Plizio Visual Lab
Eyjafjallajökull / Seljalandsfoss
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
This region in South Iceland combines two of the country's most iconic natural wonders. Eyjafjallajökull gained global fame in 2010 when its eruption disrupted European air travel. Today, the glacier-capped volcano is a top destination for Super-Jeep tours. Right at its base, Seljalandsfoss waterfall drops 60 meters over a former coastline. Its unique feature is the pathway that allows visitors to walk entirely behind the water curtain, offering a unique perspective, especially at sunset. A short walk away lies the hidden waterfall Gljúfrabúi, tucked inside a narrow canyon. The area is a paradise for photographers and nature enthusiasts. A nearby visitor center provides insights into the history of local eruptions. For food, local cafés offer traditional Icelandic soups and homemade cakes. The best time to visit is during summer when the paths are safest to walk, though the frozen falls in winter are equally majestic. Located right on Route 1, it is an essential stop for any Icelandic road trip.
- Location: Iceland
- Top sights: Gljufrabui · Cave Paradísarhellir
- Nearby: Vestmannaeyjar (24 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 2 | 1 |
| Rain mm | 244 | 222 | 216 | 159 | 112 | 105 | 123 | 143 | 221 | 203 | 206 | 244 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Eyjafjallajökull volcano and Seljalandsfoss waterfall are accessible outdoors. At Seljalandsfoss, you can walk behind the waterfall - a unique experience.
Typical hours
Typically both attractions are accessible during daylight hours. In winter, paths may be icy, so caution is advised.
Photography
Photography is allowed. Unique shots are possible behind the waterfall. A tripod can be helpful in low light.
Time needed
Allow about one hour for Seljalandsfoss. For exploring the volcano area, plan at least two additional hours.
Combine with
Combine with other South Coast waterfalls like Skógafoss or the hidden Gljúfrabúi, which are also worth seeing.
Getting there
Seljalandsfoss is right off the Ring Road (Route 1). The volcano area is reachable via various hiking trails, well-marked in summer.
Insider tip
Tip: Wear waterproof clothing and non-slip shoes - the path behind the waterfall can be wet and slippery.
Geography
Facts
- Site of the famous 2010 eruption
- Waterfall height: 60 meters
- Trail leads behind the water curtain
- Glacier sits atop the volcano
- Near the hidden Gljúfrabúi falls
- Visitor center about the eruption
- Located right on the Ring Road
- Views of the Westman Islands
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Eyjafjallajökull / Seljalandsfoss (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you go behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall?
Yes, there is a path, but it is often wet and may be closed in winter due to ice.
Is Seljalandsfoss illuminated at night?
Yes, powerful floodlights illuminate the waterfall even during the dark winter months.
How high is Seljalandsfoss?
The waterfall has a drop of about 60 meters.
What happened in 2010 at Eyjafjallajökull?
A volcanic eruption under the glacier disrupted air traffic across much of Europe.
Are there any entry fees?
The waterfall is free to visit, but parking costs about 800 ISK per day.
Eyjafjallajökull / Seljalandsfoss: where is it located?
Eyjafjallajökull / Seljalandsfoss is located in Iceland.
Eyjafjallajökull / Seljalandsfoss: what is there to see?
Highlights include Gljufrabui, Cave Paradísarhellir.
Eyjafjallajökull / Seljalandsfoss: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Eyjafjallajökull / Seljalandsfoss: why is it worth visiting?
This region in South Iceland combines two of the country's most iconic natural wonders.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in Iceland →
Nearby cities
Reykjavík
Reykjavík is the capital and largest city of Iceland, serving as the nation's cultural, economic, and governmental hub.
Kópavogur
Kópavogur is Iceland's second largest city, located directly south of Reykjavík.
Hafnarfjörður
A charming port town just outside Reykjavík, known as the 'town in the lava' and famous for its Viking heritage and elf folklore.
Hafnarfjörður
Hafnarfjörður is a port city south of Reykjavík, built on an ancient lava field.
Keflavík
Keflavík is a town on the Reykjanes Peninsula, part of the Reykjanesbær municipality.
Mosfellsbær
Mosfellsbær is located northeast of Reykjavík, known for its hilly landscape and thermal springs.
Garðabær
Garðabær is a growing town in the Greater Reykjavík area.
Selfoss
Selfoss is the largest service center in southern Iceland, situated on the banks of the Ölfusá River.
Akranes
Akranes is a port town on Iceland's west coast, known for its long fishing tradition and two distinctive lighthouses.
Seltjarnarnes
Seltjarnarnes is a small municipality on a peninsula just west of Reykjavík.
Vestmannaeyjar
Vestmannaeyjar is a town on Heimaey island in the archipelago of the same name off Iceland's south coast.
Grindavík
Grindavík is a fishing town on the south coast of the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Blue Lagoon (Grindavík)
Iceland's most famous geothermal spa, known for its milky-blue, mineral-rich waters.
Hveragerði
Hveragerði is famous for its high geothermal activity, located about 45 km east of Reykjavík.
Hveragerði
Known as the 'Greenhouse Town', it sits on an active geothermal field and is famous for its hot springs and banana cultivation.
History & landmarks
Reykjavík City Hall
Reykjavík City Hall is situated on the banks of Lake Tjörnin.
Hvolsvöllur
A historic town in South Iceland, famous as the heart of the Njál's Saga and a gateway to glaciers.
Seljalandsfoss
Seljalandsfoss is famous for the walking path that leads behind the falling curtain of water.
Heimaey
Heimaey is the largest and only inhabited island in the Westman Islands.
Skógafoss
Skógafoss is one of Iceland's largest waterfalls with a width of 25 meters.
Skógar
A historic village on the South Coast, famous for the powerful Skógafoss waterfall and its folk museum.
Nature
More places
Eyjafjallajökull
Eyjafjallajökull is a smaller glacier in southern Iceland covering a stratovolcano of the same name.
Vestmannaeyjar Port
The port in the Westman Islands is essential for the Icelandic fishing economy.
Herjólfsdalur
This valley in the Westman Islands houses excavated ruins of an 8th-century settlement, suggesting habitation before the official Landtak…
Keldur
Keldur is one of the oldest preserved turf farms in Iceland.