Port Akureyri: Godafoss Waterfall, Myvatn and Dettifoss

Explore Iceland’s Majestic Waterfalls, Volcanoes, and Geothermal Wonders with Fox Adventure

This 9-hour guided tour from Akureyri offers a comprehensive journey through some of Iceland’s most striking natural sights, all for $278 per person. Departing from the Akureyri Cruise Terminal, the experience takes you to Goðafoss Waterfall, Lake Mývatn’s pseudo craters, Dimmuborgir lava formations, Hverir geothermal area, Dettifoss Waterfall, and Grjótagjá cave. The tour is led by a live English-speaking guide and includes free WiFi on board for easy sharing of photos and updates.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on powerful waterfalls and volcanic landscapes, complemented by expert guidance and well-paced stops. The entire day is designed to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed, making it ideal for travelers who want an in-depth exploration of northeastern Iceland’s natural beauty. A key highlight is the visit to Dettifoss, one of Europe’s most forceful waterfalls, with the chance to see a rainbow on sunny days. The inclusion of Grjótagjá cave, where you can stand on tectonic plates, adds a touch of adventure.

A notable strength of this tour is the careful planning and flexible itinerary, ensuring you get the most out of each stop. However, since the tour depends heavily on weather and road conditions, some adjustments may occur. It’s recommended to bring a pre-packed lunch for the late stop at Hverir, as refreshments are not included, and the timing is tight. This experience suits those seeking a full day of Icelandic nature, with comfortable transport and excellent guides.

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Key Points

• Nine-hour excursion from Akureyri with fully guided commentary
• Visits to Goðafoss Waterfall, Lake Mývatn’s pseudo craters, and Dimmuborgir lava formations
• Excursion to Hverir geothermal area and Dettifoss Waterfall, Europe’s most powerful waterfall
• Final stop at Grjótagjá cave with the unique experience of standing on tectonic plates
• Comfortable mini bus transport with free WiFi and cruise ship return guarantee

From Akureyri Cruise Terminal to the Power of Goðafoss Waterfall

The tour begins right at the Akureyri Cruise Terminal, where a comfortable mini bus is ready to take you on a scenic drive along Eyjafjörður, one of Iceland’s longest fjords. After about 35 minutes, you arrive at Goðafoss, a waterfall steeped in Icelandic history. The guide provides insights into its significance and helps you capture stunning photos, especially if a rainbow appears overhead — a common sight on sunny days.

This stop is perfect for photo enthusiasts and anyone wanting to witness the raw power of Icelandic waterfalls. The 35-minute visit gives enough time for sightseeing, a guided overview, and some free time for photos or a quick walk. If you’re lucky, the guide will share tips to help you take the best shots of this iconic cascade.

Discovering Lake Mývatn’s Pseudo Craters and Volcanic Formations

Next, the tour heads 35 minutes to Skútustaðagígar, where you’ll see pseudo craters that are unique to Iceland and a few other volcanic areas in the world. These formations are the result of lava interacting with water, creating remarkable craters that resemble impact sites but are entirely volcanic in origin.

The stop includes guided sightseeing and free time to explore the area’s volcanic landscape. Visitors often find this spot fascinating because it’s a rare geological feature, also seen on Mars and Hawaii. The site offers excellent photo opportunities, especially for those interested in geology or landscape photography. You can also visit a local food market nearby, where regional snacks might be available, adding a taste of local culture.

Exploring Dimmuborgir’s Lava Formations

After a 15-minute bus ride, the tour arrives at Dimmuborgir, known as the “Dark Castles”. This area of extravagant lava formations invites exploration on foot, with options for walking, hiking, and guided tours. The landscape features towering pillars and caves carved by ancient lava flows, making it a favorite for nature lovers and photographers.

Here, the guide offers insights into the volcanic activity that shaped the area and points out the most photogenic spots. Visitors can enjoy local snacks, regional food, or relax with a drink at the site’s facilities. The 35-minute stop balances sightseeing with time to appreciate the strange, otherworldly landscape.

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Visiting Grjótagjá Cave and the Tectonic Rift

A short 12-minute drive brings travelers to Grjótagjá, a lava cave with a hot blue river flowing inside. This spot is famous for its scenic views and the opportunity to stand on two tectonic plates, as the cave sits on a rift between the Eurasian and North American continents.

The 30-minute visit includes a guided tour and scenic walk. The cave’s unique blue waters are a favorite for photography, and the vibe is both mystical and adventurous. Visitors should be prepared for uneven terrain if they choose to walk further within the cave.

Witnessing the Geothermal Activity at Hverir

The next destination, Hverir geothermal area, is a 30-minute drive from Grjótagjá. This active geothermal zone is famous for its smoking fumaroles and boiling mud pots, offering a vivid display of Iceland’s volcanic activity. The guided walk here provides detailed descriptions of the geothermal features, and visitors have free time to explore the area’s scenic views.

Hverir’s bubbling mud and steaming vents make it a must-see for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. The landscape’s otherworldly appearance often leaves a lasting impression, with plenty of opportunities for dramatic photos.

Dettifoss: Europe’s Most Powerful Waterfall

After a 40-minute drive, the tour arrives at Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. The sheer force of the water crashing down creates a thunderous roar, and on sunny days, a rainbow often forms over the cascade. The site offers scenic viewpoints and free time to walk along the paths for different perspectives.

The 40-minute stop allows visitors to fully appreciate the raw power of this natural phenomenon. It’s a highlight for many, especially those interested in waterfalls or seeking dramatic scenery. The guided commentary provides context on its geological and hydrological significance.

Final Stop at Eyjafjörður and Views to Akureyri

On the way back, the 110-minute return journey includes a last scenic stop at Eyjafjörður, where you can take photos across the fjord to Akureyri. This final vantage point offers a peaceful finish to a day full of volcanic, waterfall, and geothermal sights, with sweeping views that highlight Iceland’s rugged landscape.

The tour concludes back at the Akureyri Cruise Terminal, usually 30 to 50 minutes before the cruise departure time. This allows ample time for transfer, rest, or any last-minute sightseeing in Akureyri itself.

Practical Details and Included Amenities

This tour features fully guided commentary in English, ensuring you learn about each site’s significance and geology. Comfort is prioritized with transport in a mini bus equipped with free WiFi, making it easy to share photos or stay connected during the day.

The trip includes all transportation and guidance, but meals and beverages are not included. It’s recommended to bring a pre-packed lunch because the final stop at Hverir is quite late. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and infant seats are available for families.

The cruise ship return guarantee ensures the tour aligns with your schedule, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value for Iceland Explorers

At $278 per person, this comprehensive day trip offers access to Iceland’s most iconic features within a manageable schedule. The combination of powerful waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and geothermal activity makes it an excellent choice for those wanting a diverse overview.

The expert guides, praised for their personalized attention, enhance the experience with interesting stories and photography tips. The positive reviews highlight how guides like Joana bring passion and knowledge, which adds a special touch to the trip.

However, the tour’s dependence on weather and road conditions means some stops may vary or be shortened. Also, the late lunch stop requires some planning, especially if you prefer a sit-down meal or need specific dietary options. Still, the overall balance of sightseeing, comfort, and expert guidance makes this tour a strong choice for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but for maximum comfort, a private tour is recommended. It’s best to contact the provider before booking to discuss specific needs.

What should I bring for the tour?
Since meals and beverages are not included, bringing a pre-packed lunch is advisable. Waterproof clothing or layers are recommended due to weather variability.

How long is each stop?
Stops range from 30 to 40 minutes, providing enough time to explore and take photos without feeling rushed.

Can I participate if I don’t want to walk much?
Most stops involve walking, but the guided nature and scenic viewpoints mean short walks are enough to enjoy each site. For specific needs, consider a private tour.

What is the best time to see a rainbow at Dettifoss?
Rainbows are common on sunny days, especially when the water is crashing down with sunlight. The timing depends on weather conditions during your visit.

Are refreshments available during the tour?
Refresments are not included, and there are no dedicated stops for food. Bringing snacks and water is recommended for comfort during the day.

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