How to Visit Gljufrabui Waterfall
Are you planning on visiting Gljufrabui Waterfall? Here’s our experience and everything you need to know!
If there’s one waterfall that I’m amazed that tour guides always skip, it’s this one. It’s located literally right next to one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland, yet remains a hidden gem – possibly because if you didn’t know it was there, you’d probably never find it!
Gljufrabui waterfall is one of Iceland’s hidden beauties. It’s a unique waterfall tucked away inside a cave, and not only is it super cool to get to, but it’s also incredible to see.
We’ve driven past this place 3 times and not seen it, so it was fab to finally get there on our last ring road road trip.
Once you know what you’re looking for, it’s pretty easy to find and, besides getting a little wet, it’s totally worth it! So, if you’re trying to find this hidden waterfall, here’s what you need to know!
Where is Gljufrabui Waterfall?
Gljufrabui Waterfall is tucked away on Iceland’s stunning south coast. It’s one of those magical hidden spots, much like nearby Kvernufoss, that we think is a must-see if you’re exploring this part of the country.
It’s one of our favourite waterfalls along the south coast.
It’s located around 1 hour and 50 minutes west of the capital, between Reykjavik and Vik, and is right next to Seljalandsfoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls that every south coast tour will stop at.
In fact, Gljúfrabúi is just a short walk from the Seljalandsfoss car park, making it super convenient to add to your itinerary. If you’re already driving the south coast, which is a highlight of any Iceland road trip, it’s an easy and worthwhile detour.
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How to get to Gljufrabui Waterfall
It’s super easy to get to Gljufrabui. From Seljalandsfoss waterfall, simply walk around it – you’ll probably get wet since the spray is much worse on the right side – then follow the path. After about 5-10 minutes, you’ll reach Gljufrabui.
It’s really that simple.
When you arrive, you’ll see several small paths splitting off. This is the part that confused us slightly, because it looks like the obvious route is down the middle, but we tried this and it literally leads to a dead end!
Instead, look for the narrow opening in the cliff with a shallow stream running through it – that’s your entrance into the canyon.
You’ll need to step carefully over some rocks (and your feet might get a bit wet), but once inside, you’ll see Gljúfrabúi cascading down the mossy walls.
It’s one of those places that feels straight out of a fairytale.
Once you’re in the cave, you’ll be able to see the waterfall in full, along with the famous rock that most people use for photography.
Of course, we had to snap some shots while we were there as it’s a very cool photo, but do be careful climbing on and off the rock as it can get quite slippery from the constant spray.
Once you’ve taken your shots, head out of the canyon and follow the path back to the Seljalandsfoss car park.
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What to bring
For your visit to Gljúfrabúi, a waterproof jacket is essential – the spray inside the canyon and at Seljalandsfoss can soak you pretty quickly.
Good sturdy shoes with decent grip are also a must, as the rocks are often wet and slippery.
And of course, don’t forget your camera or phone.
I also recommend bringing a small microfiber towel if you’re really into photography, as our lenses kept getting droplets of water on which were really hard to wipe off because the rest of us were soaking wet!
👉 Check out our packing guide for Iceland in summer for more tips!
Is it worth visiting Gljufrabui Waterfall?
Yes, it’s 100% worth visiting Gljúfrabúi waterfall. This place is one of those hidden gems that feels extra special precisely because it’s slightly tucked away and not immediately visible from the main road.
A waterfall hidden in a narrow mossy canyon is easily one of the most unique stops in Iceland.
Whether you’re on a full south coast road trip or just making a day trip down south from Reykjavík, it’s well worth exploring. Since it’s right next to Seljalandsfoss, it doesn’t take much extra time to visit, and it offers a totally different atmosphere.
In our opinion, it’s 100% worth the visit.
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