Best for
Waterfall inside a cave
Wade into the canyon and see the falls from inside.
Gljúfrabúi (Canyon Dweller)
'Canyon Dweller': a 40-meter waterfall concealed inside a narrow canyon, 500 meters from Seljalandsfoss.
Region
South Iceland
You will get wet; waterproof everything.
Quick Answer
Gljúfrabúi, meaning 'Canyon Dweller,' is a waterfall concealed inside a narrow canyon 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.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. You will get wet inside the canyon, so waterproof your belongings. Rocks are slippery.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
Official 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)
- The Seljalandsfoss parking area is paid; toilets are included
- Walk along the cliff base from Seljalandsfoss
- Look for the narrow opening in the rock face
Best Time to Visit Gljúfrabúi
- Open year-round
- 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
Payment details: Check-it’s Seljalandsfoss parking page. The operator states that an unpaid visit can become a bank claim to the vehicle owner, with an additional 100 ISK bank fee; rental administration charges may also apply.
Planning help
Gljúfrabúi FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
How tall is Gljúfrabúi?
Gljúfrabúi is about 40 meters (131 feet) tall. The waterfall is hidden inside a narrow canyon, with water pouring through a gap in the rock ceiling.
Why is Gljúfrabúi called 'hidden'?
The waterfall is tucked inside a narrow canyon with only a small opening. You must wade through a shallow stream to enter the cave and see the falls cascading from above through a gap in the rock.
Will I get wet at Gljúfrabúi?
Yes, you WILL get wet. You wade through a stream to enter and spray fills the cave. Waterproof jacket, pants, and phone protection are essential.
How far is Gljúfrabúi from Seljalandsfoss?
Gljúfrabúi is about 500 meters from Seljalandsfoss, an easy 5–10 minute walk along the cliff face. Most visitors combine both waterfalls.
Is Gljúfrabúi free to visit?
If you use the Seljalandsfoss car park, budget for paid parking with toilets included. Check-it lists 900 ISK for cars with up to eight passengers, valid until midnight, as checked on 10 September 2026. Follow the tariff shown for your vehicle at the site or payment page. Paying on site avoids an unpaid charge being passed to the rental owner.
When is the best time to visit Gljúfrabúi?
Year-round, though summer has the most comfortable conditions. In winter, ice can make the stream crossing trickier.
Is Gljúfrabúi suitable for children?
Older children who don't mind getting wet can enjoy it. The stream wade and slippery rocks inside make it unsuitable for very young children or those unsteady on their feet.
How much time do I need at Gljúfrabúi?
About 15–30 minutes inside the cave. Plan extra time if combining with Seljalandsfoss (recommended).
Country reference: Iceland statistics.