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Godafoss Waterfall, Iceland

Godafoss waterfall, a must-stop on Iceland’s famed Ring Road, is a majestic, semi-circular cascade spanning 98 feet (30 m) wide, dropping an epic volume of water reminiscent of North America’s Niagara Falls or South America’s Iguazu Falls.

Aptly named the “Waterfall of the Gods,” Godafoss is one of the more easily accessible waterfalls in North Iceland, just off Route 1, and about a 45-minute drive from Akureyri, the largest town in the north.

Apart from the sheer size, the nickname is believed to be from the year 1000 AD, when Iceland’s lawspeaker dumped his pagan idols into Godafoss waterfall, and Iceland officially converted to Christianity.

Unlike other waterfalls, Godafoss can be admired from both sides of the Skjálfandafljót river, with a pedestrian bridge available to cross over as needed.

Both banks offer spectacular views, with the west offering a larger parking spot, and the east, a restaurant and hotel to recharge as needed.

Summer is peak tourist season and the best time to visit, with some tourists staying up to enjoy the midnight sun spectacle over the falls.

Godafoss waterfall, Iceland, lit by the midnight sun in summer
Godafoss waterfall, Iceland, lit by the midnight sun in summer

Winter offers pristine, otherworldly views of Godafoss, and the adventurous tourist can stay up to watch the aurora borealis (Northern Lights) dancing over the epic Godafoss waterfall.

On this comprehensive Godafoss waterfall website, you will find everything you need to plan your visit!