About This Experience

Gullfoss is one of those places where photos genuinely undersell it. The Hvítá river, swollen with glacial meltwater from Langjökull, drops in two stages — first an 11-metre drop, then a 21-metre plunge into a 70-metre-deep canyon. What hits you first isn't the sight but the sound: a deep, chest-rattling rumble that you feel as much as hear.

The name means "golden waterfall," reportedly from the golden hue the water takes in certain light. When we visited on a sunny afternoon, rainbows arced permanently through the spray. On overcast days, the falls have a rawer, more powerful look — all white water and grey mist.

Gullfoss nearly became a hydroelectric dam site in the early 20th century. Sigríður Tómasdóttir, daughter of the landowner, fought to protect it — threatening to throw herself into the falls if the project went ahead. It was eventually abandoned, and Gullfoss has been protected ever since.

What to Expect

Two viewing platforms give completely different perspectives. The upper platform provides a wide view of both tiers and the canyon beyond — good for photos that capture the scale. The lower platform takes you right to the edge of the first drop, where the spray is constant and the noise is overwhelming.

The walk from the car park to the upper platform takes about 5 minutes. From there, a staircase descends to the lower platform (another 5-10 minutes). Both paths are well-maintained but can be slippery when wet — which is most of the time.

In winter, the falls partially freeze and the surrounding landscape turns white. Summer visits have longer daylight and bigger water volume. Both are spectacular in different ways.