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.
Quick Answer
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 page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
Paths can be slippery near the edge, especially in winter. Stay behind ropes where present to protect fragile vegetation.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
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
Use the footbridge to compare the banks
The land manager’s guide confirms paths on both banks linked by a pedestrian bridge, with toilets and food services at Fosshóll. It describes good access for visitors with reduced mobility; that does not mean every lower or rough path is suitable for a wheelchair. Pick the open viewpoint route that matches your needs.
Goðafoss became a natural monument on June 11, 2020. Preserving its natural water flow is an explicit conservation aim.
Planning help
Goðafoss FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
How tall is Godafoss?
Godafoss is 12 meters (39 feet) tall and 30 meters (98 feet) wide. Its horseshoe shape and its place in Icelandic history make it one of the most visited waterfalls in the country.
Is Godafoss free to visit?
Yes, Godafoss is completely free to visit. There is no entrance fee, and parking is free on both sides of the river.
Can you swim at Godafoss?
No, swimming at Godafoss is dangerous and not permitted. The river has strong currents and cold temperatures.
How long is the walk to Godafoss?
Paths approach the falls from both sides of Skjálfandafljót, connected by a pedestrian bridge. Allow additional time if you want both banks rather than assuming every viewpoint is one or two minutes from your car. Use the open paths and assess ice or wind on arrival.
Is Godafoss wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Godafoss is largely wheelchair accessible. Paved paths lead from both parking areas to main viewpoints. The pedestrian bridge is also accessible.
Why is it called Waterfall of the Gods?
Legend says that in the year 1000, lawspeaker Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði threw his statues of Norse gods into the waterfall to symbolize Iceland's conversion to Christianity.
Which side should I visit?
Both! There are parking lots on both the east and west banks. A pedestrian bridge downstream connects them, allowing for a nice short loop walk.
Is Goðafoss accessible in winter?
Usually yes, as the Ring Road is a priority for snow clearing. However, the viewing platforms can be extremely icy; crampons are highly recommended.
Country reference: Iceland statistics.