What to see and do at Gullfoss Waterfall, Iceland
Gullfoss (Golden Falls) is an Iconic Multi-tiered Waterfall on a Glacial River in Iceland
Gullfoss Waterfalls are one of Iceland’s most iconic and breathtaking natural landmarks. It is located 75 miles northeast of Reykjavík in the southwest of the country and is part of the famous Golden Circle, a popular tourist route that also includes Geysir, Kerid Crater, Secret Lagoon, and Þingvellir National Park. Known for its immense beauty and power, Gullfoss is a multi-tiered waterfall on the Hvítá River, a glacial river fed by the Langjökull Glacier.
The waterfalls are situated on the Hvítá River (meaning “White River”), which originates from the Langjökull Glacier, Iceland’s second-largest glacier. The glacial meltwater gives the river its milky-white color,
We visited the Gullfoss Waterfalls on 8/31/2024 as part of our Golden Circle tour. While there, we walked down several of the trails along the river which provided great views of the water fall.
Gullfoss is unique because of its two-tiered drop. The upper tier has a drop of 36 feet, while the lower tier plunges 69 feet into a deep narrow canyon. This rugged canyon is 65 feet wide and up to 230 feet deep. The Hvítá River continues through this canyon, cutting through the volcanic rock over millennia.
There are several viewpoints around the waterfall that offer spectacular views of both the upper and lower tiers. A well-maintained trail allows visitors to get quite close to the waterfall. The vantage points provide excellent opportunities for photography and viewing the falls from different perspectives. The canyon into which Gullfoss flows was formed by a combination of volcanic activity and glacial flooding over thousands of years. The powerful forces of the Hvítá River have continued to shape the canyon, making it a dynamic part of Iceland’s volcanic landscape.
The name "Gullfoss" translates to "Golden Falls." This name is thought to come from the golden hue that sometimes appears in the water during sunny days, especially when the sun hits the spray and mist created by the powerful falls. Another interpretation is related to the golden sunsets seen in the area during certain times of the year.
In summary, Gullfoss is one of Iceland's most famous and awe-inspiring natural wonders, offering visitors a chance to witness the raw power of glacial water plunging into a deep canyon. Its historical significance, geological beauty, and easy access make it a must-see for anyone visiting the Golden Circle.
Viator offers numerous tours in the Golden Circle area. Click here for details. vi.me/JXnzg
The Gullfoss Visitor Center.
Trail to the Gullfoss waterfalls.
The lower Gullfoss falls drop 69 feet into a 230 feet deep canyon that is only 65 feet wide.
Basalt columns near the lower Gullfoss waterfall.
Second observation deck near the lower Gullfoss waterfall.
The upper Gullfoss waterfall drops 36 feet.
Overlook of the upper Gullfoss waterfall.
The Hvítá River at the Gullfoss waterfalls.