Total height
32 m / 105 ft (11 m + 21 m)
From Reykjavík
~2 hours by car
Canyon walls
Up to ~70 m high
OPEN
Year-round (paths & viewpoints)
Gullfoss is a two-tier waterfall on the Hvítá River, which flows from the Langjökull ice cap. The cascade drops 11 meters at the first step and 21 meters at the second, for a total of 32 meters (105 ft) into a narrow, angled canyon. The surrounding Gullfossgjúfur gorge features layered volcanic rock and steep walls that reach roughly 70 meters (230 ft) in places, creating a dramatic setting in all seasons.
Viewpoints
Upper Platforms: Paved access near facilities; best for the full view of both drops and the canyon. Suits most visitors, including families and tripod users.
Lower Path: Closer perspective with more spray and sound. Surfaces are frequently wet; in winter the path is commonly closed for safety.
Time on Site
- 30 minutes: Upper platforms and main railings.
- 60 minutes: Upper plus a walk toward the lower path (if open).
- 90 minutes: Full loop with photo stops and a warm drink at the café.
Seasonality and Conditions
Summer
Long daylight and higher visitation. Early morning and late afternoon typically provide more space on the walkways.
Shoulder seasons
Shoulder seasons are May, September-October. Balanced light and moderate visitation; weather can change quickly.
Winter
Short days and frequent icing. The lower path is often closed for safety. Expect wind and spray; traction aids are recommended when conditions are icy.
Plan & Access
Self‑Drive: Follow Route 1 east from Reykjavík, then Route 35 toward Geysir/Gullfoss. Combine with Geysir and Thingvellir for a full Golden Circle day. Drivers should check weather and road conditions before departure.
Guided Tours: Reykjavík pickups with professional driver‑guides, efficient routing, and planned comfort stops—recommended for winter or travelers who prefer a set schedule.
Parking
- Policy: Follow on‑site signage for any seasonal fees or restrictions.
- Upper car park: Closest to services and paved paths.
- Lower car park: Additional capacity; linked by footpaths.
What makes it special?
Power you can feel
Short paths bring you close enough to hear the roar, feel the ground hum, and catch the cool mist off the falls. From the lower path the spray can soak you fast – bring a waterproof layer and a lens cloth for your camera.
Geology on display
The glacial Hvítá River has carved a canyon with walls rising to about 70 meters, exposing layers of volcanic history. Two clean drops, 11 m and 21 m, plunge into a tight ravine, with striking basalt columns visible from the quieter east-side viewpoint.
Year-round appeal
Summer’s long light paints frequent rainbows, while autumn adds moody skies and rich color contrasts. In winter the cascades frame themselves in ice, and spring snowmelt boosts flow – so the waterfall never looks the same twice.
Easy to reach
It’s roughly a two-hour drive from Reykjavík on the Golden Circle via Road 35, with clear signage and spacious upper and lower parking areas. A café, restrooms, and a shop makes Gullfoss a simple, stress-free stop for self-drivers and guided tours alike.
Safety & Preparedness
- Stay behind rails and respect any path closures, especially on the lower route in winter.
- Expect wind and spray; use secure grips for phones and cameras near railings.
- Wear sturdy footwear with traction; carry waterproof/windproof layers year‑round and microspikes in icy conditions.
Accessibility
Upper viewpoints are on maintained paths with gentle grades and railings in key sections. The lower path is steeper and frequently wet; choose upper platforms in winter or when traction is a concern.
Things to Do Near Gullfoss
Snowmobile on Langjökull
Guided tours often depart from the Gullfoss area and shuttle to the glacier base – an easy add-on to your Golden Circle day.
Horseback Riding
Experience the smooth tölt on nearby farms; half-day rides pair well with Gullfoss and Geysir.
Canyon Walks
Short trails serve changing viewpoints of the falls; the lower path gets you closer (expect mist!).
East-Side Basalt Columns
Drive 35 → 30 → Brúarhlöð → 349, then walk 20–30 minutes to a quieter viewpoint.
Secret Lagoon (Flúðir)
About 30 minutes from Gullfoss; soak in a classic geothermal hot spring after your waterfall visit.
Laugarás Lagoon (New)
A modern geothermal retreat near Flúðir -calmer than the big-name spas and handy for Golden Circle itineraries.
Book a Golden Circle Experience
Select from small‑group, coach, or private tours that include Gullfoss. Review group size, pickup window, total duration, and the weather/cancellation policy before purchase.
We list options with clear pros/cons and practical details suitable for varying seasons and preferences.
Tour Styles
- Private: Bespoke timing and detours; highest flexibility.
- Small group (10–18): Balanced pace; easier to adjust at stops.
- Coach: Best per‑seat value; fixed schedule and busier windows.
Gullfoss Visitor Center
The visitor center sits beside the upper car park, just a short walk from the main viewpoints. It serves as a practical base in all seasons, providing shelter from wind and spray and quick access to the paved paths and railings overlooking the falls.
Inside, the café offers hot soups, simple sandwiches, salads, cakes, and hot drinks on a daytime/seasonal schedule. There are restrooms during opening hours and a compact shop stocking Icelandic wool items, local crafts, books, and cold-weather essentials such as hats and gloves. Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted.
Staff can share up-to-date information on conditions and path status – especially useful in winter when the lower path may close. Most visits need 20–40 minutes for a warm drink and a browse, with the option to refill reusable bottles with Icelandic tap water before continuing to Geysir or Thingvellir.
History of Gullfoss
In 1907, English investor Howell sought to harness Gullfoss for hydropower. Landowner Tómas Tómasson refused to sell, but later leased the land, unknowingly allowing development. His daughter, Sigríður Tómasdóttir, fought tirelessly, walking to Reykjavík many times, to protect the falls. In 1929, Howell withdrew. A plaque at the top of the falls honors Sigríður, often called Iceland’s first environmentalist. Their lawyer, Sveinn Björnsson, later became Iceland’s first president (1944).
Practical Notes
Trails and platforms are well maintained but can be wet or icy year-round. Stay on marked paths and behind rails. Wind and spray are common – pack a waterproof layer and protect your camera gear.
Safety & conditions
Trails and platforms are well maintained but can be wet or icy year-round; stay on marked paths and behind rails, and respect rope closures on the lower path in winter. Wind funneled through the canyon can be fierce – secure hats, tripods, and children, and keep a safe distance from cliff edges.
Driving & parking
The main approach is via Road 35 with clear signage to upper and lower car parks; allow extra time in winter weather. A parking fee applies at the visitor-center area (tour guests typically have it included).
Clothing & gear
Pack a waterproof shell and warm layers even in summer; spray and wind chill are common. Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear with good grip; carry microspikes in winter, plus a microfiber cloth or rain cover for cameras.
Facilities & hours
The Gullfoss visitor center offers a café (soups, sandwiches, salads, cakes), restrooms, and a souvenir shop; hours vary by season and hot food usually stops about an hour before closing. Card payments are widely accepted; bring a reusable bottle as refills may be limited.
Accessibility
The upper viewing areas are the most accessible and provide expansive views; gradients and surfaces can still be challenging in snow or ice. The lower path is steeper, often wetter, and may close in hazardous conditions—check onsite notices.
Etiquette & conservation
Stay on built paths to protect fragile ground and for your safety; fines can apply for crossing barriers. Drones and off-trail access may be restricted—follow posted rules, and pack out all litter.