Goðafoss ('Waterfall of the Gods') is a broad, horseshoe-shaped waterfall on the Skjálfandafljót river in North Iceland, roughly 30 m wide and about 12 m high, where the river splits into two main falls and several smaller ones. Its name recalls the year 1000, when Iceland's lawspeaker Þorgeir is said to have thrown his pagan idols into the falls after the country adopted Christianity — a vivid legend that is actually a 19th-century embellishment. Designated a nature reserve in 2020 and sitting right beside the Ring Road (Route 1), it is one of the most accessible major waterfalls in the country and a gateway stop on the Diamond Circle. As of 2026 it remains free to enter and park, with ongoing path and viewpoint upgrades on the west bank.
The sweeping horseshoe (crescent) form where the river fans into two main cascades
Two contrasting vantage points — a wide panorama from the west bank and a close base-level view from the east bank, linked by a footbridge
Mist, basalt canyon walls and, on clear days, rainbows arcing over the falls
Ice-encrusted winter scenes with a chance of northern lights, and the same falls under the summer midnight sun
Its position as the western gateway to the Diamond Circle (Dettifoss, Lake Mývatn, Húsavík, Ásbyrgi)
Good to know
SafetySome viewpoints have low or no railings and the rocks and paths get slippery from spray. Do not step past markers toward the cliff edge for photos, and keep extra distance with children or pets.
SeasonIn winter (Oct–Apr) paths ice over — bring crampons/spikes and waterproof boots, and visit in the short daylight window. In return, clear winter nights offer auroras, and summer (May–Aug) brings the midnight sun for late viewing.
SeasonNorth Iceland weather and wind shift fast. Winter snowstorms and black ice can close Route 1, so always check road conditions (road.is) and weather alerts before setting out, and confirm your rental car's gravel/wind-damage coverage.
RulesThis is a protected nature reserve (established 2020, IUCN Category III). Stay on marked paths, do not damage moss or terrain or leave litter, and follow local signage for drone use.
MannersIt is a popular spot and viewing platforms get crowded. Don't block narrow paths with a tripod or long photo sessions, and never climb over barriers or beyond markers at the expense of other visitors or the landscape.
CautionIceland has very low petty-crime risk, but budget-related surprises are the real catch: Goðafoss itself is free, yet many other Icelandic sites now charge for parking, so verify fees per site; carry a card (most payments are card-only) and expect high fuel and food prices.
Practical info
Goðafoss sits beside the Ring Road (Route 1) about 45 km east of Akureyri (a 40-minute drive), next to Fosshóll, with free parking, paved paths and viewing platforms on both the east and west banks, connected by a footbridge. The falls are open 24/7 with no entrance or parking fee; the restaurant, café, gift shop and restrooms at Fosshóll generally run about 09:00–18:00 with seasonal variation, so check current opening hours and winter road status before your visit.
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