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A powerful two-tiered waterfall in Iceland's Golden Circle. Visitors can view the cascading water from nearby platforms and witness rainbows in the mist on sunny days.
Gullfoss waterfall, located in southwest Iceland, is a 32-meter cascade that plunges into a rugged canyon. As part of the Golden Circle route, this waterfall is known for its impressive flow and misty spray. You can observe Gullfoss from multiple viewing platforms, each offering a different perspective of the falls.
Gullfoss consists of two distinct drops. The upper tier falls 11 meters, while the lower plummets 21 meters into the Hvítá river canyon. From certain angles, the crevice obscures the bottom half of the waterfall, creating an illusion that the river vanishes into the earth. The high volume of water - up to 140 cubic meters per second in summer - creates a constant mist and frequent rainbows on sunny days.
You'll find Gullfoss about 120 kilometers northeast of Reykjavík. Take Route 1 (Ring Road) east, then turn onto Route 35 near Selfoss. The drive typically takes around 1.5 hours. If you don't have a car, you can take a bus from Reykjavík's main bus terminal to Gullfoss. The trip takes about 3 hours and requires a transfer in Selfoss. Many tour operators also include Gullfoss in their Golden Circle excursions from Reykjavík.
Two main viewing areas give you different perspectives of the falls. From the upper parking lot, a paved path leads to an overlook of the upper cascade. This short trail is about 100 meters long and suitable for all fitness levels. For a closer view, take the trail down to the lower viewpoint. This path is about 300 meters long with some steps and can be slippery when wet. It brings you closer to the waterfall's edge, where you can feel the spray on your face. In winter (November to March), this lower path may close due to ice, so check conditions before your visit.
Gullfoss changes with the seasons. Summer (June to August) brings the highest water volume, creating a loud display. In winter (December to February), parts of the falls freeze, forming interesting ice formations. Spring (March to May) sees the ice begin to melt, increasing the water flow, while autumn (September to November) offers a chance to see the falls framed by colorful foliage. Each season presents Gullfoss in a different light.
The Gullfoss Visitor Center, located near the upper parking lot, provides information about the waterfall and its history. You'll also find restrooms and a café serving traditional Icelandic lamb soup, sandwiches, and hot drinks. The center's gift shop sells local crafts and souvenirs.
In the early 20th century, foreign investors sought to harness Gullfoss for hydroelectric power. Sigríður Tómasdóttir, daughter of a local farmer, fought to preserve the waterfall. She walked repeatedly to Reykjavík to protest the development, even threatening to throw herself into the falls. Her efforts contributed to the waterfall's protection. Today, a plaque near the falls honors her as one of Iceland's first environmentalists.
