Akureyri: Goðafoss, Dettifoss, and Lake Myvatn Tour

If you’re heading to Iceland’s scenic northeast, this guided day trip from Akureyri offers a solid mix of waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and geothermal relaxation. For $272 per person, you’ll spend about 8 hours exploring some of Iceland’s most iconic sights—like the mighty Dettifoss and the stunning Lake Myvatn area—alongside the famous Goðafoss waterfall. The trip is designed to balance sightseeing with relaxation, making it suitable for travelers craving both adventure and downtime.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are the opportunities for spectacular photography at waterfalls and volcanic formations, and the chance to unwind in the geothermal Forest Lagoon afterward. We also appreciate that the itinerary is well-structured, with enough time at each stop to really soak in the scenery and get some memorable photos.

One thing to consider is the travel time—since much of the day involves driving between sites, the journey can be long. If you’re sensitive to bus rides or prefer a slower pace with more leisure, this may not be your best fit. However, if you love seeing a wide variety of landscapes in a day, this tour is a practical, value-packed choice.

This experience suits travelers who want a rundown of northeast Iceland’s natural wonders without the hassle of planning all the logistics themselves. Perfect for first-timers or those short on days, but eager to see some of Iceland’s best waterfalls and volcanic scenery.

Key Points

• Stunning Waterfalls: Visit the powerful Goðafoss and Europe’s largest waterfall, Dettifoss.
• Volcanic Terrain: Explore the lava maze at Dimmuborgir and other unique volcanic landscapes.
• Scenic Drive: Enjoy a comfortable coach ride around Lake Myvatn with plenty of photo stops.
• Relaxation: End the day with a soak in the geothermal Forest Lagoon, if you choose.
• Balanced Itinerary: Well-paced stops with enough time for photography and exploration.
• Value for Money: Combines multiple major sites into one day at a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at the Hof Cultural and Conference Centre in Akureyri, a convenient central location. You’ll spend most of the day comfortably seated in a coach, which is ideal for absorbing the views without the fatigue of driving yourself. The group size isn’t specified, but guided tours like this typically keep things manageable, allowing for a more personal experience.

Goðafoss: The Waterfall of the Gods

Your first stop is the famous Goðafoss, known as the Waterfall of the Gods. With around 40 minutes here, you’ll have ample time to stand close to the roaring cascade and capture some incredible photos. Many travelers comment on its dramatic beauty—the wide, horseshoe-shaped falls are especially striking in the morning light or during sunset. The water plunges with such force that it’s impossible not to feel the raw power of nature.

One reviewer says, “We loved the way the sunlight hit the falls in the early morning, making the water sparkle like diamonds.” The proximity to the falls means you can also get a feel for its scale, especially if you hike a bit around the edges.

The Drive to Lake Myvatn

After enjoying Goðafoss, the coach takes you on a scenic 35-minute drive toward Lake Myvatn. The landscape begins to shift, revealing volcanic fields, moss-covered lava formations, and rugged terrain. It’s a good time to settle in, take photos from the coach window, and start getting excited about the next stops.

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Dimmuborgir Lava Maze

The highlight here is the 110-minute exploration of Dimmuborgir, a volcanic strange land with twisted lava formations and caves. Many reviews praise this stop for its otherworldly scenery—a perfect place for wandering through dark tunnels and marveling at volcanic activity frozen in time.

A visitor notes, “Walking through Dimmuborgir felt like stepping onto another planet, so alien and beautiful.” This stop is ideal for photography, particularly of the intricate lava formations and the rugged terrain. The guide generally provides insights into how these formations evolved, adding depth to the walk.

Grjótagjá Cave and Hverir

Next, a quick 15-minute walk to Grjótagjá Cave, a small but photogenic geothermal cave with warm water, and a 20-minute stop at Hverir, known for its bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles. These spots deepen your understanding of Iceland’s volcanic activity, with reviews often mentioning the alien landscape and sensational smells of sulfur.

Dettifoss: Europe’s Most Powerful Waterfall

The main event is the visit to Dettifoss, the largest waterfall in Iceland and arguably one of the most awe-inspiring sights. You’ll have about an hour to stand close to the thundering cascade, feeling the spray and hearing the roar. Its sheer volume and raw power are stunning, and many travelers find it to be the highlight of their trip.

A reviewer states, “Dettifoss is a natural masterpiece—standing near it, you realize how tiny we are compared to the forces of nature.” For those interested in cinematic landscapes, this site also featured in Ridley Scott’s Prometheus, adding a touch of Hollywood glamour.

Scenic Drive Around Lake Myvatn

Post-Dettifoss, the coach continues with a two-hour leisurely drive around Lake Myvatn, offering views of volcanic craters, pseudocraters, and diverse volcanic formations. It’s a chance to relax and absorb the scenery, with photo stops along the way.

Optional Soak in the Forest Lagoon

Back in Akureyri, you have the option to unwind at the Forest Lagoon, a geothermal spa that many reviewers recommend for its relaxing waters and beautiful setting. While not included in the ticket price, it’s a popular way to end the day after exploring rugged landscapes.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour fee covers all the major stops, a guided experience, and time for photography at each location. It’s a smart deal considering the number of sites visited in one day. The admission to the Forest Lagoon, however, is extra, so if you want a relaxing soak, budget accordingly.

Meals and drinks are not included, so packing some snacks and water is wise, especially for the long bus rides. Comfortable shoes and warm clothing are essential, given the outdoor nature of each stop and the unpredictable Icelandic weather.

Who Will Love This Tour

This trip is ideal for those seeking a well-rounded introduction to northeast Iceland’s natural wonders. If you’re a fan of waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and striking scenery, you’ll be in heaven. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a structured day with guided insights and don’t mind spending a good chunk of time on a bus.

Families, photographers, and geology enthusiasts will find plenty to admire here. If you’re short on time but want to see a wide variety of Icelandic landscapes, this tour offers excellent value.

Final Thoughts

This Akureyri day trip balances adventure, scenic beauty, and comfort in a way that makes it a practical choice for many travelers. The stops at Goðafoss and Dettifoss are truly spectacular, and the volcanic landscapes of Dimmuborgir and Hverir offer a surreal experience. The option to relax afterward in the Forest Lagoon is a bonus that many visitors cherish.

While long bus rides might not appeal to everyone, the payoff is a comprehensive look at some of Iceland’s most iconic sights—all in one well-organized day. It’s a smart way to get a sense of the rugged northeast without the hassle of DIY planning, especially if your time in Iceland is limited.

In sum, if you’re eager to see waterfalls, volcanic terrain, and volcanic lakes with an experienced guide, and appreciate a good mix of activity and relaxation, this tour is a sound investment. It’s best for curious travelers looking for a reliable, memorable, and visually stunning experience.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel time and sightseeing stops.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the Hof Cultural and Conference Centre in Akureyri.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll travel comfortably by coach throughout the day.

How much time is spent at each site?
You get around 40 minutes at Goðafoss, 110 minutes at Dimmuborgir, 15 minutes at Grjótagjá Cave, 20 minutes at Hverir, and a full hour at Dettifoss. The drive between sites is also part of the schedule.

Is food included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but you can bring snacks and water.

Can I visit the Forest Lagoon?
The Lagoon is an optional extra and not included in the tour price. It can be purchased separately upon return to Akureyri.

Is there a guide?
Yes, a live English-speaking guide accompanies the tour, sharing insights and answering questions.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, warm clothing, a camera, snacks, and water are recommended.

What’s the scenery like?
Expect a mix of waterfalls, volcanic formations, geothermal areas, and rugged landscapes—truly some of Iceland’s most iconic sights.

Is this suitable for families?
Yes, most families find it manageable, provided children are comfortable with outdoor walking and bus rides.

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Iceland’s northeast, combining iconic waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and geothermal relaxation into a single memorable day. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or just someone eager to see Iceland’s wild side, it’s a journey worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: