Seljalandsfoss is a roughly 60-metre waterfall on South Iceland's Ring Road (Route 1), fed by the Seljalandsá river carrying glacial meltwater from Eyjafjallajökull and plunging over what was once the ancient sea cliff. It is world-famous as one of the very few waterfalls you can walk completely behind, looking out through the curtain of water toward the coastal plain and sunset. As of 2026 the waterfall itself is free and open year-round with only a parking charge, but the path that loops behind the falls opens or closes depending on the season and ice conditions. It is usually the first stop on a South Coast day trip and pairs naturally with nearby Skógafoss.
Walking the full loop behind the falls and looking out from inside the water curtain — a rare 'behind-the-waterfall' viewpoint
West-facing drop that glows gold in late-afternoon and sunset light
Soft midnight-sun light in summer and, on clear winter nights, a chance of the northern lights above the falls
The short walk to Gljúfrabúi, a hidden waterfall tucked inside a canyon a few hundred metres to the north
The former-coastline cliffs and the Eyjafjallajökull glacier that is the source of the water
Good to know
SafetyThe path behind the falls is constantly soaked by spray and the rocks are very slippery. Wear waterproof shoes with good grip and take care on wet stone and near the edges.
SeasonThe behind-the-falls path is generally open only around May–October; in winter it is frequently closed due to ice, giant icicles and falling ice. Check whether it is open before you go.
SafetyThe site is near the coast and prone to strong gusts. Take care with winter driving, wind and car-door damage on rentals, and check current conditions at safetravel.is.
RulesThere is no entrance fee, but parking is a flat charge of about 1,000 ISK (~USD 8), paid at the on-site kiosk by card or via the Check-It app. Always respect closure and warning signs.
MannersHeavy spray quickly soaks clothing, cameras and phones — bring a waterproof jacket and a lens cloth, and be considerate with tripods and drones at this crowded photo spot.
CautionPetty theft is rare in Iceland, but avoid unofficial online 'ticket' resellers or inflated parking charges — pay only at the official on-site kiosk or through Check-It.
Practical info
Seljalandsfoss sits beside Route 1 about 120–130 km (1.5–2 hours' drive) east of Reykjavík; there is effectively no scheduled public transport, so most visitors self-drive or join a South Coast day tour (Reykjavík Excursions, Trex, Sterna and others). The car park is open 24/7 year-round with free toilets, a small café and a gift shop; confirm current parking fees and whether the behind-the-falls path is open before your visit.
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