Lake Myvatn and Godafoss Waterfall Day Tour from Akureyri

Exploring the Wonders of Northern Iceland: Lake Myvatn and Godafoss Waterfall Day Tour from Akureyri

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland’s north, chances are you’ll want to see some of its most iconic sights without spending days on the road. This day tour from Akureyri offers a well-rounded taste of the region’s natural marvels, all packed into about eight hours. We’ve looked into this experience to help you decide if it fits your travel style—and here’s what we found.

Two standout features we love are the spectacular views at Godafoss and the chance to soak in the Lake Myvatn Nature Baths. Both are genuine highlights that make the trip memorable. However, a potential consideration is that entrance fees to the baths aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget accordingly if you plan to enjoy the hot springs. This tour seems best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of scenery, geology, and a bit of comfort, all within a small-group setting.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery at Godafoss waterfall and Lake Myvatn makes for fantastic photo opportunities.
• The small group size (max 18 travelers) allows for a more personal experience.
• Hassle-free pickup and drop-off from your Akureyri hotel simplifies logistics.
• Not including entrance fees for the Nature Baths means some extra costs—plan ahead.
• The tour covers many highlights in one day, which is perfect for travelers with limited time.
• Knowledgeable guides help bring each site to life with engaging stories and insights.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Basics: Who, What, When, and How

This 8-hour guided tour departs from Akureyri at 9:00 am and departs back to the same spot later in the day. The tour is run by Imagine Iceland Travel—a reputable operator known for small-group adventures—keeping the group size capped at 18, which means a more relaxed vibe and better interaction with your guide. The price point, roughly $197.69 per person, is fairly typical for a full-day Icelandic excursion, especially considering the inclusion of transportation, guide, and hotel pickup/drop-off.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day is thoughtfully planned to maximize your time while giving you a genuine feel for the region’s diversity.

First Stop: Lake Myvatn

You’ll start your journey with a visit to Lake Myvatn, a site renowned for its volcanic landscapes. This is where you’ll get a close-up look at the Hverir mud pools and natural steam vents—think bubbling, colorful pools that look like they belong on another planet. The Dimmuborgir lava formations are also here, often called the “Dark Castle,” with twisting lava shapes that are fascinating to walk among.

Another highlight is the Grotcaja cave and rift, offering a glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic activity and geological forces. The reviews mention that guides often share stories and insights about life in Iceland, which makes these stops not just pretty scenery but also educational.

Authentic travelers note that the guide’s knowledge enhances the experience—one reviewer said, “Norbert was incredible,” providing microspikes for icy patches and sharing stories that brought the landscape to life. Expect to spend around 6 hours exploring this area, with plenty of time to take pictures and soak it all in.

Hot Springs at Lake Myvatn Nature Baths

After the sightseeing, there’s a chance to relax in the Myvatn Nature Baths. This is a real treat, especially on chilly days, as the warm waters are soothing after a day of walking. The entrance fee isn’t included, so plan for that extra expense. The baths come with a café, so you can grab a snack or drink while enjoying the view—something many travelers rave about. One review praises Mira, their guide, calling her “helpful and informative,” highlighting the personal touch in this small-group setup.

The Iconic Waterfall: Godafoss

Next, you’ll visit Godafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods.” It’s one of Iceland’s most photogenic spots, with powerful cascades that are breathtaking, especially in the winter when framed by snow or ice. It’s a quick stop—around 20 minutes—but enough to admire the raw power and beauty of the falls. Reviewers consistently mention how worth it this stop is, with one saying, “worth it just for the Godafoss falls alone.”

Geothermal and Lava Highlights

The tour continues with visits to Námfajll Hverir mud pools, which are colorful, steaming vents. It’s a chance to see geothermal activity up close—something that makes Iceland so unique. The Grjotagja Cave is another highlight: a small lava cave often associated with the Game of Thrones filming, adding a touch of pop culture to the geological marvels.

A notable point from reviews is how guides share fun facts and stories that make these spots more than just sightseeing. One traveler found the mud pools “looked like an alien planet,” which captures the otherworldly feel of these geothermal landscapes.

Pseudocraters and Lava Formations

The Skutustaoagigar area offers pseudocraters—craters formed by volcanic steam explosions—giving you a sense of Iceland’s active volcanic past. The Dimmuborgir region is also featured, providing more lava formations and an atmospheric “dark castle” landscape, perfect for wandering and photos.

The Transport and Group Size

The tour’s vehicle is described as comfortable, and with just 18 travelers at most, you’re less likely to feel rushed or lost in a crowd. Many reviews praise the guides—some mention guides like Daniel or Armann, who are both described as witty, knowledgeable, and committed to making sure everyone has a good time.

The Cost and Value

At roughly $197.69, the tour strikes a balance between affordability and value. Given the number of stops, the logistics of transportation, and the guidance, it’s reasonable. Plus, with many sites being free and only a couple requiring paid entry, you can plan your budget accordingly. Keep in mind, for the Nature Baths, tickets are extra, which can add about 1 hour to your relax-time and some cash.

What Do Travelers Say?

The reviews paint a picture of consistent satisfaction—many call this a “great trip,” “amazing,” and “fabulous,” with guides often receiving praise for their storytelling and local insights. One reviewer raved about the “microspikes” provided, highlighting safety and comfort, especially in winter conditions.

There’s a small handful of negative reviews, mostly about customer service issues or logistical hiccups—like feeling left behind or the site being in construction. However, these seem to be exceptions, and most travelers agree the experience is worth it.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits those who want a comprehensive yet manageable day of sightseeing from Akureyri. It’s perfect for travelers with moderate physical fitness who enjoy walking, photography, and learning about Iceland’s volcanic landscape. Families with older children might also appreciate the mix of beauty and adventure, but younger kids or those sensitive to long walks and cold weather may need to consider the physical demands.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to see many highlights without renting a car or organizing multiple smaller tours, this could be an excellent choice. The small group setting and guided commentary make it especially appealing for those who want to deepen their understanding of Iceland’s geology and culture.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour involves walking at various sites, including lava formations and geothermal areas, so it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness. If you’re comfortable walking and standing for periods, you’ll enjoy it.

Are lunch or snacks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. However, you can purchase snacks or meals at the Myvatn Nature Baths café, so bringing some extra cash or a snack might be a good idea.

Does the tour run in winter?
Yes, reviews mention traveling in winter, with some noting icy conditions. Guides provide microspikes for safety, and the scenery in winter is stunning, but dress warmly.

What’s the benefit of a small group?
Smaller groups mean more personalized attention, fewer crowds at each site, and a more relaxed pace. Many travelers really appreciate the engaging guides and the opportunity to ask questions.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour has a flexible cancellation policy—full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What if the weather is poor?
The experience is weather-dependent; if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so keep this in mind.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Lake Myvatn and Godafoss Waterfall Day Tour offers a solid way to experience Iceland’s north without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The combination of breathtaking landscapes, geothermal wonders, and a knowledgeable guide makes it a worthwhile option for anyone wanting a well-rounded glimpse of this volcanic region. The small group feel and the chance to relax in the hot springs add extra points, making it a memorable day out.

While it’s not perfect—extra costs for the baths and some minor logistical issues—these are outweighed by the stunning scenery, insightful guides, and the convenience of hotel pickup. If you’re passionate about geology, photography, or simply want to see some of Iceland’s most iconic sights in comfort, this tour will serve you well.

Whether you’re just beginning your Iceland adventure or wrapping up your trip, this tour packs in enough beauty and geology to make your visit truly unforgettable.