Stuðlagil Canyon and Vök Baths Day Tour

Taking in the wild beauty of East Iceland becomes effortless with the Stuðlagil Canyon and Vök Baths Day Tour. Priced at $479 per person, this 7-hour journey offers a well-balanced mix of impressive scenery, mild physical activity, and relaxing moments. The tour departs with pickup included and features a small-group format that ensures a relaxed atmosphere and more personalized experiences.

Designed for those who want to explore iconic Icelandic landscapes without the hassle of planning logistics, this tour takes you through the Jökuldalur valley, with stops at the Rjúkandi Waterfall, the remarkable basalt formations of Stuðlagil Canyon, and a soothing soak at Vök Baths. While the walks involve some uneven surfaces, most visitors find the pace manageable, and the inclusion of admission to Vök Baths is a notable perk.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those seeking a combination of adventure and relaxation in East Iceland. It garners a high recommendation rate of 91%, with many praising the guides and scenic highlights—although some find the walks a bit more demanding than expected.

Key Points

• Includes transportation, admission to Vök Baths, and guided commentary
• Visits Rjúkandi Waterfall and Stuðlagil Canyon for spectacular views and photo opportunities
• Small-group size creates a more intimate, unrushed experience
• Accessible walk up to Rjúkandi Waterfall and a half-hour walk to Stuðlagil Canyon
• Vök Baths offers geothermal pools with lake views, a perfect way to relax after sightseeing
• Tour duration is approximately 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip

Journey Through the East Iceland Countryside

Starting from a designated pickup point, the tour begins with a pleasant drive into the Jökuldalur Valley. The first stop is at Rjúkandi Waterfall, where a short, accessible walk leads to a view of the cascading water. This spot offers a quick but rewarding photo opportunity, showcasing Iceland’s lush landscapes. The walk is easy and suitable for most visitors.

Following this, the tour moves towards Stuðlagil Canyon, one of Iceland’s most striking basalt rock formations. The journey involves an easy to moderate half-hour walk along gravel paths. Visitors can expect about 2-3 hours at the canyon to explore, take photos, and enjoy the scenery. During summer, the river water is a striking turquoise, but in early August, it shifts to a greyish glacial hue. The views here are particularly impressive, with the basalt columns creating dramatic photo backdrops.

Exploring Stuðlagil Canyon’s Unique Geology

Stuðlagil Canyon is a highlight of this tour, famous for its towering basalt columns. Its location in the remote Icelandic landscape means access is limited without a guided tour, making this an exclusive opportunity. The easy/moderate walk to the canyon offers spectacular vistas, especially from vantage points accessible along the gravel paths.

Most of the day at Stuðlagil is spent soaking in the scenery and capturing photos of the formations and the river below. The water’s color varies with the season, offering different photographic moods. The canyon’s proximity to the Jökulsá River makes it a prime subject for landscape photography.

Visiting Rjúkandi Waterfall in Jökuldalur Valley

The tour begins with a visit to Rjúkandi Waterfall, located in Jökuldalur Valley. This waterfall presents a graceful cascade, and the walk to it is short and accessible. The 30-minute walk provides an easy introduction to Iceland’s verdant environment, setting the stage for the more dramatic scenery ahead.

This stop is perfect for those wanting a quick taste of Iceland’s waterfalls without extensive hiking. The proximity to the main road allows for a relaxed sightseeing experience, and the views of the waterfall are a delightful preview of the natural wonders to come.

The Walk to Stuðlagil Canyon

The half-hour walk to the canyon is along gravel paths, making it accessible for most visitors. The trail offers views of the surrounding landscape, leading to multiple viewing points of the canyon. While the terrain is relatively gentle, some sections are uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

Once at the canyon, most visitors spend about 2-3 hours exploring, taking photos, and soaking in the remarkable basalt formations. The time invested here allows for a relaxed pace and plenty of opportunities for memorable shots of the striking geology and vibrant river waters.

Relaxing at Vök Baths in Urriðavatn Lake

After a day of exploring the canyon, the tour concludes with a 3-hour session at Vök Baths, Iceland’s first floating geothermal pools. The pools are set on Urriðavatn Lake, offering a unique bathing experience with scenic views of the surrounding nature.

Admission to Vök Baths is included, ensuring a smooth experience. The facilities feature a large main pool, a bar, steam baths, and a cold mist tunnel. The restaurant Vök Bistro emphasizes local ingredients and sustainability, making it a pleasant spot for a meal or drink amid the tranquil setting.

Most visitors find the warm mineral-rich waters a perfect way to unwind after the active parts of the day. Many highlight the less touristy atmosphere compared to more famous bathing spots like the Blue Lagoon, offering a more natural and peaceful environment.

Logistics and Group Size

This tour operates with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a small-group feel that allows for personalized attention and more flexibility. The bus used is comfortable and clean, making the approximately 7-hour experience enjoyable from start to finish.

Pickup is included, simplifying logistics, and mobile tickets make access straightforward. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most people able to participate, though the walking involved may be more strenuous for some.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The admission fee to Vök Baths is included in the price, providing a seamless experience. However, snacks, food, drinks, swimwear, and towels are not included, so travelers should bring necessary items for their comfort. The tour operates in good weather conditions, and cancellations are possible if weather conditions are poor.

The Guide and Overall Experience

Many reviews praise the guides, specifically mentioning Tina and Sich as knowledgeable, engaging, and friendly. They help make the experience more informative and enjoyable, sharing personal insights and guiding visitors safely through walks and scenic spots.

While some visitors note that the walks can be more demanding than anticipated, most find the timing and pacing well-organized, allowing ample time at each stop. The small-group format is frequently highlighted as a key advantage, fostering conversation and a more intimate atmosphere.

Final Thoughts on the Stuðlagil Canyon and Vök Baths Day Tour

This 7-hour guided tour offers a balanced mix of Iceland’s dramatic basalt formations and relaxing geothermal experiences. The highlight is undoubtedly Stuðlagil Canyon, with its towering basalt columns and vibrant waters, accessible through a manageable walk. The Vök Baths provide a peaceful end to the day, with scenic lake views and soothing waters.

The tour’s small-group setting and inclusion of admission to Vök Baths enhance its value, making it a popular option for those wanting to see East Iceland’s natural beauty without the fuss of planning. While the walks require some physical effort, most participants find the experience rewarding.

This tour suits adventure-minded travelers, photographers, and nature lovers who appreciate a mix of scenery, culture, and relaxation. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to explore East Iceland’s highlights in a single day with expert guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the total duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including driving, sightseeing, and relaxation time at Vök Baths.

Are the walks accessible?
The walks involve easy to moderate gravel paths, with the walk to Rjúkandi Waterfall being short and accessible, while the walk to Stuðlagil Canyon takes about 30 minutes. Some uneven surfaces are involved, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

Is admission to Vök Baths included?
Yes, admission to Vök Baths is included in the tour price, allowing guests to enjoy the pools and facilities without extra cost.

What should I bring for the tour?
Guests should bring swimwear and towels if they wish to swim at Vök Baths, as these are not provided. Snacks and drinks are also not included, so packing a small snack or water bottle is advisable.

How many people are in each tour group?
The tour operates with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a small-group experience with more personal attention.

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