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Seljalandsfoss

A slender waterfall you can walk right behind - a curtain of water off a mossy cliff on the south coast, glowing at sunset.

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Seljalandsfoss

Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.

WhereSouthern Region
Nearest cityHvolsvollur
Best seasonMay to September
Time to allowOne hour
Getting thereOn the south coast ring road; about ninety minutes from Reykjavik
EntryFree; parking charged

Seljalandsfoss is a tall, slender waterfall that pours off a mossy former sea cliff on the south coast, and its great trick is a path that leads right behind the falling water into a dripping grotto. Looking out through the curtain of water, especially as the low sun sets it glowing gold, is one of the most photographed experiences in Iceland.

What you actually see

  • The path behind the falls - the walk into the grotto behind the water curtain.
  • The view through the water - the glowing scene looking out through the falls.
  • Sunset light - the low sun turning the water and spray golden.
  • Gljufrabui - the hidden waterfall in a slot canyon a short walk away.

When to go

The warmer months, when the path behind is accessible and less icy; summer sunsets are the magic hour. In winter the path behind can be closed by ice.

Honest expectations

The path behind gets extremely wet and, in cold weather, icy and dangerous, so it is often closed in winter. It is very popular, so it is busy at sunset. Waterproofs are essential to walk behind.

Nearby

Skogafoss is nearby along the coast; the hidden Gljufrabui falls are a short walk.

What to pack for Seljalandsfoss

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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.

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