Day Trips to Seljalandsfoss Waterfalls in Iceland

Iceland is famous for its beautiful scenery, but also for its wide range of adventure experiences. Whale watching, geyser tours, helicopter tours: there are thousands of things to see and do in and around Reykjavik.

This article focuses on one specific attraction: Seljalandsfoss waterfalls. It is located just off a main road and is therefore one of the most visited attractions on the island.

These tours cover the southern part of the island and include a stop at the Seljalandsfoss waterfall. The tour usually stops here for about half an hour and is the last stop before returning to Reykjavík.

Before arriving at the waterfalls, the vehicle stops at:

• Hekla, Iceland's most active volcano. Its regular eruptions have earned it the nickname "Hell's Gate". Despite its terrifying name, it is not uncommon to see splendid Icelandic horses in the vicinity. They are different from the European specimens: they are small, strong and at the same time very affectionate. If you want to meet them, I recommend you read the article on the best horseback riding tours in Iceland.
• Reynisfjara, a striking black sand beach with a cliff of basalt columns - it's so beautiful it looks fake! This splendid spot is home to the nesting Puffin Puffin. These small white-breasted black birds are much loved and there are excursions to see them up close. One of these is the Puffin Cruise from Reykjavik.
• Skógafoss, the waterfall that hides a treasure. According to local folklore, the navigator Thrasi hid his chest here and never returned to retrieve it.
• Eyjafjallajokull, the volcano with the unpronounceable name that held the whole of Europe in check. Its last eruption took place in 2010 and covered the skies over the old continent with a layer of ash. If you're not too young, you might remember that planes didn't take off for a week.
• Solheimajokull, the most beautiful glacier in the south. It is also one of the easiest glaciers to access from Reykjavík.

Normally, these routes include a stop at Víkurskáli, a mini market where you can buy something for lunch: soups, cheeses, sausages, biscuits, etc. The stop usually lasts about an hour.

• Price: about €90
• Duration: 10 hours
• Starting point: the vehicle will pick you up from your hotel or a central location in Reykjavík.

At first glance, this route is the same as the first one. In fact, the differences are minimal, but there is one place that is only touched by choosing the second option: Vík í Mýrdal, a picturesque village overlooking the sea. It is not only an attractive place, but also a place to refuel, rest and have a bite to eat.

Its icon is the minimalist (and very photogenic) red and white church that dominates the inhabited centre from a small height. If you have time, you can grab a pint and a burger at the Strondin pub (Austurvegur 18).

• Price: about €100
• Duration: 10 hours
• Starting point: from your hotel

The waterfall is located on the south coast of the island, about 120 kilometres from Reykjavík. If you don't want to book an organised tour, there's only one option: by car. Buses are limited to connecting towns and villages and don't usually stop near the natural attractions.

Not a problem, both the airport and the capital are home to major car rental agencies (Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, etc). The waterfall is just off the Ring Road and the drive takes just under 2 hours. One last thing, before booking a car, there are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Consider renting a 4x4, especially if you plan to explore the more remote areas.
• Take out insurance cover. Most roads are gravel and a small rock splash is enough to damage your bodywork or, worse, your windscreen.
• Don't wait too long to refuel. Outside the capital, petrol stations are rather scarce. Fortunately, near Seljalandsfoss there is an N1 petrol station (PQX8+RFM, Þjóðvegur, 860 Hvolsvöllur, Iceland).
• Respect the limits. The Ring Road is full of speed cameras. If that's not enough, sheep and horses often encroach on the road.

There are two schools of thought: some believe that the best time to visit is in winter, others consider it worthwhile to visit the waterfalls from late May to early July, when the waterfall is more consistent and there is a better chance of seeing the Northern Lights.

However, the colder months do have one plus point - the snow. The contrast with the dark rocks and stalactites of solidified water creates a very evocative atmosphere.

Unfortunately you will not be able to walk behind the waterfall. The path is too slippery and the authorities have no choice but to close it.

Despite the low temperatures, the waterfalls do not freeze completely. As it falls from the top of the cliff, the water makes its way over the icy banks, which are covered with a beautiful white coating.

If you're travelling to Reykjavík in winter, you'll be pleased to know that the roads leading to Seljalandsfoss are cleaned regularly. In any case, you can check the condition of the Ring Road (the motorway around the island) and other roads on the Road.is website.

In general, half an hour is enough. Unlike other natural attractions in the country, this waterfall is easily accessible by car and there is no real hiking trail.

Most tourists get here, take a few photos, wander around a bit and then leave. If you're looking for something longer, you can book a tour to the Blue Lagoon from Reykjavík or a visit to Thingvellir National Park.

Hiking in the wilderness is always a bit of a challenge. You have to be ready for any eventuality and the best advice is always the same: dress in layers. To simplify matters, I've divided the suggestions into two points.

Summer clothes

In Iceland, summer starts in June and ends at the end of August. The days are very long: sunrise is very early and sunset never seems to come. As for temperatures, lows hover around 10 degrees Celsius, while highs are in the high 20s. The weather is very variable and, as always, requires a variety of clothing:

• Breathable, water-repellent trousers (not too heavy or you'll get hot).
• Trekking shoes
• Long and short sleeved T-shirts (so you have two layers)
• Lightweight coat
• Windbreaker jacket with hood
• Earmuffs
• Sunglasses

If this is your first time in Iceland, it might be better to choose this season. For more information, I recommend the article on what to do in Reykjavik in summer.

Winter clothes

Normally, the cold season starts in November and ends at the beginning of April. Contrary to what you might think, temperatures are not extreme. In Reykjavík, minimum temperatures do not drop below minus 5 degrees Celsius, while maximum temperatures reach "peaks" of 3 degrees Celsius/5 degrees Celsius.

However, the wind is a constant and increases the sensation of cold. To avoid this, you'll need to pack your suitcase well. The list below shows what you should not miss:

• Thermal underwear in merino wool or polypropylene, cotton is best avoided.
• Trekking shoes or waterproof winter boots
• Ski trousers, waterproof and windproof
• Neck warmer, more practical than a scarf
• Woollen hat
• Quality winter jacket
• Fleece coat
• Ski gloves and tactile gloves

If you're travelling at this time of year, you can take the opportunity to buy a Lopapeysa, the island's warm jumper. You'll find a good selection at the Handknitting Association of Iceland (Skólavörðustígur 19) or the Kolaportið Flea Market (Laugavegur 12).

By proxy you can, but it's not a good idea. The impact of the water is too strong and I'm sure you don't want to find out the consequences. If you want to take a dip, I recommend a visit to Iceland's best hot springs- you'll be reborn!

A hike to the waterfalls is fairly straightforward: it doesn't require too much effort and doesn't involve any major dangers. However, Iceland is an adventurous destination and unforeseen events are always lurking. Without travel insurance, a sprained ankle or infection could turn into a headache (metaphorically).

The northern country is not a member of the European Union and the EU card is only valid up to a point. Icelandic citizens are obliged to pay 15% of any health care and if you don't take out additional insurance, you'll be subject to the same treatment.

In short, it's worth spending a little more for peace of mind. This way you'll be able to indulge in all the adrenaline-fuelled activities you fancy: horse riding tours from Reykjavík, ice cave trekking, mountain biking and much more.

No, Seljalandsfoss is close to the road but there are no major towns or cities in the vicinity. Whether you are travelling alone or on an organised tour, I recommend that you bring food and/or drink from the capital. In Reykjavík, the main supermarkets are:

• Bonus, the cheapest on the island. Don't go if you want to make a big purchase because the selection is limited.
• Hagkaup, a bit more expensive but with supermarkets open 24/7.
• Iceland, the ideal destination if you like sweets. During the weekend there is a pick and mix option which guarantees a 50% discount on these products.