Seljalandsfoss - sunset at Seljalandsfoss, Iceland.
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Seljalandsfoss

4.8
·22k reviews·, Iceland

Walk behind a majestic waterfall and discover hidden caves on Iceland's stunning South Coast. An unforgettable, immersive natural wonder.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, magical light

CrowdLow
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Seljalandsfoss - sunset at Seljalandsfoss, Iceland.

Seljalandsfoss

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, magical light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Walk behind a majestic waterfall and discover hidden caves on Iceland's stunning South Coast. An unforgettable, immersive natural wonder.

4.8
(22k reviews)

"You will have a wonderful experience and will get wet. Carry your rain jacket and pants!"

Vertical photo
TIP

💧 Gear Up for the Mist!

Waterproof jacket, pants, and shoes are essential for walking behind the falls. You WILL get soaked!

🅿️ Parking Fee Required

Don't forget to pay for parking; cameras monitor the area. Have cash or card ready.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Walk Behind the Falls

Walk Behind the Falls

Path behind Seljalandsfoss

Experience the unique sensation of walking behind the cascading water. It's an unforgettable, albeit wet, adventure!

The Hidden Cave Entrance

The Hidden Cave Entrance

Adjacent to Seljalandsfoss

Discover a smaller waterfall you can enter a cave behind. Be cautious, as it can be slippery and requires careful footing.

South Coast Drive

South Coast Drive

Route 1 (Ring Road)

The journey to Seljalandsfoss from Reykjavik is scenic, offering beautiful Icelandic landscapes along the way.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Spray!

Prepare to get wet! Walking behind Seljalandsfoss is a highlight, but the mist is intense. Pack waterproof jackets, pants, and sturdy, non-slip shoes. Parking also requires payment, so have cash or card ready. Reddit

Sunset Spectacle & Crowds

Visiting near sunset offers magical light, but can also mean more visitors. While crowds might thin slightly after peak hours, expect a lively atmosphere. Consider early mornings for a more serene experience. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, magical light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons/Sunset
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Hey guys are your best tips for Seljalandsfoss? 😃

💧 Gear Up for the Mist!

Waterproof jacket, pants, and shoes are essential for walking behind the falls. You WILL get soaked! Reddit

🅿️ Parking Fee Required

Don't forget to pay for parking; cameras monitor the area. Have cash or card ready. Reddit

reddit.com

Questions about Seljalandsfoss

reddit.com

Seljalandsfoss @ 4am

👟 Non-Slip Footwear is Key

The paths, especially behind the falls, are very slippery. Good grip is crucial. Reddit

📸 Photo Opportunities Galore

Every angle offers a stunning shot. Take your time to capture the beauty from different perspectives. Reddit

reddit.com

Seljalandsfoss 🇮🇸

Tips

from all over the internet

💧 Gear Up for the Mist!

Waterproof jacket, pants, and shoes are essential for walking behind the falls. You WILL get soaked! Reddit

🅿️ Parking Fee Required

Don't forget to pay for parking; cameras monitor the area. Have cash or card ready. Reddit

👟 Non-Slip Footwear is Key

The paths, especially behind the falls, are very slippery. Good grip is crucial. Reddit

📸 Photo Opportunities Galore

Every angle offers a stunning shot. Take your time to capture the beauty from different perspectives. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(22k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Seljalandsfoss is widely praised for its stunning beauty and the unique experience of walking behind the falls. Visitors love the immersive feeling and the photographic opportunities. However, be prepared to get thoroughly soaked and pay for parking, which some find inconvenient.

"This waterfall is definitely worth a visit! The scenery is stunning, and you can walk around to see it from different perspectives. You can make a lot of photos from different angles, and every view looks amazing."

Ieva Po

"Very beautiful falls

You can actually walk behind the falls and on the other end you can enter the cave where the falls come in

You will have a wonderful experience and will get wet. Carry your rain jacket and pants

The drive to the south coast is beautiful from Reykjavik"

Ajay Babla

"If you plan to walk behind the waterfall, wear proper clothing and good shoes — it’s very slippery all around and you’ll get completely soaked. Also, don’t forget to pay for parking at the entrance; there are cameras monitoring the area."

Mahyar Mohammadnezhad

What People Like

Walking behind the falls
Unique photo opportunities
Beautiful scenery

What People Dislike

Getting very wet
Parking fee required

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Seljalandsfoss is located along the Ring Road (Route 1) on Iceland's South Coast. It's about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Reykjavik. You can rent a car and drive yourself, or join a guided tour. The drive itself is part of the experience, with beautiful scenery. Reddit

Public transport options directly to Seljalandsfoss are limited. Most visitors opt for a rental car or join organized bus tours that frequently stop here. Check local bus schedules for potential routes if you're not driving. Reddit

Renting a car offers the most flexibility to explore at your own pace and stop at other South Coast attractions. Guided tours are convenient if you prefer not to drive and want a structured itinerary. Reddit

The drive typically takes between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. It's a straightforward drive along Route 1. Reddit

Yes, Seljalandsfoss is a very popular stop on many South Coast tours from Reykjavik. These tours often include other major attractions like Skógafoss and the black sand beaches. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Seljalandsfoss itself is free to visit. However, there is a parking fee that must be paid. This fee helps maintain the facilities and the surrounding area. Reddit

The parking fee is typically around 700 ISK (Icelandic Króna), but it's always good to check for the most current pricing. Payment is usually made via a parking meter or an app. Reddit

No, you do not need to book tickets in advance as there is no admission fee for the waterfall. You only need to pay for parking upon arrival. Reddit

Seljalandsfoss is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, daylight hours vary significantly by season, impacting visibility and safety, especially for walking behind the falls. Reddit

Yes, you can visit Seljalandsfoss in winter, but be extremely cautious. The paths can be icy and treacherous, and the walk behind the falls may be closed due to hazardous conditions. Always check local weather and road conditions. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic shot is from the front, capturing the full cascade. For a unique perspective, try to get behind the falls (prepare to get wet!). The adjacent waterfall with the cave also offers fantastic photo opportunities. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the waterfall. A tripod can be useful for long exposures, especially in lower light. Most importantly, protect your gear from the spray with a waterproof bag or cover. Reddit

It's challenging due to the intense mist and slippery conditions. Many photographers use waterproof camera housings or shoot quickly between spray. A good rain cover for your camera is essential. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon/sunset offers the best light for photography, with softer, warmer tones. Midday can be harsh, but still offers dramatic views. Reddit

Drone regulations in Iceland can be strict. It's essential to check current rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying. Respect any posted restrictions around natural sites. Reddit

🎫 💧 Onsite Experience

Yes, especially if you walk behind the waterfall. The mist is very strong, and you will likely get soaked. Wearing waterproof clothing is highly recommended. Reddit

Prioritize waterproof outer layers (jacket and pants) and waterproof, non-slip hiking boots or shoes. Layers underneath are also advisable, as the weather can change quickly. Reddit

The path is generally maintained but can be very slippery and uneven. Exercise caution, wear appropriate footwear, and be mindful of your surroundings. It's not recommended for those with mobility issues. Reddit

Yes, there are restrooms available at the parking area. They are usually well-maintained, but it's always a good idea to use them when you see them. Reddit

Allow at least 1 to 1.5 hours to fully experience Seljalandsfoss, including walking behind it, exploring the nearby cave, and taking photos. If you plan to visit other nearby waterfalls, allocate more time for the entire South Coast trip. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Seljalandsfoss is a fantastic stop for families, offering a memorable natural wonder. The main attraction for kids is the chance to walk behind the waterfall, which is an exciting, albeit wet, adventure! Ensure children are dressed in full waterproof gear, including rain boots, as they will get soaked. Reddit

For younger children or those who might be hesitant about the intense spray, exploring the adjacent cave waterfall offers a slightly calmer, yet still engaging, experience. Keep a close eye on them, as the paths can be slippery. The drive along the South Coast is also beautiful, making the journey part of the fun. Remember to factor in time for snacks and breaks, and always check weather conditions before you go. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Seljalandsfoss is a photographer's dream, offering diverse perspectives. The classic shot from the front is stunning, but the real magic lies in capturing the experience of walking behind the falls. This requires careful planning to protect your gear from the relentless mist – a waterproof camera bag and lens covers are essential. Reddit

Consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting. The adjacent cave waterfall also provides unique framing opportunities. A tripod can be beneficial for longer exposures, especially if you want to smooth out the water's flow. Don't forget to experiment with different focal lengths to capture both the grand scale and the intricate details of the cascading water. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers & Adventure Seekers

For those who love a bit of adventure, Seljalandsfoss delivers. The opportunity to walk behind the waterfall is a highlight, offering an exhilarating, up-close encounter with nature's power. This requires sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with excellent grip, as the path is notoriously slippery. Reddit

Beyond the main falls, exploring the nearby cave waterfall adds another layer to the adventure. Be prepared for wet conditions and uneven terrain. The entire South Coast offers incredible hiking opportunities, and Seljalandsfoss is a perfect starting point for experiencing Iceland's dramatic landscapes. Always check trail conditions, especially in winter. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of Walking Behind the Falls

One of the most exhilarating experiences at Seljalandsfoss is the opportunity to walk behind the curtain of water. This unique perspective offers a thrilling, immersive encounter with the raw power of nature. As you step onto the path, prepare for a significant amount of spray and mist. The sound of the water is amplified, and the feeling of being enveloped by the cascade is truly unforgettable. It's a sensory overload in the best possible way. Reddit

Essential Gear: To make this experience enjoyable, waterproof gear is non-negotiable. A good quality waterproof jacket and pants will be your best friends. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with excellent grip are also crucial, as the path is often wet and slippery. Many visitors recommend bringing a waterproof bag for your electronics and valuables. Reddit

Safety First: While the path is a popular attraction, it requires careful navigation. The rocks can be slick, and visibility can be reduced by the mist. Take your time, hold onto any railings provided, and be aware of other visitors. It's an adventure, but one that should be approached with respect for the elements. Reddit

Exploring the Adjacent Cave Waterfall

Just a short walk from the main Seljalandsfoss, you'll find a smaller, yet equally captivating waterfall. What makes this one special is the cave you can enter behind it. This offers a different kind of intimacy with the water, allowing you to stand within a rocky alcove and watch the water flow in front of you. It's a more enclosed and perhaps slightly less intense experience than walking behind the main falls, but equally rewarding. Reddit

Navigating the Cave: Accessing the cave requires a bit more caution. The ground can be uneven and wet, and the rocks inside might be slippery. It's advisable to move slowly and deliberately. Some visitors find it helpful to use their phone's flashlight to better see the path and the formations within the cave. Reddit

Photography Tips: This spot provides excellent opportunities for unique photos. The contrast between the dark cave walls and the white water can be striking. Experiment with different angles to capture the flow of the water and the textures of the rock. Remember to protect your camera from any spray that might enter the cave. Reddit

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