Goðafoss Waterfall, Iceland

Goðafoss Waterfall

Northern RegionIceland

Why You'll Love Goðafoss Waterfall

Welcome to Goðafoss Waterfall in Iceland, a true natural wonder that will take your breath away! This stunning waterfall is located in the northeast of Iceland and is one of the country's most famous natural landmarks. It's known as the "Waterfall of the Gods" and has a fascinating history dating back to the year 1000 AD.

Legend has it that when Iceland converted to Christianity, the local chieftain threw his pagan idols into the waterfall in a symbolic act of conversion. Hence the name "Waterfall of the Gods" was born. The waterfall is over 30 meters wide and drops 12 meters into the river below. The water is icy cold and crystal clear, making it perfect for a refreshing dip during the summer months.

Visiting Goðafoss Waterfall is an incredible experience that has to be seen to be believed. The views of the misty spray and the rainbow created by the sun are simply breathtaking. We recommend visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light is at its most picturesque. There are also plenty of walking trails around the falls that offer great photo opportunities.

Whether you're a waterfall enthusiast or just looking for a unique natural attraction, Goðafoss Waterfall is definitely worth a visit. So pack your camera and prepare to be awed by this stunning Icelandic gem!

Getting to Goðafoss Waterfall

If you are starting from Reykjavik, the nearest city to Goðafoss Waterfall, you can take the Ring Road (Route 1) which is the main highway in Iceland. The drive will take around 5-6 hours and is approximately 463 km (288 miles). Alternatively, you can take a domestic flight from Reykjavik to Akureyri, which is the nearest airport to the waterfall. From Akureyri, it's a 50-minute drive to Goðafoss Waterfall.

The closest city to Goðafoss Waterfall is Akureyri, Iceland, in Northern Region.

Travelling from Keflavik International Airport to Goðafoss Waterfall

When to Visit

The best time to visit Goðafoss Waterfall in Iceland is during summer (June-August) when the weather is mild and the sunlight hours are longer. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. If you want to see the waterfall in all its frozen glory, visit during winter (December-February), but be prepared for colder temperatures and shorter daylight hours.

Weather and Climate

The weather at Goðafoss Waterfall, Iceland varies throughout the year.

In the winter months from December to February, the temperature can drop to below freezing with heavy snowfall and cold winds.

During the spring months from March to May, the temperature starts to rise but it can still be quite chilly with occasional rainfall.

In the summer months from June to August, the weather is generally mild with temperatures ranging from 10-15 degrees Celsius. The days are longer and there is more sunshine.

During the autumn months from September to November, the temperature starts to drop with occasional rain and winds. The average temperature during this time is around 5-10 degrees Celsius.

Costs When Visiting

In Iceland, the currency is the Icelandic króna.
Some sample costs when travelling around Goðafoss Waterfall are:

Food costs:
- Basic fast food meal: $15
- Mid-range restaurant meal for one: $40
- Groceries for one week: $100-$150

Accommodation costs:
- Hostel bed in a dormitory: $20-$40 per night
- Budget hotel: $80-$120 per night
- Mid-range hotel: $150-$250 per night
- Luxury hotel: $300-$500 per night

Safety Rating

Goðafoss Waterfall in Iceland is considered a safe destination. Iceland in general has low crime rates and is safe for women. The country is known for its high level of tolerance towards different races, cultures and the LGBTQ community. Travelers can enjoy a safe and welcoming environment while visiting this picturesque waterfall.

Local Population

The population at Goðafoss Waterfall is relatively small as it is a natural landmark rather than an inhabited area. However, the surrounding region of northern Iceland has a population of around 44,000. The majority of the population is of Icelandic descent with a small percentage of immigrants. The official language is Icelandic, with English also widely spoken. Iceland has a relatively homogeneous population in terms of race and religion, with the majority of the population being Lutheran Christian. Gender equality is highly valued in Iceland, with a high percentage of women in leadership positions and actively involved in the workforce.

Things to Do

Some of the activities that are common for tourists at Goðafoss Waterfall in Iceland include:
- Taking photos of the majestic waterfall and the surrounding landscape
- Hiking along the nearby trails and enjoying the scenic views
- Exploring the surrounding areas, which include historical sites and natural attractions
- Wildlife watching, as the area is home to many species of birds and wildlife
- Fishing in the nearby rivers and lakes
- Enjoying the Northern Lights during the winter months.