Diamond Circle, Waterfalls and Amazing Landscapes from Akureyri

The Diamond Circle, Waterfalls and Amazing Landscapes from Akureyri offers a captivating full-day adventure through some of Iceland’s most impressive northern sights. Priced at $385.39 per person, this 10-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a convenient way to explore the region’s natural wonders without the hassle of planning. With a small group limited to 8 people, the experience feels personalized and intimate, perfect for those who want a more relaxed yet in-depth journey.

This tour is especially suited for travelers with a moderate physical fitness level, as it involves walking for up to 40 minutes at certain stops. It’s an excellent choice for anyone eager to see waterfalls, geothermal landscapes, and volcanic craters in a single day, while enjoying the comfort of transport and expert guidance. Keep in mind, lunch is not included, so bringing snacks or a packed meal is recommended.

Key Points

• Full-day guided trip from Akureyri exploring North Iceland’s top sights
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with round-trip transport on a 4×4 vehicle
• Highlights include Godafoss and Dettifoss waterfalls, Lake Mývatn, Hverir geothermal area, and Víti crater
• Small group size of up to 8 travelers ensures a personalized experience
• No food included, so plan to bring a lunch or snacks
• Free cancellation available with at least 24 hours’ notice

Starting the Day with Akureyri Hotel Pickup at 8am

The tour begins early in the morning with a pickup from your Akureyri hotel. Traveling aboard a comfortable 4×4 vehicle, the journey sets out toward the famed Diamond Circle, a route famous for its stunning landscapes and natural wonders. The tour departs at 9:00am and is designed to make the most of the daylight hours, returning around 7pm.

This early start allows ample time to visit each highlight without feeling rushed. The small group size means the driver-guide can give personalized attention and tailor the experience to the group’s pace. It’s a well-organized start for those wanting to maximize their day in North Iceland.

Visiting Godafoss: The Waterfall of the Gods

The first major stop is Godafoss, known as the Waterfall of the Gods. This iconic cascade offers breathtaking views as water rushes over its wide, horseshoe-shaped cliff. With about 15 minutes allocated to this stop, visitors have time to admire the powerful waterfall and snap photos of the surrounding scenery.

The guide shares stories and details about the waterfall’s historical significance, making it more than just a visual highlight. Godafoss’s dramatic beauty makes it a memorable start to the adventure, offering a taste of Iceland’s raw natural power.

The Mystical Beauty of Lake Mývatn

Next, the tour heads to Lake Mývatn, a volcanic lake renowned for its otherworldly appearance. You get ample time to explore this area, which features unique lava fields, bubbling mud pools, and smoking fumaroles. The landscape feels almost alien, with views of Mt. Námafjall adding to the sense of wonder.

The visit to Lake Mývatn also includes a walk across the ancient lava fields, which provides insight into the region’s volcanic activity. The scenery here is frequently described as spectacular, with vibrant geothermal activity decorating the landscape.

Exploring the Geothermal Wonder of Hverir

A highlight of this tour is the stop at Hverir, a geothermal area characterized by bubbling mud pits and steam vents. Visitors can walk among the fumaroles and boiling mud pools, marveling at the otherworldly environment. The guide explains the region’s geology, making this stop both visually stunning and educational.

The views of Krafla Volcano from this area are especially impressive, offering an up-close look at Iceland’s volcanic activity. Hverir’s landscape is often described as like another planet, making it a must-see for geothermal enthusiasts.

The Víti Crater: A Volcanic Gem

Just a short drive from Hverir, the Víti crater presents a striking scene: a crater filled with a lake, formed by volcanic activity. Visitors spend around 20 minutes here to appreciate the crater’s scale and take photos. The guide shares details about its formation and volcanic history, enriching the visit.

The Víti crater provides a dramatic contrast to the geothermal fields and adds a volcanic element to the day’s scenery. The hike to and from the crater is manageable and offers excellent photo opportunities.

Dettifoss: Europe’s Most Powerful Waterfall

A major highlight is the visit to Dettifoss, famed as Europe’s most powerful waterfall. With about 1 hour and 30 minutes allocated, guests have plenty of time to witness the 45-meter high and 100-meter wide cascade in full force. Its raw power and thundering sound make it a truly awe-inspiring sight.

The guide emphasizes the impressive volume of water and the surrounding Jökulsárgljúfur canyon, which offers panoramic views. The walk to the waterfall is straightforward and well worth the effort for the breathtaking scenery.

Ásbyrgi Canyon and Hljodaklettar Views

The tour continues into the Jökulsárgljúfur National Park, home to the horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi Canyon. From here, visitors enjoy spectacular views over the canyon, the Vesturdalur valley, and the Whispering Cliffs of Hljodaklettar.

This area’s rugged terrain and unique geological formations are described as dramatic and photo-worthy. The stops here are designed to showcase Iceland’s volcanic and glacial history in a compact yet impactful way.

Húsavík Hot Springs on the Return Journey

On the way back to Akureyri, the tour makes a final stop in Húsavík, a charming fishing village famous for its hot springs. Spending around 40 minutes here, visitors can relax and enjoy the geothermal waters, offering a perfect end to the day.

Húsavík’s hot springs are an inviting spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing, and the village’s quaint atmosphere adds a cozy touch before the journey concludes.

Practical Details and Recommendations

The entire tour emphasizes practicality with included hotel pickup and drop-off and round-trip transport. It operates on a mobile ticket basis, with confirmation at booking. Bringing warm, waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, and a water bottle is strongly recommended due to the outdoor nature of stops.

The longest walking part of the tour is up to 40 minutes, making it suitable for most physically active travelers. The tour accommodates up to 16 travelers, ensuring a balance of camaraderie and personal attention.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What sets this Diamond Circle tour apart is its comprehensive itinerary that covers waterfalls, geothermal areas, volcanic craters, and canyon landscapes in a single day. The expert guides are frequently praised for their knowledgeable storytelling and friendly demeanor.

The tour’s value is high considering the inclusion of hotel pickup, round-trip transport, and visits to top Icelandic sites. The small-group format enhances comfort and flexibility, making it ideal for those who prefer a more intimate experience.

Final Thoughts on the Diamond Circle from Akureyri

This tour offers a balanced combination of iconic waterfalls, geothermal wonders, and volcanic landscapes. It is perfect for travelers who want to see North Iceland’s most remarkable sights without the stress of planning multiple excursions.

While it does require about 10 hours of active exploration and moderate walking, the well-organized schedule and expert guidance make it manageable and enjoyable. Those with an interest in geology, scenery, and Iceland’s volcanic activity will find this tour especially rewarding.

The high reviews and full ratings reflect consistent satisfaction, especially regarding guides and scenery. The main limitations are the price and the lunch not being included, so packing a meal or snacks is advisable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, simplifying the logistics of your day.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, departing at 8am and returning around 7pm.

What are the main stops on the tour?
Stops include Godafoss Waterfall, Lake Mývatn, Hverir geothermal area, Víti crater, Dettifoss Waterfall, Ásbyrgi Canyon, and Húsavík hot springs.

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals are not included, so bringing your own lunch or snacks is recommended.

What should I bring?
Wear warm, waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, and carry a water bottle. A lunch pack is also suggested.

How many people are in the tour group?
The tour operates with a maximum of 16 travelers, with many departures being smaller groups for a more personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but participants should have moderate physical fitness and be prepared for walking and outdoor conditions.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available with at least 24 hours’ notice.

Are there any particular guides I might meet?
Guides like Yori, Thor, and others are praised for their friendly, informative approach, making the day enjoyable and educational.

What about accessibility?
The tour involves walking up to 40 minutes at certain stops, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with moderate outdoor activity.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot via the Viator platform, with instant confirmation and the option to cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.