Selfoss Waterfall – A Hidden Gem in Northeast Iceland
Discover the thundering beauty of Selfoss, a 10‑meter cascade just outside Húsavík, and why it belongs on every Icelandic road‑trip itinerary.
1. Introduction
Imagine standing on the edge of a pristine river, the roar of water echoing off basalt cliffs, mist kissing your face, and the Arctic sky stretching endlessly above. That moment is exactly what you’ll experience at Selfoss waterfall (or Selfoss), a modest‑sized yet spectacular drop tucked into the dramatic landscape of Northeast Iceland. While the world’s headlines often go to the mighty Dettifoss, Selfoss offers a quieter, more intimate encounter with Iceland’s raw power—perfect for photographers, hikers, and anyone craving an off‑the‑beaten‑path adventure.
2. About Selfoss
- Location: 0.1 km north of Húsavík, Northeast Iceland
- Coordinates: 65.805424 ° N, ‑16.388017 ° W
- Height: 10 m (≈33 ft)
- Type: River waterfall 🌊
Selfoss sits on the Selfoss River, a tributary that feeds into the larger Skjálfandafljót system. Though its height is modest compared to the thunderous 45 m of Dettifoss, the waterfall’s crisp, vertical plunge creates a striking visual contrast against the surrounding black‑sand and moss‑covered lava fields.
Historically, Selfoss has served as a natural crossing point for locals and early travelers moving between coastal villages and the interior highlands. Its name—Selfoss literally means “the shining waterfall” in Icelandic—reflects the way sunlight catches the spray, producing rainbows that dance over the pool below.
In recent years, the site has become a favorite stop for road‑trippers exploring the North because it offers a quick, rewarding encounter with Icelandic nature without the crowds that flock to larger attractions.
3. How to Get There
By Car
The most flexible way to reach Selfoss is by renting a car in Húsavík or Akureyri and heading south on Route 85 (the Húsavík–Mývatn road).
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From Reykjavík:
- Drive the Ring Road (Route 1) north for ~480 km.
- Turn onto Route 85 at Egilsstaðir and continue toward Húsavík (≈90 km).
- Follow the signs for “Selfoss” just before entering the town; the waterfall is a short, well‑marked turn‑off off the main road. -
From Akureyri:
- Take Route 1 east to Eyjafjörður, then south on Route 85.
- The drive is about 150 km and takes roughly 2 hours.
Parking is available in a small lot right next to the viewing platform, making the final walk to the cascade just a few minutes.
By Public Transport
While bus services in Northeast Iceland are limited, Strætó runs a daily route (Bus 71) between Húsavík and Mývatn that stops near the waterfall. Check the latest schedule on the Strætó website, as seasonal changes can affect frequency.
By Tour
Many local operators in Húsavík include Selfoss as a half‑day “Waterfall & Geology” tour, often pairing it with a visit to Dettifoss and the East Side Dettifoss viewpoint. This is a hassle‑free option if you prefer a guide to handle navigation and provide context.
4. Best Time to Visit
| Season | What to Expect | Why It’s Ideal |
|---|---|---|
| Late Spring (May‑June) | Snow melt swells the river, creating a robust flow and vivid green surroundings. | Photographers love the bright daylight and occasional rainbows in the spray. |
| Summer (July‑August) | Long daylight (up to 22 h of twilight), comfortable temperatures (10‑15 °C). | Ideal for extended hikes and combining Selfoss with nearby attractions like Dettifoss. |
| Early Autumn (September‑October) | Soft golden light, fewer tourists, and the first hints of autumn foliage. | Great for a peaceful experience and capturing the changing colors of the surrounding mosses. |
| Winter (November‑April) | The waterfall can freeze partially, creating icy sculptures; the landscape is stark and dramatic. | For the adventurous, the low‑light aurora backdrop makes for unforgettable shots, though road conditions can be challenging. |
Overall recommendation: Visit between late May and early October for the most reliable access and vibrant scenery.
5. What to Expect
When you arrive at Selfoss, you’ll first notice a well‑maintained viewing platform that offers a safe, unobstructed view of the waterfall’s 10‑meter drop. The water rushes over a narrow basalt ledge, plunging into a crystal‑clear pool that reflects the sky like a mirror.
- Soundscape: The constant roar of water creates a natural white‑noise soundtrack—perfect for meditation or simply soaking in the raw power of Icelandic nature.
- Photography: The waterfall’s modest height makes it easy to capture the full cascade in a single frame. Early morning or late afternoon light adds a warm glow, while mist can produce vivid rainbows.
- Wildlife: Look out for Arctic terns and occasional ptarmigan that nest nearby. The river’s edge often hosts small fish, and you may spot a curious Icelandic horse grazing in the surrounding fields.
- Accessibility: The path is wheelchair‑friendly up to the platform, though the final steps to the water’s edge are uneven.
Because Selfoss is less crowded than Dettifoss, you can linger, enjoy a picnic, or simply sit on the rocks and listen to the water—an experience that feels almost private in the vast Icelandic wilderness.
6. Nearby Attractions
Selfoss is ideally situated for a waterfall‑focused day trip. Below are the top spots within a short drive, each with a quick link for deeper research:
| Attraction | Distance from Selfoss | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Selfoss (waterfall) – 0.1 km | < 200 m | The same cascade—perfect for a second angle or a quick photo series. |
| Selfoss (waterfall) – 0.8 km | ~800 m | Slightly upstream view; the river widens, offering a different perspective. |
| Dettifoss (waterfall) | 1.0 km | Europe’s most powerful waterfall; a must‑see for any Icelandic waterfall enthusiast. |
| Dettifoss (waterfall) – 1.0 km | Same as above | Alternate viewpoint on the west side of the canyon. |
| Dettifoss (East Side) (waterfall) | 1.1 km | Offers a panoramic vista of the canyon’s eastern rim—great for sunrise shots. |
Quick Links
- Selfoss Waterfall (Wikipedia)
- Dettifoss Waterfall (Wikipedia)
You can easily combine these sites into a half‑day loop: start at Selfoss, head east to the Dettifoss viewpoints, and finish with a stroll along the riverbank before returning to Húsavík for dinner.
7. Travel Tips
- Dress in layers – Even in summer, Icelandic weather can shift quickly. Waterproof outerwear and sturdy hiking boots are essential.
- Check road conditions – The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (Vegagerðin) provides real‑time updates, especially important during shoulder seasons.
- Bring a rain cover for your camera – The mist from Selfoss can be intense; a simple plastic sleeve protects lenses without sacrificing image quality.
- Respect the environment – Stay on marked paths, avoid trampling delicate moss, and pack out all trash. Iceland’s nature is fragile but resilient.
- Timing for the light – The best natural light for photography is during the “golden hour” (about one hour after sunrise and before sunset). In summer, the low‑angle sun stays longer, giving you extended windows.
- Combine with whale watching – Húsavík is known as the “whale capital of Iceland.” Schedule a morning whale‑watch tour, then head to Selfoss for an afternoon of waterfall bliss.
- Currency & Payments – Iceland uses the Icelandic króna (ISK). Most places accept credit cards, but it’s handy to have a small amount of cash for remote kiosks or parking fees.
Wrap‑Up
Selfoss may not boast the towering height of Dettifoss, but its intimate charm, easy accessibility, and proximity to other natural wonders make it a standout stop on any Northeast Iceland itinerary. Whether you’re chasing the perfect waterfall shot, seeking a peaceful spot to unwind, or simply adding another chapter to your Icelandic adventure, Selfoss delivers an unforgettable experience—one that proves that even the smallest cascades can leave the biggest impressions.
Pack your camera, lace up those boots, and let the mist of Selfoss guide you deeper into the heart of Iceland’s wild north.
