Myvatn Nature Baths & Goðafoss Waterfall Akureyri Shore Excursion

Exploring North Iceland: A Practical Review of the Myvatn Nature Baths & Góðafoss Waterfall Shore Excursion

If you’re planning a cruise stop in Akureyri and want a way to make the most of your limited time, this 6-hour shore excursion offers a solid mix of stunning scenery and relaxing experiences. While we haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, the reviews and details shared by travelers paint a pretty clear picture of what to expect.

What we really appreciate about this trip are two main things: first, the opportunity to see iconic sights like Góðafoss waterfall and Lake Mývatn without the hassle of planning logistics yourself, and second, the chance to unwind in the geothermal waters of Mývatn Nature Baths, often called the “Blue Lagoon of the north.”

A possible consideration is the limited time at each stop, which, depending on your travel style, might feel a bit rushed. The tour is tailored to fit cruise schedules, so if you’re after a laid-back, lengthy exploration, this might not be your best fit. However, for those wanting a well-organized overview of north Iceland with highlights covered efficiently, it’s a solid choice.

This experience would suit travelers who want a convenient, guided day that hits the main sights without the stress of independent planning, especially if you enjoy a relaxing soak in geothermal waters after a day of sightseeing.

Key Points

• Well-structured for cruise travelers with pick-up and drop-off directly from the port
• Includes popular highlights like Góðafoss waterfall and Lake Mývatn views
• Relaxing experience in the geothermal waters at Mývatn Nature Baths
• Value for money with a combination of sightseeing, a picnic lunch, and hot baths
• Group size capped at 60 travelers, ensuring it’s not overly crowded
• Variable review feedback about timing and lunch arrangements; worth considering if you’re particular about meal quality and schedule

What the Tour Offers: A Detailed Look

The Easy Start: Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with a pickup directly from Akureyri’s cruise port, which is a huge plus. The last thing you want is to waste precious sightseeing time hunting down your bus or waiting around. Most reviews emphasize how smooth and organized this process is, with the guides and drivers handling logistics professionally. You’ll then travel in a comfortable coach—big enough for plenty of fellow travelers but not so large that you feel lost in the crowd.

The drive to Góðafoss takes about an hour, giving you a chance to enjoy Iceland’s landscape from the window. The group is limited to about 60 people, which helps prevent the tour from feeling too crowded and keeps the experience manageable.

Góðafoss Waterfall: A Natural Wonder with Historical Significance

Your first stop is Góðafoss, often called the “Waterfall of the Gods.” Not only is it visually striking, but it also carries a deep historical significance as the site where Icelanders adopted Christianity in the 9th century. With around 45 minutes here, you get enough time to walk along the paths, take photos, and soak in the falls’ powerful presence.

Reviews describe Góðafoss as “breathtaking” and “beautiful,” with many travelers mentioning how manageable the walk is, even for those with limited mobility. Keep in mind, this is a photo-friendly stop—not a lengthy hike—so plan to enjoy the views and move on.

Lake Mývatn Viewpoint: A Snapshot of Iceland’s Volcanic Landscape

Next, the guide takes you to a viewpoint overlooking Lake Mývatn. It’s a quick 20-minute stop, but the scenery is unusual and photogenic. The landscape here is characterized by volcanic features, and many reviews highlight how striking the volcanic formations are.

While the stop is brief, you’ll get a sense of Iceland’s geological activity, maybe even spotting some of the sulfur springs nearby. It’s a great photo op and a chance to get a taste of the island’s volcanic energy.

The Highlight: Mývatn Nature Baths

The star of the tour is the 2-hour visit to Mývatn Nature Baths, often referred to as the “Blue Lagoon of the north.” This part is usually the most relaxing and well-loved segment. The water here is geothermally heated, offering a warm, soothing soak in a stunning setting.

Reviews rave about the baths, describing them as “amazing” and “peaceful,” with some travelers noting they even fell asleep on the bus ride back. You’ll enjoy multiple hot pools and steam rooms, with spectacular vistas of the surrounding volcanic landscape. The baths are naturally heated, so the experience is more authentic than synthetic.

The approximate 2-hour window allows plenty of time for soaking, but keep in mind, the guide says the drive to and from takes about an hour each way, so some time is naturally spent in transit. While some reviews mention the baths being shorted slightly (by about 30 minutes in one case), most agree that the opportunity to relax in geothermal waters is well worth it.

Tip: Bring your own towel and swimsuit if you prefer, as these are not included in the price but can be rented at the Baths. This is emphasized in some reviews, and travelers appreciate being prepared for a seamless experience.

The Lunch and Logistics

A modest picnic lunch is included, typically consisting of a packaged chicken sandwich and a bottle of water. Some reviews say the lunch isn’t gourmet, but it’s functional and keeps you fueled for the day. One reviewer noted the lunch arrived quite late, which can be inconvenient if you’re hungry or pressed for time.

The tour is designed to be efficient, so timing can be tight. If you’re particular about quality meals or longer stops, this setup might feel rushed. For many, however, the convenience outweighs this minor drawback.

The Experience in Practice: What Travelers Say

Many travelers highlight the expertise and friendliness of guides like Victoria (“Vick the Viking”) and the driver Eugene, noting how they make the trip informative and enjoyable. The stories and Icelandic history shared along the way add an enriching layer to the sightseeing.

Reviewers love the scenery—the waterfall, volcanic landscape, and geothermal waters—describing the day as “beautiful” and “out of this world.” Several mention how the baths during snowfall added an extra magical touch.

Some points of criticism involve timing issues—shortened visits at the baths and waterfalls, crowded boarding, or confusion about parking. While most found the organization good, a few felt the schedule was a little rushed, especially if you’re eager to linger longer at each stop.

Pricing at $232 per person is generally considered reasonable, given the inclusion of transport, admission to the baths, and a guided experience. Compared to independent arrangements, this package offers great value for those wanting a hassle-free day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This excursion is ideal if you want to maximize a short port stop and prefer having someone else handle the driving and planning. It’s especially suited to travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and relaxing baths, and who are okay with a fast-paced itinerary.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who don’t mind a group setting, it can be a fun, sociable way to see Iceland’s highlights. Keep in mind, the limited time at each stop might not satisfy those seeking a leisurely exploration, but it’s perfect for anyone wanting a taste of Iceland’s natural beauty in a compact trip.

FAQ: Practical Questions About the Tour

How early should I book this tour?
Most travelers book around 91 days in advance, so it’s best to reserve early if you want to secure your spot.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from the cruise port is part of the package, making it very convenient.

What is the duration of the trip?
The entire experience lasts around 6 hours, including driving time, stops, and the soak at the baths.

Are meals included?
A picnic lunch is included, but reviews indicate it’s simple—mainly a packaged chicken sandwich and water—so consider bringing extra snacks if you’re hungry.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the stops are generally manageable for most ages; however, the focus on relaxation and short sightseeing stops is better suited for older kids or teenagers.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Wrapping Up

If you’re after a well-organized, scenic, and relaxing day exploring North Iceland, this tour ticks a lot of boxes. It combines natural beauty with the comfort of guided logistics, making it a great choice for cruise passengers who want to see Iceland’s highlights without stress. Many travelers sing its praises for the knowledgeable guides, breathtaking vistas, and soothing geothermal baths.

Keep in mind, the experience isn’t about long, leisurely explorations—it’s about efficiently fitting the top sights into your limited time. If you’re content with a fast-paced adventure that balances sightseeing with relaxation, this tour is likely to leave you with wonderful memories of Iceland’s rugged charm.

This tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to experience some of Iceland’s most famous sights, especially if you value convenience and a touch of relaxation amidst your exploration. Just be prepared for the schedule’s pace and bring along essentials like towels and snacks to enhance your day.