From Akureyri: Godafoss and Lake Myvatn

Discover the scenic beauty of northeastern Iceland with the From Akureyri: Godafoss and Lake Myvatn tour offered by The Traveling Viking. Priced at $216 per person, this 6-hour guided excursion takes travelers through some of Iceland’s most iconic sites, including the spectacular Goðafoss Waterfall and the geothermal wonders of Hverir. The tour is a favorite for those who want a comprehensive experience of the region’s volcanic landscapes in a manageable timeframe.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its carefully curated stops, expert guides, and the chance to see unusual lava formations, bubbling mud pools, and stunning viewpoints. With a high rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 55 reviews, it clearly delivers on its promise of memorable sights and insightful commentary. The tour suits travelers who appreciate a well-organized, information-rich experience with ample time at each location.

One consideration for potential participants is that lunch is not included, and entrance fees for the Myvatn Nature Baths are optional and not covered in the price. The tour’s pacing allows for relaxed exploration, but those eager for a more leisurely soak in the geothermal pools might prefer to plan for that extra expense. This trip offers excellent value for those interested in Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, history, and natural beauty.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $216 per person and lasts 6 hours.
• Starting Point: It departs from Akureyri, with convenient pickup options at 18 locations.
• Main Highlights: Includes visits to Goðafoss Waterfall, Lake Myvatn, Dimmuborgir lava formations, pseudo craters, and Hverir bubbling mud pits.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and provide detailed insights about each site, as confirmed by high praise in reviews.
• Flexible Options: You can choose to visit the geothermal baths on your own, as the tour stops nearby, but entry fees are not included.
• Ideal for: Travelers who want a compact, informative, and scenic Iceland day trip with lots of photo opportunities.

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Starting in Akureyri with a Scenic Drive

The tour begins with hotel pickup from 18 convenient locations in Akureyri, including hotels, guesthouses, and the harbor. From there, participants enjoy a 35-minute bus ride through the scenic landscapes of Iceland’s northeastern region. The comfortable mini-bus ensures a smooth start to a day filled with natural wonders.

This setup means travelers can relax from the start, with easy access from various accommodations. The tour’s timing respects your comfort and plans, ensuring a well-paced day full of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Visiting Goðafoss Waterfall: Iceland’s Famous Cascade

The first major stop is Goðafoss Waterfall, renowned for its unusual shape and historical significance. This waterfall is one of Iceland’s most beautiful and iconic, with a 45-minute visit allowing plenty of time to walk around and admire its power and beauty.

Your guide shares the story behind Goðafoss, giving context to why it holds such meaning in Icelandic history. The viewpoint offers breathtaking photo opportunities, and the proximity of the falls makes it a highlight for many visitors. The stop is designed to maximize your experience and understanding of this natural wonder.

Exploring Lake Myvatn’s Volcanic Landscape

After visiting Goðafoss, the tour proceeds to Lake Myvatn, Iceland’s 4th largest lake, surrounded by lava fields, craters, and panoramic views. The area is rich in bird life and volcanic features, making it a highlight for nature lovers.

Stops include the pseudo craters at Skútustaðagígar, where a 15-minute photo and walk opportunity introduces the volcanic activity that shaped the landscape. The guide explains how the 1984 eruption from Krafla volcano contributed to the region’s current appearance, with visible lava flows and geothermal activity.

This part of the tour showcases diverse geological formations and gives visitors a sense of Iceland’s ongoing volcanic activity, making it both educational and visually impressive.

Discovering Dimmuborgir Lava Formations and Folktales

Next, the journey takes you to Dimmuborgir, an area famous for its unusual lava pillars, sculptures, and caves. Visitors are given about an hour to explore these formations at their own pace.

The guides share insights about how the area was created around 2,500 years ago, as well as local folktales about trolls and other Icelandic legends. Walking among these drama-filled lava structures provides a tangible sense of Iceland’s volcanic power and mythic heritage.

The visit includes a lunch break overlooking Dimmuborgir, allowing time to enjoy the scenery and reflect on the landscape’s origins. This stop combines geology, folklore, and scenic views for a well-rounded experience.

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Grjótagjá Cave: A Glimpse into Iceland’s Underground Caves

From Dimmuborgir, the tour moves to Grjótagjá Cave, a small but famous underground cave with geothermal hot springs. The 15-minute walk provides a chance to see this unique geothermal feature, which has gained fame thanks to its appearance in Icelandic movies.

Visitors can view the steam vents and the cave’s interior, gaining insight into Iceland’s volcanic activity beneath the surface. While not all might choose to enter the cave itself, the view from outside is captivating, and the guide offers commentary on the geology and history of the site.

Visiting Hverir: The Bubbling Mud Pits and Steaming Vents

Next, the tour visits Hverir, an area of bubbling sulphur mud pools and steaming geothermal vents. Here, visitors spend about 20 minutes walking among the fumeroles and colourful mineral deposits.

The landscape is both beautiful and otherworldly, showcasing Iceland’s geothermal activity at its most active. The guide highlights the scientific and geological significance of the bubbling mud and vents, giving context to the area’s natural processes.

Hverir is often praised for its spectacular visual display, making it a favorite for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Optional Soaking at Lake Myvatn Nature Baths

Although the tour does not include entry to the Myvatn Nature Baths, it stops nearby, giving travelers the option to pay an entrance fee and enjoy a relaxing soak in the geothermal waters.

This is a popular way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing, with the baths located on tectonic plates between Europe and America. The scenic setting and warm waters provide a peaceful end to the tour, though travelers should note that the entrance fee is not included and the time spent there may be limited.

End of Tour and Drop-Off in Akureyri

After the exploration and optional bath visit, the tour concludes with an 80-minute bus ride back to Akureyri. The drop-off locations include numerous hotels, guesthouses, and the harbor, making it easy for travelers to return and continue their Iceland adventures.

The overall pacing ensures that travelers leave with a thorough understanding of the region’s volcanic geology, history, and landscapes, all delivered by guides known for their knowledge and friendliness.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour is well-suited for travelers seeking a comprehensive yet manageable day trip from Akureyri. It emphasizes geological highlights, spectacular waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes, making it ideal for nature lovers, geology fans, and those interested in Icelandic legends.

The high praise for guides reflects the quality of storytelling and expertise, making the experience both educational and engaging. The moderate pace and flexible options for the geothermal baths cater to those who want a blend of sightseeing and relaxation.

The Sum Up: A Scenic and Informative Day Trip from Akureyri

The From Akureyri: Godafoss and Lake Myvatn tour offers a rich exposure to Iceland’s volcanic landscape within a 6-hour window. At $216, it provides excellent value for a guided experience that covers waterfalls, lava formations, geothermal activity, and lakes.

The expert guides and well-planned stops ensure guests gain both knowledge and stunning views. While the lunch isn’t included and additional costs such as the bath entry are extras, the overall experience is worthwhile for travelers eager for a detailed Icelandic adventure.

This tour stands out for its variety of natural sights and the passion of guides who bring Iceland’s geology and legends to life. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a full day of Icelandic scenery and storytelling with minimal fuss.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transfer in a mini bus from 18 pickup locations in Akureyri and return to the same points.

How long is the tour at each stop?
Stops vary from 15 to 45 minutes, with longer visits at Goðafoss Waterfall and Dimmuborgir.

Do I need to bring my own lunch?
Yes, lunch is not included. The tour has a lunch break with scenic views, and you can choose to buy food locally.

Can I visit the Myvatn Nature Baths?
The entry fee to the baths is not included, but the location is accessible for those who wish to soak.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, swimwear, a towel, and a reusable water bottle are recommended for the day.

Is this tour suitable in winter?
Yes, the tour runs year-round and winter months provide a frosty, snow-covered backdrop, adding to the scenic charm.

How knowledgeable are the guides?
Reviews highlight friendly, well-informed guides who share stories and explanations that enhance each site visit.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its compact structure covers multiple volcanic sites and waterfalls in just 6 hours, with excellent guide reviews and flexible stops like the geothermal baths nearby.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby