
See options.
Parking
There is a large pay parking lot at the foot of the waterfall. Parking costs around ISK 800 per day. We recommend arriving early in the morning or late in the day to avoid the crowds of tourist buses.
We forgot to take a photo of the parking lot in summer. But here it is in winter:
WHERE TO STAY IN Iceland
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
- Where to stay in Iceland (coming soon)
- Where to sleep in Reykjavik (coming soon)
- Best 5-star hotels (coming soon)
- Where to sleep on the South Coast (coming soon)
- Where to sleep on the Golden Circle (coming soon)
- Where to sleep on the Snaefellsnes peninsula
Useful tips: duration, schedules, difficulties…
Best time to visit, opening hours and prices
The best time to visit Seljalandsfoss is at sunset, as the waterfall faces west.
We also advise you to avoid peak times by coming early in the morning or late in the day.
It’s open all day and all night. Lights have been installed on both sides, allowing visitors to enjoy the site even in the evening.
Parking is charged, but access to the waterfall is free.
Length of visit and main difficulties
Allow 30 minutes to 1 hour to fully enjoy the site, depending on the number of photos you take…
The walk behind the waterfall has a slight incline, but not much. Beware, we found the path slippery in places. It’s best to do the tour counter-clockwise, as the rocky section is easier to climb up than down (in our opinion).
Catering, Toilets and Facilities
Next to the parking lot you’ll find a foodtruck serving hot drinks and snacks.
There are no hotels right next to Seljalandsfoss, but there are several within a 20-minute drive, for example:
- Hotel Selja in a peaceful western setting – See prices, photos and availability
- Boutique Hotel Anna, east – See prices, photos and availability
UNFORGETTABLE ACTIVITIES IN Iceland
- Swimming in the Silfra fissure
- Horseback riding
- Hiking on a glacier
- Whale watching (from Reykjavik, Husavik or Akureyri)
Geology, geography and meaning
Water from the cascade arrives via the Seljalandsa River. This is water melting on the glacier volcano Eyjafjallajökull (the one that erupted in 2010 with an unpronounceable name).
This is meltwater from the glacier. The river rushes towards the sea and cascades over the ancient cliff.
The cave behind was formed by erosion.
Foss in Icelandic means waterfall (as in Skogafoss, Gullfoss…).
And, according to several sources, “Seljaland” has something to do with the word for “seller” or “land sale”, so the combination of the two can be interpreted differently (unlike Godafoss, the waterfall of the gods). It’s up to you to imagine what it means!
A 60m high waterfall
From a distance, the Seljalandsfoss waterfall doesn’t look very special.
We’re a little disappointed when we arrive. It just looks like a big fall. You can see the Seljalandsfoss parking lot and the waterfall behind it.
But as you get closer, the situation becomes visually more interesting, and you realize just how much volume is actually falling off the ancient sea cliff!
A multi-sensory experience as you walk behind
Walking behind Seljalandsfoss is an experience that awakens all the senses. Take your time and enjoy!
We were gripped by the powerful roar of the water echoing off the rock faces.
We were also surprised by the mist, which refreshed our skin (and made photography more difficult). In addition, the smell of wet grass creates a special atmosphere. The view through the water curtain offered a unique panorama of the plain.
Discovering Gljufrabui
Take a few minutes to walk along the cliff.
At the other end of the path, you’ll discover the hidden Gljufrabui waterfall.
This waterfall is hidden in a narrow canyon, creating a very different atmosphere. If you’re equipped with waterproof shoes, you can venture into the river to observe it better.
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A spectacular site in every season
Seljalandsfoss works its magic all year round. In summer, the green vegetation contrasts with the dark volcanic rock. In winter, although the path behind the waterfall is closed, the site offers a fairytale spectacle when ice and snow adorn the surroundings. See more winter photos.
Other nearby attractions
You can combine your visit to Seljalandsfoss with these nearby attractions:
- Skogafoss waterfall, one of Iceland’s most impressive (35min drive)
- The Sólheimajökull glacier, 50 minutes away
- The town of Vik and its black sand beaches (45min drive)
Frequently asked questions
Seljalandsfoss or Skogafoss
We prefer Skogafoss for its shape, but it’s true that walking behind Seljlandfoss is a unique experience for many. The two are just a 35-minute drive apart, along Route 1.
Can you visit Seljalandsfoss in winter?
Yes, the waterfall is accessible in winter, but the path behind it is closed for safety reasons. Nevertheless, the site remains impressive with its icy decor.
PLAN YOUR TRIP AROUND iceland
- Best of
Things to do in Iceland (coming soon)
Most beautiful waterfalls (coming soon)
Most beautiful black sand beaches (coming soon)
Best excursions from Reykjavik (coming soon)
Best things to do in Iceland in winter
Winter ice caves (coming soon)
- Practical advice
Getting around (coming soon)
How to rent a car in Iceland (coming soon)
Driving tips (coming soon)
Itineraries (coming soon)
Where to stay in Iceland (coming soon)
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 1 week – 10 days (to come)
- The must-dos
Things to do in Reykjavik (coming soon)
Best attractions in the Golden Circle (coming soon)
South Coast attractions (coming soon)
Snaefellsnes Peninsula (coming soon)
Silver Circle (coming soon)
Lake Myvatn attractions (coming soon)
Jokulsarlon (coming soon)
