Gullfoss Waterfall
Two drops, one river, no entrance fee — the Golden Circle’s signature stop.
Gullfoss is one of Iceland’s most powerful natural landmarks and a central stop on the Golden Circle route. Known as the “Golden Falls,” the Hvítá river drops in two dramatic tiers into a rugged canyon — free to visit, open every day, year-round.
Golden Circle Tours
Where is Gullfoss?
Gullfoss sits in southwest Iceland along Route 35, ten minutes from the Geysir geothermal area and about fifty minutes from Þingvellir National Park — one of the three core stops on the Golden Circle.
- Address: Gullfoss Parking Area, 801 Selfoss, Iceland
- GPS: 64.3275° N, 20.1218° W
Entry & Parking
- Entrance fee: None — walking the trails and viewpoints is free.
- Parking: Free at both upper and lower lots as of this year; watch for on-site signage in case that changes.
- Facilities: Restrooms, bins, and information boards at the upper lot.
Tip: spaces near the visitor center fill fast in summer — arrive early.
Opening Hours
- Waterfall area: Open 24/7, year-round.
- Visitor center: Daytime hours, varies by season — typically 9:30am–6pm in summer, shorter in winter.
- Best light: Mid-morning or late afternoon, softer light and fewer crowds.
Upper or lower path?
Upper platforms: paved, gentle grade, best for families and tripods — full view of both drops and the canyon.
Lower path: closer, wetter, louder — often closed in winter for safety.
Time on site: 30 min upper only · 60 min + lower path · 90 min full loop + café
Conditions through the year
Summer
Long daylight, higher visitation. Early morning or late afternoon buys you more space on the walkways.
Shoulder (May, Sep–Oct)
Balanced light, moderate crowds — but weather can turn quickly, so layer up.
Winter
Short days, frequent icing, the lower path is often closed. Expect wind and spray; bring traction aids.
How to get to Gullfoss
From Reykjavík
Route 1 east for 54 km, then left onto Route 35 for 62 km to the Gullfoss car park — the backbone of the Golden Circle drive.
By tour
Golden Circle tours combine Gullfoss with Þingvellir and Geysir. No driving stress and guaranteed access — less time at each stop.
Public transport
No direct buses run to Gullfoss. Without a rental car, a guided tour from Reykjavík is the most practical option.
What makes it special
Power you can feel
Short paths bring you close enough to hear the roar and feel the mist. Bring a waterproof layer and a lens cloth.
Geology on display
The canyon walls rise ~70m, exposing layers of volcanic history; basalt columns are visible from the quieter east-side viewpoint.
Never the same twice
Summer rainbows, autumn color, winter ice, spring snowmelt — the falls change character with the seasons.
Gullfoss Visitor Center
A short walk from the upper car park, the visitor center is a practical base in any season — shelter from wind and spray, a café serving soups, sandwiches, and hot drinks, restrooms, and a small shop with wool goods and cold-weather essentials. Staff can share up-to-date path conditions, especially useful in winter when the lower path may close. Most visits need 20–40 minutes here.
The falls that were nearly sold
In 1907, English investor Howell sought to harness Gullfoss for hydropower. Landowner Tómas Tómasson refused to sell, but later leased the land. His daughter, Sigríður Tómasdóttir, walked to Reykjavík many times to fight the lease in court. She lost the case — but the project collapsed anyway when the lease was voided for unpaid rent. A plaque at the falls today honors her as Iceland’s first environmentalist. Read the full story →
Practical notes
Safety & conditions
Trails can be wet or icy year-round. Stay on marked paths and behind rails, and respect rope closures on the lower path in winter.
Driving & parking
Route 35 has clear signage to both car parks. Allow extra time in winter weather; tour guests typically have parking included.
Clothing & gear
Pack a waterproof shell even in summer — spray and wind chill are common. Sturdy, waterproof footwear with grip; microspikes in winter.
Accessibility
Upper viewpoints are paved with gentle grades. The lower path is steeper and often wet — choose the upper platforms if traction is a concern.
Facilities & hours
Café, restrooms, and shop at the visitor center; hours vary by season and hot food usually stops about an hour before closing.
Etiquette & conservation
Stay on built paths to protect fragile ground — fines can apply for crossing barriers. Drones may be restricted; pack out all litter.
Things to do near Gullfoss
Snowmobile on Langjökull
Guided tours often depart from the Gullfoss area and shuttle to the glacier base.
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 — a classic geothermal soak after your waterfall visit.
Laugarás Lagoon
A modern geothermal retreat near Flúðir — calmer than the big-name spas.