south-iceland · Iceland
Gljúfrabúi — Hidden Waterfall
Gljúfrabúi is located immediately east of Seljalandsfoss on Iceland's South Coast. Key features: - Height: ~40 metres - Hidden inside narrow canyon - Moss-covered rock walls - Requires wading to access Access: - Same parking as Seljalandsfoss - 200-metre walk east - Wade through shallow stream (ankle to knee-deep) - Waterproof boots recommended - Expect to get wet from spray Gljúfrabúi means 'canyon dwell' in Icelandic. The waterfall was relatively unknown until social media revealed it.
About Gljúfrabúi — Hidden Waterfall
Gljúfrabúi is located immediately east of Seljalandsfoss on Iceland's South Coast. Key features: - Height: ~40 metres - Hidden inside narrow canyon - Moss-covered rock walls - Requires wading to access Access: - Same parking as Seljalandsfoss - 200-metre walk east - Wade through shallow stream (ankle to knee-deep) - Waterproof boots recommended - Expect to get wet from spray Gljúfrabúi means 'canyon dwell' in Icelandic. The waterfall was relatively unknown until social media revealed it.
History & Background
This site has been a landmark in South Iceland for centuries, known to early Icelandic settlers who traveled these routes. The waterfall's name appears in historical records and local folklore, reflecting its importance to the communities that lived nearby. During the settlement era (874-930 AD), waterfalls like this served as natural boundaries between farmsteads and were often referenced in land claims recorded in the Landnámabók (Book of Settlements). Through the centuries, the waterfall has been a source of fresh water, a gathering place, and a symbol of the raw power of Icelandic nature. Modern visitors can now access the site easily, but the waterfall remains as awe-inspiring as it was to the first settlers who beheld it over a thousand years ago.
Did You Know?
- ✔40-metre hidden waterfall
- ✔Inside narrow canyon
- ✔Requires wading stream
- ✔Next to Seljalandsfoss
- ✔Moss-covered walls
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Book NowAbout Gljúfrabúi — Hidden Waterfall
Gljúfrabúi is located immediately east of Seljalandsfoss on Iceland's South Coast. Key features: - Height: ~40 metres - Hidden inside narrow canyon - Moss-covered rock walls - Requires wading to access Access: - Same parking as Seljalandsfoss - 200-metre walk east - Wade through shallow stream (ankle to knee-deep) - Waterproof boots recommended - Expect to get wet from spray Gljúfrabúi means 'canyon dwell' in Icelandic. The waterfall was relatively unknown until social media revealed it. Combine with: Seljalandsfoss (200 m away) Visit duration: 15–30 minutes.
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Book NowHistory & Background
This site has been a landmark in South Iceland for centuries, known to early Icelandic settlers who traveled these routes. The waterfall's name appears in historical records and local folklore, reflecting its importance to the communities that lived nearby. During the settlement era (874-930 AD), waterfalls like this served as natural boundaries between farmsteads and were often referenced in land claims recorded in the Landnámabók (Book of Settlements). Through the centuries, the waterfall has been a source of fresh water, a gathering place, and a symbol of the raw power of Icelandic nature. Modern visitors can now access the site easily, but the waterfall remains as awe-inspiring as it was to the first settlers who beheld it over a thousand years ago.
Story & Folklore
Gljúfrabúi hides in plain sight — most tourists visit Seljalandsfoss next door and never notice the canyon opening 200 metres away. Those who investigate must wade ankle-deep through a cold stream to enter the narrow gorge. Inside, Gljúfrabúi drops 40 metres down a vertical shaft covered in bright green moss. The spray soaks everything. It's otherworldly, secret, and requires commitment (wet feet). Bring waterproof gear or accept getting drenched.
Visitor Information
Best Time
Summer (June-August) for the best light and access; winter for frozen beauty
Duration
30 minutes to 1 hour
Access
Most waterfalls are accessible from Ring Road or short trails. Parking available nearby.
Why Visit
Wade into a secret canyon to see a hidden 40-metre waterfall covered in green moss — Iceland's most adventurous waterfall access.
Did You Know?
Gljúfrabúi was a 'secret' waterfall until Instagram made it famous around 2015 — now thousands visit annually.
The Troll of Reynisdrangar
The dramatic sea stacks at Reynisdrangar, visible from many points along the South Iceland coast, are said to be trolls turned to stone. According to legend, two trolls were trying to drag a three-masted ship to shore when they were caught by the first rays of dawn. Sunlight is fatal to trolls in Icelandic folklore, and they were instantly petrified, becoming the towering rock pillars that stand in the sea to this day. On stormy nights, some locals say you can still hear the trolls groaning as the waves crash against them, forever frozen in their midnight labor.
Hidden Gems Nearby
Early Morning Visit
Visit this attraction at sunrise or early morning for the most magical light and fewer crowds.
The morning light creates stunning rainbows in the mist, and you may have the waterfall entirely to yourself.
Nearby Trails
Explore the lesser-known walking trails around this attraction that most tourists skip.
These trails offer unique perspectives of the waterfall and surrounding landscape that you won't find in guidebooks.
Winter Transformation
this attraction takes on an entirely different character in winter when partially frozen.
The ice formations create a spectacular natural sculpture, and the contrast with the flowing water is breathtaking.
Practical Information
Best Time
Summer (June-August) for the best light and access; winter for frozen beauty
Duration
30 minutes to 1 hour
Access
Most waterfalls are accessible from Ring Road or short trails. Parking available nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this waterfall free to visit?▾
Most waterfalls in Iceland are free to visit, though some may have a small parking fee.
Can I visit this waterfall in winter?▾
Yes, most waterfalls are accessible year-round, though surrounding paths may be icy in winter. Wear proper footwear with good grip.
Is there parking near the waterfall?▾
Most popular waterfalls have dedicated parking areas. Some charge a small parking fee.
How long does it take to visit?▾
Plan for 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on how much time you want to spend photographing and exploring the area.