Is this waterfall free to visit?

Most waterfalls in Iceland are free to visit, though some may have a small parking fee.

Can I visit this waterfall in winter?

Yes, most waterfalls are accessible year-round, though surrounding paths may be icy in winter. Wear proper footwear with good grip.

Is there parking near the waterfall?

Most popular waterfalls have dedicated parking areas. Some charge a small parking fee.

How long does it take to visit?

Plan for 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on how much time you want to spend photographing and exploring the area.

Iceland/north-iceland

Goðafoss

Goðafoss — 'Waterfall of the Gods' — is one of Iceland's most spectacular waterfalls, where the Skjálfandafljót river plunges 12 meters in a wide arc. It is one…

At a Glance

Visit time

30–45 minutes

Best season

Year-round, frozen ice formations in winter are spectacular

Access

On Route 1, 45 km east of Akureyri. Free parking on both sides. Viewing platforms accessible.

GPS

65.6838, -17.5501

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About

About Goðafoss

Goðafoss — 'Waterfall of the Gods' — is one of Iceland's most spectacular waterfalls, where the Skjálfandafljót river plunges 12 meters in a wide arc. It is one of the most historically significant natural sites in Iceland.

Experience the legendary beauty of Iceland's 'Waterfall of the Gods'.

Photos

Photo Gallery

Background

History & Background

In the year 1000 AD, Iceland's parliament voted to adopt Christianity. The lawspeaker Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði, who had championed the decision after a night of meditation, rode home and threw his statues of the Norse gods into this waterfall — giving it the name 'Waterfall of the Gods'. This event marked Iceland's official conversion from Norse paganism to Christianity and is one of the defining moments in Icelandic history.

Goðafoss is one of North Iceland's most spectacular waterfalls, a horseshoe-shaped cascade 12 meters high and 30 meters wide on the Skjálfandafljót river. The falls can be viewed from both sides — the east bank offers a dramatic close-up view, while the west bank provides panoramic vistas. In winter, the falls partially freeze, creating extraordinary ice formations. The surrounding area is easily accessible from Route 1, making it a popular stop between Akureyri and Mývatn.

Folklore

Story & Folklore

Goðafoss — 'Waterfall of the Gods' — earned its name at one of the most pivotal moments in Icelandic history. In the year 1000 AD, the lawspeaker Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði had the unenviable task of deciding whether Iceland would adopt Christianity or remain pagan. After meditating under a bearskin for a day and a night, he declared Iceland Christian. On his way home, he stopped at this waterfall and threw his wooden statues of the Norse gods into the water — a symbolic end to the old religion. The falls themselves are breathtaking: a horseshoe-shaped arc of turquoise water dropping 12 metres into a wide pool. They sit just 40 kilometres east of Akureyri on the Ring Road, making them easy to visit on any drive through North Iceland.

💡 Did You Know?

Legend says this waterfall was named after pagan gods were thrown into it upon Iceland's conversion to Christianity in the year 1000.

Local Legend

The Hidden Folk of Goðafoss

Local folklore tells of hidden people (huldufólk) who live in the cliffs surrounding Goðafoss. According to legend, these elves protect the waterfall and its surroundings. Travelers who show respect to nature may catch glimpses of mysterious lights near the falls at dusk, believed to be the hidden folk tending to their homes in the rocks.

Culture