Akureyri Port: Lake Mývatn & Goðafoss Waterfall Day Trip

If you’re planning to cruise through Iceland’s Northeastern Region and want to make the most of your time ashore, a guided tour like this one from Akureyri is worth considering. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a clear picture of what you can expect. This tour promises a blend of Iceland’s iconic waterfalls, surreal volcanic landscapes, and geothermal activity—all packed into a manageable 7-hour window.

What really catches our eye are the stunning photo opportunities at Goðafoss Waterfall and the unique lunar-like scenery at Lake Mývatn. Plus, the chance to see geothermal fields with bubbling mud pools and fumaroles adds that extra wild, otherworldly vibe to your day. On the flip side, it’s a fairly full itinerary, so if you’re looking for a super relaxed, slow-paced visit, this might feel a little rushed. That said, it’s well-suited for cruise passengers eager to hit the highlights efficiently.

This tour suits travelers who value knowledgeable guides, striking scenery, and a well-organized day without too much fuss. It’s especially good if you’re limited on time but want to see some of Iceland’s most dramatic sights in one go.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: Expect picture-perfect views at Goðafoss and Lake Mývatn’s lunar landscapes.
• Expert Guides: Highly praised guides who share their knowledge and keep the day engaging.
• Efficient Itinerary: Designed for cruise ship schedules, fitting multiple highlights into about 7 hours.
• Geothermal Wonders: Experience bubbling mud pools and fumaroles that showcase Iceland’s volcanic activity.
• Photo Opportunities: Plenty of stops for capturing spectacular landscapes and waterfalls.
• Additional Options: Possible visit to Mývatn Nature Baths for a geothermal soak if time allows.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on This Tour

This trip is a solid choice if you want to see the best of Iceland’s North in a single day. It kicks off with a pickup at the Akureyri cruise terminal, so you won’t have to worry about logistics — just hop on the bus and enjoy the ride. The drive along the coast of Eyjafjordur offers lovely views and sets a relaxed tone for the day.

The Highlights of the Itinerary

Goðafoss Waterfall is the first major stop. Standing around 39 feet tall, this waterfall isn’t just picturesque; it’s loaded with history and folklore. Many travelers describe it as breathtaking, and with good reason. The site allows for 45 minutes to soak in the views, take photos, and listen to stories about its significance.

Next, you’ll be heading toward Lake Mývatn, a site famous for its volcanic activity and lunar landscape. The route includes stops at Pseudo Craters, which resemble craters from the Moon—a surreal sight. Expect to spend around 30 minutes here, capturing the strange formations and imagining what it would be like to walk on an alien surface.

Dimmuborgir lava fields follow, offering a tense landscape filled with unusual rock formations and caves. Around 30 minutes are allocated here, giving you time to stretch your legs and marvel at Iceland’s volcanic power. Then, a quick stop at Hverir, an area with bubbling mud pools and fumaroles, lets you witness some of the most active geothermal features.

If time permits and your schedule allows, the tour includes a generous 75-minute window for a more in-depth exploration, a chance to really soak in the diverse scenery. Finally, there’s an optional visit to the Mývatn Nature Baths—a perfect way to unwind in warm geothermal waters if your cruise schedule is flexible.

How the Day Unfolds

The tour is carefully structured to maximize your sightseeing while respecting your cruise ship’s timing. With short drives between stops, you’ll spend a good amount of time exploring each site. The guides are praised for their knowledge and their ability to keep the group on schedule, which is especially important when you’re only in port for a limited window.

The Guides and Group Experience

Multiple reviewers mention guides like Agust and Siggi, emphasizing their professionalism, enthusiasm, and depth of knowledge. Their storytelling and ability to answer questions add a personal touch that makes the experience more engaging. Many reviews highlight how guides go beyond just pointing out sights—they share stories, insights, and extra tips that deepen your understanding of Iceland’s geology and culture.

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The Vehicle and Comfort

While the reviews don’t specify the exact vehicle type, the focus on timing and group size suggests comfortable transportation suited for day trips. The small group sizes (implied by the positive reviews) help keep things intimate and flexible, allowing guides to adjust the pace when needed.

The Food and Extras

Food isn’t included, so bringing snacks or a packed lunch is a good idea. The tour does not include entry to Mývatn Nature Baths, but you can opt to visit if your schedule allows, and you bring a swimsuit and towel. The optional bath is a delightful bonus for those wanting to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $199 per person, this trip offers a lot for the price, considering it covers transportation, guided commentary, and multiple major stops. The reviews suggest the guides are a highlight, making the experience more than just a series of photo stops. If you’re someone who enjoys learning about geology and volcanic landscapes while taking in breathtaking scenery, many find this trip to be excellent value.

The Value of Guided Tours

For cruise passengers, time is of the essence, and this tour’s structure helps you see Iceland’s key sights efficiently. The convenience of pickup and drop-off at the port means no stress about logistics, and the flexible cancellation policy (full refund up to 24 hours before) adds peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for curious travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Iceland’s North without the hassle of planning individual excursions. It’s ideal for those with limited time in port but eager to see waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and geothermal activity. The guided format suits travelers who appreciate storytelling and expert insights, making the experience more enriching.

While not specifically aimed at families with young children, it’s suitable for most ages given the moderate walking and bus transport. Just remember, if you want to visit the Mývatn Nature Baths, you’ll need your swimsuit and towel.

Final Thoughts

This Akureyri port day trip from Star Travel offers a well-rounded adventure through some of Iceland’s most iconic and otherworldly sights. The combination of dramatic waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and geothermal features means you’ll come away with plenty of memorable photos and stories.

The guides are consistently praised for their friendliness and expertise, elevating an already beautiful experience. The itinerary balances sightseeing and travel time well, making it a practical choice for cruise visitors who want to make every moment count.

If you’re looking for a tour that packs in diverse landscapes, informative commentary, and the chance to see Iceland’s natural power firsthand, this trip fits the bill. Just be prepared for a full day, and bring your camera, some snacks, and an open mind.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes, it’s specifically designed for cruise visitors, with pickup at Akureyri Port and a schedule that aligns with typical ship itineraries.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel time and sightseeing at each stop. Check the availability for specific starting times.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers pickup at the port, transportation, and a guided tour in English. Food, drinks, and entrance to Mývatn Nature Baths are not included.

Can I visit the Mývatn Nature Baths?
Yes, if your cruise schedule allows, you can stop there to relax in the geothermal pools. Just remember to bring your swimsuit and towel.

What are the main sights I’ll see?
You’ll visit Goðafoss Waterfall, Pseudo Craters, Dimmuborgir Lavafield, geothermal areas like Hverir, and enjoy the scenery around Lake Mývatn.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Multiple reviews highlight guides like Agust and Siggi for their engaging storytelling and extensive knowledge about Icelandic geology and culture.

Is there any flexibility during the tour?
The tour is organized with a fixed itinerary, but guides are praised for their ability to read the group and make adjustments, especially if time is tight.

If you’re after a rewarding, visually stunning day in Iceland’s North with a capable guide, this trip from Akureyri hits many of the right notes. It balances natural wonder with practicality, making it a solid choice for those on a cruise or short visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: