AtlasSouth Waterfall
Gullfoss
The "Golden Waterfall": two spectacular drops into the Hvítá river canyon, with a flow of 140 m³/s. One of Europe's most iconic waterfalls and an unmissable stop on the Golden Circle.
- Ticket
- Free entry
- Estimated duration
- 1h
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Crowd level
- Very busy
Safety warning
Gullfoss is easy to visit and access, but viewpoints remain exposed to spray, wind and ice. Walkways, steps and platforms can become very slippery within minutes. Always stay behind barriers and handrails, do not cross temporary closures, and do not underestimate the wind chill near the edge of the gorge.
At a glance
- Wear waterproof clothing — spray reaches the nearby paths even on windless days.
- Summer sunset light bathes the waterfall in extraordinary golden hues.
- In winter, the partially frozen falls are a unique sight.
The waterfall that challenged history
Gullfoss — Icelandic for "golden waterfall" — is one of Europe's most powerful and dramatic waterfalls. The Hvítá river plunges into a canyon in two successive drops: first an 11 m fall to the east, then a 21 m fall to the north, with an average flow of 140 m³/s (which can reach 2,000 m³/s during spring floods).
Sigríður's story
Gullfoss is also at the centre of a story of environmental courage. At the beginning of the 20th century, a foreign businessman wanted to build a hydroelectric power station that would have submerged the falls. Sigríður Tómasdóttir, daughter of the landowner, opposed it by every means, even threatening to throw herself into the waterfall to stop the project. The contract was eventually terminated for financial reasons, and Gullfoss was saved. A sculpture of Sigríður stands at the entrance.
How to visit
The area is always accessible. There are two main paths: one along the upper edge of the canyon (with views from above) and another descending close to the falls (bringing you within a few metres of the water). In winter, the paths can be icy — use the crampons available to borrow from the visitor centre.
On the Golden Circle
Gullfoss is often visited together with Geysir (10 km away) and Þingvellir (60 km away) on the classic Golden Circle route, which can be completed in a day from Reykjavik.
Getting there
From Reykjavik, it is around a 1 hour 45 minute drive along Route 35. It is the westernmost stop on the Golden Circle, with a large car park and direct access to the main trails.
- Gullfoss, 846
Weather & conditions
During heavy rain, the flow increases and spray reaches the upper path. In winter, the paths become icy — crampons are essential. In spring, snowmelt brings the waterfall to its maximum flow.
Photography tips
The lower path, at water level, offers the most striking perspectives. Use an ND filter to soften the water. Summer light at 22:00 gives the waterfall the true golden hue that explains its name.
Practical info
Visit planning
30 min
Minimum
60 min
Ideal
90 min
Extended
Suitable for
Hours
Sempre aperto (area esterna). Cafè: 09:00–18:00 in estate.
Avoid during
Services & access
- Parking
- Toilets
- Café
- Visitor centre
Access & rules
Accepted payments
Terrain
Recommended gear
- Windproof jacket
- Waterproof shoes
- Warm layers
- Gloves in winter
- Camera rain cover
Traveler reviews
Updated July 7, 2026
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Frequently asked questions
Is the lower path open in winter?
It depends on conditions that day. The lower path is often closed in winter because of ice. The upper path is almost always accessible. The visitor centre has crampons available to borrow free of charge.
Is there an entrance fee for Gullfoss?
No, access to the waterfall area is completely free. Parking is free. You only pay at the café and souvenir shop.
Tours/activities related to Gullfoss
Live Viator selection of bookable tours and activities connected to this attraction.
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