Goðafoss Waterfall: History, Tips and the Best Viewpoints

Goðafoss Waterfall: The Waterfall of the Gods

Goðafoss (often written Godafoss) is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland, and the one with the best story. It sits right on the Ring Road in North Iceland, just 10 minutes' drive from Aurora Farm Hotel, so you can visit at sunrise, at midnight in summer, or on the way to anywhere.

The Story Behind the Name

In the year 1000, the Icelandic parliament at Þingvellir faced a choice between the old Norse gods and the new Christian faith. The decision was left to the lawspeaker Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði, a chieftain from this part of the north. After a day and a night lying under a cloak in silence, he declared that Iceland would become Christian.

Legend says that on his way home, Þorgeir threw his carvings of the old gods into the waterfall, giving it the name Goðafoss, the Waterfall of the Gods. Historians point out that the medieval sources do not mention the idols, and the name may come from rock formations at the falls. Either way, the story is told in a stained-glass window of Akureyri Church.

Goðafoss Facts

• Height: 12 metres

• Width: about 30 metres

• River: Skjálfandafljót, one of Iceland's longest rivers, flowing from the Vatnajökull glacier

• Status: protected as a natural monument since 2020

The Best Viewpoints

Goðafoss can be seen from both banks of the river, with parking on each side.

• West bank: the shortest walk, from the car park beside the Fossóll café and shop. Good for a quick visit.

• East bank: a path leads down close to the water's edge, where you feel the spray and see the full horseshoe. This is the photographers' favourite.

Cross the old bridge and you can walk a loop taking in both sides. Allow 45 minutes to an hour.

When to Visit

Goðafoss is beautiful in every season. In summer, come late in the evening when the tour buses have gone and the midnight sun lights the spray. In winter the falls are framed in ice and snow, but paths can be slippery, so wear shoes with good grip.

The café at Fossóll has toilets, coffee and souvenirs, open daily with longer hours in summer.

Goðafoss from Aurora Farm

Aurora Farm Hotel is only 10 minutes away by car. Pair Goðafoss with Aldeyjarfoss further up the same river, or continue east to Lake Mývatn, 20 minutes from the hotel.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Goðafoss from Akureyri? About 35 km, or 30–45 minutes on the Ring Road.

Is Goðafoss free to visit? Yes. There is no entrance fee.

Which side of Goðafoss is best? The east side gives the closest views; the west side is the easiest walk.

Where can I stay near Goðafoss? Aurora Farm Hotel is 10 minutes away, with private geothermal hot springs and the wood-fired Þorgrímur Restaurant. Book your stay.