Seljalandsfoss in Winter
Considering a visit to Seljalandsfoss in winter? The stunning South Coast waterfall is still flowing in the winter and makes for a great visit.
Although summer is the time to visit Seljalandsfoss if you have your heart set on walking behind the waterfall, it makes for a fascinating destination in the winter as well.
Here’s everything you need to know about visiting the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall on Iceland’s South Coast in the winter!
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Seljalandsfoss in Winter: Travel Guide Summary
| Seljalandsfoss in Winter Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Water Flow | Waterfall continues flowing – volume may be slightly lower but still dramatic |
| Weather | Cold, wet, and windy. Temps range from -5°C to +5°C (23°F to 41°F). Frequent snowfall, sleet, & icy rain |
| Road Conditions | Route 1 and Road 249 are plowed regularly, but ice and snow common – 4WD rental strongly advised |
| Waterfall Access | Open year-round; path behind the waterfall closed due to ice and falling icicles |
| Gljúfrabúi (Hidden Falls) | Path is usually open, but may be inaccessible or unsafe due to icy canyon floor and frozen stream bed |
| Safety Tips | – Do not attempt to walk behind the falls in winter – Avoid icicles and overhanging rock areas |
| Clothing Needed | Thermal base layers, fleece/wool mid-layers, waterproof outer shell, hat, gloves, crampons, waterproof boots |
The scenery is beautiful
Seljalandsfoss does not freeze in the winter. The cliffside drips with icicles, framing the flowing waterfall, for an ethereally beautiful scene. The white water and icicles against the dark cliffs makes for a gorgeous contrast.
If you visit when it has snowed, the lowlands, with the grey river streaking through them, are white as well, making for an even more enchanting spectacle.
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The path behind the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall is closed in the winter
One of the main attractions for visitors to Seljalandsfoss is the ability to walk the pathway that goes behind the curtain of water.
The pathway becomes too slippery and dangerous in the winter, so you will likely find it closed if you visit during the colder months. The risk of icicles breaking off from the cliff above and falling on to the path is also real.
If you do see the “closed” sign, respect it and do not venture on the path.
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You can still walk to Gljufrabui
The mini-hike to the hidden Gljufrabui waterfall can be done in the winter as the path is usually open and cleared.
The hike to Gljufrabui is short and flat but it may still be icy and slippery, though, so wear shoes with spikes, or bring cleats that go over your shoes.
The Ring Road and parking lot are cleared
Although winter weather on the South Coast of Iceland can be dicey, with lots of snow, ice, and wind, the Ring Road, which connects Seljalandsfoss to Reykjavik is cleared.
The access road to the waterfall and the parking lot and most-used walking paths are also cleared, as Seljalandsfoss is such a popular destination.
However, when driving in Iceland in the winter, always expect wintry conditions and road closures, and check road status before and during your drive.
Better yet, opt for a guided South Coast tour that includes Seljalandsfoss to not have to worry about driving in wintry conditions.
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You can get a hot drink at the food truck!
There is a food truck in the parking lot at Seljalandsfoss Waterfall that sells good coffee and you can get a hot beverage to warm you up after your winter visit to this stunning waterfall!
The truck sells sandwiches and snacks as well.
You can photograph the Northern Lights
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall is an excellent destination if you are looking to capture the Northern Lights.
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The Northern Lights are visible between late August and early April when atmospheric conditions are right.
The waterfall is illuminated with flood lights at night so it is visible against the backdrop of a stunning sky lit with dancing green lights.
You can even capture it from the Ring Road at a distance, with the Northern Lights providing drama in the sky.
It is also open 24/7, so you can visit when the skies are dark.
Do watch your footing very carefully though, as the paths around the waterfall can be extremely slippery and visibility is reduced at night.
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Best Things to Do in Iceland at a Glance
| Location | Best Tours (Reserve now, these sell out fast!) |
|---|---|
| Area highlights | Golden Circle, South Coast, South Iceland, Ring Road |
| Reykjavik & from Reykjavik | Food walk, Northern Lights, Reykjavik city walk, whale watching, lava show, Icelandic horseback riding, Silfra snorkeling, puffins, volcano from helicopter, ATV |
| Vik & nearby | Easy glacier walk, black sand beach horse riding, zipline, glacier lagoon kayak |
| North Iceland | Whales & puffins, white water rafting, Godafoss |
Top-Rated Seljalandsfoss and South Coast Tours
Planning a trip to see the falls? Visit the Seljalandsfoss website for the complete rundown on every single detail!
And if you’re just starting to plan your visit to Iceland, check out the some of the top things to do in Iceland, many of which you absolutely don’t want to miss!
