Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland's most distinctive waterfalls, famous worldwide for the cave behind it that allows visitors to walk completely around the falling water. Plunging 60 meters from the ancient sea cliffs of southern Iceland, the waterfall's name derives from the Seljalands River, which originates from meltwater of the Eyjafjallajökull glacier and its infamous 2010 volcano. The curved rock overhang behind the cascade creates a natural amphitheater offering a unique perspective as water thunders past mere meters away. Featured in numerous films and music videos including Justin Bieber's 'I'll Show You,' Seljalandsfoss has become an iconic symbol of Iceland's dramatic natural beauty.

The moist environment around Seljalandsfoss supports bird species adapted to riverine and cliff habitats along Iceland's south coast. Fulmars nest on ledges in the surrounding cliffs, while wagtails and pipits frequent the wet meadows below. The Seljalands River supports populations of arctic char and brown trout in its upper reaches, while various invertebrates thrive in the nutrient-rich waters. Ravens and other corvids are commonly observed, and during summer, migratory birds pass through the area. The perpetual spray creates microhabitats that support insect populations, which in turn attract insectivorous birds. Occasional seals may be spotted where the river meets the ocean several kilometers downstream.

The constant spray from Seljalandsfoss maintains lush vegetation on the cliff faces and surrounding rocks, with thick moss carpets creating vivid green contrasts against dark basalt. Various moss species including woolly fringe moss thrive in the perpetually moist conditions, while ferns establish themselves in protected crevices behind the waterfall. The grassy meadows below support buttercups, northern bedstraw, and various sedges during the brief summer growing season. Lichens colonize drier rock surfaces away from the spray zone, while hardy arctic wildflowers bloom between May and August. The pathway behind the falls passes through this verdant microclimate, immersing visitors in the waterfall's unique ecosystem.

Seljalandsfoss flows over the same ancient sea cliffs that extend along much of Iceland's southern coast, formed when the island's coastline retreated northward following the last ice age. The cliff face consists of layered basalt lava flows and volcanic sediments deposited over millions of years of volcanic activity. The distinctive cave behind the waterfall was carved by centuries of erosion as water exploited weaknesses in the rock layers. The Seljalands River connects to the Eyjafjallajökull glacier system, which feeds the waterfall with glacial meltwater. The 2010 eruption of the volcano beneath Eyjafjallajökull dramatically demonstrated the dynamic geological forces that continue shaping this landscape.

Seljalandsfoss experiences the cool, wet climate typical of Iceland's southern coast, with abundant precipitation year-round and temperatures moderated by Atlantic Ocean influences. Summer temperatures average 10-15°C, while winters remain relatively mild for the latitude, typically hovering near freezing. The area receives significant rainfall distributed throughout the year, occasionally accompanied by strong winds that can blow the waterfall horizontally. Winter brings ice formations on the surrounding cliffs and occasionally freezes portions of the cascade, creating magical but potentially hazardous conditions. The midnight sun allows extended visiting hours during summer, while winter visitors may witness northern lights above the illuminated falls.

The farmland surrounding Seljalandsfoss has been cultivated since Viking settlement of Iceland, with the waterfall serving as a landmark and water source for local agricultural communities. The ancient sea cliffs along which the waterfall flows marked an important geographical boundary in historical times, separating coastal lowlands from interior highlands. Local farmers utilized the river's waters for irrigation and livestock, while the dramatic landscape featured in regional folklore. The 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption brought international attention to the area when volcanic ash disrupted European air travel, though the waterfall itself escaped significant impact.

Seljalandsfoss has been recognized as a natural monument to protect its unique geological and scenic qualities that make it one of Iceland's most visited attractions. The site remains on public land with no entrance fee, though parking charges help fund basic maintenance and facilities. Infrastructure development has balanced accessibility with preservation, installing pathways and safety features without diminishing the natural experience. The walkway behind the falls has been maintained for decades, though it occasionally closes during dangerous ice conditions in winter. Growing tourism has prompted improved visitor management to protect the fragile vegetation and rock formations from erosion caused by millions of annual footsteps.

The main attraction is walking the pathway behind the waterfall, where visitors experience the unique perspective of water crashing past just meters away while spray fills the air. The path circles from the base through the cave and emerges on the other side, providing continuously changing views of the cascade. Just 500 meters north, the hidden Gljúfrabúi waterfall tumbles into a narrow canyon accessible through a small cave entrance, offering a more adventurous experience. The broader cliff system features several smaller cascades visible from the surrounding paths. During evening hours in summer, the low-angle midnight sun creates spectacular lighting conditions for photography.

Seljalandsfoss is located approximately 120 kilometers from Reykjavík along Route 1, visible from the Ring Road and accessible via a short access road. A parking area accommodates numerous vehicles with a fee of approximately 800 ISK. Basic restroom facilities and a small café operate near the parking lot. No formal visitor center exists at the site. Visitors should bring waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear with good grip, as the path behind the waterfall is perpetually wet and can be extremely slippery. The path behind the falls may close during winter ice conditions. The nearest comprehensive services are available in the towns of Hvolsvöllur or Selfoss.

Conservation at Seljalandsfoss focuses on protecting the fragile vegetation and rock formations from the impacts of heavy visitor traffic. The established pathway concentrates foot traffic on durable surfaces, minimizing erosion of the moss-covered rocks and preventing visitors from creating multiple informal trails. Seasonal closures of the path behind the falls during ice conditions serve both safety and protection purposes. The waterfall's source in glacial meltwater connects its health to broader climate patterns affecting Eyjafjallajökull glacier. Efforts to manage parking and visitor flow aim to reduce crowding while allowing continued access to this iconic natural feature. Educational information encourages visitors to stay on paths and minimize their impact.