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Facts

Here are some quick and fun facts about Godafoss waterfall that you and your kids will love!

Planning to view the waterfall? Visit our Godafoss Waterfall home page for the complete rundown on every single detail!

Dimensions

Godafoss is a waterfall dropping from a height of 12 m (39 feet), but what makes the falls majestic is the wide, horseshoe-shaped 30 m (98 feet) width span, leading to a remarkable volume of water gushing in a majestic, semicircular cascade.

An aerial view of horseshoe-shaped Godafoss waterfall
An aerial view of horseshoe-shaped Godafoss waterfall

Name Origins

In Icelandic, Godafoss translates to “Waterfall of the Gods,” and the origins are ambiguous.

Some suggest the name comes from two imposing crags around which the water falls, that symbolize pagan idols.

Others believe the name originates from Iceland’s lawspeaker who made Christianity the official religion of Iceland around 1000 AD, and is alleged to have thrown his pagan idols into the waterfall on his way home, and hence the name!

Geological Formation

Godafoss waterfall is part of the Skjálfandafljót river, which originates from the Vatnajökull glacier, the largest in Europe. Godafoss is believed to have formed over the millennia from volcanic activity and glacial movements.

Accessibility

Godafoss waterfall is easily accessible, just off Route 1, Iceland’s famous Ring Road.

Akureyri is the largest town in North Iceland and from Akureyri to Godafoss waterfall is a short 45-minute drive.

Seasonal Transformations

While most tourists visit Godafoss in summer, capitalizing on the mild weather and long daylight hours, Godafoss in winter offers serene, otherworldly beauty with pristine snow and icicles adorning the waterfall.

Godafoss waterfall in winter
Godafoss waterfall in winter

Diamond Circle Stop

Godafoss is a key highlight on Iceland’s Diamond Circle, a popular tourist route that includes Lake Myvatn, Dettifoss and Asbyrgi Canyon.

Lava Field Origins

The Skjálfandafljót River which feeds Godafoss waterfall traverses a 7000-year old lava field from the Trölladyngja volcano. Some of the black basalt formations at the base of the falls are part of the lava field.

Northern Lights Backdrop

In winter, Godafoss waterfall offers a stunning backdrop for viewing the Northern Lights, with the aurora borealis dancing above the horseshoe-shaped cascade.

Northern lights over Godafoss waterfall
Northern lights over Godafoss waterfall

Ring Road Stop

Godafoss is one of the main stops on Iceland’s famous Ring Road, and one of the more accessible waterfalls in Iceland, with the viewpoints just a few minutes from the parking lots.