Seljalandsfoss — Walk Behind the Waterfall
60m cascade on the South Coast with a unique path behind the curtain of water
Seljalandsfoss is a majestic 60-meter waterfall on the Seljalandsá river, fed by meltwater from the Eyjafjallajökull glacier. What makes it truly unique is the cave path that loops directly behind the curtain of falling water, offering visitors a perspective that few waterfalls in the world can match. Located along Route 1 on Iceland's South Coast, the falls are visible from the road long before you arrive. Seljalandsfoss is one of the most photographed locations in Iceland.
Walking Behind the Falls
A narrow, rocky path circles from the base of Seljalandsfoss around behind the thundering curtain of water and back out the other side. Standing in the shallow cave behind the falls, you look outward through a shimmering veil of water at the green Icelandic landscape beyond. The sound is immense, the spray constant, and the sense of being inside the waterfall is unlike anything else.
Waterproof clothing is not optional — you will get thoroughly soaked from the spray. The path is open from roughly late spring through autumn. During winter months, the trail closes because ice buildup on the rocks makes it dangerously slippery.
Hidden Gem — Gljúfrabúi
Just 600 meters north of Seljalandsfoss, tucked inside a narrow canyon, lies Gljúfrabúi — the 'canyon dweller.' This secret waterfall is one of Iceland's most magical hidden gems, and many visitors to Seljalandsfoss walk right past without ever knowing it exists. To reach the falls, you need to wade through a shallow stream flowing out from a gap in the rock face. Once inside the tight gorge, the waterfall reveals itself: a powerful stream crashing down into a misty, enclosed chamber open to the sky.
Getting There
Seljalandsfoss is approximately 120 kilometers from Reykjavik, about 1.5 hours east along Route 1. The waterfall sits right beside the Ring Road — impossible to miss. Most visitors combine it with Skógafoss, which is just 30 minutes further east, as part of the classic South Coast day trip.
Safety Information
The walk-behind path is open spring through autumn only — closes in winter due to dangerous ice buildup. The path is rocky and uneven; wear sturdy shoes with good grip. You will get wet — full waterproof gear is essential.