Full day Lake Myvatn Classic tour

If you’re planning a trip to Northern Iceland, the idea of exploring Lake Myvatn’s otherworldly landscapes might be tempting but also a bit daunting. Luckily, the Full Day Lake Myvatn Classic Tour offers a hassle-free way to see some of the most iconic sights without worrying about driving or logistics. Based on a well-rated experience with numerous glowing reviews, this tour promises a balanced mix of scenic beauty, informative commentary, and ease of travel.

What we love about this tour is how it simplifies the experience — you get round-trip transfers from Akureyri, so all you need to do is sit back, enjoy the views, and listen to your guide’s stories. Plus, the variety of stops makes it a well-rounded introduction to the region’s volcanic wonders. One possible drawback, however, is that the itinerary is quite packed—so if you’re looking for extended exploration of each location, this might not be your best bet. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a guided overview of Lake Myvatn’s highlights without the stress of planning.

This tour is especially suited for those who want a convenient, comprehensive day trip that covers the major sights and offers a comfortable group setting. It’s also a good fit for first-timers to the area or anyone short on time but eager to see the best of Iceland’s volcanic landscapes in one go.

Key Points

• All logistics are handled, including pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in Akureyri.
• The price offers good value for a full-day guided experience with multiple stops.
• The guide’s knowledge enhances the experience, sharing stories and explanations that bring the scenery to life.
• The tour includes a variety of iconic sights, from waterfalls and crater lakes to geothermal areas.
• The group size is limited (max 17 people), ensuring a comfortable and personal experience.
• The stops are timed well, giving you enough time to explore but not feeling rushed.

An In-Depth Look at the Lake Myvatn Classic Tour

Convenience and Comfort

One of the biggest perks of this tour is the door-to-door pickup from Akureyri. No fuss, no need to rent a car or navigate unfamiliar roads—your transportation is arranged, so you can relax and focus on soaking in the scenery. The price of around $124 per person might seem like an investment, but when you consider it includes transport, guided commentary, and entry to key sites, it’s quite reasonable. Guided tours often streamline the experience and enrich the visit with local insights, making everything more accessible.

Most travelers seem satisfied with the group size—a maximum of 17 travelers—which creates a friendly, intimate atmosphere without feeling overcrowded. Reviews praise the knowledge and entertaining nature of the guides, who handle complex volcanic geology and local legends with ease. As one reviewer put it, “Our guides were entertaining and informative,” which makes all the difference in transforming a sightseeing trip into a memorable experience.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Godafoss Waterfall

After a roughly 35-minute drive from Akureyri, you arrive at Godafoss, often called the “Waterfall of the Gods”. It’s one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls and for good reason: the cascading water has a dramatic, rugged appeal that photos simply can’t do justice to. Besides being stunning, the waterfall has a special place in Icelandic history, which your guide will explain. You’ll have about 40 minutes here to take photos, walk along the viewing paths, and soak in the atmosphere.

Reviewers consistently highlight this stop as a highlight; the combination of natural beauty and meaningful stories make it a memorable start. One traveler even mentioned, “The falls are important in Icelandic history, and we had enough time to explore the area close up.”

Stop 2: Skútustaðagígar Craters

Next, you’ll visit the Skútustaðagígar pseudo craters, a unique volcanic feature formed not by explosive eruptions but through steam explosions. These beautifully shaped craters are a must-see in the lake area and offer fantastic photo opportunities. Your guide will share insights about how these craters are not true volcanoes but still showcase the area’s volcanic activity. The stop lasts about 15 minutes, enough to appreciate the landscape and snap some pictures.

Travelers describe these craters as Icelandic gems, and many appreciate that the guide’s explanations make the geology accessible. As one reviewer noted, “Our guide explained all about the craters, making the scene even more interesting.”

Stop 3: Dimmuborgir Lava Formations

This is often the most visually striking part of the tour. The Dimmuborgir area features lava pillars, caves, and sculptures that look like something out of a fantasy novel. You’ll get about 45 minutes to walk among the bizarre formations, listen to stories about their origins, and explore the caves. Your guide’s local knowledge adds layers of folklore and geological context, which many find fascinating.

Multiple reviews mention the unusual landscape and how walking among the lava formations feels like stepping into another world. One guest praised the guide: “They knew everything about this area and explained how it was created 2,500 years ago, plus some troll tales for fun.”

Stop 4: Grjotagja Cave

Next up is Grjotagja, a small geothermal cave famous for its warm waters and history as a former bathing spot. As a result of volcanic activity in the 70s, the water temperature has risen too high for bathing today, but the cave remains captivating. Your guide will show you the crack between the tectonic plates and discuss Iceland’s ongoing geological activity. It’s a quick 20-minute stop, but packed with geological intrigue.

Travel reviews note that “the water is no longer suitable for bathing,” but the cave’s visual appeal and story make it worth the brief visit. This stop offers a fascinating glimpse into Iceland’s tectonic activity.

Stop 5: Namafjall Hverir Geothermal Area

Your last major stop is Hverir, a geothermal area with bubbling mud pools, fumaroles, and vibrant mineral deposits. The area is wonderfully colorful, with bright yellow, orange, and red hues, thanks to sulfur and mineral deposits. You’ll spend about 20 minutes here, walking around and taking photos of the surreal landscape. Be prepared for the sulfur smell—it’s part of the experience.

Visitors love the visual drama of Hverir; one said, “It’s colorful and mystical, but it’s also quite smelly of sulfur.” Still, it’s a highlight for many who want to see Iceland’s geothermal power firsthand.

Timing and Duration

The entire tour lasts approximately 6 hours, which includes travel time, sightseeing, and breaks. The itinerary is quite full, but most reviews agree that the timing is well-managed. Guides are attentive to keeping the group moving without feeling rushed, ensuring everyone gets good photos and has time to absorb the scenery.

What Travelers Are Saying

The consistent praise for the guides is striking. Multiple reviewers mention how they handle complex geology with engaging storytelling and answer questions patiently. One review states, “Our guide was fantastic, knowledgeable, and a lot of fun,” which echoes the overall sentiment.

Some minor criticism pertains to the bus comfort, with a reviewer mentioning that the bus was a bit too warm. Still, this is likely a minor inconvenience given the overall quality of the experience.

Value for Money

At about $124 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Lake Myvatn’s highlights. It’s particularly good for travelers wanting a guided, well-organized day without the hassle of planning individual transportation or figuring out the logistics. The inclusion of free admission to all stops adds to the value, making it a convenient choice.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors to Akureyri who want a structured, informative overview of Lake Myvatn’s top sights. It’s also suited for those who prefer guided experiences—the guides’ storytelling adds depth that self-guided visits might lack. Given the group size limit, it’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a small, friendly atmosphere.

However, if you’re someone who loves to explore each site at your own pace or wants to spend hours at each attraction, this might feel a little rushed. The trip’s focus on highlights makes it perfect for a taste of the region rather than an in-depth exploration.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In the end, this full-day Lake Myvatn tour provides a balanced, engaging way to see some of Iceland’s most iconic volcanic sights without the stress of self-driving. The knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and carefully curated stops make it a strong choice for anyone wanting a relaxed but comprehensive introduction to the area.

The recurring praise for the guides’ stories and insights suggests that their passion and expertise truly elevate the experience. For around $124, you’re getting a well-organized day that covers a lot of ground and offers excellent value, especially given the convenience of pickup and drop-off.

While you should be prepared for a full schedule and a bus that might not be plush, the overall experience seems to delight most travelers. If you’re keen to see Lake Myvatn’s highlights with a friendly group and a knowledgeable guide, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes round-trip transfers from Akureyri, stops at key sights like Godafoss, Skútustaðagígar, Dimmuborgir, Grjotagja Cave, and Hverir. Admission to the stops is free, and the guide’s commentary is part of the package.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, from pickup to drop-off, including travel time and sightseeing.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, reviews mention traveling with kids, and guides are praised for being good with children. It’s suitable if your kids are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 17 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and manageable experience.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable walking shoes, dress for the weather, and bring essentials like water, snacks, and a camera. You might also want to prepare for strong sulfur smells at Hverir.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the experience relies on good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How is the transportation?
The transportation is via a bus with a friendly driver, but one review mentioned it being a little warm. Overall, comfortable enough for a full day of travel.

This guided tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Lake Myvatn’s volcanic marvels, making it a noteworthy choice for those wanting a straightforward, engaging adventure in Northern Iceland.