Diamond Circle Myvatn Waterfalls, and Husavik from Akureyri Tour

Experience the Best of Iceland’s North on the Diamond Circle from Akureyri

Visiting Iceland without renting a car or navigating the tricky roads yourself is a smart move, especially for those who want a hassle-free way to see some of the country’s most iconic sights. The Diamond Circle tour from Akureyri offers a well-organized, full-day exploration of the region’s natural wonders, with round-trip transportation, knowledgeable guides, and some extra touches like Wi-Fi onboard.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it balances the awe-inspiring scenery with educational commentary—your guide keeps the journey lively and informative. Plus, the included packed lunch means you won’t be scrambling for food amid all that breathtaking scenery.

One aspect to consider is the time spent on the bus; some reviews mention long rides, though most agree the scenery and stops make it worthwhile. If you’re someone who loves discovering Iceland’s wild landscapes without the stress of planning, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for travelers with limited time in the north or cruise passengers eager to hit multiple highlights in one day.

Key Points

Convenient round-trip transport from Akureyri simplifies logistics.
Expert guides provide local insights, making the experience more engaging.
Diverse stops include waterfalls, geothermal sites, and scenic canyons.
Comfortable group size with up to 65 travelers ensures a lively but manageable atmosphere.
Included packed lunch offers decent sustenance for the day’s adventures.
Good value for money considering the number of sites covered and the transport included.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Godafoss – The Waterfall of the Gods

The tour kicks off with a 30-minute drive from Akureyri to Godafoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. Known for its horseshoe shape and powerful cascade, it’s a must-see. You’ll have time to admire the views from several vantage points and walk along the trail for those perfect photos.

From reviews, it’s clear that the fall’s raw power leaves a lasting impression. Guests like David praised their guide Kjartan, mentioning his extensive knowledge and storytelling about both the falls and Icelandic life. This stop sets a great tone—nature’s force at its finest.

Lake Myvatn – A Volcanic Wonderland

Next, you’ll visit the Lake Myvatn area, famed for its unusual volcanic landscape. The tour includes a quick stop at a viewpoint overlooking the lake, where dozens of craters and volcanic formations are visible. With about an hour here, you can snap photos of the bubbling, cratered terrain and imagine what ancient eruptions must have looked like.

Guests love this part for the unique scenery. Wang comments that seeing the landscape of Myvatn was a highlight, and the area offers plenty of photo opportunities of volcanic craters and geothermal activity.

Námaskarð – The Geothermal Playground

A short drive takes you to Námaskarð, Iceland’s geothermal hot spot. This barren, rocky terrain is filled with boiling mud pools, steam vents, and vibrant mineral deposits. The clouds of sulfuric steam and the strange hues of the mineral-rich soil make it feel like walking on another planet.

Visitors find this stop fascinating and photogenic. It’s also a reminder of Iceland’s volcanic activity that shapes the landscape constantly. Silvana praised the punctuality and organization here, noting that this site was a real highlight.

Dettifoss – Europe’s Most Powerful Waterfall

The tour continues to Dettifoss, ranked as Europe’s most powerful waterfall. Standing nearby, you can’t help but feel the ground tremble beneath your feet as you witness the sheer force of the water plunging down the canyon. Multiple vantage points allow for different perspectives—some closer, some further back for safety.

Reviewers like Scott R. describe Dettifoss as “an amazing sight” and say the scale and power are unforgettable. The 1.5-hour stop gives you enough time to appreciate this natural marvel without feeling rushed.

Ásbyrgi Canyon – Nature’s Amphitheater

Next, the journey takes you to Ásbyrgi, a horseshoe-shaped canyon bordered by towering cliffs up to 330 feet high. It’s a peaceful spot, with a small pond called Botnstjorn nestled at the bottom, and abundant birdlife.

Many travelers find the cliffs and the serenity here a stark contrast to the power of Dettifoss, highlighting Iceland’s varied landscapes. With 1.5 hours, you can walk around and soak in the canyon’s quiet beauty. Reviewers like Michelle S. appreciated the guide’s commentary and the opportunity to see puffins near the cliffs—an extra treat.

Husavik – The Whale Watching Capital

The last notable stop is the charming fishing village of Húsavík. While whale watching isn’t on the agenda this time, the town’s harbor, colorful houses, and the iconic Húsavík church are worth admiring.

This 20-minute visit is a quick but scenic highlight, and the town’s reputation for whale excursions makes it a fun wrap-up. Some reviews mention the film “Eurovision Song Contest” featuring Husavík, adding a bit of pop culture flair to the visit.

Return to Akureyri

After a scenic drive back, the tour concludes at the port, about an hour from Husavik. The overall timing allows for a relaxed pace, though some guests mention the long bus rides—worth it for the scenery and the stops.

What’s Included and How It Matters for You

• Round-trip transport from Akureyri means no fuss with navigation or parking. The bus is comfortable, and Wi-Fi keeps you connected—perfect for sharing photos or catching up on messages.
• A packed lunch is included, which reviewers say is fairly basic—mainly a sandwich—but enough to keep you going. Some suggest bringing extra snacks like fruit or cookies if you’re hungry.
• Expert guides make a real difference. Kjartan, Harold, Ivy, and Unnur are mentioned as knowledgeable, friendly, and entertaining. They share insights into Icelandic nature, geology, and culture.
• Timing and group size are designed for a balance—long enough to see everything but not so large as to feel overwhelmed. The tour typically has up to 65 travelers, making it lively but manageable.

The Verdict: Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely if you want to tick off Iceland’s iconic sights comfortably and efficiently. The tour’s value lies in the combination of expert guidance, comprehensive itinerary, and convenient logistics, making it suitable for those with limited time in Iceland’s north or cruise passengers with tight schedules.

While some mention the long bus rides and a basic packed lunch, most agree that the scenery, variety of stops, and knowledgeable guides make it worthwhile. The experience is especially appealing for nature lovers eager to see waterfalls, geothermal areas, and dramatic landscapes without the hassle of planning each stop independently.

However, if you’re seeking a more leisurely or specialized experience—like whale watching or in-depth hikes—you might want to look elsewhere. But for a full, diverse snapshot of Iceland’s north, this tour delivers on most fronts.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a guided, all-in-one day of Icelandic wonders. It suits those who prefer comfortable transportation over self-drive, and who enjoy storytelling and local insights. Families, couples, or solo travelers will find it a good value for the scenery and the company.

It’s perfect if you’re on a cruise or short on time but still want to experience some of Iceland’s most impressive natural sites. Keep in mind that if you’re a light sleeper or not keen on long bus rides, you may want to prepare for the hours on the road.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including all stops and travel time.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, provided they’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and some bus travel.

Does the tour include entry fees?
No, most sites like Godafoss, Lake Myvatn, Námaskarð, Dettifoss, and Ásbyrgi are free to visit.

What is included in the packed lunch?
A sandwich is provided, but reviewers suggest bringing extra snacks if you’re hungry.

How is the Wi-Fi on the bus?
Wi-Fi is available onboard, helping you stay connected during the journey.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, but if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I join if I’m not staying in Akureyri?
This tour departs from and returns to Akureyri, so it’s best suited for travelers based there or arriving by cruise.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the tour accommodates up to 65 travelers, which balances a lively atmosphere with manageable numbers.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, camera, snacks, and perhaps a raincoat— Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable.

This tour from Akureyri offers a balanced mix of scenery, expert commentary, and convenience. It’s a fantastic way to experience the highlights of North Iceland, especially if you value storytelling, stunning landscapes, and good value. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a casual explorer, this journey is likely to leave you with plenty of memorable moments—and plenty of photos.