From Akureyri: Goðafoss Express Minibus Tour

If you’re visiting North Iceland and looking to see one of the country’s most iconic waterfalls without committing a whole day, the Goðafoss Express Minibus Tour from Akureyri might be just what you need. Designed for travelers who want a quick yet meaningful glimpse of this natural marvel, it offers a comfortable ride, good commentary, and a prime photo opportunity—all packed into around two hours.

What we really like about this tour is its ease of access—it’s perfect if you’re already in Akureyri and want to add a solid highlight to your trip without the hassle of planning a full day’s outing. Plus, the scenic drive through North Iceland’s landscapes is a treat in itself, giving you a taste of the rugged beauty the region is famous for. On the flip side, keep in mind that the tour is quite short—so if you’re after a more immersive experience or multiple stops, this might not be your best pick. But if speedy, scenic, and straightforward appeals to you, this tour is worth considering.

This experience suits travelers who have already enjoyed some of Iceland’s other natural wonders—say, a morning whale watching session—and want a relaxing way to round out their day. It’s also ideal for those with limited time, or anyone who prefers guided trips that are easy to book and flexible with cancellations.

Key Points

• Quick and scenic: Perfect for a short visit or as a complement to other activities.
• Comfortable transportation: Relax in a minibus with insightful commentary.
• Stunning photo ops: The waterfall and surrounding landscapes make for memorable photos.
• Flexible cancellation: Full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Ideal for travelers with limited time: Just two hours from start to finish.
• Not a full-day tour: Focused on one highlight, so don’t expect multiple stops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

When planning your trip to North Iceland, we find that the Goðafoss Express Minibus Tour offers a refreshingly straightforward way to experience a true natural marvel. The tour begins right in Akureyri, with a meeting point at the Star Travel Office near the cruise port, which means if you’re arriving by cruise or staying in town, the logistics are simple. The fact that you can reserve with flexibility—pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance—adds to its appeal for spontaneous or carefully planned travelers alike.

Transportation and Comfort

The journey is made in a comfortable minibus, which is a plus if you’re tired of cramped bus rides or uncomfortable vans. The ride lasts about 30 minutes each way, giving you a quick trip through the scenery that Iceland does so well. Expect commentary from your guide, which is generally insightful and adds context to what you’re seeing—something many reviews praise as “informative without being overwhelming.”

The group size is usually small to medium, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy a more personalized experience. It’s a straightforward setup, ideal for travelers who want to maximize their time and keep things simple.

The Highlight: Goðafoss Waterfall

The main draw of this tour is, of course, Goðafoss, often called the “Waterfall of the Gods.” It’s a spectacular sight—wide, powerful, and with a raw, untamed beauty that makes it perfect for photos and simply soaking in the atmosphere. Visitors typically get about an hour to explore, which is enough to walk around, take plenty of pictures, and appreciate how majestic this waterfall is.

One review mentions, “the views are breathtaking, and it was so nice to have a dedicated chunk of time to appreciate it without feeling rushed.” The waterfall is surrounded by scenic landscapes, and if the weather cooperates, you’ll get some stunning shots of both the falls and the surrounding terrain.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Given its brief duration, this tour is designed for efficiency. It’s perfect if you’re short on time or want a quick side trip. The stops are well-planned: after the waterfall visit, there’s a 30-minute drive back, giving you a chance to relax and reflect on what you’ve seen.

Because it’s a guided tour, you’ll also benefit from local insights—guides often share interesting facts about the waterfall’s history and its cultural significance. However, some reviews mention that the commentary can be a bit generic, so if you’re a history buff or want in-depth storytelling, you might need to supplement your visit with extra reading.

More Great Tours Nearby

Price and Value

At $121 per person, this tour strikes a balance between affordability and convenience. When you consider the transportation, the guide, and the exclusive focus on one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, it’s a decent deal. Comparing it to longer excursions that include multiple stops or additional activities, this one keeps things simple and focused, which many travelers find refreshing.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is particularly well-suited for travelers who:
– Have already experienced whale watching or other morning activities in Akureyri
– Want a quick, scenic outing without dedicating a full day
– Appreciate comfort and easy logistics over long, multi-stop trips
– Are traveling with a tight schedule or prefer guided experiences
– Enjoy capturing beautiful landscapes and waterfalls on camera

Why You Might Pass On It

If you’re a waterfall enthusiast or love exploring multiple sights, this might feel a bit limited. The approximately one-hour stop at Goðafoss is enough for photos and a brief look, but it doesn’t allow for a deep exploration or nearby hikes. Also, if you’re traveling with children, the short duration and straightforward nature make it suitable, but if they prefer more activities or longer adventures, you might want a different tour.

Final Thoughts

The From Akureyri: Goðafoss Express Minibus Tour offers a practical, hassle-free way to see one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls without the commitment of a full-day tour. Its comfort, scenic drive, and insightful commentary make it a good choice for busy travelers or those wanting to add a highlight to their North Iceland itinerary quickly.

While it doesn’t offer multiple stops or a deep dive into local history, it hits the sweet spot for a brief, scenic experience that leaves most visitors feeling satisfied. The views are genuinely beautiful, and the ease of logistics makes it accessible for most travelers.

If your main goal is to witness the power and beauty of Goðafoss with minimal fuss, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suited for those who value comfort, convenience, and a good photo opportunity over multiple destinations or in-depth exploration.

FAQs

Q: How long is the tour?
A: The entire experience lasts about 2 hours, including transportation and time at the waterfall.

Q: Where does the tour start?
A: It begins at the Star Travel Office near the Tangabryggja Cruise Ship harbor in Akureyri.

Q: Is transportation comfortable?
A: Yes, the ride is in a comfortable minibus with insightful commentary, making for a pleasant journey.

Q: What should I bring?
A: Bring comfortable shoes for walking around the waterfall and a camera to capture the scenery.

Q: Can I cancel if my plans change?
A: Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Q: Is the guide’s commentary in English?
A: Yes, the live tour guide speaks English.

Q: Is this experience suitable for families or children?
A: While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the moderate pace and short duration make it generally suitable for most ages.

Q: How does this tour compare to other options?
A: It’s more streamlined and focused than longer tours, making it ideal if you want a quick visit without extra stops or extra cost.

This tour is a simple yet effective way to add a major Icelandic sight to your trip, especially if you’re short on time but still want to see the rugged beauty of Goðafoss. It’s not a deep dive, but sometimes, a quick, well-organized visit is just what you need.

You can check availability for your dates here: