Gullfoss Nature Reserve
Icelandic Golden Waterfall and Natural Wonder
Discover the Golden Waterfall of Iceland
Gullfoss is part of the famous Golden Circle route, alongside Thingvellir National Park and the Geysir geothermal area. The waterfall is particularly impressive during the summer months when the glacial meltwater creates a powerful flow. The name 'Gullfoss' translates to 'Golden Falls' in English, referring to the golden hue of the water and the rainbow that often appears in the mist on sunny days. The waterfall is protected as a nature reserve, ensuring its natural beauty remains unspoiled for future generations.
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
Also Known As
- Gullfoss Waterfall
- Golden Falls
- Gullfossfoss
About Gullfoss Nature Reserve
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
4.6/5 (13,430)
Address
Gullfoss, Bláskógabyggð, 806 Selfoss, Iceland
Opening Hours
Visitor Center (Summer)
09:00 - 20:00
Visitor Center (Winter)
10:00 - 16:00
Waterfall Viewing Areas
24 Hours (Free)
Walking Paths
24 Hours (Weather Permitting)
Summer offers the most impressive water flow. Winter visits require caution due to icy paths.
Ticket Prices
Waterfall Viewing & Hiking
Free
Parking Fee
Guided Tours
Varies by tour operator
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. Good road conditions year-round (4WD needed in winter).
From Reykjavík Old Harbour (Nyhavn)
Drive or join a tour from Reykjavík Old Harbour (Nyhavn), about 1.5 hours direct. It is a classic starting point for the Golden Circle.
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: Pay parking fee (750 ISK for cars)
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
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.
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)
€120-200/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)
€80-150/nightSelfoss is the nearest town with various accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels.
Reykjavík (2 hours away)
€100-300/nightThe capital offers the widest range of accommodation. Ideal for those doing day trips to the Golden Circle.
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 Reviews
Visitor feedback can be viewed via Google Maps (external link).
Absolutely breathtaking! The power and beauty of Gullfoss is indescribable. The mist on a sunny day creates perfect rainbows.
A must-visit on the Golden Circle route. The walking paths are well-maintained and offer different perspectives of the waterfall.
Visited in winter when parts were frozen - a completely different but equally magical experience. Dress warmly!
Spectacular waterfall and it's free! The parking fee is reasonable. Go early to avoid the tour bus crowds.