Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Tall waterfall you can walk behind
A roadside waterfall on the Seljalandsá that allows a footpath behind its water curtain. Visitors time visits for light conditions, use nearby viewpoints, and include it on south-coast drives from Reykjavík.
Seljalandsfoss at a Glance#
Address: Seljalandsfoss, South Coast, Iceland (off Route 1)
Hours: Open 24 hours
Admission: Small parking fee may apply; no formal entrance charge
About Seljalandsfoss#
Seljalandsfoss is a distinctive Icelandic waterfall on the south coast where the river plunges over a thin cliff, allowing visitors to walk behind the falling curtain of water. It is one of the few large falls in Iceland with a footpath that passes behind the cascade.
The main attraction is the circular path that leads behind the waterfall, offering a unique viewpoint and photographic opportunities framed by falling water. Near the main fall is Gljúfrabúi, a smaller waterfall partially hidden inside a narrow gorge a short walk upstream.
The site has a straightforward parking area and marked trails; conditions can be wet and windy and protective clothing is advisable. The fall’s straight drop and the path behind it make Seljalandsfoss especially popular at sunset and in low light.
Seljalandsfoss is fed by meltwater from a glacier on Eyjafjallajökull and has been a local landmark for centuries; visitor infrastructure has been developed to channel foot traffic and protect the cliff and surrounding vegetation.
The waterfall lies along Iceland’s south coastal route, easily reachable from the Ring Road and commonly visited on day trips from Reykjavík or as a stop on drives toward the southeastern glacier areas.
- Practical tip: The drop is about 60 metres and a footpath circles the fall to allow visitors to walk behind the falling water; sturdy footwear is recommended as surfaces can be wet and slippery.
What to See#
- Behind the fall and nearby Gljúfrabúi: A path runs behind the waterfall through a recessed cave-like space, giving a circular viewing experience; a short walk upstream leads to the nearby hidden waterfall **Gljúfrabúi**, set inside a narrow canyon.
How to Get to Seljalandsfoss#
Located off Route 1 on the South Coast, about 120 km from Reykjavík and 30 km west of Skógafoss. There is a car park and short walking paths from the road.
Tips for Visiting Seljalandsfoss#
- Walk the path behind the fall for a unique perspective - wear waterproof clothing as the spray is heavy.
- Sunset can be spectacular if the weather cooperates; the fall catches backlight nicely.
- Visit early or late in the day to avoid bus tours that crowd the small car park.
Best Time to Visit Seljalandsfoss#
Late spring through early autumn is best for the behind-the-falls walk; winter access can be icy.
Weather & Climate near Seljalandsfoss#
Seljalandsfoss's climate is classified as Subpolar Oceanic - Subpolar Oceanic climate with cool summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -3°C to 13°C. Abundant rainfall (1424 mm/year), wettest in October, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Poor | -3° - 2° | -8° | 127 mm | overcast | 87% | 9.4 m/s | 0.0 low | 5.4h |
| February | Poor | -2° - 2° | -7° | 136 mm | overcast | 87% | 9.7 m/s | 0.0 low | 8.4h |
| March | Poor | -2° - 3° | -6° | 131 mm | overcast | 86% | 9.2 m/s | 0.2 low | 11.5h |
| April | Poor | 0° - 6° | -2° | 98 mm | overcast | 86% | 8.1 m/s | 0.5 low | 14.7h |
| May | Poor | 4° - 9° | 2° | 98 mm | overcast | 84% | 6.9 m/s | 0.9 moderate | 17.8h |
| June | Poor | 6° - 11° | 6° | 87 mm | overcast | 86% | 6.3 m/s | 1.1 high | 19.8h |
| July | Acceptable | 8° - 13° | 11° | 94 mm | overcast | 87% | 6.0 m/s | 1.0 moderate | 18.8h |
| August | Poor | 8° - 13° | 10° | 134 mm | overcast | 86% | 6.1 m/s | 0.7 moderate | 15.9h |
| September | Poor | 5° - 10° | 4° | 122 mm | overcast | 87% | 7.3 m/s | 0.3 low | 12.8h |
| October | Poor | 2° - 6° | -1° | 138 mm | overcast | 87% | 7.9 m/s | 0.1 low | 9.6h |
| November | Poor | -1° - 3° | -5° | 128 mm | overcast | 87% | 8.4 m/s | 0.0 low | 6.4h |
| December | Poor | -3° - 2° | -7° | 131 mm | overcast | 87% | 9.5 m/s | 0.0 low | 4.2h |
