Photo Guide to Godafoss Waterfall in Iceland

In a country known for its epic round-up of waterfalls: Godafoss stands out as one of its most beautiful.  You can photograph it from both its east AND west sides, which gives you more vantage points than other popular waterfalls, such as mighty Gulfoss.  I visited Godafoss in the morning, then traveled over to Detifoss Waterfall (the most powerful in Europe) & Myvatn Hot Springs, then I returned to Godafoss in the evening ~ right at “Magic Hour.”  And that’s when I got all my favorite photos.  Learn how to get the best shots & where to stay by the falls in this “Photo Guide to Godafoss Waterfall.”  

Photo Guide to Godafoss Waterfall in Iceland, Best Waterfalls in Iceland, Girl Who Travels the World

Godafoss Waterfall, located in Northern Iceland, just outside of Akureyri, is my absolute FAVORITE waterfall in Iceland.

GWTW Tip: If you want the freedom to visit Godafoss at sunset, or go off-roading to reach Detifoss, you’ll need to rent a car in Akureyri. From there, it’s only a 45-minute drive due east to reach Godafoss.

Map of Godafoss Waterfall & Nearby Hotels

Godafoss Waterfall

Detifoss Waterfall

Akureyri

Vallakot Farm Guesthouse

Fosshotel Myvatn

Guesthouse Hvitafell

Photos of Godafoss Waterfall

Godafoss is located in northern Iceland, near they city of Akureyri ~ to reach the falls, head east on the Ring Road, or Route 1.  From Akureyri, it’s 52 kilometers to Godafoss, or a 45-minute drive.  Most people park on the west side of the falls; there’s a large lot called Godafoss West Bank Parking.  From there, it’s a short walk to the falls, & a nice dirt trail runs along the length of them.  There’s no guard rail except for in a few places ~ which is great for photos, but if you’re traveling with children: take care not to get close to the edge.

Photo Guide to Godafoss Waterfall in Iceland, Girl Who Travels the World

Furry boots provide great contrast for a daytime photo at the falls ~ especially if you’re traveling solo, as I was here.

You’ll find more people on the west side of the falls: but I took some of my favorite shots on the EAST side, which requires walking down to the bridge at the fall’s lower level, & crossing over.  You’ll get a more full panorama of the falls from the east, & there will be fewer people in your shots, as not everyone walks across the bridge.

Photo Guide to Godafoss Waterfall in Iceland, Girl Who Travels the World

This photo was taken near the bottom of the falls (don’t miss them!), by the bridge that links east & west sides.

Ultimate Guide to Godafoss Waterfall in Iceland, Girl Who Travels the World

The bridge.

Ultimate Guide to Godafoss Waterfall in Iceland, Girl Who Travels the World

Play around with all different angles at the falls; this shot was taken on the west side, close to the main parking lot.

If You Want to Stay in Akureyri on a Budget: Stay at one of the cutest hostels in the country, that also has a great restaurant & pub (with great burgers): Akureyri Backpackers Hostel ($22+/night). I stayed here as a solo traveler & felt entirely safe & comfortable, plus it gives you the opportunity to meet other travelers.

More Photos of Godafoss Waterfall…

Ultimate Guide to Godafoss Waterfall in Iceland, Girl Who Travels the World

Again, make sure to walk down below the bridge area ~ where you can get beautiful long shots of the lower falls & surrounding countryside.

Ultimate Guide to Godafoss Waterfall in Iceland, Girl Who Travels the World

Taken from the west side.

Ultimate Guide to Godafoss Waterfall in Iceland, Girl Who Travels the World

I got this shot by setting up my Go Pro on a rock about 10 feet away.

Ultimate Guide to Godafoss Waterfall in Iceland, Girl Who Travels the World

If you walk all the way to the TOP of the falls, on the west side: you’ll find this lovely scene, with tranquil waters that reflect the dying light of the sunset.

Where to Stay by Godafoss Waterfall in Iceland, Girl Who Travels the World

Also taken at the top of the falls.

Where to Stay by Godafoss Waterfall in Iceland, Girl Who Travels the World

This was again captured with my Go Pro by setting it on a rock about 10 feet away. This time I managed to catch a great panorama of the falls.

Where to Stay by Godafoss Waterfall in Iceland, Girl Who Travels the World

More from the bridge.

Get all your Iceland travel questions answered in this comprehensive Iceland Travel FAQ. And if you’re curious what it’s like to spend a day at the famous Blue Lagoon: click here.

Where to Stay by Godafoss Waterfall

If you want to stay near Godafoss, you’ve got several lovely farmhouse options in the rural town of Laugar.  Vallakot Farm Guesthouse is located just north of Laugar, in the countryside, & gives you clean, cozy rooms ~ plus a hot tub where you can enjoy views of the surrounding pastures….& possibly even the Northern Lights.  Guesthouse Hvitafell also has a hot tub, & rooms have basic kitchens, so you can save some money by preparing your own meals here.

Ultimate Photo Guide to Godafoss Waterfall

One more lodging option, particularly if cozy farmhouses aren’t your thing & you want a more modern vibe with lake views: head to sleek Fosshotel Myvatn, which is near the Myvatn Nature Baths ~ North Iceland’s answer to the Blue Lagoon.  Soak your tired muscles here after a long day of exploring waterfalls…

xoxo Noelia 

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Travel Guide for Godafoss Waterfall in Iceland, Girl Who Travels the World