Gullfoss Nature Reserve

Icelandic Golden Waterfall and Natural Wonder

4.8(9,001 real reviews)

Open 24 Hours

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.

About Gullfoss Nature Reserve

Gullfoss (Golden Falls) is one of Iceland's most iconic and beloved natural attractions, located on the Hvítá River in the southwest of Iceland. The waterfall cascades down in two stages, with a total height of 32 meters, creating a spectacular golden mist that gives it its name.

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

Highlights

Spectacular two-tiered waterfall with a total drop of 32 meters

Part of Iceland's famous Golden Circle tourist route

Rainbow often visible in the mist on sunny days

Protected nature reserve with well-maintained walking paths

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

4.8 (9,001 real reviews)

Address

Gullfoss, Bláskógabyggð, 806 Selfoss, Iceland

Opening Hours

Nature Reserve & Viewing Platforms

Open 24 hours, 7 days a week, free access to all viewing areas

24 Hours

Gullfoss Café & Visitor Center

Seasonal opening hours apply and may change throughout the year

Varies by season

The nature reserve is open 24/7. Summer brings the strongest water flow, while winter visits require caution on icy paths and occasional lower-trail closures.

Ticket Prices

Nature Reserve & Waterfall Viewing

Free Admission

Gullfoss waterfall and surrounding nature reserve are free to visit, no ticket required.

Parking Information

Both the upper and lower parking lots at Gullfoss are currently free for private cars, tour buses, and accessible parking users.

The upper lot sits beside the visitor center, restrooms, and cafe. The lower lot gives a shorter walk to the lower viewing area, though the lower path may close in icy winter conditions.

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 Selfoss and South Iceland

From Selfoss, follow Route 35 north toward the Golden Circle. Gullfoss is a practical stop when combining Geysir, Flúðir, and other South Iceland day-trip routes.

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: Choose the upper lot for facilities or the lower lot for a shorter walk to the waterfall

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

Travel Tips

•Wear waterproof clothing - the mist can be intense, especially in summer
•The lower walking path may be closed in winter due to ice and snow
•Morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting for photography

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.

Morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting. On sunny days, rainbows are almost guaranteed in the mist. A waterproof camera or phone case is essential for the lower path.

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/night

A 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/night

Selfoss is the nearest town with various accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels.

Reykjavík (2 hours away)

€100-300/night

The capital offers the widest range of accommodation. Ideal for those doing day trips to the Golden Circle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is parking free at Gullfoss?

Yes. Parking at both the upper and lower Gullfoss car parks is currently free for private cars, tour buses, and accessible parking users.

What are the opening hours for Gullfoss Nature Reserve?

The nature reserve and waterfall viewpoints are open 24 hours a day, year-round. The visitor center, restaurant, and shop follow seasonal opening hours.

Are there hiking trails and is the area dog-friendly?

Yes. Short maintained walking paths connect the parking areas and viewpoints, and dogs are generally welcome on a leash along the marked paths.

Is Gullfoss part of a national park in Iceland?

No. Gullfoss is a designated nature reserve and one of the three core stops on the Golden Circle, usually visited together with Thingvellir National Park and the Geysir geothermal area.