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Two-tiered power + Golden Circle
One of the three main Golden Circle stops.
Gullfoss Waterfall
Iceland's most famous waterfall and one of the three main Golden Circle stops. A two-tiered cascade on the Hvítá river plunging 32 meters into a canyon.
Region
South Iceland (Golden Circle)
Golden Circle stop. Free entry with visitor center.
Quick Answer
Named 'Golden Falls' for the golden haze of spray that catches the light, Gullfoss is a two-stage waterfall where the Hvítá river drops 11 meters, then plunges another 21 meters into a canyon. It is one of the three main stops on the Golden Circle route, along with Þingvellir National Park and the Geysir geothermal area. Sigríður Tómasdóttir fought to prevent its damming in the early 1900s, and the falls remain undammed today.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Spray makes paths slippery and wind can be intense. Check official forecasts and road status before you drive, and follow on-site closures.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
Official sources to check
Access
Easy (paved paths)
Upper and lower viewpoints. Lower path may close in winter.
Pro tip
Visit in spring
Meltwater flow peaks in May–June.
What to Expect at Gullfoss
- A massive two-stage drop into a deep canyon
- Constant spray that forms rainbows on sunny days
- Strong winds; dress warmly even in summer
Nearby Attractions to Gullfoss
- Geysir geothermal area (10 min drive)
- Þingvellir National Park (Golden Circle)
- Faxi waterfall (short detour on the way)
How to Get to Gullfoss
- Located on Route 35, about 120 km east of Reykjavik
- Drive time from Reykjavik is approximately 1.5–2 hours
- Large parking lot with visitor center and café
- Part of the Golden Circle route with Geysir and Þingvellir
- Two viewpoint levels: upper and lower paths
Best Time to Visit Gullfoss
- Year-round attraction, accessible in all seasons
- Spring/early summer (May–June): highest water flow
- Summer: longest daylight, busiest with tour groups midday
- Winter: partially frozen; lower path may close
- Early morning visits avoid peak Golden Circle crowds
Choose the correct parking area
The Nature Conservation Agency assigns the upper lot to general visitors and the lower lot to buses and visitors with reduced mobility. From the upper lot, a path reaches the viewpoint above the falls; a separate route follows the canyon toward the waterfall. Follow the current signs rather than choosing a lot solely because it looks closer.
The reserve protects the falls, the canyon below and nearby land west of Hvítá. It was designated in 1979. That protected boundary is more specific than simply calling all the surrounding countryside a national park.
Planning help
Gullfoss FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
How tall is Gullfoss?
Gullfoss has a total drop of 32 meters (105 feet) in two stages: an 11-meter upper drop and a 21-meter lower drop. The waterfall is about 20 meters wide.
Is Gullfoss free to visit?
Yes, Gullfoss is completely free to visit. There is a visitor center with a café and gift shop at the site.
Is Gullfoss part of the Golden Circle?
Yes, Gullfoss is one of the three main stops on Iceland's famous Golden Circle route, along with Þingvellir National Park and the Geysir geothermal area.
How much time do I need at Gullfoss?
Plan 30–60 minutes. There are two main viewpoints: an upper platform and a lower path closer to the falls. The visitor center café is worth a stop.
What is the conservation history of Gullfoss?
In the early 1900s, Sigríður Tómasdóttir fought to prevent Gullfoss from being dammed for hydroelectric power. Her efforts helped preserve the waterfall, and she is celebrated as one of Iceland's first environmentalists.
When is the best time to visit Gullfoss?
Gullfoss is worth seeing year-round. Spring and early summer (May–June) bring the highest water flow. Winter has partially frozen scenery, but paths can be closed.
Is Gullfoss safe to visit?
Yes, but spray makes paths slippery, so wear sturdy shoes. Stay behind barriers at all times. It can be very windy and cold even in summer, so bring warm layers and a waterproof jacket.
Can I visit Gullfoss in winter?
Yes, but the lower viewpoint path may be closed due to ice. The upper viewpoint typically remains open. Roads are usually maintained but check conditions before driving.
Country reference: Iceland statistics.