A Guide to Godafoss Waterfall in Iceland
Godafoss, also known as the Waterfall of the Gods, is one of the most magical waterfalls in Iceland. Godafoss sits between Lake Myvatn and Akureyri, just off the Ring Road. Read our travel guide on visiting Godafoss Waterfall, including tips on how to get, what to expect, when to go, and where to stay.
Located just off the Ring Road on Diamond Circle, Godafoss is one of the most beautiful and accessible waterfalls in Iceland.
Therefore, it is one of Iceland's classic waterfalls that no visitor should miss.
It's 12 meters high, 30 meters wide, and has a horseshoe shape. It's one of the top attractions in North Iceland, and as it's fed by Vatnajokull, you can rest assured that it's powerful year-round.
The incredibly blue-green glacial color of the Skjálfandafljót River that runs through a lava field created by the Trölladyngja Volcano about 7000 years ago is just icing on the cake.
We know that this description might not sound that unusual, but Godafoss is called a Waterfall of the Gods for a reason.
Indeed, Iceland has many waterfalls that are higher, wider, or more powerful.
But sometimes, it's not about numbers. Sometimes it's all about aesthetics. Godafoss is truly beautiful and attracts visitors from all over the world.
And we believe that it has a firm spot on every Iceland itinerary.
While on the subject, the waterfall has one more nickname.
Godafoss is often called The Beauty, while nearby Dettifoss, one of the most powerful waterfalls in Europe, is called The Beast.
So here's everything you should know before visiting Godafoss.
History
One of the first things that struck us about Godafoss was that it's also known as the Waterfall of the Gods.
It sounded important and majestic, and we believed that there must be some story behind it. We were not wrong on this one.
So, how did Godafoss get its name?
Supposedly, the story is closely connected with the beginning of Christianity in Iceland. Around 1000 CE, most of the country still believed in pagan gods.
However, Norway pressured and threatened Iceland that they either choose Christianity or Norwegians will invade the country.
The topic of whether to accept new religion was discussed at Althing in Thingvellir.
Once he got home, and after days of pondering, a local lawspeaker named Thorgeir decided on Christianity.
He supported his decision by throwing idols of the Norse Gods into this waterfall.
As a result, this cascade has been known as Godafoss, the Waterfall of the Gods, ever since.
How to Visit Godafoss
The day before visiting Godafoss, we thoroughly explored the Myvatn Lake Area and spent the night at Laugar Campground.
The campsite was only 13 kilometers from the waterfall, so we arrived at Godafoss very early in the morning.
The early arrival allowed us to enjoy Godafoss without crowds.
The clouds that rolled over North Iceland didn't disappear overnight, so we were a little bit disappointed, as the weather forecast had promised a partly cloudy day.
However, chilly, cloudy weather was the perfect motivation for us to hike along both sides of Godafoss.
We were glad to start the day actively as we knew that we had another long day ahead of us as we were slowly making our way toward Akureyri and Trollaskagi Peninsula.
East or West Side
The only question remained whether it's worth seeing the waterfall from both sides.
We would argue that the east side offers slightly better and more intimate views of Godafoss.
Still, we believe that it would be unfair not to explore the west side as well.
Therefore, we really think it is worth exploring both sides and walking to all viewing platforms from where you can see oddly shaped rock formations that create a drop for a fast-flowing river.
West Viewing Platform
We headed first to the platform on the west side, which is newly built and has safety barriers that were not here before.
The trail is well-maintained and clearly marked.
Still, you should be careful and watch your step. And do not go behind the barriers, even if you see other visitors behind them.
The 400-meter trail is easy and mostly flat, and it shouldn't take you more than ten minutes to get to the main viewpoint.
Once you get to the end of the trail, you get a beautiful panoramic view of the waterfall.
What makes Godafoss so impressive is not the height but the amount of water flowing over and the insanely beautiful color of the river.
To get a closer look at Godafoss from a different angle, you need to walk across the bridge to the east side.
Technically, you can drive to the second parking lot, but it is so close that we do not think it is necessary.
It's only 1.2 kilometers from the west to the east viewpoint. Don't worry. The lovely Skjalfandafljot River will accompany you on your journey.
Geitafoss
Funnily enough, there is another waterfall down the stream that lives in the shadow of far more famous Godafoss.
At the waterfall, the river drops 5 meters as it rushes through a narrow gorge, and you can really feel and hear its power.
The waterfall is near the bridge, so it's hard to miss.
East Viewing Platform
From here, a well-maintained trail will take you to yet another viewing platform.
Just before you reach the end of the trail, don't forget to walk down a few steps to the river to see Godafoss from an even more exciting perspective.
Then you can head back to the main trail and enjoy the beauty of Godafoss one more time.
As you will be quite close to the waterfall, you can feel the spray on your face. It is not something you would not be used to by now when traveling around Iceland.
Be careful as the rocks can be slippery. In winter, it's better to stick to the upper trails.
As you can't get behind the waterfall, the overall experience is less intimate than at Seljalandsfoss or Kvernufoss in South Iceland.
Nevertheless, it's definitely worth stopping here.
Entrance Fee
There is no entrance fee to Godafoss, which is especially great if you travel around Iceland on a budget.
How Much Time Do I Need
It takes about ten minutes to walk from the parking lot to the last viewpoint, then about twenty minutes to walk over to the other side, and then ten more minutes to get back to your car.
Therefore, allow yourself about an hour for Godafoss if you want to see both sides without rushing.
Of course, 30 minutes might be enough for some visitors.
In a nutshell, the whole visit should not take you more than thirty to sixty minutes unless you are a photographer waiting for the right light or just can't get enough of the views.
How to Get to Godafoss
As we've mentioned earlier, Godafoss is easily accessible from the Ring Road, which is the main road that encircles the island.
Therefore, it really makes sense to visit this attraction, even if it's just a quick stop.
Parking
Godafoss has two parking lots on both sides of the river.
Despite the fact that we traveled the Ring Road counterclockwise, we decided to leave the car in the larger parking lot on the west side.
There is another parking on the east side close to a small cafe and an old historic farm.
We believe it does not matter where you decide to park as we recommend you to explore both sides of Godafoss anyway.
Parking at Godafoss is free.
Car
Getting to Godafoss is extremely easy, but it is necessary to point out that you must have your car.
As most of the visitors travel around Iceland by either rental car or campervan, it should not be a problem.
Godafoss is less than 35 kilometers east of Akureyri and 45 kilometers west of Lake Myvatn.
Reykjavik is more than 400 kilometers from here.
Remember that it takes several days to get there from the capital city of Iceland, as there is simply so much to see and do along the way.
For more inspiration, see Snaefellsnes Peninsula or Westfjords.
Tours
If you do not want to drive around Iceland, the best way to get to Godafoss would be to join a Diamond Circle Tour from Akureyri.
Godafoss Waterfall lies on Diamond Circle, a loop that connects some of the top attractions of North Iceland, and almost every tour operator has this stop on their itinerary.
These tours also usually include Dettifoss and Lake Myvatn Area, so you don't need to worry about missing out on anything.
When is the Best Time to Visit Godafoss
One of the best things about Godafoss is that you can arrive here any time of the year.
Still, the best time to visit Godafoss is in summer as you will have the best chance for good weather.
After all, the period between June and September is often considered the best time to visit Iceland.
Try to get there either early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Nonetheless, the good thing is that bus tours usually do not stay here long, so there will always be a time when there won't be that many people around.
Late spring is another great period to come here as the waterfall will be more powerful than in summer or autumn.
On top of that, there will be fewer people around compared to peak season.
Godafoss in winter must be a magical place to visit but be prepared that driving around Iceland will be way more challenging.
Also, don't forget that the trails will be snowy and icy, and it will be harder to walk around.
What to Pack
You do not need any special gear for Godafoss, so wear what you would normally wear for a walk in nature.
Still, you should wear proper outdoor clothing to stay warm and dry regardless of the season.
Keep in mind that it's cold and windy in Iceland, even during the summer, and you should be prepared for all types of weather.
Godafoss is huge and powerful and creates so much spray that you should consider wearing a rain jacket and rain pants.
Keep a rain poncho in your daypack, just in case.
Enthusiast photographers might consider bringing a camera with a general zoom lens, circular polarizer filter, ND filter, and tripod to create long exposure photos.
For more information, read our guide on what to pack for Iceland.
Safety
Visiting Godafoss is safe if you stay on the designated trails. Due to spray from the waterfall or rain, be prepared that the rocks will be slippery.
While it might be tempting to get closer, it's not worth it.
Staying on the trail is not only good for your safety, but it will also prevent erosion in nature.
In winter, the trail conditions vary, but be prepared for snow and ice.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
Where to Stay near Godafoss
Godafoss lies on the road between Myvatn and Akureyri, so you have plenty of options in choosing where to stay overnight.
For starters, it is possible to reserve a hotel in Akureyri, the second-largest city in Iceland. Akureyri is still fairly small, but it's certainly busier than other options.
It has many restaurants, cafes, bars, or stores if that's what you're looking for.
You can also stay in the Lake Myvatn area, home to popular Myvatn Baths, where you can relax after a long and tiring day.
Lastly, there are a few guesthouses right near the waterfall itself.
Staying overnight close to the waterfall is the best option for photographers or people who want to avoid crowds.
We've selected the best hotels in each location for every traveler and budget.
Godafoss | Guesthouse Storu-Laugar - Laugar is a small village only ten kilometers from the waterfall. It is a perfect option to stay as close to the waterfall as possible, especially if you do not want to stay in Akureyri.
Myvatn | Sel - Hotel Myvatn - Situated by Lake Myvatn, this lovely hotel offers modern rooms with amazing views, free parking, an on-site restaurant, and free access to a sauna and a hot tub.
Akureyri | Centrum Guesthouse - Centrally located hotel in Akureyri has free parking, newly decorated rooms, and accommodating staff.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
