Seljalandsfoss Waterfall in Iceland

 

One of the most photographed waterfalls in the country, Seljalandsfoss in Iceland is a major tourist attraction along the South Coast. The waterfall is easily accessible and located right on the Ring Road, and you can even walk behind the waterfall if you’re outfitted with hiking boots and a rain jacket. In addition to being recognisable from tons of photos from Iceland, the waterfall is also recognisable from various media, including music videos and television.

If you have Seljalandsfoss, Iceland, on your travel bucket list, then you’re in the right place. We’re covering everything you need to know about visiting Seljalandsfoss, including how to get there, when you should visit and what else to do while you’re in the area. When you rent a car to go visit Seljalandsfoss, Iceland, the entire region of the South Coast opens up to you, for amazing explorations of one of the country’s most picturesque spots.

Here's what to keep in mind as you plan your trip.

 

What is Seljalandsfoss?

As mentioned, Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most recognisable waterfalls. Yes, there are many famous waterfalls in Iceland, including quite a few also located in the South of Iceland, from Gullfoss to Svartifoss, but Seljalandsfoss is a true stunner. That’s probably part of the reason why it’s been featured in so many works of media, from Justin Bieber’s “I’ll Show You” music video to an episode of “Star Trek: Discovery” to “The Amazing Race.”

Falling about 60 metres, or nearly 200 feet, from a dramatic, rugged cliffside, the waterfall is situated just so that visitors can actually walk around it, viewing it from behind. There, you can see the waterfall from a completely unique angle.

It’s not just Seljalandsfoss’s beauty, though, that makes it a top attraction in Iceland. It’s also very conveniently located for those who are taking a road trip around Iceland. It’s located along many South Iceland road trip itineraries, but it’s also right off Route 1, or the Ring Road, so is likewise included on popular Ring Road road trip itineraries. Additionally, unlike some waterfalls throughout the country that require a hike to see them, you don’t have to hike very long to get to this waterfall. A short walk from the parking lot is all it’ll take to get up close to this powerful natural feature.

Plus, you can visit Seljalandsfoss any time of year! Whereas some parts of Iceland are cut off from visitors during the winter months, as is the case with the Icelandic Highlands, you can visit the South Coast during summer or winter, so long as you have the right winter gear to travel around Iceland safely. Whatever time of year you visit, you can be assured that Seljalandsfoss will look gorgeous.

It is possible to see Seljalandsfoss as part of a broader guided tour. However, we recommend that you visit this waterfall on your own. A car rental in Iceland can make getting to the waterfall simple and easy, and you can visit whenever you want, stay as long as you want and then go on to see whatever else you want in the near vicinity, without waiting on your guide or fellow travellers.

 

Where is Seljalandsfoss?

So if you’re interested in visiting Seljalandsfoss, how do you get there?

Just like the waterfall itself is easy to access from Route 1, or the Ring Road, any time of year, it’s also pretty easy for travellers to access right when they arrive in Iceland. It’s only about a 120-kilometre, or 75-mile drive from Reykjavik, which should only take you about 1.5 to 2 hours to drive. So, if you want to, you can go out to Seljalandsfoss for a day trip from Reykjavik, and return to the city in the evening, without switching hotels.

That said, many prefer to include Seljalandsfoss on a broader road trip, whether that be a South Coast road trip or a Ring Road road trip. There are so many other interesting things to see in the area, like Skogafoss, another waterfall, and the famed Reynisfjara black sand beach, that it would be a shame to drive out to Seljalandsfoss without seeing them all.

 

How to Get There with a Rental Car 

Most travellers are coming from Reykjavik or Keflavik Airport and going to Seljalandsfoss, either after spending some time in the former or just touching down in the latter. Luckily, whichever you’re coming from, the journey is incredibly easy, with minimal directions required.

Here’s how to get to Seljalandsfoss, Iceland, from both.

• From Reykjavík: Drive east on Route 1, or the Ring Road, for about 1.5 hours, until you see signs for Seljalandsfoss, near Road 249. You’ll eventually come upon the Seljalandsfoss parking lot.
• From Keflavik Airport: After you pick up your rental car at the airport, or from the Keflavik Lava Car Rental office, you just need to get on Route 41, then Route 49, take the Hverageroi exit and continue on Hringvegur until Route 249, which will take you to Seljalandsfoss. The drive from Keflavik to Seljalandsfoss is about 2.5 hours.

Whichever route you take, the entire drive will be on well-maintained, paved roadways. As such, you only need a 4x4 vehicle if you’re visiting Iceland during the winter months, just so that you’re prepared if you encounter snow or ice. Otherwise, a small economy car will be suitable any other time of year.

 

Why Visit Seljalandsfoss by Car Instead of on a Tour?

As mentioned, you can visit Seljalandsfoss via a guided tour, but the tours really aren’t a great fit for most travellers. This is because, when you’re on a tour, you have to follow a very strict schedule. You leave to visit the waterfall when the tour guide tells you to. You stop only when the tour guide says it’s okay. You only stay at the waterfall as long as the tour guide permits.

In contrast, when you rent a car in Iceland, the entire country is your playground. You can easily set out to visit the waterfall whenever you want, any time of day, any day of the week. You can stop wherever you like along the way. You can stay however long you want. You can leave when you want. All the while, you never have to share your space with other travellers that you don’t know.

In short, renting a car is the best choice if you want to visit Seljalandsfoss in Iceland.

 

Benefits of Driving Yourself to Seljalandsfoss

• Go at your own pace: Arrive when you want, stay as long as you want and leave when you want.
• Avoid the crowds: Don’t share your space with strangers on a tour, and avoid crowded times at this popular attraction, such as mid-day.
• Explore nearby: Check out the many, many other amazing sites in the near vicinity, such as the lesser-known but still gorgeous waterfall known as Gljufrabuj, which you likely wouldn’t see on any guided tour.
• Take detours and be spontaneous: You never know what’s going to catch your eye when you’re travelling around Iceland. With a rental car, you can stop and take photos as you like, or go visit an attraction you didn’t know existed until you came across it.
• Be comfortable: Crowded guided tour buses are hardly comfortable. A private rental car is cosy, always the right temperature and your perfect fit.

Still not convinced? If you do want to take a guided tour to Seljalandsfoss, do so with a Lava Car Rental tour discount.

 

When is the Best Time to Visit Seljalandsfoss?

So when should you plan to visit Seljalandsfoss? As mentioned, any time of year is a good time of year to see this waterfall. However, you may prefer one season over another, just based on your personal preferences.

 

Summer (May–September)

Visit Seljalandsfoss during Iceland’s summer months, May to September, to enjoy milder weather and warmer temperatures, as well as beautiful views of the roaring waters contrasted against the verdant scenery beyond. Without the snow and ice in the way, you’ll be able to easily hike around the waterfall. Additionally, since Iceland’s summer daylight hours are very long, lasting well into the late night, you’ll have more daylight hours for visiting this waterfall and other area attractions.  

 

Winter (October–April)

Iceland’s winter, though, casts the waterfall in a particular beauty. The snow and ice make for a stunning panorama, as the waterfall almost, but not entirely, freezes. That said, hiking around the waterfall is more difficult during the winter months and it may be restricted if the ice is bad. You’ll also need to rent a 4x4 vehicle if you decide to visit during the winter months, to ensure safe driving. You’ll also need crampons, or hiking spikes, to place on your hiking boots to provide extra traction as you traverse the land around the waterfall. Without them, you could slip and fall. Crampons can be purchased at various stores throughout Iceland, including even gas stations.

 

Best Time of Day to Visit

Whatever time of year you decide to visit Seljalandsfoss, it’s nice to visit either in the early morning or the late evening hours, as most of the tour guide buses come during the middle of the day. You’ll avoid the crowds by arriving extra early or extra late. 

It’s easier to make these hours work for your travel schedule when you rent a campervan. An Iceland campervan rental allows you to travel around the island at your leisure, without worrying about getting back to your hotel by a certain time. Your accommodations are always with you.

Additionally, if you’re a photographer, you might consider visiting the waterfall during sunset, or the golden hour, when the lighting is most dramatic.

 

What to See & Do at Seljalandsfoss

While you’re at Seljalandsfoss, obviously walking behind the waterfall is a must-experience. Be sure to bring your hiking boots and a jacket to protect you from the mist and spray. You’ll get a little wet, but it’s worth it. Be sure to pack your camera, too, and get lots of photographs, whether or not you’re visiting during the golden hour.

Otherwise, consider also walking to the hidden waterfall Gljufrabui, which is inside a canyon and lesser known to tourists. You might also want to just hang out and enjoy the scenery, particularly with a picnic of Icelandic foods. 

 

Parking & Entrance Fees

Like many Iceland attractions, there’s no entry fee required to visit Seljalandsfoss, but parking at the waterfall does come with a small fee. You can pay the fee via the Parka app, available for both iOS and Android. The parking lot is clearly marked and right next to the waterfall, so you can’t miss it. It’s a well-maintained lot, but do note that it may be icy in winter.

Before you arrive in Iceland, be sure to check out our guides to parking in Iceland and the best travelling apps in Iceland. Before driving around the area, you’ll likewise want to view the road conditions at www.safetravel.is.

 

Explore More of the South Coast 

As mentioned, there’s so much more to do and see around Seljalandsfoss than just seeing this waterfall. Within an hour’s drive, you can visit many other famous Iceland sites, like:

• Skógafoss (25 minutes away): This is another beautiful waterfall that you can view from the bottom or, if you’re willing to walk for about an hour up 500 steps, from the top.
• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach (50 minutes away): This famous beach offers black sands, large basalt column structures and dramatic waves off the Atlantic coast.
• Dyrhólaey (45 minutes away): This spot on the coast provides amazing cliff and ocean views.

An Iceland rental car makes getting to all of these easy over the course of just a day, or longer, if you want to take your time. Check out all the amazing things to do along Iceland’s South Coast for more.

 

Why Choose Lava Car Rental for Your Trip to Seljalandsfoss?

As you prepare for your trip to Iceland to visit amazing sites like Seljalandsfoss, Lava Car Rental is here to help you have the most convenient, enjoyable trip possible.

We offer…

• Convenient pickup at Keflavik Airport, so you can start your road trip as soon as you land
• Affordable and reliable vehicles that are both comfortable and budget-friendly
• Unlimited mileage so you can explore as far as you want
• Essential insurance included in your rental, so you’re covered without extra fees
• A local support team that can provide the most accurate travel advice possible
• Free cancellation so you can book with confidence

So, what are you waiting for? Book your Iceland car rental with Lava Car Rental.

 

Begin Planning Your Trip to See Seljalandsfoss

Whether Seljalandsfoss is at the top of your list of things you want to see while in Iceland, or you’re planning a broader road trip to so many famous spots around the country, renting a car to get you around will provide you with flexibility and freedom, no matter the season.

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