Gufufoss Waterfall in Iceland

Gufufoss Waterfall in Iceland: Height, Flow, Location, and Tours

“Gufu” or Gufufoss Waterfall in Iceland, is among the biggest waterfalls in the eastern region of the country. It lies along the road as you drive from Seyðisfjörður to Egilsstadir and is close to several other waterfalls in this region of Iceland. 

You can see Gufofoss from the road you drive on, although you can also walk up to get closer to the falls. However, it’s difficult to get just too close since the powerful falls generate a soaking mist that stops you unless you are happy to get soaked through. This heavy mist gave the waterfall its name, as ‘gufa’ translates to ‘vapor’ or sometimes ‘steam’. That means the name translates to ‘Steam Falls’. 

What are the Tourist Activities for Gufufoss Waterfall?

Although there are expenses in Iceland that don’t generate too many tourist activities, the Eastern region of Iceland isn’t one of those. There are plenty of tourist activities for Gufufoss Waterfall, while visiting the waterfall and exploring the area.

If you come from Seyðisfjörður, tourists to the area should be sure to visit the picturesque and historical Seydisfjordur Church. Skalanes is a local nature and wildlife area, in which you can get tours to find the most beautiful hiking and photo points.

When you visit the waterfall, consider adding two more to the mix. Some tours will take you on walks around Gufufoss to Fardagafoss and the smaller Onno-Óltifoss waterfall as well.

As you make your way to Egilsstadir, you should make time for hikes to waterfalls like Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss. 

What are the Hotels for Gufufoss Waterfall?

The closest hotels for Gufufoss waterfall are in Seyðisfjörður. These include accommodation options such as the Vinland Guesthouse, Hotel Valaskjalf, Hotel Aldan, and cheaper accommodation like the Hafaldan Old Hospital Hostel.

If you mean to continue towards Lagarfljot the next day, you might want to stay in Egilsstadir. Icelandair Hotel Herad, Lyngas Guesthouse, and Eskifjordur hotel are all accommodation options in Egilsstadir.

What are the Facts about Gufufoss Waterfall?

Gufufoss is an east-facing waterfall close to the road that you drive in between the two towns. It is best to visit the Gufufoss Waterfall in Iceland in the morning, since the sun will hang just over the waterfall for most of the afternoon. One of the fun facts about Gufufoss Waterfall is that you might get to see a rainbow over the waterfall in the morning.

How to Hike Gufufoss

There is a thin trail that you can use to get closer to the waterfall from the parking lot just off the road. The trail will allow you to hike Gufufoss as well as lead you to other, smaller falls nearby.

Is there a National Park for Gufufoss Waterfall?

The Gufufoss Waterfall in Iceland is not within a national park. The closest National Park for Gufufoss Waterfall is Vatnajokull National Park. It is about a four hour and 40-minute drive to get from the waterfall to the national park, going southwest.

Which Canyons are Connected to the Gufufoss Waterfall?

No specific canyons are connected to the Gufufoss Waterfall. The Studlagil canyon in Egilsstaðir is a nearby canyon that is worth visiting. 

Which Rivers are connected to the Gufufoss Waterfall?

The Fjarðará River is connected to the Gufufoss waterfall. There are 25 other waterfalls that this river feeds, Gufufoss being only one of them. 

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Staff Writer