Lake Myvatn, Dettifoss and Goddafoss Waterfalls Day Tour from Akureyri

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland’s north and looking for a way to see some of the most iconic landscapes in a single day, this tour from Akureyri could be a good fit. It promises a comprehensive look at geothermal areas, spectacular waterfalls, and unique volcanic formations, all within roughly 9 to 10 hours.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the focus on maximizing your time—with a well-structured itinerary that hits major highlights, a small group size (up to 17 travelers) for more personalized attention, and a knowledgeable guide to bring the landscapes to life. The comfort of traveling in a climate-controlled vehicle and the convenience of hotel pickup are also points in its favor.

However, there’s a mention of some tightly scheduled stops, which might mean rushing through certain sites or feeling a bit hurried, especially at places like the Nature Baths or Dettifoss, where walking paths can be treacherous. Plus, entry to the Nature Baths is extra, so budget accordingly if you want to indulge.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want an intensive, guided overview of north Iceland’s highlights without the hassle of planning each stop. It’s ideal for those who enjoy geological marvels, waterfalls, and scenic drives, and don’t mind a full day on the road.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience: Covers major landmarks like Lake Mývatn, Dettifoss, and Godafoss in one day.
• Expert guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, humor, and local insights.
• Comfortable transport: Climate-controlled vehicles make the journey easier, especially in winter.
• Flexible stops: Optional visits like the Mývatn Nature Baths add a relaxing touch, but are extra.
• Tight schedule: The itinerary is packed, so expect some quick visits and walking on potentially tricky terrain.
• Small group size: Up to 17 people, allowing for more interaction and tailored explanations.

What You Can Expect on the Tour

Picking Up in Akureyri

The day kicks off with a hotel pickup, making it simple to start without fuss. Our experience on similar tours shows that being picked up directly from your accommodation helps avoid early morning stress, especially if you’re coming from a central location. Plus, you get to meet your guide and fellow travelers right away, which makes the whole day feel more like a shared adventure.

Lake Mývatn and Surroundings

Your first major stop is Lake Mývatn, a site renowned for its volcanic activity and landscape features. The tour visits the core attractions in this area, which includes pseudocraters, lava formations, and geothermal fields like Namafjall Hverir with bubbling mud pools and steam vents. These areas are not only visually striking but also tell a story about Iceland’s volcanic past.

Travelers have raved about how much they learned from their guides, with one reviewer noting that the guide’s explanations made the geology more understandable and even entertaining. Given the short time (about five hours), you’ll get a solid overview rather than an in-depth exploration, but you’ll likely leave with a good sense of what makes this landscape special.

Mývatn Nature Baths

Next is a visit to the Mývatn Nature Baths, a popular geothermal spa often compared to the Blue Lagoon but less commercialized. It’s a perfect spot to unwind, soak, and enjoy the natural warmth of Iceland’s geothermal waters. Bear in mind, the entrance fee isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget extra if you plan to take a dip.

Several reviews note that this stop is a bit rushed—just over an hour and twenty minutes—and highlight that the smell of sulfur can be strong, which might be off-putting for some. Plus, ongoing construction may mean cranes are visible, affecting your photos. If you love hot springs and have the time, it’s a delightful break, but if you’re more interested in sightseeing, you might prefer to skip it.

Dettifoss and Selfoss Waterfalls

Perhaps the most dramatic highlight of the tour is Dettifoss, reputedly Europe’s most powerful waterfall. The sheer force and volume of water crashing down make it an awe-inspiring sight. As one reviewer pointed out, the walk from the parking lot to the waterfall can be treacherous, sometimes requiring crampons, especially in winter conditions.

Your guide will aim to maximize your time here, but be prepared for some walking on uneven or slippery surfaces. If you’re comfortable with a bit of outdoor exploring, you’ll love the views and the sense of raw power. For those with mobility concerns, this might be a less ideal stop.

Godafoss: The Waterfall of the Gods

Just a short drive from Dettifoss is Godafoss, known for its horseshoe shape and icy blue waters. Even if you’re short on time, this stop is a crowd-pleaser, and the view is timeless. The narrow viewing platform allows for good photos, and the drop of the waterfall provides a sense of scale that’s hard to match.

Geothermal and Volcanic Features

Further along, the tour adds in stops like Namafjall Hverir, an area filled with bubbling mud pools and steaming vents—an otherworldly landscape that’s both fascinating and photogenic. Descriptions from travelers note how much they appreciated the local explanations, which added context to the surreal scenery.

Lava Caves and Craters

The Grjótagjá lava cave is another unique stop. Known for its role in “Game of Thrones,” it offers a peek into Iceland’s volcanic activity. Visitors walk through a rift in the earth, experiencing a different side of Iceland’s geology. The nearby Skútustaðagígar pseudocraters provide sweeping views of Lake Mývatn, perfect for photos and appreciating Iceland’s volcanic history.

Final Leg and Considerations

The last stops include visiting Dimmuborgir, a maze of lava formations often called the “Dark Castle,” and enjoying the scenic views over Lake Mývatn. These sites are beautiful but can involve some walking on uneven terrain, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

The Experience as a Whole

Comfort and Convenience

Traveling in a climate-controlled vehicle means you stay comfortable, regardless of whether it’s snowing or raining—important in winter months. The small group setting ensures you get more personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere than larger bus tours.

Tour Duration and Value

At $298.06 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive day packed with major sights. Considering the number of stops, expert guiding, and transportation, it’s quite reasonable, especially when you consider the hassle saved from figuring out logistics on your own. However, the extra cost for entrance to the Nature Baths can add up, so plan accordingly.

Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

Feedback highlights that guides are generally very knowledgeable and friendly, with some reviewers emphasizing how their guides added humor and local insights to the experience. People love the scenery and the variety of stops, from waterfalls to geothermal fields.

That said, some found the schedule too tight, wishing for more time at certain sites—especially Dettifoss, which deserves a decent chunk of your day. Others mentioned that walking paths can be tricky, particularly in winter, and that the tight schedule sometimes felt rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re after a full day of sightseeing with minimal planning on your part. It’s a solid choice for geology buffs, waterfall lovers, and those eager to see Iceland’s diverse landscapes in one go. It’s also well-suited for travelers who prefer to be guided and enjoy the comfort of a small group.

If you’re comfortable with walking on potentially uneven or icy terrain and want to maximize sightseeing without worrying about transportation or timing, this tour fits the bill. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to spend longer soaking in each location, you might find it a bit rushed.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Akureyri offers a solid mix of natural beauty and geological wonder. The highlights—Dettifoss, Godafoss, Lake Mývatn—are iconic for a reason, and the guided approach means you’ll learn a lot while traveling comfortably. The price is reasonable considering the scope, although adding extras like the Nature Baths will bump up costs.

It’s a great choice for travelers who want an organized, informative day with a small group, especially if winter conditions make self-driving less appealing. The various reviews indicate that the guides are a big part of the experience, often making the trip memorable with their local knowledge and friendly attitude.

In summary, if you’re after a busy, scenic, and educational day tour that hits the highlights of northern Iceland, this tour is worth considering. Just be prepared for a full schedule, some walking, and the extra costs if you want to try the geothermal baths.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup from Akureyri, making it very convenient to start your day.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, giving you a full day of sightseeing.

What stops are included?
Major stops include Lake Mývatn, Mývatn Nature Baths, Dettifoss waterfall, Godafoss waterfall, Namafjall Hverir, Grjótagjá Cave, Skútustaðagígar, and Dimmuborgir lava formations.

Is entry to the Nature Baths included?
No, the entrance fee is extra, so budget accordingly if you want to soak.

What’s the group size?
Up to 17 travelers, allowing for a more intimate experience.

Is this tour suitable in winter?
Yes, but be aware that walking paths, especially to Dettifoss, can be icy and challenging. The guide will advise on safety.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Are children allowed?
Most travelers can participate, but check with the provider if you have specific concerns about young children or medical conditions.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Some walking is involved, especially at Dettifoss and other uneven terrain sites. Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for outdoor conditions.

Would I recommend this tour?
Absolutely, especially if you want a well-organized, scenic, and informative trip that covers Iceland’s northern highlights efficiently.

This tour is a chance to see the best of northern Iceland in a day, with knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and the comfort of a small group. It’s not a leisurely stroll, but it’s packed with some of the most memorable sights Iceland has to offer—perfect for travelers eager to experience the country’s raw beauty without the hassle.