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    Gullfoss Waterfall | A must-see stop on the Golden Circle route

    Golden Circle ToursGullfoss Waterfall

    Gullfoss Falls | Iceland’s famous ‘golden’ cascade

    Golden mist, rainbows, and roaring waters—that’s the magic of Gullfoss, the ultimate showstopper on the Golden Circle. This two-tiered waterfall crashes into the Hvita River canyon, sending up a mist that sparkles in the sunlight and often transforms into vibrant rainbows. Its name, ‘Golden Falls,’ comes from the river’s golden shimmer on sunny days, thanks to the glacial sediment in its waters. Standing at its edge, with the thunderous roar filling your ears, you can’t help but feel deeply connected to the raw power of nature.

    Why Gullfoss is the crown jewel of Iceland’s Golden Circle?

    Why visit Gullfoss Waterfall along the Golden Circle route?
    Why visit Gullfoss Waterfall along the Golden Circle route?
    Why visit Gullfoss Waterfall along the Golden Circle route?
    Why visit Gullfoss Waterfall along the Golden Circle route?
    Why visit Gullfoss Waterfall along the Golden Circle route?
    Why visit Gullfoss Waterfall along the Golden Circle route?
    Why visit Gullfoss Waterfall along the Golden Circle route?
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    Nature’s masterpiece; A waterfall beyond compare

    Gullfoss is one of Iceland’s most stunning waterfalls, featuring a two-tiered cascade that plunges into a dramatic canyon. The interplay of sunlight, glacial waters, and mist often creates vibrant rainbows, adding a magical touch to the roaring falls and their lush green surroundings.

    Golden hour, every hour

    Gullfoss, fondly known as the ‘Golden Falls’, gets its nickname from the river’s golden glow on sunny days. When sunlight hits the Hvita River just right, the glacial sediment in the water sparkles like liquid gold, creating a dazzling, otherworldly sight. It’s this rare and magical feature that sets Gullfoss apart, making it a truly unforgettable sight.

    Adventure at your fingertips

    Gullfoss is perfectly located along the Golden Circle, one of Iceland’s most popular and accessible tourist trails. Just a 90-minute drive from Reykjavik, its proximity to other iconic attractions like Geysir, with its erupting hot springs, and Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, makes it an easy addition to any Iceland itinerary.

    A legacy of love and preservation

    Gullfoss isn’t just a natural wonder—it’s also a powerful symbol of environmental activism. In the early 20th century, developers planned to harness the waterfall’s power for hydroelectric energy. However, Sigriour Tomasdottir, a farmer’s daughter, fought to protect it, even threatening to throw herself into the falls to stop its destruction. Her determination saved Gullfoss, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire efforts to preserve Iceland’s stunning landscapes.

    A waterfall for all seasons

    In summer, the falls are surrounded by vibrant green landscapes, with the Midnight Sun casting a golden glow over the rushing waters. As winter sets in, the scene transforms into a frozen wonderland, with shimmering ice formations and snow-draped cliffs straight out of a fairytale. Whether you visit during the endless summer days or the chilly Icelandic winters, Gullfoss promises an unforgettable experience in every season.

    Fun for the whole family

    With well-maintained paths and viewing platforms, Gullfoss is easy to explore for visitors of all ages, making it the perfect spot to enjoy Iceland’s natural beauty with kids, grandparents, or friends—no strenuous hikes required. And with the roar of the falls and the mist in the air, it’s a shared experience that’s as exciting as it is memorable.

    A photographer’s paradise

    Whether you’re a professional photographer or just someone who loves capturing moments, Gullfoss is a true paradise. The dramatic drop of the falls, the misty rainbows, and the rugged canyon provide endless opportunities for stunning shots.

    Things to note before booking tickets to Gullfoss Falls

    • The Gullfoss Waterfall is best visited as a part of a Golden Circle day tour. Along the way, you can explore nearby highlights like the Thingvellir National Park and the Geysir geothermal area, and even customize your trip with extra stops, such as the Kerid Crater, or an exciting Northern Lights chase. 
    • All Gullfoss Waterfall Golden Circle tours include convenient, round-trip transfers from Reykjavik, making it easy to go back and forth. Most tours also offer direct pick-up and drop-off services, saving you time and money. 
    • The best part about choosing Golden Circle day tours is that you can customize your trip to match your interests and preferences. If you are looking for a relaxing soak after a long day of sightseeing, stop by the Blue Lagoon. For adventure seekers, a hike along the Kerid Crater rim is a perfect choice.
    • If you are visiting during the winter months, between late August and early April, pair your Gullfoss tour with a special Northern Lights chase at night. Crisp Icelandic winters, with their dark skies and chilly temperatures, offer the most perfect backdrop for Aurora Borealis sightings. If you don’t catch the lights, you can join the next available tour free of charge. 
    • All Gullfoss tours typically feature English-speaking guides, with some offering audio guides in up to 10 languages, including French, German, and Chinese. These guides provide fascinating insights into the history and culture of the landmarks and also point out hidden gems along the way.
    • There are accessible routes for those with mobility challenges, including paved paths leading to the main viewing areas. However, some of the closer viewpoints, particularly those that bring you closer to the falls, involve uneven terrain and stairs. Wear sturdy boots and exercise extra caution during the winter months, when the walkways are particularly icy and slippery.

    Explore the beauty of Gullfoss | A visual guide

    Gullfoss Waterfall in Iceland

    Gullfoss Waterfall in Iceland
    Gullfoss Waterfall in Iceland
    Gullfoss Waterfall in Iceland
    Gullfoss Waterfall in Iceland
    Gullfoss Waterfall in Iceland
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    Plan your visit to Gullfoss Waterfall

    Best time to visit
    Getting there
    Accessibility
    Eat
    Visitor tips
    Gullfoss Falls cascading in two stages within Iceland's rugged canyon landscape.
    • Best time of the year: The best time to visit Gullfoss depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for, but many consider summer, particularly June through August, to be ideal. During these months, the weather is milder and the Midnight Sun bathes the landscape in golden light, perfect for capturing stunning photos. If you’re drawn to a quieter ambiance, consider visiting between November and February. The falls transform into a frozen wonderland but the icy paths and chilly weather can make exploring a bit more challenging.
    • Best time of the day: Late afternoon is a great time to visit Gullfoss. By then, the midday tourist rush thins out, letting you enjoy the serene beauty of the falls with fewer people around. Plus, if it’s a sunny day, the lighting at this time is perfect for photography, with the sun often creating rainbows in the mist—a magical sight you won’t want to miss.
    • Duration of visit: Give yourself about 40 minutes to an hour to explore the well-maintained paths and soak in the stunning views from all the different angles.

    Address: 846, Iceland
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    Distance from Reykjavik: 115.9km (a 1-hour and 46-minute drive away)

    Gullfoss is perfectly placed along the Golden Circle, making it an easy and popular stop alongside other must-see attractions like the Geysir geothermal area and Thingvellir National Park. If you are starting from Reykjavik, drive east on Route 1 (the Ring Road) and then take Route 35, also known as the Biskupstungnabraut. This well-paved road takes you through picturesque landscapes dotted with farms, lava fields, and mountains. As you approach Gullfoss, you’ll see clear signs directing you to the parking area, which is a short walk from the viewing platforms.

    person using wheelchair

    The Gullfoss Falls is generally accessible to visitors with limited mobility. However, it is important to exercise extra caution if you are traveling between November and March, as even the well-paved viewing platforms can be covered in snow.

    • Parking facilities: Located near the Visitor Center, the upper parking lot provides quick access to the falls. The lower parking lot offers additional spaces and is connected to accessible pathways leading to viewing areas.
    • Viewing platforms: The upper viewing platform is accessible and provides a beautiful view from above. The pathways leading to the platform are smooth and well-maintained. 
    • Visitor Center: The on-site visitor center includes accessible restrooms, a cafe, and a souvenir shop for your convenience.
    person eating sandwiches at restaurant
    • Gullfoss Panorama Restaurant Cafe (30m away): Offer a variety of Icelandic comfort foods, including lamb stew, fresh salmon sandwiches, and creamy potato soup.
    • Hotel Gullfoss Restaurant (3.2km away): Features traditional dishes like smoked trout, hearty lamb chops, and fresh Arctic char.
    • Skjol Bistro- Amazing Tours Basecamp (6.4km away): Serves delicious Icelandic fare, including fish and chips, slow-cooked lamb, and a rich mushroom soup that captures the flavors of the region.
    • Hotel Geysir (9.6km away): Serves up Icelandic specialties like tender lamb shank, fresh Arctic char, and seafood chowder, all made with locally sourced ingredients.
    • Geysir Glima Restaurant (9.9km away): Known for offering mouth-watering Icelandic dishes, such as smoked trout and lamb, paired with stunning views of the geothermal landscape.
    woman wearing waterproof clothing
    • Explore the Eastern Rim: For a fresh perspective, consider exploring the less-traveled eastern side of Gullfoss via Route 349. It’s a quieter spot and a great option for photographers looking for unique angles of the falls.
    • Wear waterproof clothing: You will feel the mist as soon as you step out of the parking area, so bring a waterproof jacket and something to protect your camera gear to stay comfortable and keep your equipment safe.
    • Prepare for seasonal accessibility: While Gullfoss is open year-round, winter conditions can make some areas icy and harder to access. Plan accordingly and wear sturdy footwear if you’re visiting in colder months.
    • Carry cash: If you plan to use the restrooms at the Visitor Center, keep some coins handy, as there may be a small fee for use.

    What to explore next? | Attractions near Gullfoss Waterfall

    Geysir geothermal area
    Faxi Waterfall
    Secret Lagoon
    Bruarfoss Falls
    Kerid Crater
    Thingvellir National Park
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    Geysir geothermal area

    Distance: 9.7km from Gullfoss Falls (a 12-minute drive away)

    The Geysir geothermal area is home to Iceland’s famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water high into the air. Surrounded by bubbling mud pots, steaming vents, and mineral-rich hot springs, this area offers a fascinating display of geothermal power, making it one of Iceland’s most iconic natural sites.

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    Faxi Waterfall

    Distance: 20.9km from Gullfoss Falls (a 22-minute drive away)

    Faxi Waterfall flows gracefully along the Tungufljot River, with a salmon ladder alongside it, offering a glimpse into the river’s vibrant ecosystem. Unlike the more crowded Gullfoss, Faxi provides an open, quiet space where visitors can walk along the riverbanks, hear the soothing rush of water, and take in the untouched beauty of the Icelandic countryside.

    Secret Lagoon

    Distance: 31.1km from Gullfoss Falls (a 32-minute drive away)

    The Secret Lagoon, located near Fluoir, is one of Iceland’s oldest natural hot springs. Unlike the bustling Blue Lagoon, this quiet spot invites you to soak in warm, mineral-rich waters while surrounded by the hissing steam and bubbling geysers of Iceland’s geothermal landscape—a perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure.

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    Bruarfoss Falls

    Distance: 28.5km from Gullfoss Falls (a 36-minute drive away)

    Bruarfoss, often called the ‘Blue Waterfall’, is a hidden treasure, famous for its vivid turquoise waters and delicate cascades. Tucked away along a quiet hiking trail, it offers visitors a chance to escape the crowds and experience a quiet, untouched corner of Iceland.

    Kerid Crater

    Distance: 56.1km from Gullfoss Falls (a 49-minute drive away)

    The Kerid Crater is a volcanic caldera lake renowned for its vibrant red rocks and striking aquamarine water. You can stroll along the crater’s rim for sweeping views or take the path down to the water’s edge to fully appreciate its beauty up close. Located along the Golden Circle, the Kerid Crater is also often paired with visits to Thingvellir and Geysir.

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    Thingvellir National Park

    Distance: 56.7km from Gullfoss Falls (a 50-minute drive away)

    A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Thingvellir National Park is where Iceland’s first parliament was established in 930 AD, making it a cornerstone of the country’s cultural heritage. This unique park also sits on the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, where dramatic fissures run through the Earth, making you feel like you are standing at the edge of the world.

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    Essential Gullfoss Falls facts for every traveler

    The Gullfoss ‘Golden’ Falls is full of fascinating quirks and stories that make it an unforgettable highlight of Iceland’s Golden Circle. Here are a few fun facts and highlights to add some extra magic to your visit:

    • The river that ‘disappears’: From certain viewpoints, the Hvíta River creates an optical illusion, making it look like it vanishes into the earth. As the river plunges into a deep crevice, the angle of the canyon tricks your eyes, adding a touch of mystery to the already dramatic landscape.
    • A heroine’s legacy: Gullfoss might not have existed as we know it today without the efforts of Sigríour Tomasdottir, a local farmer’s daughter. In the early 1900s, she fought to stop industrial developers from harnessing the falls for hydroelectric power. Her passion saved Gullfoss, and a plaque near the falls honors her incredible story.
    • A geological wonder: Gullfoss is a two-tiered waterfall, with the upper falls plunging 11 meters and the lower falls dropping an impressive 21 meters into the canyon. This unique structure adds a touch of grandeur to its beauty.

    Whispers of the past | Folklore surrounding Gullfoss

    Gullfoss Falls cascading in tiers, surrounded by rugged Icelandic landscape.

    Gullfoss isn’t just a natural wonder, but it’s also steeped in folklore and mythology, which makes it even more enchanting. Here are a couple of tales that add to its dramatic appeal:

    • The hidden treasure: Legend has it that a wealthy Viking, determined to keep his riches out of the hands of others, threw a chest of gold into the depths of Gullfoss. On sunny days, the golden hue of the waters is said to reflect this hidden treasure, a haunting reminder of the secret buried within the falls.
    • The guardian spirits: According to local folklore, guardian spirits known as ‘landvaettir’ watch over Iceland’s natural wonders, including Gullfoss. It is believed that these mystical beings protect the waterfall and its surroundings, ensuring the area remains untouched and pristine.

    Frequently asked questions about the Gullfoss Waterfall in Iceland

    How far is Gullfoss Falls from Reykjavik?

    The Gullfoss Waterfall is approximately 115km from Reykjavik, about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive. It is located in southwest Iceland and is easily accessible as part of the Golden Circle route.

    Is Gullfoss a part of the Golden Circle route?

    The Gulfoss Falls is one of the standout attractions along the Golden Circle, often coupled with Thingvellir National Park and the Geysir geothermal area. Its two-tiered cascade and stunning lush surroundings make it a must-visit stop on this popular day trip circuit.

    Why is Gullfoss known as the ‘Golden Falls’?

    The Gullfoss Waterfall is often nicknamed the ‘Golden Falls’, for the warm, golden hue that appears in its waters on bright, sunny days. Due to the glacial sediment in its waters, the sun's rays reflect off of it, lending the falls its signature shade.

    Can I get close to the waterfall?

    Yes, there are well-maintained paths and viewing platforms that allow you to get quite close to Gullfoss. You can feel the spray of the water as you admire its power. For your safety, though, make sure to stay on the marked paths.

    Is Gullfoss wheelchair accessible?

    The upper viewing platform at Gullfoss is designed to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges, offering easy access and a designated parking area nearby. However, the lower pathways closer to the falls could be difficult to navigate due to uneven terrain and steep sections.