Best for
Accessibility & history
A perfect, easy stop with a big visual payoff.
Godafoss Waterfall Iceland: Complete Visitor Guide
The Waterfall of the Gods, 12 meters high and 30 meters wide. Steeped in Viking history where Iceland converted to Christianity in 1000 AD.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Region
North Iceland
Right off the Ring Road.
The "Waterfall of the Gods." Steeped in history from the conversion to Christianity in the year 1000, this horseshoe-shaped beauty is one of the most accessible and photogenic waterfalls in the North, easily reached from the Ring Road.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
Paths can be slippery near the edge, especially in winter. Stay behind ropes where present to protect fragile vegetation.
Sources to check
Access
Very easy
Paved parking and short paths on both sides.
Pro tip
Sunset/Sunrise
The wide shape catches low light beautifully.
What to Expect at Godafoss
- A wide, curved waterfall (30m wide, 12m high)
- Turquoise water (Skjálfandafljót river)
- Easy walking paths on both banks
Nearby Attractions to Godafoss
- Mývatn (lake, geothermal baths)
- Aldeyjarfoss (rougher road upstream)
- Akureyri (closest city)
How to Get to Godafoss
- Located directly on Route 1 (Ring Road) between Akureyri and Mývatn
- About 50 km east of Akureyri (45 minute drive)
- Free parking available on both east and west banks
- The viewpoint is just 1-2 minutes from either parking lot
- A pedestrian bridge downstream connects both sides for a loop walk
Best Time to Visit Godafoss
- Year-round accessibility thanks to Ring Road maintenance
- Summer offers midnight sun and optimal photography light
- Winter provides dramatic frozen sections and northern lights nearby
- Sunrise and sunset create spectacular light on the horseshoe shape
- Weekday mornings are typically less crowded than weekends
Planning help
Goðafoss FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.