From Akureyri Port: Diamond Circle Guided Day Trip w/ Lunch

If you’re visiting Iceland and looking to see some of the country’s most striking natural sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself, the Diamond Circle Guided Day Trip from Akureyri might be just what you need. This organized tour promises to take you through a series of breathtaking landscapes, from thundering waterfalls to geothermal hot springs, all packed into a manageable 8-hour day.

What we really like about this trip is how smoothly it runs—it’s designed to maximize your sightseeing while keeping everything comfortable, including air-conditioned transportation and a packed lunch. Plus, the tour’s guides are well-reviewed for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both informative and engaging. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the timing, especially if you’re on a cruise and need to stick to a schedule; some reviews mention the importance of punctuality.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to cover a lot of ground with expert insights, especially those who prefer to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving or logistics. If you’re eager to tick off key Icelandic sights in one go, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visit top sites like Dettifoss, Goðafoss, and Húsavík in one day.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for being knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging.
• Comfortable Transport: Modern, air-conditioned bus with WiFi helps keep the journey pleasant.
• Value for Money: Includes a packed lunch, making it a convenient all-in-one experience.
• Scenic Stops: Plenty of photo opportunities at waterfalls, geothermal areas, and viewpoints.
• Time Management: Well-organized to fit a full day but can be affected by delays or late arrivals.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

This guided day trip is designed to make your Iceland adventure as straightforward and memorable as possible. Starting from Akureyri, the tour runs for about 8 hours, covering some of North Iceland’s most iconic sights. The first thing you’ll notice is the comfortable, air-conditioned bus equipped with WiFi—helpful for staying connected or just sharing photos along the way.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Gránufélagsgata 50, where your guide will meet you. From there, you’ll head out on a journey that begins with a visit to Goðafoss, often called the “Waterfall of the Gods.” As one reviewer puts it, ” marvel at the powerful falls and watch as the water cascades down from a height of 12 meters.” You’ll have around 45 minutes here, enough time for photos and a quick walk to different vantage points. The cascade’s raw power is captivating, and it’s a perfect first stop to set the tone for the day.

Next, your route takes you to Ásbyrgi Canyon, a horseshoe-shaped valley surrounded by towering cliffs. It’s a peaceful spot for a gentle walk, and many travelers enjoy the scenic views and the tranquility of this unique landscape. It’s a quieter part of the day but well worth the stop—especially for those wanting a good stretch.

One of the biggest highlights is Dettifoss, the second-largest waterfall in Iceland by volume. An 80-minute stop here allows for some seriously impressive photos and a walk closer to the rushing water. One review emphasizes that “the waterfalls are really amazing to see,” and you’ll want your camera ready for this powerfully scenic site.

Húsavík, known as the whale watching capital of Iceland, is the next stop. The village’s small, picturesque church is considered one of the most beautiful in the country, and many reviews mention how charming and peaceful this spot feels. You’ll get about 20 minutes here for photos and a quick look around.

From there, the tour takes you to the Tjörnes cliff viewpoint, offering sweeping views of the sea and fjord, which is a lovely place for a quick photo. The highlight for many is Námaskarð, where geothermal activity is on display—think bubbling mud pools and steaming hot springs. This part of the tour really shows Iceland’s volcanic power and ongoing geothermal activity.

Finally, you’ll pass by Lake Mývatn, famed for its surreal landscapes, before heading back to Akureyri. The entire trip covers roughly 8 hours, giving you a solid overview of North Iceland’s most famous sights without feeling rushed.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For convenience, the tour includes a guide, transportation in a comfortable bus, WiFi, and a packed lunch with a sandwich (chicken or vegan), juice, and a chocolate bar. Having lunch included helps you save time and money, and the variety is generally appreciated by travelers. One review mentions the lunch as “ok,” with some suggesting the sandwiches could be a bit better, but overall, it’s a practical perk.

A note to bring your own water bottle—the tour doesn’t include bottled water, but plenty of stops make it easy to stay hydrated.

The Experience and Group Dynamics

According to reviews, the guides are a real strength. Comments like “Kjartan was a brilliant guide, so informative, funny and professional,” and “Unnur was really kind and caring” highlight the personal touch and local knowledge that make the trip stand out. The guides don’t just narrate facts—they weave in legends and Icelandic mythology, giving depth and personality to each stop.

Most travelers found the group size manageable, with enough time to explore each site and take photos. The tour is suitable for most travelers who are comfortable sitting on a bus for several hours and walking a bit at each stop. It’s not overly strenuous, but comfortable shoes are recommended for walking and exploring.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Downsides and Considerations

The main challenge that some travelers mention is timing. Since the tour is scheduled to last around 8 hours, delays—like fellow passengers arriving late—can cut into sightseeing time. One review notes that “we lost the last stop because of late arrivals,” so punctuality is key if you’re on a tight schedule, especially if you have cruise ship departures or tight connections.

Another aspect to keep in mind is the lunch—while included, some found it to be of average quality. If you’re a foodie or prefer more substantial meals, you might want to bring extra snacks or a different lunch.

Lastly, the tour might not appeal if you prefer to explore independently or want more time at each site. Organized tours like this are designed to give a quick but rundown, which is perfect for many but may feel rushed for others.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re a traveler who loves seeing multiple iconic sights in a single day, this trip offers tremendous value. It’s especially suited for those with limited time in Iceland, cruise passengers wanting to maximize their port visit, or anyone who prefers guided experiences with expert insights. It’s also good for those who enjoy comfortable transportation and don’t mind a full day on the road.

However, if you’re looking for a very relaxed pace or want to explore some sites more in-depth, you might find this tour a bit busy. For picture-takers and nature lovers alike, the stops are well-chosen and photogenic, making it an excellent choice for capturing Iceland’s natural beauty.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers? Yes, the tour is designed with cruise schedules in mind, ending back at the starting point in time for ship departures.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, water, snacks, and a camera. The included lunch covers the basics but consider bringing extra snacks if you want more variety.

How long is the bus ride? The entire day includes several stops, with about 30 minutes at the start and an hour back at the end. The bus itself is comfortable and equipped with WiFi.

Are the sites accessible for all? Most stops involve walking, but the tour is generally suitable for most travelers able to handle short walks and standing.

What if I am not a big fan of bus tours? This tour is quite structured, so if you prefer a more flexible or independent sightseeing route, it might not be your best fit.

Can I customize the itinerary? No, this is a pre-organized guided tour with a fixed schedule.

Is the tour family-friendly? While not specifically marketed as a family tour, most stops are outdoor and accessible. Consider your children’s walking stamina and interest in natural sights.

What’s the best time of year for this tour? The tour runs year-round, but always check availability. Summer offers longer days and milder weather, while winter adds snow but shorter daylight hours.

Will I have enough time at each stop? Yes, most reviews indicate that the stops are timed well, but punctuality is important to maximize your experience.

Final Thoughts

This Diamond Circle guided tour from Akureyri offers an excellent opportunity to see some of Iceland’s most extraordinary landscapes with minimal hassle. The combination of expert guides, comfortable transportation, and a carefully curated itinerary makes it a solid choice for travelers eager to tick off iconic sights without the stress of planning each detail.

While it’s not perfect—some may find the schedule tight or wish for better lunch options—the overall experience is highly praised. Expect stunning waterfalls, geothermal wonders, and charming villages, all brought to life by guides who genuinely love sharing their homeland.

If you value convenience, expert insights, and a rundown of North Iceland’s highlights, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suited for those wanting a well-organized day of natural beauty, whether visiting on a cruise or exploring for a short period.

Ready to explore North Iceland with confidence? This tour could very well be the highlight of your trip. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure—and your camera.

You can check availability for your dates here: