Gullfoss Waterfall – Iceland's Golden Waterfall
Gullfoss Nature Reserve (Friðland við Gullfoss) on the Hvítá river · Golden Circle, Iceland
Discover the Golden Waterfall of Iceland
Gullfoss Waterfall, inside Gullfoss Nature Reserve (Friðland við Gullfoss), is one of the three core stops on the Golden Circle route alongside Þingvellir National Park and the Geysir geothermal area. Summer brings the strongest flow when glacial meltwater swells the Hvítá river. The name 'Gullfoss' means 'Golden Falls', a reference to the golden hue of the water and the rainbow that often forms in the mist on sunny days. The area has been protected since 1979, which keeps the canyon and the viewpoints free and open to everyone.
About Gullfoss Waterfall & Nature Reserve
Gullfoss Waterfall is one of Iceland's most iconic natural attractions, on the Hvítá river in southwest Iceland. The waterfall drops in two stages — 11 m and 21 m — into a narrow canyon, about 32 metres in total, and the golden light in the spray gives it its name. The site is protected as Gullfoss Nature Reserve (Icelandic: Friðland við Gullfoss).
Visit Tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds
- The waterfall is free to visit and accessible year-round
- Wear waterproof clothing as the mist can be intense, especially in summer
- Don't miss the walking path that leads to the upper observation platform
Highlights
Spectacular two-tiered waterfall with a total drop of 32 meters
Part of Iceland's famous Golden Circle tourist route
Rainbow often visible in the mist on sunny days
Protected nature reserve with well-maintained walking paths
Basic Information
Official Name
Golden Falls / Gullfoss (Friðland við Gullfoss)
Attraction Type
Two-tiered Waterfall, Nature Reserve, Core Golden Circle Attraction, Iconic Icelandic Natural Wonder, Free Viewing Area, Canyon Landscape, Historical Protected Area
Country
Iceland
Region / Location
Southwest Iceland, Golden Circle Route, Upper Hvítá River, Downstream from Langjökull Glacier
Google Rating
Address
Gullfoss, Route 35, 846 Iceland
Opening Hours
Nature Reserve & Viewing Platforms
Open 24 hours, 7 days a week, free access to all viewing areas
Gullfoss Café & Visitor Center
Seasonal opening hours apply and may change throughout the year
The nature reserve is open 24/7 year-round. Summer brings the strongest water flow, while in winter the lower path can close because of ice and snow — always check road and weather conditions before driving out.
Ticket Prices
Nature Reserve & Waterfall Viewing
Free Admission
Gullfoss waterfall and surrounding nature reserve are free to visit, no ticket required.
Parking Information
Both the upper and lower car parks at Gullfoss are currently free for private cars, tour buses and accessible parking users (checked October 2026).
The upper lot sits beside the visitor center, restrooms and café. The lower lot gives a shorter walk to the lower viewing area, though the lower path may close in icy winter conditions. Full details on the parking page.
How to Get Here
No Metro
There is no metro system in Iceland. Gullfoss is located in the countryside with no metro access.
No Trains
Iceland has no public railway network, so there are no train lines to Gullfoss.
No Direct Bus; Tour Buses Available
No direct public buses. You can join a Golden Circle day tour bus from Reykjavík, which includes the waterfall, Geysir, and Thingvellir, operating year-round.
Taxi (Reykjavík Charter)
Chartering a taxi from Reykjavík takes about 2-3 hours round trip (approx. 117 km one way). It's expensive and best for groups to share the cost.
No Standard Rideshare
No reliable rideshare services in rural Iceland. Limited availability in Reykjavík, but cannot be booked for intercity trips to the waterfall.
Cycling (Extreme)
You can cycle along Route 1 / Route 35 (approx. 117 km one way). Long distance, strong winds, and severe winter cold make it suitable only for professionals.
From Reykjavík City / Airport
From downtown Reykjavík or Keflavík Airport, drive about 1.5-2 hours via Route 1 then Route 35. The road is paved and ploughed in winter, but conditions change quickly — check road and weather reports before you leave.
From Selfoss and South Iceland
From Selfoss, follow Route 35 north toward the Golden Circle. Gullfoss is a practical stop when combining Geysir, Flúðir, and other South Iceland day-trip routes.
The History & Culture of Gullfoss
Historical Significance
Gullfoss has been a protected natural monument since 1979. In the early 20th century, there were plans to harness the waterfall for hydroelectric power, but thanks to the efforts of Sigríður Tómasdóttir, often considered Iceland's first environmental activist, the waterfall was preserved for future generations. The waterfall is part of the Hvítá River, which originates from the Langjökull glacier. The water flow varies seasonally, with peak flow during the summer months when glacial melting is at its maximum.
Geological Features
Gullfoss cascades down in two stages: first a 11-meter drop, then a 21-meter drop into a narrow canyon. The total height is 32 meters. The waterfall's name comes from the golden hue of the water and the rainbow that often appears in the mist on sunny days. The average water flow is 109 cubic meters per second, but during summer it can reach up to 130 cubic meters per second. The mist from the waterfall can be seen from several kilometers away on clear days.
Cultural & Tourism Value
Gullfoss is one of the key stops on Iceland's famous Golden Circle route, alongside Thingvellir National Park and the Geysir geothermal area. It attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. The site has been developed with sustainable tourism in mind, featuring well-maintained paths, viewing platforms, and a visitor center that respects the natural environment. The waterfall is particularly popular among photographers for its dramatic scenery and rainbow effects.
Recommended Route
A half-day or full-day trip is recommended. If doing the Golden Circle, visit Gullfoss after Geysir (about 10 minutes drive). Spend 1-2 hours at the site to fully experience the waterfall from different viewpoints.
Arrive at the parking lot: Choose the upper lot for facilities or the lower lot for a shorter walk to the waterfall
Visit the visitor center: Use restrooms and get information about walking paths
Upper viewpoint: Walk to the upper platform for a panoramic view of the waterfall
Lower pathway: Descend to the lower walking path for a closer view (can get wet from mist)
Photography: Capture the rainbow effect on sunny days from the upper platform
Gullfoss Café: Enjoy Icelandic food and hot drinks at the visitor center restaurant
Travel Tips
- •Wear waterproof clothing - the mist can be intense, especially in summer
- •The lower walking path may be closed in winter due to ice and snow
- •Morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting for photography
Photo Spots
Upper Viewing Platform
Capture the full waterfall with the canyon in the background. Best for wide-angle shots.
Lower Walking Path
Get close to the waterfall and capture the mist and rainbows. Waterproof camera recommended.
Side Angle from the Canyon Edge
Unique perspective showing the waterfall's power as it crashes into the narrow canyon.
Rainbow Capture on Sunny Days
Position yourself at the upper platform on sunny days to capture rainbows in the mist.
Morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting. On sunny days, rainbows are almost guaranteed in the mist. A waterproof camera or phone case is essential for the lower path.
Accommodation
Accommodation near Gullfoss is limited. Most visitors stay in Reykjavík, Selfoss, or Hveragerði and do day trips to the Golden Circle.
Hotel Gullfoss (Nearby)
ISK 17,000-29,000/nightA cozy hotel about 10 minutes from Gullfoss. Offers comfortable rooms and easy access to the Golden Circle route.
Guesthouses in Selfoss (30 mins away)
ISK 12,000-22,000/nightSelfoss is the nearest town with various accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels.
Reykjavík (2 hours away)
ISK 15,000-44,000/nightThe capital offers the widest range of accommodation. Ideal for those doing day trips to the Golden Circle.
Continue Planning
Parking Guide
Compare the upper and lower car parks, walking distances and the current parking fees.
Read moreEntrance Fee & Hours
Confirm that Gullfoss is free to visit, when the viewpoints are open and what is seasonal.
Read moreVisitor Center
Facilities, restrooms, café, shop, accessibility and seasonal opening hours.
Read moreHiking & Viewpoints
The upper and lower viewpoints, walking times, what to wear and winter safety.
Read moreFrequently Asked Questions
Is parking free at Gullfoss?
Yes. Parking at both the upper and lower Gullfoss car parks is currently free for private cars, tour buses and accessible parking users. Details, walking distances and winter tips are on our Gullfoss parking page.
Is there an entrance fee for Gullfoss Waterfall?
No. Gullfoss Waterfall and the surrounding nature reserve are free to visit, with no ticket and no gate. The viewing areas are open 24 hours a day, year-round.
What are the opening hours for Gullfoss Nature Reserve?
The nature reserve (Friðland við Gullfoss) and the waterfall viewpoints are open 24 hours a day, year-round. The visitor center, restaurant and shop follow seasonal opening hours.
Are there hiking trails and is the area dog-friendly?
Yes. Short maintained walking paths connect the car parks with the upper and lower viewpoints. Dogs are generally welcome on a leash on the marked paths.
Is Gullfoss part of a national park in Iceland?
No. Gullfoss is a designated nature reserve, protected since 1979, and one of the three core stops on the Golden Circle, usually visited together with Þingvellir National Park and the Geysir geothermal area.
Can I visit Gullfoss in winter?
Yes, and the frozen spray is spectacular. Route 35 is ploughed but conditions change quickly, and the lower path can close when it is icy. Check road and weather conditions before you drive.
Photo Gallery
Gullfoss Waterfall & Surrounding Nature
Waterfall Panorama
Upper Viewpoint
Mist and Rainbow
Lower Path
Canyon View
Waterfall Close-up
Summer Flow
Winter Scene
Rainbow Effect
Visitor Rating
9,143 reviews on Google Maps
Google Maps rating · checked October 2026 · Google Maps
This is an independent visitor guide. We do not publish visitor quotes ourselves — the full set of reviews is on the Google Maps listing for Gullfoss Nature Reserve (external link).