Guide to Goðafoss Waterfall
Goðafoss, known as the "Waterfall of the Gods," is one of Iceland’s most spectacular and historically significant waterfalls, located in the Skjálfandafljót River in northern Iceland. The waterfall drops into a stunning horseshoe-shaped cascade, creating a breathtaking sight as the water crashes into the canyon below. The name "Goðafoss" is tied to a pivotal moment in Icelandic history, when the country's lawspeaker, Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði, is said to have thrown the statues of the Norse gods into the waterfall after converting to Christianity in the year 1000, symbolizing Iceland’s transition from paganism to Christianity.
Goðafoss is a must-see stop for travelers exploring the region, especially those venturing along the Diamond Circle.
Goðafoss Facts
Goðafoss, known as the "Waterfall of the Gods," is one of Iceland’s most celebrated and historic waterfalls. Its striking beauty, combined with deep cultural significance, makes it a must-see for visitors. Here is an overview of the waterfall’s dimensions, history, and other essential details.
- Height: 12 meters (39 feet) tall, creating a powerful cascade.
- Width: 30 meters (98 feet), allowing for a broad, multi-tiered display of falling water.
- River: Goðafoss is part of the Skjálfandafljót River, Iceland’s fourth longest river, which originates from the Vatnajökull glacier.
- Formation Age: The waterfall was formed approximately 7,000 years ago, following a volcanic eruption that reshaped the land and carved out the present landscape.
- Depth of Surrounding Pool: Varies with water flow but typically ranges around 1–2 meters (3–7 feet) near the edges; currents are strong and not suitable for swimming.
- Water Temperature: The river water is cold year-round, averaging around 2–4°C (35–39°F), due to its glacial origins.
- Viewing Duration: Most visitors spend 30 minutes to 1 hour exploring Goðafoss. There are viewing platforms on both sides of the waterfall, allowing visitors to appreciate its full expanse and take photos from different angles.
- Accessibility: The site is accessible year-round with paved pathways for easy viewing. Winter may require extra caution due to icy conditions.
History and Geology
Goðafoss was created in association with volcanic activity. Its name, meaning "Waterfall of the Gods," originates from the transition of Iceland from paganism to Christianity. In the year 1000 AD, Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði, member of parliament and chieftain, was said to have thrown his Norse god idols into the falls after Iceland had accepted Christianity. The reason behind this gesture was to symbolize that the nation had embraced the new religion. Geologically, they take their formation from lava flows of volcanic eruptions that have shaped the landscape. The Skjálfandafljót River, which feeds the falls, has cut a valley through millions of years of glaciers and volcanic activity.
Goðafoss was formed during volcanic activity in the region. Its name, translating to "Waterfall of the Gods," has its origins in Iceland’s transition from paganism to Christianity. In the year 1000 AD, Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði, a law speaker and chieftain, is said to have thrown his Norse god idols into the falls after Iceland converted to Christianity. This act symbolized the nation’s embrace of the new religion. Geologically, the falls owe their formation to lava flows from volcanic eruptions that shaped the landscape. The Skjálfandafljót River, which feeds the falls, flows through a valley carved by glaciers and volcanic activity over millennia.
Goðafoss Folklore
Goðafoss, which translates to "waterfall of the gods" or even "waterfall of the chieftain" as the word goði suggests, is firmly bound with a revolutionary point in Icelandic history. The name of this waterfall signifies the inflection point that marked the movement of Iceland from Norse paganism to Christianity — a decision symptomatic of the major cultural shift.
First Icelanders were mainly Norse who settled in Iceland in the 9th and 10th century brought the Old Norse religion with them, worshiping such gods as Thor, Odin, and Freya. When the Icelandic Commonwealth was established in 930 A.D., the influences of Christian Europe began to reach the island, urging it to abandon pagan traditions.
By the year 1000 AD, the question of whether or not to continue with pagan beliefs or to accept Christianity was an essential one; Norway implied the threat of invasion, a response to Icelandic paganism. In returning to a resolution, chieftains met at Þingvellir, home to Iceland's national parliament. During this meeting, Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði, an exceptionally highly regarded chieftain and the lawspeaker, was given control to make a decision regarding the country's future religious direction.
According to the legend, Thorgeir spent a whole day and night under a fur blanket, weighing up his decision and consulting with the gods he had always worshiped. Coming out of this meditative state, he proclaimed that Christianity was to be the state religion of Iceland, but in such a manner that pagans could still privately honor their beliefs. Returning home to North Iceland, Thorgeir is said to have thrown statues of the Norse gods into a magnificent waterfall now known as Goðafoss, the "waterfall of the gods."
Where is Goðafoss?
Goðafoss is located in North Iceland, right off Route 1, the Ring Road, making it quite convenient to visit on a trip. The waterfall falls between Akureyri and Lake Mývatn, two towns along the famous Diamond Circle route.
- GPS coordinates are 65.6825° N, 17.5504° W
Map of Goðafoss Waterfall and Surroundings
How to Get to Goðafoss?
From Reykjavík, Goðafoss is about a 5-hour drive, 435 km on the Ring Road, Route 1. Follow the signs towards Akureyri; once you've passed through Akureyri, follow Route 1 another 50 or so kilometers to Goðafoss. From Mývatn, Goðafoss is only 45 km which translates to approximately 35-minute drive. The waterfall is accessible year-round, though travelers should be prepared for icy roads in winter.
What to Expect
East vs. West Side
Goðafoss can be viewed from both the east and west sides, each offering a different perspective. The west side is often regarded as more scenic, providing panoramic views and easy access from the main car park. The east side offers a closer view of the waterfall’s edge and is typically less crowded.
Goðafoss West Side
To get to the west side of Goðafoss, follow these directions:
- From Reykjavík or Akureyri on Route 1 (the Ring Road):
- Drive east along Route 1 (the Ring Road) towards Akureyri and Mývatn. Goðafoss is located about 45 km (28 miles) east of Akureyri.
- As you approach Goðafoss, you'll see signs for the waterfall along Route 1.
- To access the west side, stay on Route 1 and look for the turnoff for the west parking lot. The west side is well-marked with signs guiding you to the parking area.
The west side of Goðafoss offers easy access with a large parking area, and from here, you can follow short paths directly to the waterfall's edge. This side also provides excellent viewpoints and a good opportunity for close-up photos of the cascading water. The walk from the parking area to the viewing spots is short and easy, making it suitable for all visitors.
Both the west and east sides provide fantastic views, but the west side is more popular due to the ease of access and better-developed walking paths.
Goðafoss East Side
To get to the east side of Goðafoss, follow these directions:
- From Reykjavík or Akureyri on Route 1:
- Drive along Route 1 (the Ring Road) heading toward Akureyri or Mývatn, depending on your starting point.
- When you approach the Goðafoss area, look for a sign indicating Route 842.
- Take a right turn onto Route 842, which leads to the east side of Goðafoss.
- After driving a short distance on Route 842, you'll come to the parking area for the east side of the waterfall.
The east side is quieter and offers a more up-close view of Goðafoss, allowing visitors to get closer to the waterfall’s edge. The walking paths from the east side are a bit narrower and less developed than those on the west side, but they provide a unique perspective on the waterfall and the surrounding landscape.
Both sides are worth visiting, but the east side is ideal for those who prefer a less crowded and more intimate experience of Goðafoss.
Parking and Facilities
Parking is available on both sides of the waterfall. The west side car park is larger, with more amenities close by including restrooms and a small café. The east side has a smaller lot with fewer facilities but offers a quieter, more intimate experience.
- West side parking: 65°41'08.8"N 17°32'45.1"W
- East side parking: 65°41'02.5"N 17°32'25.8"W
Walk to the Waterfall
Both sides of the waterfall have short walking paths that lead to viewing platforms. The trails are well-maintained and accessible, with minimal elevation changes, making the walk easy for most visitors. It typically takes around 5-10 minutes to walk from the parking area to the waterfall.
Winter Visits
Goðafoss is open year-round, and winter adds a magical touch to the falls, with frozen icicles and snow-covered landscapes. Visitors should be cautious of icy paths and respect all signs of closed paths and warnings.
On-Site Information
There are information signs near the waterfall that detail the history and folklore surrounding Goðafoss, allowing visitors to learn more about the site as they explore.
Nearby Restaurant
Visitors will find a restaurant near the car park on the west side of the waterfall, offering refreshments and light meals. The Godafoss Café is also a souvenir shop and it’s conveniently located close to the Goðafoss pedestrian bridge where visitors can walk across the river over to the west bank.
Nearby Attractions
Although Goðafoss is the main event you’ll also find two other waterfalls, Geitafoss a small waterfall close to the Goðafoss café, and you’ll find Aldeyjarfoss and Hrafnabjargafoss along the 4x4 route 844 south of Goðafoss, about a 45-minute drive through the Bárðardalur valley.
Besides the nearby waterfalls Goðafoss is a gateway to several natural and cultural wonders in North Iceland, including:
- Lake Mývatn: A beautiful lake surrounded by geothermal areas and volcanic craters.
- Húsavík: Known as the whale-watching capital of Iceland.
- Akureyri: Iceland's second-largest city, offering restaurants, shops, and cultural experiences.
Nearby Accommodations
If you plan on staying in the area near Goðafoss you have plenty of options from comfortable hotels to campsites for the traveler's looking to stay close to nature.
Hotels near Goðafoss
- Location: Akureyri, around 45 minutes from Goðafoss.
- Overview: This contemporary hotel offers spacious rooms with modern amenities, a cozy lounge area, and an outdoor geothermal hot tub. It’s an ideal base for exploring North Iceland, with easy access to Akureyri's restaurants, shops, and attractions.
- Notable Features: On-site restaurant, outdoor hot tub, beautiful views of Eyjafjörður.
Hotel Laxá
- Location: Mývatn, approximately 30 minutes from Goðafoss.
- Overview: Set on the shores of Lake Mývatn, Hotel Laxá provides scenic accommodations with an eco-friendly design and stunning views of the surrounding volcanic landscape. Guests enjoy local cuisine in the hotel’s restaurant.
- Notable Features: Panoramic lake views, eco-friendly, close to nature trails.
Sel-Hotel Mývatn
- Location: Mývatn, 25 minutes from Goðafoss.
- Overview: Sel-Hotel Mývatn is a family-owned hotel located in a tranquil setting close to the Mývatn Nature Baths and several hiking trails. The hotel offers cozy rooms and a welcoming restaurant.
- Notable Features: Friendly atmosphere, proximity to nature baths, peaceful setting.
Guesthouses near Goðafoss
Dimmuborgir Guesthouse
- Location: Near Lake Mývatn, a short drive to Goðafoss.
- Overview: Dimmuborgir Guesthouse features private cottages and guest rooms with lake or mountain views. The guesthouse has a cozy ambiance, with easy access to local attractions.
- Notable Features: Lake views, self-catering options, family-friendly.
Kaffi Borgir Guesthouse
- Location: Mývatn, around 30 minutes from Goðafoss.
- Overview: Located near the Dimmuborgir lava formations, this guesthouse offers comfortable rooms and cottages with kitchen facilities. It’s ideal for visitors exploring the geothermal sites and hiking trails around Lake Mývatn.
- Notable Features: Scenic views, close to Dimmuborgir, on-site café.
Guesthouse Akureyri H.I.
- Location: Akureyri, a convenient drive from Goðafoss.
- Overview: A centrally-located guesthouse in Akureyri, offering simple and budget-friendly accommodations with shared facilities. It’s within walking distance of downtown Akureyri’s shops and restaurants.
- Notable Features: Central location, budget-friendly, communal kitchen.
Camping near Goðafoss
Hlíð Camping
- Location: Mývatn, close to Goðafoss.
- Overview: Hlíð Camping is a well-equipped campground near Lake Mývatn, offering scenic campsites with essential facilities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and the nearby nature baths.
- Notable Features: Stunning lake views, easy access to nature baths, basic facilities.
Húsavík Camping Ground
- Location: Húsavík, approximately 40 minutes from Goðafoss.
- Overview: This campsite in the whale-watching capital offers grassy pitches, showers, and cooking facilities. Ideal for nature lovers looking to explore the northern fjords and nearby attractions.
- Notable Features: Convenient location for whale watching, family-friendly, picnic areas.
Systragil Camping Site
- Location: Akureyri area, within a 40-minute drive from Goðafoss.
- Overview: Nestled in a peaceful valley near Akureyri, this campsite offers spacious grounds and views of the surrounding mountains, with easy access to nearby hiking trails.
- Notable Features: Secluded location, beautiful mountain scenery, close to hiking trails.
Each of these accommodations provides a great base for exploring Goðafoss and the surrounding attractions, catering to all preferences from hotels to guesthouses and campgrounds.
Can You See the Northern Lights from Goðafoss?
Yes, Goðafoss Waterfall is a very good place to see the Northern Lights during winter. Because of its location far from city light pollution, it’s considered a prime Northern Light watch site. Of course, the best chances are on a clear, cold night, between September and April.