Your Complete Guide to Seljalandsfoss: The Waterfall You Can Walk Behind
Standing majestically at 60 meters (195 feet) tall, Seljalandsfoss waterfall offers one of Iceland's most unique experiences – the chance to walk completely behind a cascading curtain of water. Located along Iceland's famous South Coast, this iconic natural wonder provides an unforgettable adventure that combines dramatic landscapes with accessible exploration for visitors of all ages.
What Makes Seljalandsfoss Iceland's Most Walkable Waterfall
The Ultimate Behind-the-Falls Experience
Seljalandsfoss stands apart from other Icelandic waterfalls thanks to its unique geological formation. The cliff behind the waterfall has been naturally carved into a spacious cavern, allowing visitors to follow a well-maintained walking path that leads directly behind the thundering cascade. This rare opportunity to experience a waterfall from both sides creates truly magical photo opportunities and an immersive natural experience.
The Secret Behind the Formation: The waterfall tumbles over ancient sea cliffs that once formed Iceland's Atlantic coastline. Over thousands of years, the powerful flow of the Seljalandsá river has carved this spectacular drop, fed primarily by meltwater from the Eyjafjallajökull glacier above.
Photography Paradise: Capturing the Perfect Shot
Seljalandsfoss offers multiple stunning vantage points for photography enthusiasts:
Classic Front View: The traditional approach showcases the waterfall's full 60-meter drop against the dramatic cliff backdrop Behind-the-Falls Perspective: Walk behind the cascade for unique shots looking outward through the water curtain Sunset Golden Hour: Late evening light creates spectacular silhouettes and rainbow effects in the mist Winter Ice Formations: Frozen spray creates intricate ice sculptures around the base during colder months
Planning Your Visit to Seljalandsfoss
Location and Accessibility
Seljalandsfoss sits conveniently along Iceland's Ring Road (Route 1), making it easily accessible for both self-drive adventurers and tour groups. The waterfall is located approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles) southeast of Reykjavík, positioned perfectly for South Coast exploration.
Perfect for Self-Drive Adventures: Seljalandsfoss serves as an ideal first stop on any 6-day South Iceland self-drive tour or comprehensive 8-day Ring Road adventure. The waterfall features ample parking and requires just a short walk from your vehicle.
Best Time to Visit Seljalandsfoss
- Summer (June-August): Warmest weather for comfortable behind-the-falls walking, longest daylight hours for photography - Read our complete guide to Iceland travel
- Winter (December-February): Dramatic ice formations, potential Northern Lights backdrop, fewer crowds but slippery conditions - Check our winter travel preparation tips
- Spring/Fall: Moderate weather, beautiful seasonal lighting, ideal conditions for photography - Explore our guide to trip duration planning
Essential Items for Your Visit
- Waterproof jacket and pants (you will get wet behind the waterfall!)
- Non-slip hiking boots with excellent grip - Read our best day hikes in Iceland guide
- Waterproof camera protection or smartphone case
- Extra clothing layers for temperature changes
- Headlamp or flashlight for evening visits
For comprehensive packing tips, visit our ultimate Iceland travel guide.
The Geological Wonder of Seljalandsfoss
Eyjafjallajökull: The Glacier That Feeds the Falls
The Seljalandsá river that creates this magnificent waterfall originates from Eyjafjallajökull glacier, Iceland's sixth-largest ice cap. This glacier gained international fame in 2010 when the volcano beneath it erupted, disrupting air travel across Europe for weeks. The volcanic activity beneath the glacier continues to influence the surrounding landscape and contributes to the mineral-rich waters that flow over Seljalandsfoss.
Ancient Coastline Formation
Like many of Iceland's South Coast waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss tumbles over cliffs that once formed the country's Atlantic shoreline. During the last Ice Age, these cliffs stood at the ocean's edge. As Iceland's glaciers retreated and the land rose due to reduced glacial weight, the coastline moved seaward, leaving these dramatic inland cliffs perfect for waterfall formation.
Explore Iceland's South Coast Waterfall Trail
Seljalandsfoss serves as the perfect starting point for Iceland's incredible waterfall corridor along the South Coast. Combine your visit with these nearby attractions:
- Skógafoss Waterfall: Iceland's most powerful cascade (30 minutes east) - Featured in our best waterfalls in Iceland guide
- Gljúfrabúi (Hidden Waterfall): Secret cascade tucked into a canyon (5-minute walk from Seljalandsfoss)
- Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: Dramatic volcanic coastline with basalt columns - Learn more in our South Coast attractions guide
- Dyrhólaey Arch: Stunning coastal rock formation with puffin watching opportunities
- Vík í Mýrdal: Charming coastal village - Discover more in our top places to visit in Iceland
Self-Drive Tip: Create the perfect waterfall-hopping itinerary by combining Seljalandsfoss with these attractions. Our detailed guide to getting around Iceland includes exact distances, driving times, and recommended stops to maximize your South Coast adventure.
Safety Tips for Walking Behind Seljalandsfoss
Essential Safety Precautions
- Wear appropriate footwear: The path behind the waterfall can be extremely slippery, especially in winter
- Waterproof everything: You will get soaked – protect cameras, phones, and extra clothing
- Watch for ice: Winter conditions create dangerous icy patches around the falls
- Stay on marked paths: Venturing off-trail can be dangerous due to loose rocks and slippery surfaces
- Be prepared for strong winds: The area behind the waterfall can experience powerful air currents
Photography Safety Behind the Falls
- Use waterproof camera housing or smartphone cases
- Keep lens cleaning cloths handy for constant spray
- Consider bringing a tripod with excellent grip for long exposures
- Be extra cautious with expensive equipment in wet, windy conditions
Seljalandsfoss in Popular Culture and Media
Hollywood Fame and Recognition
Seljalandsfoss has captured the imagination of filmmakers and content creators worldwide:
Television Appearances:
- Featured as a dramatic waypoint in Season 6 of The Amazing Race
- Showcased in Season 3 of Star Trek: Discovery as an alien landscape
- Appeared in numerous travel documentaries and nature programs
Music and Social Media:
- Justin Bieber filmed portions of his "I'll Show You" music video at the waterfall
- Countless Instagram influencers have made it a must-visit photo destination
- Featured in tourism campaigns promoting Iceland's natural beauty
This media exposure has helped cement Seljalandsfoss as one of Iceland's most recognizable natural landmarks.
Combine Seljalandsfoss with Other Iceland Experiences
Make the most of your Iceland adventure by combining your Seljalandsfoss visit with other unforgettable experiences:
Guided Tours:
- South Coast Day Tours: Comprehensive guided experiences covering multiple waterfalls and attractions
- Golden Circle Tours: Iceland's most popular sightseeing route
- Northern Lights Tours: Winter evening excursions to witness the Aurora Borealis
- Glacier Tours: Ice cave exploration and glacier hiking adventures
Self-Drive Adventures:
- 6-Day South Iceland Self-Drive: Perfect introduction combining Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and glacier lagoons
- 7-Day South & West Self-Drive: Comprehensive tour including Snæfellsnes peninsula
- 8-Day Ring Road Self-Drive: Complete Iceland circumnavigation with flexible stops
- 10-Day Ring Road with Snæfellsnes: Extended adventure covering remote areas
Explore our complete collection of self-drive vacation packages and find detailed information in our getting around Iceland guide.
Photography Tips for Seljalandsfoss
Camera Settings for Waterfall Photography
- Use faster shutter speeds (1/125s or higher) to freeze water motion for sharp detail
- Try longer exposures (2-4 seconds) with a tripod for silky water effects
- Shoot in RAW format for maximum editing flexibility in challenging lighting
- Use polarizing filters to reduce glare and enhance color saturation
- Consider graduated neutral density filters for balanced exposure
Best Photography Locations and Times
- Golden Hour Magic: Visit 1-2 hours before sunset for warm, dramatic lighting
- Behind-the-Falls Silhouettes: Capture people or landscapes through the water curtain
- Winter Ice Photography: Document the stunning ice formations during freezing temperatures
- Wide Angle Perspectives: Show the waterfall's relationship to the surrounding landscape
- Detail Shots: Focus on water patterns, rock formations, and ice structures
For comprehensive photography guidance, explore our best waterfalls photography guide covering all major attractions.
Essential Planning Resources for Your Seljalandsfoss Adventure
Before You Go:
- Read our comprehensive guide to getting around Iceland - covering transport options, road types, and travel tips
- Check our ultimate Iceland travel guide - understand seasonal conditions and planning essentials
- Review our self-drive vacation packages - choose the right itinerary for your South Coast adventure
- Browse our essential travel preparation tips - ensure you have everything needed for safe travels
Planning Resources:
- Use our detailed 5-day Iceland itinerary ideas for route planning
- Reference our best places to visit in Iceland guide for attraction priorities
- Check our trip duration planning guide for timing recommendations
Ready to experience the magic of walking behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall yourself? Explore our carefully crafted Iceland vacation packages and self-drive adventures to create memories that will last a lifetime.
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