We arrived at Seljalandsfoss falls about midday, like a lot of the viewing points in Iceland the waterfall dominates the view. So much so that we were scrambling to put our crampons on to get as close as possible to the front. The waterfall reaches an incredible 65m into the sky giving us a view that with every step along that path only became more stunning.
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What to Expect When Visiting Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
As we reached the viewing platform the roar of the waterfall was almost relaxing. Many of us were hoping to walk along the path that leads behind the waterfall, offering a unique view of the landscape. However due to the thick snow and ice on the path it had been roped off with a big sign warning of the dangers. There is a high risk of falling ice along that path, so its understandable why, but that doesnt mean there isnt still that initial twinge of disappointment.
Luckily those feelings dissipate quickly when you are standing in front of such a spectacular view. I loved taking photos here, I had a Sony A6000 at the time with a kit lens, and even that took fantastic photos. It was such a joy to see the blues of the ice stand out amongst the brilliant white of the snow. If you are any level of photographer, make sure you pack as many SSD’s and SD cards as you can. There is so much opportunity here, the south coast is in my opinion one of the most photographable destinations I’ve been to.
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Best Time to Visit Seljalandsfoss: Summer vs Winter
The view will change throughout the year, Summer is the most popular and when it is easiest to access, however Seljalandsfoss in winter with the snow topper landscape presenting its own charms. There are pros and cons to whatever time of the year you visit, and when I can I want to return so I can see the differences between the seasons with my own eye.
If you choose to go behind the waterfall on the mini Seljalandsfoss waterfall hike, make sure you have waterproofs on. There’s no if’s about it, you will get wet and you do not want to have a soggy bus ride. The pathways are rocky and slippery too, so make sure you have a good pair of hiking boots.
How Seljanlandsfoss got its name
Unlike some of the other waterfalls in South Iceland, the name Seljalandsfoss doesn’t mean anything, it’s just what they decided to call it. The water here originates from the Seljalands river, which in turn is formed by the Eyjafjallajökull Glacier Volcano. This water rushes down and off the overhanging cliff creating Seljalandsfoss and the pathway behind it.
Being part of a tour, we didnt have long to enjoy our time here, we had been advised to head down the path to our next attraction, Gljúfrabúifoss. This is a waterfall hidden within a cave, that often gets overlooked by tourists. It would be a short walk, but we didn’t want to risk missing anything, so we started to make our move. Making sure to take the last of the snaps as we backed away. Although to be fair, we would be back again shortly. We would have to pass by again when we returned to the bus.
Frequently Asked Questions About Seljalandsfoss
You can drive here if you rent a car. Otherwise you can book yourself on one of many tours from Reykjavik. To book you can click on the link below and book with Get Your Guide.
Seljalandsfoss is in the south coast of Iceland, right next to Route 1. The waterfall is easily drivable from Reykjavik.
Seljalandsfoss is known for allowing visitors to head behind the water, allowing for some phenominal photo ops.
The waterfall itself doesnt freeze, but its surroundings will in the winter. Creating an icy backdrop surroudning the water.
Seljalandsfoss is 65m high and 10m wide.
This is entirely down to personal opinion, in the summer months you can go behind the water for a unique view but that does attract more crowds. In the winter it’s quieter and looks stunning covered in snow, but it is harder to access.
The waterfall is open 24 hours a day.
The waterfalls are completely free to visitors, however there is an 800isk parking fee. The only other costs are the car rental and petrol.
Although it is not part of the traditional tour, Seljalandsfoss has become so popular over the years that it is now considered an essential stop. How long you have to visit is entirely down to the tour so you may not be able to walk to Gljúfrabúifoss and back.
Seljalandsfoss has its own car park just outside at the visitor centre. This is a private car park and you will need to pay to park here. You pay a flat rate for the day, and its currently 800isk (approximately $6). But from here you can visit both Seljalandsfoss and Gljufrabui waterfalls.
It is pronounced Sel-Ja-Lands-Foss
Without stopping it’s a 2-hour drive from Reykjavik. You can also get here by bus and it costs around 40 euros. Check out this article and drive guide from Guide to Iceland.