Private Tour in Northern Iceland from Akureyri

Discover the beauty of Northern Iceland on a private day tour from Akureyri that offers the flexibility to design a trip tailored to your group’s interests. Priced at $2,466.53 per group (up to 4 people), this 7 to 8-hour adventure provides an intimate experience with a driver and guide leading the way. With pickup included, you start your journey at Hótel Kea, allowing for a smooth and convenient departure. This tour has earned a perfect 5.0-star rating based on 15 reviews, with 100% recommendation, highlighting its popularity and quality.

What makes this tour stand out is its customizable itinerary and the opportunity to visit unique sights that are difficult to access independently. You can select a departure time that suits your schedule, and as it operates in all weather conditions, it’s suitable for any season. This tour is especially ideal for those seeking a flexible, private exploration of Northern Iceland’s natural wonders, from waterfalls to volcanic craters. The only consideration is that food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.

Key Points

• Private, customizable day trip from Akureyri for up to 4 people.
• Visits to iconic sites like Godafoss, Lake Myvatn, Viti Crater, and Namafjall Hverir.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with transport by private vehicle.
• Guided commentary by an experienced driver-guide, with stories and insights about Iceland’s landscape.
• Operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately for weather.
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

Starting Point at Hótel Kea in Akureyri

The tour begins at Hótel Kea by Keahotels in the heart of Akureyri, offering an easy meeting point close to public transportation. From here, the private vehicle whisks your group out of the city to explore the surrounding landscapes. The driver-guide then takes charge, ensuring a smooth ride with plenty of opportunities for photos and questions along the way.

Since this is a private tour, only your group participates, making the experience more personal and adaptable. You can choose a departure time that fits your schedule, whether morning or afternoon, allowing flexible planning for your day.

Exploring Godafoss Waterfall

Your first stop is the famous Godafoss Waterfall, often called “the Waterfall of the Gods.” Spanning a broad width, this 30-minute stop allows plenty of time to view the falls from multiple angles. The admission is free, and the scenery here is a highlight for photographers and nature lovers alike.

The powerful cascade offers spectacular views, especially if the weather is clear. The guide shares insights into its significance in Icelandic history and mythology, adding context to the stunning visuals. This site is accessible and well-loved, setting a memorable tone for the day.

Lake Myvatn: A Gem of Geothermal Activity

Next, the tour visits Lake Myvatn, a 45-minute stop at this lake renowned for its diverse birdlife and volcanic features. The area offers incredible landscapes, with pseudocraters and geothermal activity nearby, making it a favorite for those eager to see Iceland’s volcanic terrain up close.

The admission is free, and the guide provides engaging stories about the region’s formation. You’ll have time for photos, a walk around the lake, and to appreciate the natural tranquility. This stop showcases how Iceland’s volcanic past continues to shape its scenery.

The Unique Mud Pits of Namafjall Hverir

Following Lake Myvatn, the tour takes you to Namafjall Hverir, a geothermal area with bubbling mud pits. Spending about 20 minutes here, visitors can observe steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and colorful mineral deposits.

This stop highlights Iceland’s geothermal activity and the raw power of its volcanic landscape. The free admission makes it accessible, and the guide offers explanations on how these features influence the environment and local geothermal energy.

Discovering the Skutustaðagigar Crater Fields

The 25-minute visit to Skutustaðagigar takes you through the crater fields formed by volcanic eruptions. These pseudocraters create a surreal landscape, perfect for photos and understanding Iceland’s volcanic activity.

The guided commentary helps make sense of the unusual formations, and the stop’s brief duration keeps the pace comfortable. It’s an excellent way to experience volcanic effects without long hikes or strenuous activity.

Viti Crater: An Active Volcano Cone

The final highlight is the Viti Crater, a 25-minute stop at this volcanic crater within the Myvatn region. The crater’s rim offers impressive views of the surrounding landscape, and the volcanic cone itself hints at Iceland’s ongoing geological activity.

This stop allows visitors to walk around and take photos of the volcanic crater, which is estimated to be a significant feature in the area’s volcanic history. The guide shares stories about the crater’s formation and the volcanic activity in the region.

Transport, Guide, and Flexibility

Throughout the tour, transport is provided by a private vehicle, and a driver-guide ensures a smooth ride while sharing local stories and insights. The fuel surcharge is included, simplifying the pricing. Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, you should dress appropriately for rain, wind, or sunshine.

The guided commentary enhances understanding of each site’s significance, making the experience educational as well as scenic. The flexible departure time allows you to plan your day comfortably around other activities or cruise schedules.

Customization and Personalization

This tour’s key advantage is its customizable nature. You can tailor the itinerary to your group’s interests, spending more time at certain sites or adding stops if desired. The 7 to 8-hour duration provides ample time to enjoy each location without feeling rushed.

Since only your group participates, the experience remains intimate and adaptable, with the guide eager to cater to your preferences.

Practical Considerations and Booking Tips

The tour requires moderate physical fitness, as some walking may be involved at stops like Lake Myvatn and Viti Crater. It’s suitable for most travelers, regardless of age or mobility, provided they are prepared for Iceland’s variable weather.

Booking well in advance is recommended, as the tour is popular and is typically booked around 174 days in advance. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, making it a flexible option for planning.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This private, customizable trip appeals to travelers who want a personalized experience exploring Northern Iceland’s natural wonders. It’s ideal for those with a moderate level of physical activity, an interest in geology and landscapes, and a desire for flexibility in their itinerary.

Families, couples, or small groups seeking an informative, scenic adventure will find this tour particularly satisfying, especially given the high praise for guides who are knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging.

Final Thoughts on the Northern Iceland Private Tour

This private day trip from Akureyri offers an excellent blend of scenic beauty, geological interest, and personalized service. The visits to Godafoss, Lake Myvatn, Hverir, Skutustaðagigar, and Viti Crater showcase some of Iceland’s most captivating natural features.

While food and drinks are not included, the flexibility to customize the stops ensures you get the most out of your day. The expert guidance and private transport make for a comfortable, informative experience that’s well-priced for the intimacy and quality provided.

Travelers seeking a tailor-made journey to Northern Iceland’s highlights will find this tour a rewarding choice, especially with the reassurance of a 5-star rating and full flexibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers fuel surcharge, driver/guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, private tour, and transport by private vehicle.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price, so travelers should plan to bring snacks or purchase lunch separately.

Can I choose my departure time?
Yes, the tour allows you to select a departure time that fits your schedule, providing flexibility.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, allowing plenty of time at each stop without rushing.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions, but travelers should dress appropriately for rain or wind.

How many people can join this tour?
The tour is designed for up to 4 people per group, making it ideal for intimate travel experiences.

What makes this tour different from group excursions?
Its private, customizable format ensures a personalized experience tailored to your interests, with fewer crowds.

Is physical activity required?
Moderate physical activity, such as walking at stops like Lake Myvatn and Viti Crater, is expected but generally accessible to most.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking is recommended around 174 days in advance due to high demand, especially during peak seasons.

What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start, offering peace of mind when planning your trip.