Akureyri Port: Lake Mývatn & Goðafoss Waterfall Day Trip

The Akureyri Port: Lake Mývatn & Goðafoss Waterfall Day Trip offers a comprehensive glimpse into Iceland’s diverse natural beauty for cruise ship travelers. Priced at $199 per person and lasting around 7 hours, this guided tour combines spectacular waterfalls, surreal volcanic landscapes, and geothermal activity. With a rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 68 reviews, it clearly appeals to visitors seeking an efficient yet enriching experience of the North Iceland region.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its well-structured itinerary that covers prominent sights like Goðafoss Waterfall and the Lake Mývatn area, along with scenic drives along the Eyjafjordur coast. The inclusion of a scenic cruise from Akureyri port adds a special touch, offering a different perspective of Iceland’s coast. While the tour does not include food or drinks or entry to the Mývatn Nature Baths, it provides a compelling overview of the area’s key highlights, making it suitable for those eager to see Iceland’s natural wonders in a single day.

Key Points

• Efficient 7-hour day trip from Akureyri, perfect for cruise ship schedules
• Highlights include the majestic Goðafoss Waterfall and the lunar-like pseudo craters of Lake Mývatn
• Includes a scenic cruise along the coast of Eyjafjordur
• Visit geothermal fields, lava formations, and mud pools at key stops like Hverir and Dimmuborgir
• Guided by knowledgeable English-speaking guides, praised for their professionalism and enthusiasm
• Optional stop at Myvatn Nature Baths for a relaxing geothermal soak (bring swimsuit and towel if desired)

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From Akureyri Port to Iceland’s Natural Marvels

This 7-hour tour departs directly from the Akureyri Cruise Terminal, with a convenient pickup by a Star Travel guide. The journey begins with a scenic drive along the coast of Eyjafjordur, offering sweeping views of the fjord’s long, winding waters. The itinerary is designed to maximize sightseeing within a compact timeframe, ensuring visitors see Iceland’s most iconic sights efficiently.

The tour includes several stops, with the first major highlight being Goðafoss Waterfall. Known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” this 39-foot-tall cascade in the Skjálfandafljót River is a must-see for its powerful flow and scenic backdrop. The guide leads you through the area, explaining its significance and providing ample time for photos before moving on.

Exploring the Lunar Landscapes of Lake Mývatn

The heart of this trip lies in the Lake Mývatn area, famous for its pseudo craters and unique volcanic features. The pseudo craters are formations that resemble craters but are created by lava interacting with water, giving the landscape an almost lunar-like appearance. This setting is a highlight for anyone interested in volcanic geology.

Next, the tour visits the Dimmuborgir Lavafield, known for its tense, twisted lava formations. This lavafield offers a striking contrast to the softer, flowing waterfalls, and the guide explains how these formations have developed over time. The area’s geothermal activity is evident at Hverir, where bubbling mud pools and fumaroles create a bubbling, boiling landscape that is both fascinating and otherworldly.

Geothermal Fields and Geothermal Pools

A key attraction during the trip is the geothermal fields with boiling mud pools and fumaroles. These geothermal features showcase Iceland’s volcanic activity up close. The guide provides insights into how these geothermal areas are harnessed for energy and their significance in Icelandic life.

There is also a shopping stop at Hverir, where visitors can purchase local souvenirs or take photos of the steaming landscape. If time allows, an optional stop at the Myvatn Nature Baths can be added, offering a chance to relax in geothermal pools. To enjoy this, travelers should remember to bring a swimsuit and towel, as entrance is not included in the tour price.

The Scenic Cruise and Its Role in the Tour

One of the unique features of this tour is the scenic cruise along Eyjafjordur from the port, which presents a different perspective of the coastline and surrounding mountains. The cruise complements the land-based sightseeing, adding a serene maritime element to the adventure.

The cruise is included with the tour, providing a peaceful break from the bus ride while still viewing Iceland’s striking coastal landscapes. The duration of the cruise varies depending on the cruise ship’s departure time, but it is integrated seamlessly into the overall schedule.

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The Stops at Skútustaðagígar and Dimmuborgir

Following the geothermal fields, the tour visits Skútustaðagígar, a site famous for its pseudo crater lakes. Here, visitors can walk around the lakes and marvel at how these formations appeared after volcanic activity in the area. The short stop allows time for photos and brief exploration.

The next stop is the Dimmuborgir Lavafield, a captivating area of twisting lava formations often called the “Dark Castles.” The guide explains how these formations have developed over centuries, and visitors enjoy walking among the dramatic shapes and learning about their volcanic origins.

Visiting Hverir and the Geothermal Experience

Hverir is a highlight for its active geothermal landscape, with steaming mud pools and fumaroles. The area’s intense activity creates a surreal atmosphere, perfect for photos and curiosity. Visitors can observe the bubbling pools and listen to the guide’s explanations about Iceland’s volcanic processes.

This stop also includes a shopping opportunity, where souvenirs and local crafts can be purchased. It’s a good chance to take in the sights and sounds of Iceland’s geothermal power and pick up a memento of the trip.

Optional Relaxation at Mývatn Nature Baths

While not included in the base tour, visiting the Mývatn Nature Baths offers an opportunity to unwind in the warm, mineral-rich geothermal water. If the cruise schedule allows, travelers should bring a swimsuit and towel to enjoy this relaxing experience.

This extra stop enhances the overall experience, especially for those seeking rest after a day of sightseeing. It’s an excellent way to end the tour on a calming note, surrounded by Iceland’s breathtaking scenery.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The meeting point is conveniently located just outside the port terminal, with guides easily identifiable by Star Travel signage. The tour includes pickup at Akureyri Port, ensuring smooth logistics.

The group size is generally small, and reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude. Guides like Agust, Siggi, and Bo are praised for their professionalism, humor, and ability to adapt to time constraints, making for a comfortable and informative experience.

The tour is designed for cruise ship passengers, with the timing arranged to fit typical port schedules. Remember, food and drinks are not included, and entry to the Myvatn Nature Baths is an optional extra.

Final Thoughts: A Compact but Rich Icelandic Experience

This Akureyri port-based tour offers a well-rounded day of Icelandic scenery, mixing waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, geothermal activity, and coastal views in just 7 hours. Its price of $199 provides good value considering the included scenic cruise and multiple key sites.

The tour’s biggest strength is its expert guides, who bring the landscapes to life with their explanations and enthusiasm. Visitors who appreciate stunning vistas, geological formations, and geothermal features will find this trip very satisfying.

The main limitation is that it’s a fast-paced overview, so travelers seeking a deeper or more relaxing experience, such as a soak at the Nature Baths, should plan separately. This tour suits those with a limited schedule who want to see Iceland’s iconic sights with knowledgeable guides and a comfortable group size.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes, it is specifically designed for cruise ship travelers, with meeting points and timing arranged for port schedules.

Can I visit the Myvatn Nature Baths?
Yes, if your cruise ship’s departure time allows, you can opt to visit the baths. Remember to bring a swimsuit and towel since entrance is not included.

How long is the scenic cruise included in the tour?
The cruise duration depends on your ship’s schedule but is integrated into the 7-hour itinerary and provides excellent coastal views.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Highlights include Goðafoss Waterfall, the pseudo craters of Lake Mývatn, Dimmuborgir Lavafield, and geothermal sites like Hverir.

Is the tour physically demanding?
The tour involves some walking at stops like Skútustaðagígar and Dimmuborgir, but it is generally accessible for most travelers.

What’s the cost of this tour?
The price is $199 per person, with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

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