Lake Mývatn & Goðafoss Waterfall from Akureyri Port

If you’re visiting Akureyri and want to experience some of Iceland’s most iconic sights without the hassle of driving yourself, this Lake Mývatn & Goðafoss Waterfall tour offers a smooth, well-organized way to see the highlights. With a comfortable coach, insightful guides, and plenty of opportunities for photos, it’s designed to give you a taste of Iceland’s dramatic landscapes without feeling rushed.

One of the things we love most about this tour is the expert guidance—reviews consistently highlight guides like Elsa and Aitana for their engaging stories and local knowledge, which really enhance the experience. However, keep in mind that lunch isn’t included, so a quick snack or meal beforehand will keep you energized for the day. This tour suits those eager for an immersive day out, especially if you prefer group settings and want to learn as much as possible about Iceland’s geology, folklore, and scenery.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: See waterfalls, volcanic formations, and geothermal pools in a single day.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides add cultural and geological context to each stop.
• Comfortable Transport: Modern coach with WiFi ensures a relaxing, connected ride.
• Flexible Photo Opportunities: Plenty of time at each stop for capturing the scenery.
• Good Value: For around $165, you get a comprehensive tour with transportation and entrance fees included.
• Suitable for Most Travelers: Easy to participate in, with most people able to enjoy the sights.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting in Akureyri, the tour kicks off with a quick pick-up at the port, setting a relaxed pace for the day. As the “capital of North Iceland,” Akureyri provides the perfect launchpad for exploring this rugged landscape. The small group size—up to 50 travelers—helps keep the experience intimate and manageable, allowing guides to tailor their stories and answer questions along the way.

First Stop: Goðafoss Waterfall

One of the standout highlights is Goðafoss, often called the “Waterfall of the Gods.” Located in the Skjálfandafljót glacier river, this waterfall plunges around 12 meters into a gorge, creating a stunning cascade. Reviewers emphasize just how scenic it is, describing it as “majestic” and “very scenic.” Visitors often comment on the impressive volume of water and the opportunity to snap dramatic photos from various viewpoints, thanks to the 40-minute stop.

What makes Goðafoss special? Not only is it visually breathtaking, but it’s also steeped in Icelandic folklore. The name references a pivotal moment in Iceland’s conversion to Christianity, making it a site of cultural significance as well as natural beauty.

Second Stop: Skútustaðir Crater Row

Next, the tour visits Skútustaðir, where a row of volcanic craters offers a unique landscape. These pseudo-craters formed in a lakebed about 2,300 years ago, and the view over Lake Mývatn is fantastic. This 20-minute stop provides a scenic overlook and a chance to stretch your legs. An on-site information center offers context about the lake’s geology and ecosystem, enhancing your understanding of this volcanic region.

Third Stop: Dimmuborgir Lava Formations

The Dimmuborgir lava fields are often cited as the trip’s highlight. Formed during a lagoon of magma roughly 2,300 years ago, these intricate lava formations resemble trolls frozen in time, inspiring local myths and tales. The 50-minute walk here allows you to explore the twisted shapes and learn about the volcanic activity that shaped them. Reviewers rave about the “fun” stories guide Elsa shared about trolls and mythological creatures, making this stop both educational and entertaining.

Fourth Stop: Namafjall Hverir Geothermal Area

The tour then takes you to Hverir, where steaming fumaroles and bubbling mud pools create an otherworldly landscape. This geothermal area, with boiling mud and steaming vents, is a must-see for nature lovers. The 20-minute stop offers vivid photo opportunities and a chance to feel the geothermal heat firsthand. As one reviewer noted, even with rain, the activity at Hverir remained fascinating, and the steaming pools looked remarkably vibrant, often described as “blue” and “colorful.”

Scenic Drive Back

After a day packed with awe-inspiring sights and fascinating geology, the journey back to Akureyri takes about an hour. Many travelers mention that the drive itself is relaxing, with good WiFi onboard to share photos or check maps.

Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. The value of this tour lies in the combination of spectacular scenery, insightful narration, and convenience. For about $165 per person, you get transportation, all entry fees, and a guide who is both knowledgeable and personable—something many reviews highlight as a key strength. The fact that it’s booked roughly 60 days in advance speaks to its popularity and perceived reliability.

Most travelers seem to agree that the guides make or break the experience. Elsa, Rungar, and Aitana are frequently praised for their storytelling, personal touches, and ability to convey Iceland’s geological and cultural stories in engaging ways. One reviewer even mentioned that their guide’s stories about trolls added that extra special touch to the lava formations.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is quite comprehensive, it’s worth noting that lunch isn’t included. Travelers suggest bringing snacks or planning a quick meal during the short stops. The tour duration of approximately six hours makes it manageable even for those with limited time in Akureyri. The group size and comfortable coach mean you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and WiFi on board helps stay connected or plan your next Icelandic adventure.

Potential Drawbacks

Some feedback hints at small hiccups, like miscommunications about the route or timing, especially on last-minute vehicle changes. WiFi issues were also mentioned, but overall, these seem minor compared to the overall positive experience. Given the scenic diversity and expert guidance, most travelers find these small issues easy to overlook.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a full-day, well-rounded introduction to North Iceland’s natural wonders, this tour is hard to beat. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see a variety of landscapes—waterfalls, volcanic craters, geothermal pools—in a single trip without the stress of driving. Nature enthusiasts, geology buffs, and folklore lovers will especially enjoy the stories and scenery.

The tour is also suited for those who value comfort and convenience—modern transportation, WiFi, and a knowledgeable guide make the day smooth and enjoyable. It’s perfect for cruise ship passengers with tight schedules, as reviews mention timely pickups and drops that ensure you’re back on time.

While it doesn’t include lunch, the stops are well-paced, and plenty of photo opportunities make it a worthwhile investment. If you’re not a fan of long hikes or strenuous activity, this is a relaxed way to experience Iceland’s rugged beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation in a comfortable coach with WiFi is included from Akureyri Port to all the stops and back.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, including travel time and stops.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, all fees and taxes are covered in the tour price.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there’s a short break where you can grab a snack.

How many people are in the group?
The maximum group size is 50 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate.

Can I expect personalized guidance?
Yes, reviews consistently praise guides like Elsa, Aitana, and Rungar for their engaging storytelling and knowledge.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, as it involves mainly sightseeing stops and short walks. However, young children should be prepared for some outdoor exposure and variable weather.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, snacks, weather-appropriate clothing, and a sense of adventure. The stops are outdoors and often involve walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Final Thoughts

For anyone arriving in Akureyri and eager to uncover Iceland’s northern gems, this Lake Mývatn & Goðafoss Waterfall tour offers an impressive mix of natural beauty, geological wonder, and cultural storytelling. The combination of breathtaking waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and geothermal activity makes it a well-rounded adventure.

With expert guides who bring the sites alive with stories, and a comfortable coach that handles the long drives with ease, it’s a reliable choice for travelers of all kinds. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned explorer, you’ll leave with a camera full of stunning images and a deeper appreciation for Iceland’s volcanic roots.

This tour balances value and experience beautifully, making it a standout option for those wanting an authentic glimpse of North Iceland. It’s especially ideal if you’re short on time but don’t want to miss the region’s most iconic sights.

In summary: This is a thoughtfully curated, engaging, and scenic journey suitable for most travelers. It offers excellent value, memorable sights, and guides who truly enhance the experience. If you’re looking for a day filled with natural wonders and captivating stories, this trip is definitely worth considering.