Lake Myvatn and Godafoss Waterfall for Cruise Ships from Husavik

Discover the Vibrant Landscapes of Lake Myvatn and Godafoss Waterfall from Husavik

This tour offers an immersive journey through some of Iceland’s most captivating sights, starting from Husavik Port and ending back at the same point after approximately 5 to 6 hours. For $223.40 per person, travelers get a small group experience, led by an experienced local guide, with transportation included. The tour is perfect for cruise ship passengers looking to explore the famous Godafoss Waterfall and the diverse landscapes around Lake Myvatn.

The tour’s flexibility includes options for visitors to enjoy the renowned Myvatn Nature Baths (entrance fee not included), or explore Grjotagja cave and rift instead. With free pick-up and drop-off at Husavik Port, this activity combines convenience with rich Icelandic scenery, making it an engaging experience for those eager to see the geothermal wonders and lava formations that define this region.

Key Points

• Visit iconic sites like Godafoss Waterfall and the Dimmuborgir Lava formations
• Experience geothermal features at Námaskarð, including bubbling mud pools and steam vents
• Optional visit to Myvatn Nature Baths (entrance fee separate) for relaxing baths and cafe
• Small group tour led by an expert local guide with transportation included
• Duration of approximately 5 to 6 hours with free pick-up and drop-off at Husavik Port
• Tour price is $223.40, with most bookings made 60 days in advance

Starting Point and Transport Logistics in Husavik

The tour begins right at Husavik Port, identified by the location 2MW3+PGW, 640, Húsavík, Iceland. The transport provided is modern and comfortable, ensuring a smooth journey between the various stops. The small group size—capped at 19 travelers—enhances the experience, allowing for personalized attention from the guide and easier movement through busy sites.

The drop-off occurs at the same port, simplifying planning and transportation logistics for cruise ship passengers. The free pickup and drop-off service adds value, removing the need for additional arrangements, which is particularly helpful when time is limited during cruise stops.

Visiting Godafoss Waterfall: The ‘Waterfall of the Gods’

The tour kicks off with a 30-minute stop at Godafoss Waterfall, renowned as the Waterfall of the Gods. This spectacular waterfall is a must-see for its impressive curtain of water cascading over volcanic rocks. Its free admission and dramatic setting offer excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate Iceland’s raw natural power.

This site holds cultural significance, with stories tied to Icelandic history, but the tour focuses on the visual splendor and powerful water flow. Even in less favorable weather, the scenic views of Godafoss remain striking, making it an ideal first stop.

Exploring Lake Myvatn’s Unique Geothermal Landscape

The main part of the tour centers on Lake Myvatn, a region famous for geothermal activity and volcanic formations. The 3-hour visit includes stops at Námaskarð, where bubbling Hverir mud pools and steam vents create a surreal landscape. Travelers can observe the constant activity of fumaroles and the vivid colors of the mud pools, which make for fantastic photos.

Next, the guide leads visitors to the Dimmuborgir Lava formations, often called the ‘Dark Castle’. These intriguing lava structures offer insight into Iceland’s volcanic history and add a fairy-tale atmosphere to the landscape. Each stop is brief—around 20 minutes—but packed with visual interest and geological insight.

Optional Relaxation at Myvatn Nature Baths

One of the highlight options on this tour is a visit to the Myvatn Nature Baths, where visitors can enjoy soaking in mineral-rich waters. The entrance fee of $50 USD is not included and must be reserved in advance. The bath visit typically lasts about an hour, and the tour recommends booking tickets at least 3 hours after the tour starts for scheduling convenience.

Guests who prefer not to visit the baths can choose alternative stops, such as Grjotagja cave—a geothermal bathing cave located within a rift between the Eurasian and American tectonic plates. This flexibility caters to different interests and energy levels, especially in case of bad weather.

Visiting Námaskarð: Geothermal Pools and Fumaroles

The Námaskarð area is a 20-minute stop dedicated to geothermal features. Visitors can view bubbling mud pools and steam vents, witnessing the geothermal activity that sustains Iceland’s unique landscape. This stop is free of charge, allowing travelers to marvel at nature’s fiery displays without additional costs.

The natural steam vents and the vivid landscape make Námaskarð a favorite for photography and learning about Iceland’s volcanic activity. The proximity to other sites makes it a convenient and scenic stop during the day.

Discovering Dimmuborgir Lava Formations

The Dimmuborgir Lava formations are another highlight, often called the ‘Dark Castle’ due to their towering volcanic rocks. This 20-minute visit lets travelers walk among unique lava structures that have formed over centuries. The formations are visually striking and evoke a fantasy-like atmosphere.

This site is free to visit and offers a quick but memorable taste of Iceland’s volcanic landscape. The area is easily accessible and often appreciated for its photogenic scenery.

Exploring Grjotagja Cave and Rift

For those interested in geothermal caves, the 15-minute stop at Grjotagja Cave presents an opportunity to see an old bathing cave located along the rift boundary between the Eurasian and American plates. The cave’s historic significance and unique location make it a fascinating stop, especially for those interested in geology and Iceland’s tectonic activity.

Admission is free, and the cave provides a hands-on experience of Iceland’s volcanic activity, with the added advantage of being less crowded than other stops.

Flexibility in the Tour Schedule and Activities

While the Myvatn Nature Baths are a popular feature, the tour allows skipping the baths if preferred, replacing that stop with visits to Grotcaja cave and rift. This flexibility is useful for travelers with time constraints or budget considerations, as entrance to the baths is extra.

The overall timing is efficiently balanced to include multiple highlights, but weather can influence how long at each site. The average duration is roughly 5 to 6 hours, making it an accessible half-day excursion.

Practical Details and Booking Considerations

Most bookings are made around 60 days in advance, indicating strong interest in this tour. The activity has a maximum of 19 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience led by an expert local guide.

The cost of $223.40 per person includes guided commentary, transport, and hotel pickup/drop-off in Husavik. The tour is designed for most travelers, with good accessibility and straightforward logistics. The free cancellation policy allows for peace of mind, with full refunds available when canceling at least 24 hours in advance.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value for Cruise Ship Passengers

This tour combines impressive scenery, geothermal wonders, and geological formations at an attractive price, with the convenience of door-to-door pickup. The small group size and local guide expertise enhance the experience, providing personalized insights and more flexible pacing.

The option to visit the baths or explore Grjotagja cave adds customization, making the tour appealing to a variety of interests. Its duration fits well into a cruise schedule, offering a rich taste of Icelandic nature without demanding a full day.

This guided tour truly showcases the diverse natural beauty of Iceland’s north, blending powerful waterfalls, geothermal activity, and volcanic landscapes. The combination of iconic sights and flexible options makes it a compelling choice for cruise visitors wanting a comprehensive yet manageable excursion.

While weather can affect the experience, the expert guidance and well-planned stops make this trip a worthwhile exploration of a region that highlights the raw volcanic strength and geothermal vitality of Iceland.

Is the tour suitable for all ages and mobility levels?
Most travelers can participate, and the stops are generally accessible, but the tour involves some walking and outdoor exposure.

Can I skip the Myvatn Nature Baths?
Yes, travelers can opt to visit Grotcaja cave and rift instead of the baths, providing flexibility based on interest and time.

How do I book the entrance fee for the Nature Baths?
Tickets must be reserved beforehand and are not included in the tour price. It’s recommended to book 3 hours after the tour start for scheduling convenience.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring warm clothing, weather-appropriate gear, and camera equipment to capture the geothermal and volcanic landscapes.

Is there a maximum group size for this tour?
Yes, the maximum group size is 19 travelers, ensuring a personal experience with the guide.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.