Best for
Accessibility & history
An easy stop that takes little time off a Ring Road drive.
Godafoss, the Waterfall of the Gods
The Waterfall of the Gods, 12 meters high and 30 meters wide, tied by legend to Iceland's conversion to Christianity in 1000 AD.
Region
North Iceland
Right off the Ring Road.
The "Waterfall of the Gods." Its name is tied to Iceland's conversion to Christianity in the year 1000. The horseshoe-shaped falls sit right off the Ring Road and are among the easiest in the North to reach.
Sources and last reviewed
Last reviewed: 2026-03-03
Paths can be slippery near the edge, especially in winter. Stay behind ropes where present to protect fragile vegetation.
Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.
Official sources to check
Access
Very easy
Paved parking and short paths on both sides.
Pro tip
Sunset/Sunrise
The wide shape catches low light well.
What to Expect at Godafoss
- A wide, curved waterfall (30m wide, 12m high)
- Turquoise water (Skjálfandafljót river)
- Easy walking paths on both banks
Nearby Attractions to Godafoss
- Mývatn (lake, geothermal baths)
- Aldeyjarfoss (rougher road upstream)
- Akureyri (closest city)
How to Get to Godafoss
- Located directly on Route 1 (Ring Road) between Akureyri and Mývatn
- About 50 km east of Akureyri (45 minute drive)
- Free parking available on both east and west banks
- The viewpoint is just 1-2 minutes from either parking lot
- A pedestrian bridge downstream connects both sides for a loop walk
Best Time to Visit Godafoss
- Year-round accessibility thanks to Ring Road maintenance
- Summer brings midnight sun and long evening light
- Winter brings frozen sections and chances of northern lights
- Sunrise and sunset light suits the horseshoe shape
- Weekday mornings are typically less crowded than weekends
Planning help
Goðafoss FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.