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Goðafoss
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Landmark
Goðafoss, or the Waterfall of the Gods, is one of Iceland's most significant historical and cultural landmarks, located in the northern part of the country. Fed by the Skjálfandafljót river, the waterfall forms an impressive horseshoe-shaped cascade as it drops from a height of 12 meters. It stretches approximately 30 meters in width, with the flow divided by distinct rocky outcrops. Its name dates back to the year 1000 AD, a pivotal moment when the lawspeaker Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði decided that Iceland should adopt Christianity as its official religion. According to legend, after making this historic decree, he threw his statues of the Norse gods into the waterfall to symbolize the break from paganism. The geological foundation consists of ancient basaltic lava that has been eroded over millennia by the glacial river. Today, Goðafoss serves as a powerful symbol of Iceland's cultural transition and is a must-see destination for those traveling along the northern ring road.
- Location: Iceland
- Top sights: Goðafoss · Goðafoss Waterfall
- Nearby: Akureyri (25 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -6 | -6 | -5 | -3 | 0 | 5 | 7 | 6 | 3 | -2 | -5 | -6 |
| Rain mm | 101 | 86 | 93 | 80 | 82 | 67 | 92 | 97 | 120 | 124 | 118 | 113 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Goðafoss is located right by the Ring Road and is accessible at any time. There are well-built viewing platforms on both sides of the river.
Typical hours
The waterfall is an open natural monument with no opening hours. Best visited during daylight, especially in summer when it's almost 24 hours light.
Photography
The horseshoe shape provides great wide-angle shots. Low sun creates spectacular rainbows in the spray.
Time needed
A visit typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. If you want to photograph from both sides, allow a bit more time.
Combine with
Excellent to combine with the nearby volcanic field Dimmuborgir. Lake Mývatn is also just a few kilometers away.
Getting there
The parking lot is right off the Ring Road and well signposted. A short accessible path leads to the platforms.
Insider tip
Visit the waterfall as early as possible to avoid crowds. A rain jacket protects against the spray on the platform.
Geography
Facts
- Located in Northern Iceland
- Fed by the Skjálfandafljót river
- Height of 12 meters
- Width of 30 meters
- Named around the year 1000 AD
- Symbol of Iceland's conversion to Christianity
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Goðafoss (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is it called Waterfall of the Gods?
Around the year 1000, the lawspeaker threw his statues of pagan gods into it.
Is the waterfall on the Ring Road?
Yes, it is right on Route 1 between Akureyri and Mývatn.
Can you visit both sides?
Yes, there are paths and parking on both sides of the Skjálfandafljót river.
How high is the waterfall?
It drops in a horseshoe shape for about 12 meters.
Is the entrance free?
Yes, access to the waterfall is free and possible at any time.
Goðafoss: where is it located?
Goðafoss is located in Iceland.
Goðafoss: what is there to see?
Highlights include Goðafoss, Goðafoss Waterfall.
Goðafoss: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Goðafoss: why is it worth visiting?
Goðafoss, or the Waterfall of the Gods, is one of Iceland's most significant historical and cultural landmarks, located in the northern part of the country.
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