It’s tempting to drive past Seljalandsfoss in southern Iceland. From the Ring Road, it’s just another cascade tumbling down from the cliffs. But walk across that car park, and the scale hits you. Then you notice the pathway disappearing behind the curtain of water, and you realise this isn’t like other waterfalls at all.
No wonder it’s a popular stop on Iceland south coast day tours.
Quick overview
Seljalandsfoss is completely free to visit, with no tickets required. The 60-metre waterfall is accessible 24 hours a day, year-round, though the path behind it closes in winter when ice makes it dangerous. You’ll pay only for parking.
The waterfall sits just off Route 1, Iceland’s Ring Road, roughly two hours’ drive southeast of Reykjavík. Despite its popularity, facilities remain basic — toilets, a small café, and a gift shop near the car park.
At a glance
| Price | Opening hours | Address | Free for | Last entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Free (parking: 800 ISK) | 24/7 year-round | 861 Hvolsvöllur | Everyone | N/A |
How much does Seljalandsfoss cost?
There’s no entrance fee whatsoever. Walk up, walk behind it, take as many photos as you like — it’s all free.
The only cost is parking, which funds maintenance of the pathways, toilets, and surrounding facilities.
| Ticket type | Price | Who qualifies |
|---|---|---|
| Parking | 800 ISK | Per vehicle, valid all day |
Payment is card-only at the automated machines in the car park. Cash isn’t accepted, which catches some visitors off guard.
Many visitors, however, don’t have their own car. For them, the best way to visit this spectacular Icelandic waterfall is on a south coast day tour from Reykjavik.
What time does Seljalandsfoss open?
It doesn’t. The waterfall is accessible every hour of every day.
Winter path closure: From roughly October through April, the pathway behind the waterfall closes. Massive icicles form on the cliff face and falling ice poses a serious danger. Respect the closure — people have been injured ignoring it.
The waterfall itself remains visible and accessible from the front year-round. In winter, floodlights illuminate it after dark, which is rather dramatic if you’re driving the Ring Road at night.
Why book the South Coast full-day tour from Reykjavík?
- Visit Iceland’s dramatic south coast: See iconic sites such as the black sand beaches, waterfalls and coastal landscapes that define this scenic region.
- See powerful waterfalls: Stop at stunning waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss with time to take photos and explore on foot.
- Glacier and volcano views: Enjoy sweeping vistas of glaciers, volcanic terrain and rugged highlands as you travel by comfortable minibus.
- Expert local guide: Gain insight into the geology, history and folklore of Iceland’s south coast from an experienced guide.
- Easy day trip from Reykjavík: Round-trip transport makes this a stress-free way to see some of Iceland’s most famous natural wonders in one day.
Do I need to book Seljalandsfoss tickets in advance?
No, because there are no tickets. Just turn up.
Parking is first-come, first-served and can get chaotic during peak hours (roughly 11 AM to 4 PM in summer). Attendants do a decent job shuffling cars around, but patience helps. Early morning or late evening visits avoid the worst of the crowds.
If you’re joining an organised South Coast tour from Reykjavík, book that ahead — these tours fill up quickly during summer.
Parking advice
The main car park sits directly beside Route 249, about 500 metres from the Ring Road. It’s large but not huge, and summer crowds fill it regularly.
Parking costs 800 ISK per vehicle for the entire day. Payment machines accept cards only. The ticket covers both Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi waterfalls, which share facilities.
There’s a smaller, free car park further up Road 249 near Gljúfrabúi, but spaces are limited and it’s not marked on most maps. If you find a spot there, you’ll still want to walk back to see Seljalandsfoss — it’s only about 500 metres.
History
Seljalandsfoss takes its name from the farm Seljaland, which owns the land beneath the waterfall. “Foss” simply means waterfall in Icelandic.
The cliff from which it drops was once Iceland’s southern coastline, thousands of years ago. Glacial rebound and changing sea levels pushed the ocean back, leaving several kilometres of lowland between the falls and the Atlantic. On clear days, you can see the ocean from the top of the cliff.
The water originates from Eyjafjallajökull glacier — yes, the volcano that grounded European flights in 2010. Meltwater feeds the Seljalandsá river, which tumbles over the edge of this ancient sea cliff.
Floodlights were installed in 2001 as visitor numbers grew. Parking fees followed in 2017 when maintenance costs became unsustainable for the landowners. The money pays for path improvements, toilet facilities, and general upkeep. It’s a private site, not a national park, so there’s no government funding.
What to see
The main draw is obvious: a pathway that loops completely around the waterfall, passing directly behind the cascade. It’s one of only a handful of waterfalls worldwide where this is possible.
Be prepared to get soaked. The mist is relentless, particularly on windy days when spray blows horizontally across the path. Waterproofs are essential — cheap plastic ponchos are available in the gift shop if you’ve forgotten yours.
The path itself is uneven and slippery. Trainers with grip are fine in summer; you’ll want proper walking boots with spikes in winter (if the path is even open). There’s a large cave behind the falls, and water constantly drips from the ceiling, forming puddles and slick rock surfaces.
Photography here is tricky. Your lens will get wet. Bring a cloth, or better yet, a lens hood and rain cover. The best light hits the falls in late afternoon during summer, when the sun angles directly onto the curtain of water. Dawn is quieter and gives softer light.
What’s included with your ticket?
- Free access to the waterfall and surrounding area
- Use of toilets near the car park
- All-day parking with a single payment
- Access to Gljúfrabúi waterfall on the same ticket (5–10 minute walk)
- Pathway around and behind Seljalandsfoss (seasonal — summer only)
Things to do near Seljalandsfoss
Gljúfrabúi Waterfall (500 metres, 5–10 minute walk) — Often called the “hidden waterfall,” Gljúfrabúi is partially concealed within a narrow canyon. You’ll need to wade through a shallow stream to enter, so waterproof footwear helps. It’s 40 metres tall and far quieter than its famous neighbour.
Skógafoss Waterfall (30 km, 25–30 minute drive east) — Wider and more powerful than Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss drops 60 metres into a rocky pool and kicks up enormous clouds of spray. Legend claims a Viking hid treasure behind it. You can climb 500+ steps to a viewing platform at the top.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach (60 km, 50 minute drive east) — Dramatic basalt columns and powerful Atlantic waves make this one of Iceland’s most photographed beaches. Be cautious — sneaker waves have killed tourists here.
Þórsmörk Valley (50 km, 1.5–2 hour drive north) — A remote hiking area tucked between three glaciers. The road requires a 4×4 with good clearance; multiple river crossings make it impassable for standard cars.
Eyjafjallajökull Visitor Centre (15 km, 15 minute drive) — Interactive exhibits about the 2010 volcanic eruption and its impact on European air traffic. Includes film footage from local farmers who witnessed the eruption firsthand.
Practical tips
Location: Seljalandsfoss is 120 km southeast of Reykjavík along Route 1. Turn onto Route 249 (Þórsmerkurvegur) and the car park is immediately on your right.
Getting there: Rental car is easiest. Bus service exists (Trex buses run twice daily from Reykjavík, roughly £20–30 each way, 2 hours 40 minutes), but having your own transport lets you explore other nearby waterfalls.
Time needed: Budget 30–45 minutes minimum. That gives you time to walk behind the falls, take photos, and visit Gljúfrabúi. An hour is comfortable if you’re not rushed.
What to wear: Waterproof jacket and trousers are non-negotiable if you’re walking behind the falls. Sturdy footwear with grip. In winter, crampons or ice grips for your boots if paths are open. The ground stays wet and slippery year-round.
Crowds: Expect tour buses from late morning through mid-afternoon in summer. Visit before 9 AM or after 6 PM for relative peace. Winter sees far fewer visitors, though daylight hours are limited (roughly 10 AM to 4 PM in December).
FAQs
Can you walk behind Seljalandsfoss in winter?
No. The path closes when ice accumulates, usually from October through April. Falling icicles pose a serious safety risk. The waterfall remains visible from the front year-round.
How long does it take to visit Seljalandsfoss?
Most people spend 30 minutes to an hour. That includes walking around the waterfall, taking photographs, and exploring Gljúfrabúi nearby.
Is there a café at Seljalandsfoss?
There’s a small kiosk near the car park selling coffee, sandwiches, and snacks. It’s not a full restaurant, but adequate for basic refreshments. A gift shop operates alongside it.
Do you need waterproof clothing?
Yes, unless you’re happy getting drenched. The spray behind the waterfall is constant and heavy, particularly on windy days. Many visitors underestimate how wet they’ll get.
Can you see the Northern Lights from Seljalandsfoss?
Yes, if conditions align — clear skies, dark nights (September through March), and active aurora. The floodlights illuminate the waterfall, which makes for dramatic photographs with the aurora overhead. Turn off car headlights to avoid light pollution.
More Iceland travel
Other Iceland travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- Black sand horse riding in Vik, Iceland.
- In Reykjavik, should you book Perlan tickets in advance?
- Why buy Reykjavik Lava Show tickets in advance?
- How to spend 24 hours in Reykjavik.
- Do you have to pay to enter Hallgrimskirkja, Reykjavik?
