Akureyri Port: Myvatn Nature Baths & Godafoss Waterfall Tour

If you’re cruising through Akureyri and want to experience some of Iceland’s most iconic sights, this 6-hour guided tour offers a well-organized way to pack in spectacular waterfalls, otherworldly landscapes, and geothermal relaxation. From the breathtaking Góðafoss waterfall to the surreal terrain around Lake Mývatn, and finally soaking in the mineral-rich waters of Mývatn Nature Baths — this trip balances scenic highlights with authentic Icelandic experiences.

What really makes this tour stand out is the expert guidance and the flexibility it offers, especially with the included packed lunch and the chance to unwind in thermal waters. The downside? It’s a fairly tight schedule, so if you’re seeking a leisurely, longer soak or more time at each stop, this might feel a bit rushed. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for cruise passengers or travelers looking for a value-packed tour that combines sightseeing with relaxation in Iceland’s geothermal culture.

If you love dramatic waterfalls, geological wonders, and the chance to lounge in natural hot springs, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your trip. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided insights and want to maximize their limited time in North Iceland.

Key Points

• Convenient for cruise travelers with flexible pickup options aligned to docking times.
• Includes a delicious packed lunch, with vegetarian/vegan options available.
• Highlights Góðafoss and Lake Mývatn, both offering unique natural beauty and historical significance.
• Relaxing experience at Mývatn Nature Baths, Iceland’s northern analogue to the Blue Lagoon.
• Guided by knowledgeable staff, with rave reviews about their friendliness and storytelling.
• Efficient itinerary that balances sightseeing with relaxing moments, ideal for those on a tight schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point & Logistics

The tour kicks off at Gránufélagsgata 50, close to Akureyri’s cruise ship terminal. The buses are easy to spot, with guides wearing bright orange vests marked with the BusTravel Iceland logo. The schedule is tailored to match your ship’s docking times, ensuring you don’t have to worry about missing the boat. This flexibility is a real plus for cruise passengers, who often face tight timelines—but it’s wise to check the exact start times when booking.

The Scenic Drive & First Stop: Góðafoss Waterfall

The first stop is the stunning Góðafoss waterfall, often called “the Waterfall of the Gods.” It’s a wide, crescent-shaped cascade that’s more of a spectacle for its shape and history than height. It’s noteworthy not just for its beauty but for its cultural significance: this is the site where Icelanders symbolically transitioned from paganism to Christianity, when a chieftain threw his pagan statues into the falls.

Guests frequently comment on the picturesque views and the accessible walkways that allow close-up photos. One reviewer, Holly, appreciated the early start and the fact that they were back to the ship ahead of schedule, praising the friendly guide who kept things informative yet efficient.

Lake Mývatn: The Land of Volcanic Surprises

Next, the tour heads to Lake Mývatn, a landscape shaped by volcanic activity. A special viewing point offers sweeping vistas of the strange terrain, dotted with pseudo craters formed by ancient eruptions. This area is known for its otherworldly landscape, with unique geological formations that are perfect for photography and reflection.

Guests often remark on how striking and alien-like the scenery feels. Reviewer Nancy called the guide “delightful,” noting her interesting facts, stories, and even Icelandic lullabies that kept everyone entertained. The landscape’s volcanic origins mean you’ll see features like bubbling mud pools, pseudo craters, and a landscape that seems almost surreal.

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Relaxation at Mývatn Nature Baths

The highlight for many visitors is the Mývatn Nature Baths, dubbed the “Blue Lagoon of the North.” The water here is geothermally heated and reputed to have healing properties, making it a perfect way to unwind after sightseeing.

Guests rave about the relaxing atmosphere and the spectacular views of the surrounding Mývatn area. The baths are less crowded than the Blue Lagoon, allowing for a more peaceful soak. Remember, towels and swimsuits can be rented on-site, so bringing your own isn’t necessary but could save time and money.

One reviewer, Elen, pointed out the presence of flies at the lake, a common nuisance in this area, so packing a fly net might be helpful. Still, the overall consensus is that the thermal waters and the scenic setting make this stop worth every penny.

Return Journey & Final Views

The journey back to Akureyri takes about 75 minutes, allowing for some scenic views along the way. The guides are praised for their local knowledge and engaging storytelling, making the drive as enjoyable as the stops themselves.

Guests like Trevor appreciated the smooth organization and the attentiveness of guides who managed to keep everyone on schedule despite the tight timing.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Transportation & Group Size

The buses are comfortable and well-organized, with guides wearing bright orange vests for easy identification. The tour is designed for cruise passengers, with flexible start and end times, ensuring you don’t miss your ship. The group size tends to be manageable, facilitating interaction and easy movement at each stop.

Timing & Duration

At six hours, this tour hits a sweet spot between seeing iconic sights and having some downtime. The itinerary is fairly packed: 30-minute drive to Góðafoss, 35 minutes there, 15-minute stop at Skútustaðagígar, and about 2 hours at Mývatn Nature Baths, with some buffer time in between. One review noted that the itinerary was “well organized and exactly delivered as described,” though some found the guide’s monotone speech a little hard to follow.

Cost & Value

For the price—covering transportation, entry to Mývatn Baths, and a packed lunch—the tour offers good value. It’s a convenient way to see several highlights without the hassle of renting a car or arranging multiple guides. The inclusion of lunch, with vegan and chicken options, adds to the value. However, towels and swimsuits are not included, so if you prefer to travel light, renting on-site might be easiest.

What’s Included & What’s Not

Included in the tour are transportation, Wi-Fi, the packed lunch, and entry to the baths. You’ll need to bring your own swimsuit and towel unless you plan to rent them at the baths. The guides are known for their friendly demeanor and local insights, making this more than just a bus ride.

Authentic Experiences & Guest Insights

From vibrant stories about Iceland’s history at Góðafoss to the lively commentary of guides like Victoria and Runar, this tour emphasizes authentic storytelling. Guests often highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitudes as a major plus. One reviewer, Agnieszka, mentioned that her guide was “so knowledgeable, geologist himself,” which added depth to what might otherwise be just sightseeing.

The thermal baths themselves are a major draw, and while some guests appreciated the peaceful environment, others noted the smell and the presence of flies, especially around Lake Mývatn. This is part of the natural setting—embrace it or be prepared.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Akureyri port tour offers a fantastic way to experience North Iceland’s highlights in a manageable day. It’s ideal for cruise travelers who want to maximize sightseeing without the stress of organizing their own transport. The combination of magnificent waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and a relaxing geothermal soak** makes it a well-rounded experience.

If you’re someone who values guided insights, scenic beauty, and convenience, you’ll find this tour very rewarding. It’s also a good choice for those new to Iceland or travelers looking to tick off some of the most iconic sights with minimal fuss.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or extra time in the natural hot springs, you might find the schedule a little rushed. Also, be prepared for some crowds and the natural flies around Lake Mývatn—bringing fly nets could make the experience even more enjoyable.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts roughly 6 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and time in the baths.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Gránufélagsgata 50, near Akureyri’s cruise terminal, with pickup times matching your ship’s docking schedule.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a packed lunch with your choice of chicken or vegan sandwich and a water bottle is provided.

Do I need to bring my own towel or swimsuit?
Towels and swimsuits can be rented at the baths, but bringing your own can save time and add comfort.

What are the main stops?
Góðafoss waterfall, a scenic view of Lake Mývatn, and the Mývatn Nature Baths.

Is this suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Yes, generally, but children should be supervised at the waterfalls and during the outdoor bath soaking.

How flexible is the schedule if my ship times change?
The tour is tailored to your docking times, giving you peace of mind about returning on time.

In essence, this tour offers a compelling blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and relaxing geothermal waters—all within a manageable timeframe. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, it’s a fantastic way to experience Iceland’s rugged charm and warm hospitality.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby