The 'Waterfall of the Gods', located right off the Ring Road. A historic gem of the Diamond Circle with stunning turquoise glacial water.
Story & Legend
Easily accessible between Akureyri and Mývatn, this horseshoe-shaped beauty offers a striking contrast to the raw power of Dettifoss. Goðafoss holds a pivotal place in Iceland's history. In the year 1000 AD, the Lawspeaker Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði was tasked with deciding if Iceland would remain Pagan or convert to Christianity to avoid civil war. After deciding on Christianity, he returned home and symbolically threw his idols of the Norse Gods (Odin, Thor, Freyr) into this waterfall, ending the Viking era.
Geology & Science
The waterfall is part of the Skjálfandafljót river, which flows through a 7000-year-old lava field. It is a horseshoe-shaped fall, 12 meters high and 30 meters wide. The rock here is basalt, split into two main falls and several smaller ones depending on the water flow.
Safety
Both the East and West banks are accessible. The West side has a paved path and is easier for families. The East side allows you to get right down to the water's edge, but the rocks are incredibly slippery with spray and algae. Exercise extreme caution near the edge as there are no rails on the lower levels.
Photo Tip
This is a perfect waterfall for long exposure photography (using an ND filter) to turn the water into silky ribbons while keeping the blue glacial color. The horseshoe shape allows for great wide-angle shots from either side. Sunset here is spectacular.
Insider Tip
Visit both sides. The East bank lets you walk right down to the water level at the base of the falls, while the West bank offers the classic, expansive panoramic view from above.
Best Time to Visit
Winter. Seeing Goðafoss surrounded by snow and partially frozen in blue ice is one of the most magical sights on the Diamond Circle route.
What to Bring
Crampons (ice spikes) are absolutely mandatory in winter. The viewing platforms and paths become solid sheets of ice from the freezing mist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called Goðafoss?
It means 'Waterfall of the Gods'. According to legend, in the year 1000, the lawspeaker Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði threw his pagan Norse statues into the falls after making Christianity the official religion of Iceland.
Is Goðafoss right on the Ring Road?
Yes, Goðafoss is incredibly accessible. It sits right on Route 1 (the Ring Road) between Akureyri and Lake Mývatn, making it an easy and essential stop.
