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 60m into the sky giving us a view that with every step along that path only became more stunning.

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Can You Walk Behind Seljalandsfoss? What to Expect

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.

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. 

Where Does Seljalandsfoss Get Its Water From?

Seljalandsfoss is formed by the Seljalandsá River, which originates in the highlands above the waterfall on the western side of the Eyjafjöll mountain range. The river then drops over the old sea cliffs, creating the waterfall and the overhang that allows visitors to walk behind it.

Walking From Seljalandsfoss to Gljúfrabúi

Being part of an organised tour, we didn’t have long at Seljalandsfoss before heading down the path towards our next stop, Gljúfrabúi. Hidden inside a narrow canyon, it feels completely different from the open landscape around Seljalandsfoss.

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. 

Would I Recommend Seljalandsfoss?

Yes. Seljalandsfoss is absolutely worth the drive. It’s a beautiful waterfall, and getting a photo from behind the falls is still firmly on my bucket list. Sadly, the path was closed during my visit because of the snow, but that just gives me another excuse to return.

I also loved that you get two completely different waterfalls within walking distance of each other. Seljalandsfoss is completely open and visible from the road, while nearby Gljúfrabúi is hidden away inside a narrow canyon. Together, they made this one of my favourite stops along Iceland’s South Coast.

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