Lake Mývatn and Goðafoss Shared Shore Excursions

Explore Iceland’s Natural Wonders with the Lake Mývatn and Goðafoss Shore Excursion

This full-day tour from Akureyri offers an immersive experience of some of Iceland’s most captivating landscapes for $199.71 per person. Spanning approximately 6 to 7 hours, the tour features eight unique stops showcasing Iceland’s volcanic terrain, waterfalls, geothermal areas, and iconic filming locations. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide and includes climate-controlled vehicle transfers, making navigation easy and comfortable.

It’s perfect for those who want to see the highlights without the hassle of planning each stop, with most bookings made about 95 days in advance. A group size capped at 18 people ensures a personalized experience, blending scenic exploration with informative commentary. While the tour covers a lot in a day, it offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, walking, and relaxing.

Key Points

• Full-day, multi-stop tour covering eight Icelandic highlights from Akureyri
• Visits include Goðafoss waterfall, Lake Mývatn, Dimmuborgir lava formations, and Game of Thrones filming sites
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle from a central Akureyri meeting point
• Guided by experienced and engaging guides with a group limit of 18 travelers
• Optional stop at Myvatn Nature Baths for geothermal bathing, with tickets not included
• Tour price of $199.71 per person offers good value for the extensive sightseeing

Starting Point and Duration of the Tour from Akureyri

This excursion departs from EimskipOddeyrarbryggja, Oddeyrarskáli in Akureyri, with the end point returning to the same location. The tour lasts roughly 6 to 7 hours, allowing ample time at each stop and flexibility for photos and exploration. The tour runs most days, with most travelers booking 95 days in advance, indicating high demand and popularity.

The pickup is included in most arrangements, making it straightforward to join the tour without extra logistics. The climate-controlled vehicle ensures comfort regardless of Iceland’s weather, essential for the often unpredictable climate.

Visiting Goðafoss Waterfall: Iceland’s “Waterfall of the Gods”

The first stop is at the spectacular Goðafoss waterfall, famously known as the “Waterfall of the Gods”. This site is one of Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls, offering breathtaking views and plenty of space for photos. With 30 minutes allocated, visitors can enjoy the scenery and learn about its historical significance. Admission is free, and the falls are accessible year-round.

The guide shares insights into the waterfall’s importance in Icelandic history and folklore, making this stop both visually stunning and culturally enriching. It’s a highlight that consistently receives praise for its natural beauty.

Exploring Skútustaðagígar Pseudo Craters and Geothermal Features

Next, the tour visits Skútustaðagígar, an area famous for its pseudo craters formed by volcanic activity. This stop lasts about 25 minutes and features steam vents and mud pots, which demonstrate Iceland’s active geothermal landscape. Admission is free, and the site provides excellent opportunities to observe geothermal phenomena up close.

Visitors often find the landscape here surreal, with steam rising from the ground and the craters offering striking views. The guide explains the geological processes behind these formations, adding depth to the experience.

Game of Thrones Filming Locations: Kalfaströnd and Grjotagja Cave

The tour includes a view over the lake at Kalfaströnd, a notable filming location from Game of Thrones, where the “North of the Wall” scenes were shot. This 15-minute stop offers a chance to appreciate the rugged scenery that served as the backdrop for the popular series.

Later, visitors visit Grjotagja Cave, an old bathing cave also known as the “Love Cave”, where scenes from Game of Thrones were filmed. This 15-minute stop provides an interesting glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic underground and its cinematic appeal.

Dimmuborgir Lava Formations: Iceland’s “Dark Castles”

On the return leg, the tour visits Dimmuborgir, a site renowned for its unique lava formations resembling ancient castles or ruins. This 35-minute stop is among the most popular attractions in the Lake Mývatn area, offering impressive scenery and photo opportunities.

The formations are a result of volcanic activity, and the site is accessible year-round. The guide explains how these lava fields formed and their significance in Icelandic folklore, making it a must-see for geology enthusiasts and landscape lovers alike.

Viewing Over Lake Mývatn and the Geothermal Area of Namafjall Hverir

The tour offers a viewpoint over Lake Mývatn, providing panoramic vistas of the area’s volcanic and geothermal landscape. This 20-minute stop allows visitors to take in the expansive scenery and appreciate the area’s natural diversity.

Nearby, the Namafjall Hverir geothermal area offers steaming vents, boiling mud pots, and sulfuric fumes—elements that vividly showcase Iceland’s geothermal activity. The guide shares insights into how these features shape the local environment and Iceland’s geothermal energy utilization.

Relaxing at Mývatn Nature Baths with Optional Entry

Finally, the tour includes a visit to Mývatn Nature Baths for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Guests have the option to bathe in the geothermal water or enjoy refreshments at the on-site café. However, admission tickets are not included, so visitors should plan accordingly if they wish to soak.

This stop is perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing, with many finding the warm waters a soothing end to the journey. The baths are often praised for their relaxing atmosphere and the opportunity to unwind while surrounded by stunning Icelandic scenery.

Practicalities: Transport, Guides, and Group Size

All transportation during the tour is in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort even in variable weather conditions. The guides are well-regarded for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, as reflected in numerous positive reviews praising their explanations and friendliness.

The tour maintains a group size capped at 18 travelers, balancing intimacy with the opportunity to share the experience with others. This smaller group size allows for more personalized attention and easier movement at each stop.

Flexibility and Booking Considerations

Most bookings are made about 95 days in advance, indicating the tour’s popularity. The cancellation policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start and provides flexibility for changes due to weather or scheduling conflicts.

Travelers should note that food and drink are not included in the price—so packing snacks or planning to buy at the stops is advisable. Also, if opting for the Nature Baths, bringing a bathing suit and towel is necessary, as these are not provided.

Overall Value and Suitability for Visitors

With a price of $199.71, this tour provides a rundown of the Lake Mývatn region, combining scenic beauty, geothermal activity, and cultural sites in one day. The small group setting, expert guides, and well-planned itinerary make it an excellent option for those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, learning, and relaxation.

While the tour covers a lot of ground, it’s best suited for visitors comfortable with walking and spending several hours outdoors. The stops at geothermal areas and waterfalls may involve uneven terrain, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

Lake Mývatn and Goðafoss Shore Excursion: A Well-Rounded Icelandic Day

This tour delivers a rich selection of Iceland’s most photogenic and geologically significant sites, all within a convenient single day. The high praise for guides and the variety of stops make it a popular choice for travelers eager to see the North’s natural wonders.

Most find the balance of scenic stops, storytelling, and optional relaxation at the baths to be an ideal way to experience North Iceland. The value for money, combined with the small group size, ensures an engaging and memorable day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transport included in this tour?
Yes, all transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle from the meeting point in Akureyri, returning to the same location at the end of the day.

Can I visit the Nature Baths during this tour?
Yes, the Mývatn Nature Baths stop lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, and you can choose to bathe in the geothermal waters if you purchase tickets separately.

What is the group size?
The tour is capped at 18 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience and easier navigation at sites.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there is time for a local lunch and refreshments at the baths if desired.

What stops are the highlight of this tour?
The Goðafoss waterfall, Dimmuborgir lava formations, Lake Mývatn, and Game of Thrones filming sites are among the top highlights, praised for their scenic beauty and geological significance.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at some sites. Proper footwear is recommended for uneven terrain.

How do I book this tour?
Most bookings are made about 95 days in advance, and the tour often sells out quickly due to its popularity. It offers free cancellation if canceled 24 hours prior.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, a bathing suit and towel if you plan to bathe in the Nature Baths, and camera gear to capture the stunning scenery.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Changes are limited, but optional stops like the Nature Baths depend on availability and timing, especially if cruise schedules influence the day’s flow.

Is the tour available year-round?
Yes, the tour operates most days, but it requires good weather, and cancellations due to poor conditions are possible, with options for rescheduling or refunds.