Worth a Journey

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The World’s 100 Best Waterfalls

Gullfoss

Hvítá, South Iceland, Iceland

  1. THE WORLD’S BEST WATERFALLS WORTH A JOURNEY · 2026 ✦ ✦ N° 19 2026

No. 1 in the NordicsNo. 1 in Iceland

Gullfoss

Two tiers of the Hvítá River drop into a deep, rugged canyon, with mountains and open landscape around the falls. Visitors reach it by car from Reykjavik on the Golden Circle, parking in a large lot near the rim.

Highlights

  • Two tiers into deep canyon
  • Spray and mist near falls
  • Upper and lower viewpoints

Good to know

  • Lower viewpoint reached by about 100 steps
  • Paths near falls can be wet and slippery
  • Strong winds possible, bring waterproof clothing

Also in Iceland

  1. Dynjandi N° 25 Dynjandi Westfjords Tiered waterfall
  2. Skógafoss N° 45 Skógafoss Skógar Plunge waterfall
  3. Dettifoss N° 62 Dettifoss Jökulsárgljúfur River waterfall
  4. Kvernufoss N° 83 Kvernufoss Skógar Plunge waterfall
  5. Háifoss N° 95 Háifoss Þjórsárdalur Plunge waterfall