Thinking about a trip to North Iceland? If so, this tour to Lake Mývatn and Goðafoss Waterfall might just be a great way to pack a lot into a single day. It’s a pretty popular trip, and judging by the reviews, it seems to deliver on breathtaking scenery, guides, and a well-organized itinerary.
This tour is perfect if you’re short on time but want to get a real feel for the rugged beauty of this part of Iceland.
What we love about this experience? First, the variety of sights packed into just six hours—from waterfalls to geothermal mud pools, it’s a whirlwind of natural wonders. Second, the expert guides whose stories and insights make the landscape even more vivid and memorable. But, a potential consideration is the limited time at each stop, which might feel rushed if you love lingering over every detail.
A really fun day trip, offering history, storytelling and geology all in one! You'll get to learn about volcanoes and lava formations in Iceland. Overall the itinerary is perfect opportunity to learn about how Iceland was formed, and its impact it had on the culture.
A really fun day trip, where we saw glaciers, waterfalls and hot springs. It was a long day, but well worth it for the views. Our guide was knowledgeable and fun.
The terrain was out of this world. A must see! Tour guide was very knowledgable (and a good singer) – we learned a lot! Comfortable bus.
This tour suits travelers who want a balanced taste of Iceland’s highlights without the hassle of self-driving through unfamiliar terrain.
If your trip to Iceland includes Akureyri and you’re eager for an efficient, guided experience that hits all the main attractions, this could be a good fit. It’s especially ideal for those who prefer comfortable transportation, want to maximize sightseeing, and appreciate having an informative guide along the way.
Key Points
- Comfortable group coach with WiFi included makes travel easy and relaxing.
- Includes major sights like Goðafoss Waterfall, Dimmuborgir lava formations, and bubbling mud pools.
- Time-efficient at each stop, giving you plenty of photo opportunities without feeling rushed.
- Expert guides share stories and insights that enrich your understanding of Iceland’s landscape and folklore.
Affordable for the experience considering the variety of sights covered in just half a day.
- Good for travelers with limited time or those seeking a structured, hassle-free tour.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Akureyri.
The Starting Point and Transportation
From the moment you’re picked up at Akureyri Cruise Terminal, the journey begins comfortably. The bus is described as clean, well-maintained, and equipped with WiFi, which is a nice touch for travelers who want to share their experience or look up information on the go. The group size is capped at 50 travelers, so it’s not too crowded, yet large enough to feel like a shared adventure.
You’ll appreciate the ease of pickup and drop-off, especially if you’re arriving by cruise or staying nearby. The drive through North Iceland’s rugged landscape is pleasant, with views of snow-capped mountains and valleys setting the tone for the day ahead.
The Stops and Highlights
Goðafoss Waterfall is the first major stop. It’s often called the “Waterfall of the Gods” for a reason— its wide, horseshoe shape makes for impressive photos.
Excellent tour from start to finish. The orange-colored Saga Travel booth was clearly visible immediately after debarking our ship in the Akureyi cruise port. Saga Travel attendants directed us to bus, which left on time. Extremely knowledgeable tour guide, Runar, provided the perfect mix of history and storytelling, with a bit of geology mixed-in, throughout the trip. He also provided more detailed answers to specific questions – excellent guide! Driver, Andrei, was also fabulous. Of course the tour itinerary was as advertised – all of the stops were amazing. Our free coffee and donut at the Godafoss waterfall was a nice treat. None of the stops felt rushed. As other reviewers mentioned, be…
Excellent day trip. Just the right time. Wonderful sights and scenery. Guide was interesting and informative. We enjoyed the walk which was not too long and quite gentle slopes though noticed a few older people struggled a little. Coffee and doughnut at the end was welcome. We recommend and thought it was good value.
I contacted the travel provider because their meet up instructions wasn’t clear. When we got off the cruise ship, we need to walk to the closed by sales cabin and looked for Saga Travel for check in. An associate wearing a red jacket will take us to the tour bus. This excursion is very worthwhile and in good value. Tour guide, Runar, is very knowledgeable about the volcanoes and lava formation in Iceland. The itinerary is perfect, you will visit the Lake Myvatn, lava field, sulfur mine, and the Gooafoss Waterfall. If you like taking photo, this is a great experience!
Multiple reviews love its beauty, describing it as “majestic” and “well worth the trip.” You get about 40 minutes here, which is enough to take photos, soak in the scenery, and maybe get a glimpse of the river’s otherworldly blue hue, as some travelers mention mud pools being more colorful than expected.
Next, the group heads to Skútustaðir Crater Row. The views over Lake Mývatn here are stunning, and the information center provides context about the reserve. It’s a brief stop, about 20 minutes, but enough to snap some pictures and understand the volcanic activity that shaped the area.
Dimmuborgir Lava Formations are next, and are often a highlight. The formations, formed some 2300 years ago, look like trolls frozen in time, stirring stories of Icelandic folklore.
With 50 minutes here, travelers can walk among the jagged lava pillars, marvel at the bizarre shapes, and listen to guides share tales about trolls and myth. Reviews mention the formations as “interesting” and “fun,” especially with a guide weaving stories.
Namafjall Hverir geothermal area completes the sightseeing. You’ll see bubbling mud pools and fumaroles, creating an alien landscape. The steam vents and pools glow with vibrant blues and reds, making for great photos. This stop is only 20 minutes but leaves a lasting impression. Reviewers comment on the “otherworldly views,” and the geothermal activity being more colorful than many expect.
Practical Details and Value
You might wonder about the cost—$164.87 per person for a six-hour tour that covers so many key sites seems reasonable, especially considering all transportation, taxes, and WiFi are included. Lunch isn’t covered, but there’s a short break to grab a snack or eat a packed lunch, which gives flexibility.
The guides seem to be a standout feature. Multiple travelers praise knowledge and personal stories, with some reviews highlighting their guides’ ability to make the landscape come alive, even in rainy weather or with language nuances. For example, one review mentions a guide who explained every detail clearly, making the experience educational and engaging.
The Balance of Time and Sights
One common theme in reviews is that the tour is well-paced. With several stops ranging from 20 to 50 minutes, there’s enough time to see, photograph, and absorb each location without feeling overwhelmed. Since the drive between sites is about an hour back to Akureyri, the day is well-structured, balancing sightseeing with comfort.
However, some travelers mention that the time at each stop is somewhat limited—if you’re the type who loves to linger and explore every nook, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for most, it’s a fair compromise to see the highlights efficiently.
Reviews in Context
Looking at the overwhelmingly positive feedback, the tour consistently scores near perfect ratings. Travelers repeatedly mention the guides, the breathtaking sights, and the value for money. Some even note last-minute adjustments, such as early departures due to cruise schedule changes, were handled smoothly.
There are minor complaints, mostly about the occasional logistical hiccup—like a last-minute vehicle change or WiFi issues—but these seem to be exceptions rather than the rule. Importantly, the overall experience remains very positive.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?
If you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized day trip that hits the major sights of North Iceland, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially ideal if you prefer guided comfort over self-driving and want insights into Icelandic folklore and geology. The stops are carefully chosen for their dramatic scenery and photo potential, making it great for travelers eager to capture memorable images.
However, if you’re someone who loves to spend hours exploring each site, you might find this tour somewhat rushed. For those with limited time, or traveling with a group who prefers a structured, hassle-free experience, it offers excellent value. The small group size and professional guide make it a engaging way to learn about this wild landscape.
This tour provides a balance of scenic beauty, expert commentary, and convenience. It’s a dependable choice for travelers eager to see North Iceland’s most iconic sights without the stress of planning every detail.
Lake Mývatn & Goðafoss Waterfall from Akureyri Port
"A really fun day trip, offering history, storytelling and geology all in one! You'll get to learn about volcanoes and lava formations in Iceland. O..."
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for families or children?
While the description doesn’t specifically mention children, the stops are mostly outdoor scenic sites like waterfalls and lava formations, which are generally family-friendly. Keep in mind the duration—about six hours—and the fact that some walking might be involved.
How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 6 hours, including transportation, sightseeing stops, and the drive back to Akureyri.
Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch isn’t included. There’s a short break for a meal or snack during the day, so you should plan accordingly.
Does the tour accommodate last-minute schedule changes?
Yes, if your cruise or plans change, the tour provider is known to be flexible and communicative about adjusting times, as some reviews mention.
What kind of vehicle is used?
The tour uses a comfortable coach with WiFi, making the journey more enjoyable and convenient.
Can I expect wildlife sightings?
While the itinerary mentions watching for wildlife along the way, the primary focus is on the geological and scenic features, so wildlife viewing isn’t guaranteed.
Is the guide knowledgeable about local folklore and geology?
Absolutely. Multiple reviews highlight guides sharing stories about trolls, volcanoes, and local culture, adding rich context to the scenery.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather to run as planned. If canceled due to bad weather, you’re offered a different date or full refund.
This guided day trip to Lake Mývatn and Goðafoss Waterfall from Akureyri is a good pick for those wanting a well-rounded, scenic, and informative experience. With strong reviews and a good price point, it’s a reliable way to see some of Iceland’s most memorable landscapes without the hassle of organizing it all yourself.
