Location, Directions and Coordinates

Gullfoss waterfall is in South Iceland on the Hvítá River, within the Golden Circle sightseeing route. It sits in the Haukadalur area of Bláskógabyggð municipality, about a 1 hour 45 minute drive from Reykjavík via Routes 1 and 35.

Map

How to Get There

Reaching Gullfoss Waterfall is part of the adventure, and you’ll find multiple ways to get there depending on your travel style. Located in South Iceland, about 115 km from Reykjavík, Gullfoss is one of the three main stops on the Golden Circle route along with Geysir and Þingvellir National Park.

By Car (most common)

Driving is the most flexible way to visit Gullfoss. From Reykjavík, it takes around 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours via Route 1 (the Ring Road) and then Route 35. The roads are fully paved and open year-round, making this an accessible trip in all seasons.

• From Reykjavík (≈116 km / ~1 h 45 min): Route 1 (east) → Route 35 (north) straight to Gullfoss. Road is paved the entire way.
• From Keflavík Airport (≈150 km / ~2 h 15 min): Route 41 to Route 1 (east) → Route 35 (north).
• From Þingvellir (≈60 kmut9 / ~50–60 min): Route 36 → Route 365 → Route 37 → merge into Route 35.
• From Geysir (≈10 km / ~10–12 min): Continue north on Route 35.

Winter note: Conditions can change quickly in South Iceland. Check road conditions and weather forecasts before setting out, and plan extra time between Golden Circle stops.

By Tour

For those who prefer not to drive, guided tours are the most popular way to reach the waterfall. Numerous daily Golden Circle tours include Gullfoss, with pick-ups from Reykjavík hotels and bus stops. Tours typically bundle Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss; some add snowmobiling at Langjökull.

Public Transport

There is no reliable point-to-point public bus service to Gullfoss suitable for day-trippers. If you aren’t driving, a guided tour is the practical option.

Driving Times & Distances

Origin	Distance	Typical Drive Time
Reykjavík	~116 km	~1 h 45 min
Keflavík Airport	~150 km	~2 h 15 min
Þingvellir	~60 km	~50–60 min
Geysir	~10 km	~10–12 min
Selfoss	~72 km	~1 h 10 min

Parking & Trailheads (Quick Orientation)

• Upper Parking Lot (main lot): Next to the visitor center, café, restrooms, and gift shop; short, paved walk to upper viewpoints.
  • Approx. GPS: 64.32538458351038, -20.129893271139427
• Lower Parking Lot: Close to the lower canyon path and the nearest, most dramatic viewpoints; involves steps and spray.
  • Approx. GPS: 64.32504281498385, -20.125240357974707

Both lots are typically free and open year-round. For accessibility and minimal walking, use the Upper lot.