The 'Waterfall of the Gods' is one of Iceland's most spectacular waterfalls, with a horseshoe shape spanning 30 meters wide and dropping 12 meters. Named after the conversion to Christianity in 1000 AD when chieftain Þorgeir threw his pagan idols into the falls.
Goðafoss, the Waterfall of the Gods, sits directly beside the Ring Road in North Iceland, formed by the Skjálfandafljót river splitting into a horseshoe-shaped drop about 12 meters high and 30 meters wide, split by a small rock outcrop into two main channels. The name refers to the year 1000 AD, when the lawspeaker Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði, tasked with deciding whether Iceland should adopt Christianity, is said to have thrown his statues of the old Norse gods into the falls after the decision was made at the Alþingi. Paths run along both the east and west banks of the river, giving different angles on the falls; the west side offers a slightly more elevated view of the full horseshoe shape, while the east side gets closer to the water. Because Goðafoss sits directly off the Ring Road rather than requiring a detour, it is an easy stop for anyone driving the northern route and typically sees lighter crowds than the South Coast's most famous falls. In winter, ice frequently builds along the rock ledges around the falls while the main flow continues to run, creating a striking contrast. A visit to walk both viewpoints takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
| Admission | $0 (free) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open 24/7 |
| Typical visit | 1 hour |
| Address | Route 1, near Akureyri |
Good to know
- Best for
- families, photographers, road trippers
Weather through the year in Iceland
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Iceland.
Location
Route 1, near Akureyri
65.6833, -17.5500 View on map
Highlights
- Horseshoe-shaped falls split by a central rock outcrop
- Legend of Iceland's conversion to Christianity in 1000 AD
- Viewpoints on both the east and west riverbanks
- Direct access from the Ring Road
- Striking winter ice formations around the flow
Tips for visiting
- View from both east and west banks
- Located right off Ring Road for easy access
- Winter ice formations are spectacular
- Less crowded than South Coast waterfalls
When to visit
Visit in the morning or evening for softer light and fewer Ring Road travelers stopping at midday.
Accessibility
The west bank path is relatively flat gravel and manageable with assistance for wheelchairs; the east bank path is rougher and closer to unguarded drops.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to Goðafoss take?
About 45 minutes to an hour to walk the viewpoints on both riverbanks.
Is Goðafoss worth it for kids?
Yes, the paths on both sides are relatively easy, though there are unfenced drops near the water's edge that call for supervision.
Is photography allowed at Goðafoss?
Photography is unrestricted, and the west bank gives the clearest view of the full horseshoe shape.
Is Goðafoss free to visit?
Yes, there is no admission charge and parking is free at both riverbank access points.