Gljúfrabúi

1,176 photos

Quick Facts

Westfjords

Region

40m

Height

800 ISK

Parking

Moderate (wet approach)

Access

What is it

The hidden waterfall. Tucked inside a canyon near Seljalandsfoss — you have to wade through a stream or climb through rocks to see it. Feels like discovering a secret.

The Vibe

Entering the canyon is like stepping into another world. The walls close in, the sound of water echoes, and then — a hidden 40-meter falls. You feel like you found something special.

Weather & conditions

Ring Road R1

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From Reykjavík to the foss

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About

Gljúfrabúi

The Story

The name means 'canyon dweller.' While crowds flock to Seljalandsfoss next door, this one stays relatively quiet. The canyon entrance is narrow enough to hide the treasure inside.

Real Talk

Wear waterproof boots — you'll wade through water to get inside. Not much view from outside the canyon. Don't force it if the water is high. 5-minute walk from Seljalandsfoss parking.

Visit

How to get there

Parking

800 ISK fee, card payment.

Access

Accessibility: moderate (wet approach)

By road

Follow Ring Road (Route 1) to Westfjords. Check live conditions above before departing.

Best season

Best in year-round. Year-round access possible.

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Photos

Anja M.

Daniel P.

Sofia L.

Marco R.

Elena K.

Tómas V.

Reviews

Anja Müller

Mar 28, 2026 · Sightseeing

Unique experienceWet & mistyParking availableFamily friendly

Walking behind a 60-meter waterfall is something you don't forget. We went at sunset and the light through the curtain was absolutely magical. Bring proper rain gear — you WILL get soaked through. The path is well-maintained but rocky.

Conditions: Wet, misty spray, soaked path

Parking: Paid, 800 ISK, large lot

Difficulty: Easy

Daniel Park

Feb 14, 2026 · Photography

Great light at sunriseCrowded in summerGljúfrabúi nearby

Best light at sunrise before the tour buses arrive. The path behind is slippery in winter but doable with spikes. Don't skip Gljúfrabúi next door — most tourists walk right past it, but it's a hidden waterfall inside a cave. Spectacular.

Conditions: Icy path, cold spray

Parking: Paid lot, small fee

Difficulty: Easy

Sofia Lindström

Jan 6, 2026 · Road trip

Winter closed behindIcyGreat views

Stopped here on a Ring Road trip in early January. The path behind the waterfall was closed due to ice — check conditions before you go if walking behind is the main reason. Still stunning from the front though.

Conditions: Snow, ice, closed path

Parking: Free in winter (closed booth)

Difficulty: Easy (front only)