Goðafoss — Waterfall of the Gods
12m horseshoe cascade spanning 30m on the Skjálfandafljót river where Iceland's fate was decided in 1000 AD
Goðafoss is a 12-meter-tall horseshoe-shaped waterfall on the Skjálfandafljót river in North Iceland. Despite being shorter than many of Iceland's famous waterfalls, its elegant curved shape and profound historical significance make it one of the country's most beloved natural landmarks. The water splits around a large central rock island, creating a dramatic semi-circular cascade that spreads approximately 30 meters across. The resulting curtain of white water against the dark basalt rock is among the most photographed scenes in all of Iceland. Located right off Route 1 between Akureyri and Lake Mývatn, Goðafoss is one of the most accessible major waterfalls in the country. Unlike many Icelandic waterfalls that require lengthy detours or hikes, Goðafoss can be seen from the road itself, with parking and viewpoints just a short walk from the highway.
The Legend — Waterfall of the Gods
The name Goðafoss, meaning 'Waterfall of the Gods,' originates from one of the most pivotal moments in Icelandic history. In the year 1000 AD, the Icelandic parliament known as the Alþingi gathered at Þingvellir to settle a growing tension between the followers of the old Norse religion and the newly arrived Christian faith. The nation stood on the brink of civil war as both factions refused to compromise.
The task of deciding Iceland's official religion fell to lawspeaker Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði, a respected chieftain from the north who himself was a follower of the old Norse gods. After retiring under his cloak for an entire day and night in deep deliberation, Þorgeir emerged and declared that Iceland would adopt Christianity as its official faith, reasoning that a divided nation could not stand. Upon returning to his home in the north, he gathered his carved wooden idols of the Norse gods — the figures of Thor, Odin, and Freyr — and cast them into the thundering waterfall. The gods disappeared beneath the white water, and the falls have been known as Goðafoss ever since.
Photography Tips
Goðafoss is one of Iceland's most photogenic waterfalls, offering stunning compositions in every season. The best natural light typically occurs in early morning or evening, when the low-angled sun illuminates the cascade and creates warm tones against the surrounding landscape. In summer, the midnight sun provides extended golden-hour shooting that can last for hours.
Winter transforms Goðafoss into a completely different subject. Ice formations build up along the edges of the falls, creating intricate sculptures that frame the still-flowing center. On clear nights the northern lights can appear directly above the waterfall, creating extraordinary photographic opportunities. Both banks of the river offer excellent vantage points: the east bank provides the classic wide panoramic view capturing the full breadth of the horseshoe cascade, while the west bank allows for more dramatic close-up compositions.
Visiting Tips
- Free to visit with free parking on both banks
- East bank visitor center with cafe opened in 2023
- Walking paths on both sides of the river
- Accessible year-round directly from Route 1
- Paths can be icy in winter — take care near the river bank
Getting There
Goðafoss enjoys one of the most convenient locations of any major Icelandic waterfall, sitting directly on Route 1 approximately 50 kilometers east of Akureyri. For travelers driving between Akureyri and Lake Mývatn, the waterfall is an unmissable stop that requires no detour whatsoever. Goðafoss also makes an ideal stop on the Diamond Circle, a 260-kilometer scenic route connecting Húsavík, Ásbyrgi, Dettifoss, and Lake Mývatn.
Safety Information
Paths can be icy in winter — take care near the river bank. Swimming near the falls is extremely dangerous due to strong currents. Stay on designated walking paths on both banks at all times.