Dettifoss Waterfall, Asbyrgi and Lake Myvatn Tour from Husavík

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and want to see some of the most iconic and breathtaking sights without the hassle of planning every stop yourself, this tour from Húsavík might catch your eye. It promises to cover a lot—featuring impressive waterfalls, a legendary canyon, geothermal marvels, and scenic lake views—all in about five and a half hours. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or looking to fill some gaps in your Iceland itinerary, this trip offers a solid overview with highlights that tend to leave a lasting impression.

What we genuinely like about this tour is its focus on Iceland’s top natural attractions, making it a good choice for those wanting an efficient and guided experience. Plus, the itinerary includes some lesser-known gems like Námaskarð, which feels a bit more off the beaten path. However, one thing to keep in mind is that this is a fairly busy, group-oriented outing with limited flexibility, and some reviews point to logistical hiccups that might affect your experience. Still, if you’re after a comprehensive snapshot of the north’s landscapes, this could be right up your alley.

On the flip side, potential travelers should consider the reviews about organization and communication issues—like overbooking and last-minute changes. Also, the tour is priced at $199 per person, which is reasonable given the sightseeing packed into the day, but it’s worth weighing whether the actual experience matches your expectations for value, especially with reports of guest mix-ups. This tour generally suits travelers who want a guided, no-fuss day with plenty of photo opportunities and sightseeing.

Key Points

• Highlights include some of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls and landscapes, making it ideal for first-timers.
• The itinerary covers diverse sites like Dettifoss, Ásbyrgi, and Lake Mývatn, offering a broad view of northern Iceland.
• Group size maxes out at 59 travelers, which is fairly large but typical for this type of excursion.
• Some reviews mention organization issues, so expect the possibility of last-minute surprises.
• The tour price of $199 offers a good value for the amount of ground covered, assuming everything runs smoothly.
• It’s best suited for travelers who want a guided experience and don’t mind a busy schedule or potential logistical hiccups.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Out in Húsavík

The journey begins from Norðurgarður in Húsavík, a charming harbor town renowned for whale watching. From here, you’ll hop aboard a bus that takes you through scenic Icelandic countryside. The start is straightforward, and the tour provider, BusTravel Iceland, offers a mobile ticket for convenience. However, a couple of reviews hint at some organizational hiccups—like some guests being left behind or confusion about the start time. While these seem to be exceptions rather than the norm, it’s worth arriving a little early and confirming your spot.

First Stop: Ásbyrgi Canyon

The first major site, Ásbyrgi, is a standout. This horseshoe-shaped canyon oozes both natural beauty and mythological significance—legend says Odin’s horse, Sleipnir, created it. We loved the way the towering cliffs surround lush greenery and tranquil ponds, creating a peaceful contrast to Iceland’s often stark landscape. It’s a great spot for a short hike or just to soak in the scenery.

You’ll have about 45 minutes here, which is enough time to explore the trails and visit Botnstjörn, a picturesque lake in the canyon. The fact that it’s free to visit makes it accessible for everyone, and the presence of hiking trails adds some flexibility depending on your energy level.

The Power of Dettifoss Waterfall

Next up is Dettifoss, Europe’s mightiest waterfall, which tends to blow visitors away with its thunderous roar. Standing 44 meters tall and stretching 100 meters wide, it’s a spectacle of nature’s raw force. The surrounding Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon enhances the dramatic backdrop, giving visitors a sense of Iceland’s geological might.

Expect about an hour and a half here—ample time to admire different viewpoints and snap photos. It’s accessible via well-maintained trails, so you don’t need special equipment. We’ve read reviews that many find Dettifoss to be the tour’s highlight, and it’s easy to see why. Just be prepared for the weather—wind and spray from the falls can be intense, so dress appropriately.

Exploring Námaskarð Geothermal Area

From icy waterfalls to bubbling mud pots, Námaskarð offers a surreal experience. The landscape looks like something straight out of a sci-fi film, with steaming vents, vibrant mineral deposits, and strange colors. It’s a quick stop—around 30 minutes—but enough for a walk on the boardwalks and some great photos.

The terrain here is stark but teeming with life, proof of the resilience of organisms living in extreme conditions. Visitors appreciate the uniqueness of this geothermal hotspot, though some note that the area’s harsh appearance can be a bit intimidating. Still, it’s a memorable part of the tour for those interested in Iceland’s geothermal activity.

Lake Mývatn and Surroundings

Driving through the Lake Mývatn area, you’ll get a view of the lake and the surrounding lava formations. While the stop here is relatively short—about an hour—it’s a chance to enjoy scenic views and see how volcanic activity has shaped the landscape. Some reviews mention that the drive itself is part of the charm, offering plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet reflection.

Returning to Húsavík

After soaking in the sights, the group heads back to Húsavík, with a possible short photo stop if timing allows. The return leg is about an hour, giving you a chance to relax and chat about your favorite moments of the day.

The Logistics and Organization

The tour lasts roughly 5.5 hours, which is quite packed considering the distances covered. Transportation is by bus, and the group size can reach up to 59 travelers, meaning it’s a sizable tour. While this can be efficient for covering multiple sites, some guests have reported issues like overbooking, miscommunication about start times, or delays. For example, one reviewer shared that they were left behind because their name wasn’t on the list, and another was called to join the bus after already boarding.

The tour is priced at $199 per person, which is reasonable given the number of attractions visited. However, reviews point out that there’s no Wi-Fi on the bus, which could be a downside for those wanting to stay connected or get some work done during transit.

Practical Tips

• Arrive early and confirm your reservation to avoid any issues.
• Dress in layers—you’ll be exposed to wind, spray, and changing weather conditions.
• Bring your camera or phone for the numerous photo opportunities.
• Note that food isn’t included, but the review mentions sandwiches being acceptable, so you might want to bring snacks.
• Be aware that the tour can be busy, and organizational issues might occur, so patience is key.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a guided overview of some of Iceland’s most stunning northern sights without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. It caters well to those who enjoy a structured day, don’t mind large groups, and are okay with some unpredictability.

It’s suitable for those interested in geology, waterfalls, and geothermal landscapes, especially if they’re on a tight schedule and want to maximize sightseeing. If you’re traveling with family or friends who are comfortable with group tours, this could be a fun and efficient way to experience Iceland’s natural beauty.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a convenient way to see a good selection of Iceland’s dramatic landscapes in one day. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, and the guide’s knowledge can add depth to the experience—though, as some reviews highlight, organizational hiccups can be a concern. The cost is fair for the coverage and accessibility, especially if you value guided transportation over self-driving.

If you’re someone who appreciates guided excursions with an emphasis on natural wonders and aren’t fussed about small organizational glitches, this could be a memorable part of your Iceland trip. Just remember to manage your expectations about schedule and communication, and come prepared for the outdoors.

FAQs

Is food included in the tour?
No, food isn’t included. The review mentions sandwiches being okay, so bringing snacks or a light lunch might be a good idea, especially since the stops are relatively short.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 5 hours and 30 minutes, including travel time and sightseeing at each stop.

Are tickets purchased in advance?
Yes, most travelers book around 42 days ahead on average, and a mobile ticket is provided for convenience.

Is there Wi-Fi on the bus?
No, according to reviews, Wi-Fi isn’t available, so be prepared for offline travel.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the sites visited involve some walking and exposure to outdoor conditions—so it may be best suited for older children or teens comfortable with outdoor sightseeing.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

This tour from Húsavík offers a solid, if sometimes imperfect, way to experience some of Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes. With a bit of patience and a sense of adventure, you’ll leave with plenty of photos and memories of this striking country.