Diamond Circle, Waterfalls and Amazing Landscapes from Akureyri

If you’re eyeing a day trip from Akureyri that covers some of North Iceland’s most iconic sights, the Diamond Circle tour might just be the right pick. We’ve come across this experience and can tell you it’s designed for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Iceland’s wild beauty without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

What really stands out about this tour? First, it offers a personalized experience with a small group (limited to 8 people), meaning you’re unlikely to feel lost in a crowd. Second, the variety of stops—from thundering waterfalls to bubbling geothermal fields—ensures you’ll leave with a well-rounded impression of the region’s diverse landscapes.

One thing to consider is that at around 10 hours long, this is a fairly full day, so it’s best suited for those with decent stamina and a sense of adventure. Plus, since lunch isn’t included, you’ll want to pack your own snacks or plan to buy a bite during the day. This tour appeals most to curious travelers who crave a detailed, guided exploration of North Iceland’s natural wonders.

Key Points

• Small-group setup ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed experience.
• Full-day itinerary covers key sites like waterfalls, geothermal areas, and volcanic landscapes.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics straightforward, especially if you’re staying in Akureyri.
• Price point of around $385 offers good value for multiple major sights and expert guidance.
• Moderate walking involved, so suitable for travelers with decent mobility.
• Knowledgeable guide helps bring the landscape to life with stories and insights.

The Journey Begins: What to Expect on This Tour

Starting around 8 am from your hotel in Akureyri, you’ll hop into a comfortable 4×4 vehicle, perfect for Iceland’s sometimes rugged terrain. The tour is designed to maximize sightseeing with a small group of up to 8 travelers, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy a more intimate atmosphere.

The First Stop: Godafoss Waterfall

Your day kicks off with Godafoss, often called the “Waterfall of the Gods” for its stunning horseshoe shape and historical significance. We loved the way the guide highlighted its legends and geology—it’s a sight that feels both peaceful and powerful. Expect to spend about 15 minutes here; it’s enough to snap some photos and soak in the views without feeling rushed.

Lake Mývatn: A Land of Contrasts

Next, you’ll head to Lake Mývatn, a volcanic lake famed for its surreal scenery. Here, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the surroundings, which many reviewers say is like stepping onto another planet. The area is dotted with bubbling mud pools, steaming fumaroles, and volcanic formations.

One reviewer shared, “The diamond circle was a memorable tour and one of my most interesting days in Iceland. The sun shone. The puffins flew and the rainbows drifted on and on. The very best guide and comfortable clean bus. Could not have been a better day.” That sense of awe is what makes this stop stand out.

Geothermal Wonder: Hverir Hot Springs and Krafla Volcano

The geothermal area of Hverir is a highlight. You’ll walk across landscapes filled with smoking fumaroles, boiling mud pools, and steaming vents. It looks almost surreal, like an otherworldly scene. The guide takes the time to explain the region’s geology, which adds an educational element to the visual feast.

From there, you might stop at Víti Crater, a volcanic crater filled with a lake, perfect for photos and feeling the raw power of Iceland’s volcanic activity. A quick 20-minute visit here gives you a chance to appreciate the forces that have shaped this land.

The Powerful Dettifoss Waterfall

A highlight for many is the Dettifoss Waterfall, renowned as Europe’s most powerful. At 148 feet high and 328 feet wide, the roar of this cascading water is truly impressive. Expect to spend about 1.5 hours here, giving ample time for photography and soaking in the sheer force of nature.

Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon and Ásbyrgi

Afterward, the route takes you along the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon and the horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi. The scenery here is striking, with sheer cliffs, lush valleys, and legends of horses and elves. The Whispering Cliffs of Hljodaklettar add to the magic, with their unusual rock formations.

A Stop at Húsavík: Hot Springs and Coastal Charm

On your way back, a brief stop in Húsavík offers a chance to enjoy its peaceful harbor town and perhaps unwind in some local hot springs. It’s a fitting ending to a day filled with natural power and stunning vistas.

Transportation and Travel Details

You’ll be traveling in a comfortable 4×4, which is well-suited to Iceland’s varied terrain. The tour starts at 9 am from Hótel Kea in Akureyri and returns around 7 pm, making it a full but manageable day. The group size is limited to 16, with most reviews mentioning a more personal experience, even with fewer travelers.

Practical Tips

• Dress warmly and in waterproof clothing—many stops are outdoors, and Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable.
• Good hiking shoes are recommended for walks across lava fields and uneven terrain.
• Bring a water bottle, and pack some snacks or a lunch if you want to avoid buying food on the go.
• The longest walk is around 40 minutes, so this tour is suitable for travelers with a moderate physical fitness level.

Pricing and Value

At around $385 per person, this tour offers a good mix of transportation, expert guidance, and access to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Iceland. With all the included stops and hotel pickup, it simplifies planning and offers peace of mind for travelers wanting a smooth experience without sacrificing depth or quality.

Real Traveler Insights

Feedback from past travelers consistently praises the knowledgeable guides, who bring the landscape to life with stories and insights. Multiple reviews mention the guides’ friendliness and storytelling skills, which enhance the experience beyond just sightseeing.

“I was lucky to have two guides, Thor and his assistant,” one reviewer notes, “and we got to see even more than expected.” Such personalized attention seems to make a difference, especially when exploring diverse sites with limited time.

Many also appreciate the stunning views and the chance to see landscapes they’d never forget. One traveler highlighted the “amazing scenery that looks like another planet,” emphasizing how the tour captures Iceland’s unique geological character.

The Sum Up: Who is This Tour For?

This Diamond Circle day trip from Akureyri is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided exploration of North Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders. It suits those who prefer not to drive or plan logistics themselves, thanks to hotel pickup, small group size, and a carefully curated itinerary.

If you’re someone who appreciates varied landscapes, waterfalls, volcanic features, and geothermal phenomena, this tour offers a well-rounded way to see it all without feeling overwhelmed. The moderate walking and comfortable transportation make it accessible to most travelers with decent mobility, though it’s less suited for anyone with significant mobility issues.

While the full-day schedule means a long, busy day, many reviews reflect satisfaction with the pacing, guided insights, and breathtaking scenery. Just pack a warm, waterproof wardrobe, and you’re set for a memorable Icelandic adventure.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins with hotel pickup around 8 am, with departure from Akureyri at 9 am.

Is food included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring your own or buy something during the day.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

What should I wear?
Warm, waterproof clothes and good hiking shoes are recommended, as many stops are outdoors and Iceland’s weather can change quickly.

How long is the walking?
The longest walk is about 40 minutes, suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness.

Can I go on this tour if I have mobility issues?
While accessible for most, those with significant mobility concerns should consider their walking requirements, as some sites involve uneven terrain.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Akureyri are included.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
While the tour operates year-round, weather conditions might affect access or comfort, especially in winter.

How long is the entire tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, from around 8 am pickup to returning around 7 pm.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is suitable for travelers with moderate fitness, but consider your children’s comfort with long days and outdoor walks.

This tour is a wonderful way to experience North Iceland’s most dramatic sights in one day, with the guidance and comfort that make the trip engaging and enjoyable. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply eager to see Iceland’s famous waterfalls and geothermal wonders, this experience offers a memorable adventure.