Selfoss is the little sister of Europe’s most powerful waterfall Dettifoss. Often overlooked because of it’s powerful neighbor, this waterfall impresses with its many streams forming one wide curtain of waterfall. The waterfall is only 11m high, but spans about 110m wide. It is fed by the powerful glacial stream Jökulsá á Fjöllum. The rich content of sediments color the stream grayish.
Even though the waterfall looks much more gentle than Dettifoss, it is powerful throughout the year and visitors should watch out for slippery rocks and keep a safe distance from the rim.
The waterfall should not be confused with the town Selfoss in the south of Iceland. Its is part of the Vatnajökull National park that has been granted UNESCO world heritage status.
Getting There
Selfoss can be reached from both sides on road 864 on the east and road 862 from the west. Leave the car at the parking lot and walk about 150m upstream from Dettifoss.
GPS: 65°48’18.6″N 16°23’13.5″W