Seljalandsfoss Waterfall Travel Guide

Seljalandsfoss is an iconic waterfall on the South Coast of Iceland, just under a two-hour drive from Reykjavik. It has a pathway that allows visitors to walk behind the cascading water, which has made it a favorite spot among photographers.

Seljalandsfoss waterfall is one of Iceland's most stunning natural attractions. It is located along the South Coast and about a two-hour drive from Reykjavik. As part of popular South Coast tours, Seljalandsfoss is often paired with visits to nearby attractions like the Skogafoss waterfall, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and the town of Vik.

If you prefer to explore at your own pace, renting a car is an excellent option. The drive from Reykjavik takes about two hours, making it a convenient day trip along Iceland's Ring Road. For those wanting to stay longer, there are many Iceland accommodation options near the South Coast, providing a perfect base for further exploration. Whether you're taking guided tours or planning self-drive adventures, Seljalandsfoss is a must-see destination during your time in Iceland.

Geology and Surroundings

Seljalandsfoss waterfall, part of the Seljalandsa river, originates underneath the Eyjafjallajokull glacier. The volcano beneath this ice cap famously erupted in 2010 and caused havoc at airports across Europe.

The cascade of the Seljalandsfoss waterfall is relatively narrow but falls from a tall cliff that once marked the country's coastline centuries ago. The sea is now located across a stretch of lowlands and is visible from the site.

The most distinguishing feature of Seljalandsfoss is a pathway that stretches around it. The cliffs behind the falls have a wide cavern, and rocks and paths allow guests to fully encircle it in summer.

Though a mesmerizing opportunity, visitors should be prepared to get dampened due to the perpetual mist of the falls, which also tends to make the rocks of the pathway slippery. Like with any cave, there is also a risk of rockfall from the ceiling.

Floodlights have been set up on both sides of the waterfall, which impressively illuminate the scene during the night when the midnight sun is not out. The lights were installed in 2001 due to the growing popularity of the falls as a tourist destination.

After visiting Seljalandsfoss, it is common for visitors to continue north to the waterfall Gljufrabui, which is found partially hidden behind a rock face. Because of Seljalandsfoss extreme popularity, Gljúfrabúi is widely considered the hidden gem of the scene, as it is too often overlooked.

Seljalandsfoss is also usually visited alongside the nearby Skogafoss. The waterfall falls from the same height, and while it cannot be encircled, it is much more powerful and steeped in the legend of a giant’s hidden treasure.

Seljalandsfoss Visitor Centre Controversy

In 2017, it was announced that a visitor’s center was to be constructed near the Seljalandsfoss waterfall. The design of the building indicated that it would be 23 feet (7 meters) high and 21,500 square feet (2,000 square meters) in size. Landowners in the area opposed the idea, proclaiming that the center would greatly alter the natural appearance of the waterfall’s renowned scenery.

The project has neither been fully approved nor wholly canceled, with ideas surfacing of either significantly reducing the construction size or moving the visitor center’s location further away.

Amenities at the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Seljalandsfoss waterfall may not have its own visitor center, but there are still convenient amenities on site. There's a large parking area, though you have to pay to park, and a short gravel walking path circling the waterfall.

By the parking area, you'll find free public restrooms, a small gift shop selling local handcraft, and a café serving sandwiches, cakes, and pastries. If the weather is nice, you can enjoy a cup of coffee on the convenient benches while taking in the views.

Seljalandsfoss in Popular Culture

Along with a multitude of South Iceland’s most famous natural attractions, Seljalandsfoss can be seen in Justin Bieber’s music video for his song "’ll Show You." Please enjoy the video without emulating any of the antics displayed there that will endanger yourself or the environment.

The waterfall was also a featured waypoint during the first leg of the sixth season of The Amazing Race, an American reality TV series.

Where to Stay Near Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

If you're looking for places to stay near Seljalandsfoss waterfall, there are several great South Iceland accommodation options within a short distance, allowing you to experience the stunning South Coast easily.

One of the closest options is the Seljalandsfoss Horizons Lodges, pictured above, which offer beautiful views of the surrounding area. You can also stay in the 4-star Hotel Ranga, one of the Best Resorts in Iceland, which is a 20-minute drive away from Seljalandsfoss waterfall.

For a more affordable option, the Midgard Base Camp is a highly-rated guesthouse. It's also around a 20-minute drive away, but as it's located in Hvolsvollur, the closest town, you'll have easy access to restaurants, fun activities, and other services.

All of these will provide a comfortable stay near the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, each one catering to different budgets and itineraries. Alternatively, if you're traveling around Iceland with a rental campervan, there's a campground just next to the Seljalandsfoss waterfall!