Best for
Hidden cave experience
Wade into a canyon to see falls from inside—magical.
Gljúfrabúi Waterfall Iceland: Complete Visitor Guide
'Canyon Dweller' — a hidden 40-meter waterfall tucked inside a narrow canyon, just 500 meters from Seljalandsfoss.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Region
South Iceland
Hidden gem. You will get wet—waterproof everything.
Gljúfrabúi, meaning 'Canyon Dweller,' is a hidden waterfall tucked inside a narrow canyon just 500 meters from Seljalandsfoss. Visitors wade through a shallow stream into the cave to see the 40-meter falls pouring from above through a gap in the rock ceiling. A magical, intimate experience unlike any other waterfall in Iceland.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. You will get wet inside the canyon—waterproof your belongings. Rocks are slippery.
Sources to check
Access
Easy (500m from Seljalandsfoss)
Short walk, but you wade through a stream to enter.
Pro tip
Waterproof everything
Phone in a dry bag. Waterproof jacket and pants essential.
What to Expect at Gljúfrabúi
- Wading through a shallow stream into a narrow canyon
- 40-meter waterfall pouring through a gap in the rock ceiling
- Spray filling the cave—you will get thoroughly wet
Nearby Attractions to Gljúfrabúi
- Seljalandsfoss (500m walk, walk-behind waterfall)
- Skógafoss (30 min drive east)
- Eyjafjallajökull volcano views
How to Get to Gljúfrabúi
- Located just 500m east of Seljalandsfoss on Route 1
- About 120 km east of Reykjavik (1.5–2 hours drive)
- Share parking with Seljalandsfoss (fee may apply)
- Walk along the cliff base from Seljalandsfoss
- Look for the narrow opening in the rock face
Best Time to Visit Gljúfrabúi
- Year-round attraction—magical in every season
- Summer: warmest for wading, longest daylight hours
- Winter: ice can make stream crossing trickier
- Early morning or late evening for fewer crowds
- Combine with a Seljalandsfoss visit for the full experience
Planning help
Gljúfrabúi FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.