Tours and Tickets to Experience Gullfoss

The waterfall is in the southwest of Iceland on the Hvítá River. Gullfoss is part of the popular Golden Circle route, which also includes Thingvellir National Park and the Geysir geothermal area. It takes just under two hours to drive to Gullfoss from Reykjavik.

Gullfoss' water plunges a total of 105 feet (32 meters). The waterfall has two drops over a deep, dramatic crevasse in the river valley—one measures 36 feet (11 meters) and the other 69 feet (21 meters). Iceland’s tallest waterfall is Morsárfoss in Vatnajökull National Park, which is 748 feet (228 meters) tall.

No, you cannot swim in Gullfoss Waterfall (Golden Falls). Swimming in this powerful waterfall is strictly prohibited for safety reasons. You can instead enjoy the waterfall from designated viewpoints. Pathways are sometimes closed due to slippery conditions, so note any signs displayed in the area.

No, like with many of Iceland’s other natural attractions, visitors do not need to purchase a Gullfoss ticket. However, there is a small fee for parking at the visitor center, which you can pay using self-service machines. With no designated opening hours, you’re welcome at Gullfoss at any time of day, year-round.

The best time to visit Gullfoss Waterfall (Golden Falls) and Iceland is during spring and summer when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer—the sun famously sets at midnight in June. Summer is the peak visitor season, so arrive early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the biggest crowds.

Gullfoss Waterfall (Golden Falls) is 76 miles (123 kilometers) northeast of Reykjavik and the drive typically takes less than two hours. To make the most of your trip, book a tour of the Golden Circle attractions and visit Thingvellir and Geysir on your way to or from Gullfoss. Reykjavik tour operators make the trip every day from meeting points in the city.