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Gullfoss, Golden Circle | Access, tips, and viewpoints
In a country where waterfalls compete to leave you speechless, Gullfoss has earned its place as one of Iceland's most impressive waterfalls.This Golden Circle waterfall tumbles down sheer rock walls, creating a spectacular double plunge, and no matter how many you've seen: the roar of the water leaves you speechless.
Gullfoss is a must whether you are doing a short hike or 6 days in the south as if you dare to go around completely Iceland in 2 weeks. We tell you How to get there, when to go, and how to enjoy it to the fullest.
- 📍 Location: In the Golden Circle
- 💰 Price: Free entrance
- 🅿️ Parking: Free, right next to the visitor center
- 📅 Access: All year round, although some trails may close in winter
- (I.e. ServicesVisitor center with restrooms, cafeteria and shop
What is Gullfoss and why it is so special
Gullfoss literally means "golden waterfall", and its name comes from the golden glow that can be seen in the water when the sun illuminates it at certain times of the day. It is one of the most iconic waterfalls in the country and one of the most popular stops golden circle, along with Geysir and Thingvellir.
What makes it so special is its two-tiered design: first, the water falls in a wide, diagonal cascade, and then disappears into a narrow canyon with a roaring sound. The total height of the waterfall is about 32 meters high and 70 meters wideFrom the viewing platforms you can see the Hvítá River rushing down with brutal force, just like Dettifoss, it is completely deafening and magical.
Besides how beautiful it is, Gullfoss was key in the history of Icelandic conservationism, since in the 20th century, an attempt was made to build a hydroelectric power plant there. Strong local opposition, led by the daughter of a local farmer, succeeded in protecting the waterfall and turning it into a symbol of national pride.
How to get to to Gullfoss
The best way to visit Gullfoss is on your own by rental car or campervan. It is located in the golden circle, about 2 hours from Reykjavik, making it a perfect stop to start or finish your route through Iceland.
If you're not planning on driving, you can book a tour from Reykjavik that also includes other Golden Circle sites.
Parking at Gullfoss
The Gullfoss parking lot is spacious, free and open all year roundIt's located right next to the visitor center, so you won't have to walk far to reach the main viewing points.
In addition to access on foot, in the area you will find restrooms, a cafeteria for a hot drink and a souvenir shop A very large pool, ideal for sheltering from the cold and wind for a while. There are also information panels that explain interesting details about the history and geology of the site.
Trails and viewpoints in Gullfoss
One of the best things about Gullfoss is that you can see it from several angles thanks to the trails that run along the side of the waterfall. They're also very accessible and can be explored in a short amount of time.
- Upper viewpoint: It's the closest to the visitor center. From here, you'll have a panoramic view, like the photo of Gullfoss in winter above.
- Path to the lower viewpointFrom the parking lot, a trail descends almost to the edge of the waterfall. This is the most spectacular point, where you can feel the force of the water up close. In winter it is closed for safety.
- Intermediate viewpointsAlong the trails, there are several viewpoints where you'll stop. Like the point where the upper waterfall meets the lower waterfall, which offers a guaranteed shower.
Any time is a good time to visit Gullfoss, even if you travel to Iceland in winter Although part of the trail is closed, it is beautiful to see it all snowy and frozen.
Regarding the time, any time is also good, but we recommend first or last hour of the day If you want to avoid crowds and enjoy more beautiful light, Gullfoss is one of the first stops on tours from Reykjavik, so a good portion of people visit the waterfall around mid-morning.
What else to know before visiting Gullfoss
- Wear a raincoat or a waterproof jacket if you don't feel like getting wet, especially for the lower viewing point.
- Allow at least one hour to explore the area at a leisurely pace, take photos from different angles, and stop by the visitor center.
- There are other places very close which are also worth a stop, such as the Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes, or the Kerið crater.
- If you are doing a leisurely route and want to sleep nearby, you can take a look at these cheap hotels in Iceland, ideal for spending the night in the area, there are very good value options. And also restaurants where to eat in the Golden Circle.
We hope this Guide to visiting Gullfoss help you fully enjoy one of Iceland's most impressive waterfalls. A classic that shouldn't be missing from your itinerary.
If you have any questions or if anything has changed, please leave it in the comments 😊. And if you're planning your trip, don't miss our other posts. Guides for traveling to Iceland.
