Gullfoss ('Golden Falls') is a dramatic two-tier waterfall in southwest Iceland where the glacial Hvítá River plunges into a deep, narrow canyon. Together with Þingvellir National Park and the Geysir geothermal area, it forms the classic 'Golden Circle,' one of Iceland's most-visited routes. The water drops in two steps — 11 m then 21 m, about 32 m in total — before turning at a right angle and vanishing into the gorge, so it looks as if the river is being swallowed by the earth. It is also famous for Sigríður Tómasdóttir, who fought to save the falls from hydroelectric development in the early 20th century; the site has been a protected nature reserve since 1979. As of 2026 both entry and parking are free with no booking required and the viewing area is open around the clock, making it an easy, spectacular finish to a Golden Circle day trip.
The powerful two-step cascade (11 m + 21 m, ~32 m total) turning at a right angle into the Hvítá canyon
Rainbows arcing over the spray on clear summer days — the 'golden' waterfall living up to its name
The Sigríður Tómasdóttir memorial stone above the falls and the story of how the falls were saved from development
Two vantage points: the panoramic upper viewpoint versus the closer, wetter, louder lower path (often closed in winter)
Seasonal contrast — thundering glacial meltwater (~140 m³/s) in summer versus an ice-clad, otherworldly landscape in winter
Good to know
SafetySpray keeps platforms and rocks wet and slippery year-round, and paths ice over in winter. Wear waterproof boots, add microspikes/crampons in winter, and stay behind railings and on marked paths at all times.
SeasonIn winter (roughly Nov–Mar) the lower path is frequently closed by ice and daylight lasts only 3–5 hours, so visit in daylight. In summer the midnight sun allows late viewing, and on clear nights from September to April the northern lights are possible.
RulesThis is a protected nature reserve: never cross rope or barrier closures and don't leave the marked trails. Drone use may be restricted — check on-site signage — and while entry and parking are free, the rules are enforced.
MannersCarry out all your trash, don't enter danger zones for photos, and don't block other visitors' views or paths. Iceland has no tipping culture, so there's no need to leave a tip at the café or restaurant.
CautionEntry to Gullfoss is free — don't pay any unofficial website selling 'entrance tickets.' Rental-car gravel and wind damage disputes are common, so photograph the car's condition at pickup, and keep an eye on your belongings in the busy car park and visitor center.
SafetyWeather and road conditions change fast. Check road.is (roads), vedur.is (weather) and safetravel.is before setting out; if you're not used to winter driving, a guided Golden Circle tour is the safer choice. Cold drains phone batteries quickly, so bring a power bank and car charger.
Practical info
Gullfoss is about 116 km from Reykjavík via Route 35 — roughly a 1.5–2 hour drive — and only about 11 minutes from Geysir. There is no public transport, so reach it by rental car or a guided Golden Circle tour; the road to the falls (Route 35) is paved, so a highland/F-road 4WD is not required. The viewing area is free and open 24/7 year-round, while the visitor center, café, restaurant and restrooms run roughly 09:00–20:00 (seasonal, with the kitchen closing about an hour early). Always reconfirm the latest hours, fees and road conditions before you go.
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