Few places capture the magic of Iceland quite like Seljalandsfoss. Located on the country’s stunning South Coast, this iconic waterfall is famous for one incredible feature – it’s one of the very few waterfalls in the world where you can walk completely behind the cascading water.

During our winter road trip around Iceland, Seljalandsfoss was one of the highlights of the journey. Surrounded by snow and ice, it looked completely different to the vibrant green landscapes seen during summer, proving that it’s a spectacular destination whatever the season.

Where is Seljalandsfoss?

Seljalandsfoss is located just off Route 1 (the Ring Road) on Iceland’s South Coast, approximately:

• 1 hour 45 minutes from Reykjavík
• 30 minutes from Skógafoss
• Easily accessible all year round

Its location makes it one of the most popular stops for anyone driving Iceland’s South Coast or completing the Ring Road.

What Makes Seljalandsfoss So Special?

Standing around 60 metres tall, Seljalandsfoss is fed by meltwater from the famous Eyjafjallajökull glacier volcano, best known for its 2010 eruption that disrupted air travel across Europe.

What really makes this waterfall unique is the footpath that allows visitors to walk all the way behind the waterfall.

Standing behind the curtain of water while looking out across Iceland’s beautiful countryside is an unforgettable experience and one of the reasons Seljalandsfoss appears on so many travel itineraries.

Walking Behind the Waterfall

Walking behind Seljalandsfoss is an experience unlike any other, but it’s worth being prepared.

The waterfall creates a considerable amount of spray, meaning you’ll almost certainly get wet.

We recommend bringing:

• A waterproof jacket
• Waterproof footwear
• Warm clothing during winter
• A camera cloth if you’re taking photos

The path can also become slippery, especially during colder months, so take extra care while walking.

Gljúfrabúi – The Hidden Waterfall

Just a few minutes from Seljalandsfoss is another incredible attraction that many visitors miss.

Gljúfrabúi is a beautiful hidden waterfall tucked away inside a narrow canyon.

To reach it, you’ll need to walk through a small opening in the rocks and carefully make your way inside the gorge.

The reward is one of Iceland’s most magical hidden waterfalls.

If you’re already visiting Seljalandsfoss, we highly recommend taking the extra few minutes to experience Gljúfrabúi too.

Visiting During Winter

We visited Seljalandsfoss during January, and the winter scenery made the experience even more memorable.

Snow-covered fields, frozen cliffs and icy pathways gave the waterfall an entirely different atmosphere.

Although the paths are generally maintained, winter visitors should always wear suitable footwear and take care where surfaces may be icy.

Parking and Facilities

Parking at Seljalandsfoss currently costs 1,000 ISK per vehicle.

Facilities include:

• Large car park
• Toilets
• Walking paths
• Easy access from Route 1

Most visitors spend between 30 minutes and one hour exploring both Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi.

Photography Tips

Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most photographed waterfalls, and it’s easy to see why.

For the best experience:

• Visit early morning or later in the day to avoid larger crowds.
• Bring waterproof protection for your camera.
• Take time to photograph the waterfall from both the front and behind.
• During summer, keep an eye out for beautiful rainbows forming in the spray.

Every angle offers something different.

Is Seljalandsfoss Worth Visiting?

Without question.

Seljalandsfoss isn’t just another waterfall—it’s one of Iceland’s most unique natural attractions.

The opportunity to walk behind the falls, combined with its dramatic setting and nearby hidden waterfall, makes it a must-visit stop for anyone exploring Iceland’s South Coast.

Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, Seljalandsfoss deserves a place on your itinerary.

Watch Our Video

Want to experience Seljalandsfoss before your trip?

Watch our latest All About Iceland episode as we explore the waterfall, share its fascinating history, provide practical visitor information and show you what it’s like during a winter visit.

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Planning Your Own Iceland Adventure?

We’re passionate about helping others discover Iceland.

Here are some resources to help plan your trip:

🚗 Save 5% on your Iceland car hire with our Blue Car Rental partner link.

🚐 Book a CampEasy campervan through our link and receive a FREE Starter Pack.

🏕️ Rent camping equipment without packing bulky gear from home.

🗺️ Download our 5-Day Iceland Winter Itinerary and follow the same unforgettable route we travelled around Iceland.

Happy exploring, and enjoy one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls!