Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Seljalandsfoss waterfall along Iceland’s southern coast is fed by melting water from the famed glacier-capped Eyjafjallajökull volcano. This powerful waterfall cascades into a pretty meadow. However, the path that runs behind the curtain of water is the main attraction. Walking this path gives you can a truly unique view of the waterfall. 

Seljalandsfoss is a beautiful waterfall along the southern coast. It cascades over steep cliffs, which makes it possible for you to walk behind the waterfall. You will get a spectacular view of the waterfall itself and the surroundings. (Make sure you don’t forget your camera, but be advised, it might get wet.)

Please note, use caution when you go behind Seljalandsfoss, as the path can be slippery. During the winter months, due to risk of falling ice, the path behind the waterfall is closed. So, please be cautious and make sure you stay safe when visiting the waterfall.

If you visit in the summer you’ll see any different wildflowers that bloom and thrive around the waterfall, possibly because of the mist it gives off. The area around Seljalandsfoss is a perfect spot for a picnic since the surroundings are both beautiful and serene.

Seljalandsfoss, along with Skógafoss, is often included in the Golden Circle route. The Golden Circle is the most popular tourist route in Iceland, including Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall and Thingvellir National Park. These attractions are popular for a good reason, they offer a great chance to see beautiful landscape and spectacular natural phenomena. We recommend that you check out these attractions as well.

How to get to Seljalandsfoss waterfall?

If you drive east from Reykjavík on Road 1,  you will get to Seljalandsfoss Waterfall. It is about a 2 hours’ drive from Reykjavík, and you can see the waterfall from the road. You’ll find the access to the waterfall is from the farm of Seljaland along the Ring Road, Iceland‘s main highway.

We also offer many great day tours and longer escorted tours with local expert guides which will visit Seljalandsfoss.

Is there more to see at Seljalandsfoss?

A little further to the west you can find several other waterfalls. Among them is the interesting Gljúfrabúi, partially hidden within its own canyon. If you drive a little further east, you will spot a sign saying Paradisarhellir, which will lead you to a small cave in the steep hill side.

Further east you will fine the beautiful and famous Skógafoss waterfall.

What to wear when visiting Seljalandsfoss waterfall?

If you intend to walk behind the waterfall, you should wear raingear. The walk will undoubtedly get you wet. We also recommend some good and sturdy waterproof shoes. It can get muddy under the waterfall.

We advise that you show caution since rocks and the ground are slippery, especially in winter. If you are travelling with children, make sure you hold their hands at all times.

When is the best time to see Seljalandsfoss waterfall?

During summer this is a popular tourist attraction. However, if you arrive either early in the morning or late in the afternoon, there shouldn’t be too much traffic. Also, if you are travelling in winter, visiting the waterfall when the northern lights dance across the sky is a great experience.