From Akureyri Port: Godafoss Waterfall & Forest Lagoon tour

Exploring Northern Iceland with the Akureyri Waterfall & Forest Lagoon Tour

If you’re visiting Akureyri and craving a quick yet immersive taste of Iceland’s natural beauty, this 4.5-hour tour offers a well-rounded experience. For $135 per person, you’ll visit the iconic Godafoss Waterfall, drive through the breathtaking Fnjoskadalur Valley, enjoy spectacular views of Eyjafjordur Bay, and finish with a relaxing soak in the geothermal waters of the Forest Lagoon.

What we love about this tour is how it balances stunning landscape sightseeing with genuine relaxation opportunities. The stop at Godafoss allows ample time to marvel at the “Water of the Gods,” and the Forest Lagoon provides a chance to unwind in warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by nature. Plus, the inclusion of a knowledgeable guide ensures you’ll learn a bit about the area’s culture and history along the way.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is quite focused on scenic and natural highlights, with limited time at each stop—so if you’re after a full day of adventure or extensive sightseeing, this might feel a bit condensed. Still, it’s perfect for those who want a manageable trip that hits some of Iceland’s most photogenic spots without the busyness of a longer tour.

This experience suits travelers seeking a blend of scenic beauty and relaxation, especially those with limited time in Akureyri. It’s also a solid choice if you’re interested in learning from guides who can share insights into Iceland’s landscape and cultural stories without overwhelming you with information.

Key Points

• Convenient half-day trip combining sightseeing and geothermal relaxation
• Stunning views of Godafoss Waterfall and Eyjafjordur Bay
• Guided tour with informative commentary from knowledgeable guides
• Relaxing soak at Forest Lagoon, with scenic surroundings
• Accessible for most ages, but not suitable for those with mobility issues
• Includes bus, guidance, and entry to the Lagoon; excludes lunch and refreshments

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Review of the Akureyri Waterfall & Forest Lagoon Tour

When planning your visit to Akureyri, this tour offers a well-thought-out way to see some of the most notable sights in northern Iceland without spending an entire day on the road. Here’s a detailed look at what makes it tick—and what might give you pause.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Starting Point in Akureyri
Your journey begins at the cruise port, where your guide (most likely a friendly local with a good sense of humor) will greet you. The tour is organized to start with a comfortable pickup, typically from the Akureyri Harbour, where the Soleil de Minuit bus (or similar vehicle) awaits. As you settle in, you’ll quickly notice the convenience of the meeting point — right where ships dock — making this a perfect add-on for cruise travelers or those staying locally.

Scenic Drive through the Countryside
Your first scenic stretch takes you into the Northeastern Region. During this part, you’ll get a taste of the Icelandic landscape—rolling hills, volcanic terrain, and perhaps some curious sheep or Icelandic horses. The guide’s commentary here can shine a light on the area’s geology and environmental features, helping you appreciate these views even more.

Visit to Godafoss Waterfall
This is the star of the show. The “Water of the Gods” is a waterfall about 12 meters high and 30 meters wide, forming a horseshoe shape that’s perfect for photos. You’ll get about 45 minutes here, enough time to walk around, take photos, and soak in the powerful roar of the water. Many reviews highlight the stunning scenery and the “almost mystical” quality of the site.

A couple of travelers appreciated the ample time at Godafoss, mentioning that it allows for relaxed photography and exploration. However, some noted that if you’re a serious photographer aiming for sweeping shots, you might wish for a bit more time.

Drive through Fnjoskadalur Valley
Back on the bus, you’ll head through Fnjoskadalur Valley, a lush and scenic corridor that offers spectacular views of mountains and forests. The route up and down the valley is often praised for its beautiful landscapes, and the guide’s insights help you understand the history behind these vistas.

Eyjafjordur Bay Viewpoint
A quick 10-minute stop at a viewpoint provides panoramic views of Akureyri, Eyjafjordur Bay, and surrounding snow-capped peaks. Travelers cite this as a worthwhile photo op, especially in good weather when the bay’s waters shimmer against the mountains.

The Highlight: Forest Lagoon
After a scenic drive, it’s time for some relaxation. The Forest Lagoon is a geothermal spa that surrounds you with greenery and offers views of the bay. You’ll have around 1.5 to 2 hours to soak, unwind, and enjoy facilities like a sauna, lounge, and in-water pool bar.

Many recent reviews love this part; one enthusiast called it “a perfect way to unwind after sightseeing,” emphasizing the serenity of the natural setting. The water is warm and mineral-rich, and the lush surroundings make it feel more like a bath in nature than just a spa day.

Return to Akureyri
After you’ve relaxed, a shuttle bus takes you back to the meeting point. The entire experience wraps up approximately 4.5 hours after it began, making it suitable for those on tight schedules.

The Experience of the Guide and Group Size

Guides play a vital role here. From reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides who can share stories about the sites add significantly to the experience. Travelers especially appreciate guides who are friendly, engaging, and informative, often noting that their explanations made the scenery more meaningful.

The group sizes tend to be manageable, ensuring you don’t feel lost in a crowd, and the small-group atmosphere allows for questions and more personalized attention.

Transport and Comfort

Transportation is by bus or coach, which is comfortable enough for the short journey. The vehicle is wheelchair accessible, which is a plus, although the tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or strollers. The timing is well-coordinated, with breaks at scenic spots, giving you a relaxed pace.

More Great Tours Nearby

What’s Included and What’s Not

Your ticket covers the bus, guidance, and entry to the Forest Lagoon. However, lunch or refreshments are not included, so plan to bring snacks or a water bottle—especially if you want to make the most of your time in the lagoon.

The tour is not suitable for children under 10 or travelers with certain health conditions, such as heart problems or vertigo. The walking involved at the waterfall and viewpoints is minimal but may be challenging for those with limited mobility.

Price and Value

At $135, this tour offers a balanced value considering the included transportation, entry fee, and the unique experience of geothermal bathing. Compared to booking individual tickets and transportation separately, this package simplifies planning and ensures you won’t miss out on the highlights.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy stunning landscapes paired with a touch of relaxation, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time but who still want to see some of Iceland’s most recognizable sights. Nature lovers, casual photographers, and those curious about Icelandic culture will find it rewarding.

It’s also suitable for cruise passengers, as the pickup and drop-off points are conveniently located at the harbor, making it easy to fit into a tight schedule.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Akureyri offers a well-balanced mix of spectacular natural beauty and peaceful relaxation. The stops at Godafoss, Eyjafjordur, and the Forest Lagoon combine to give a comprehensive snapshot of northern Iceland’s landscape and culture. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides, you’ll gain insights that deepen your appreciation, while the scenic drives and stops provide plenty of photo-worthy moments.

It’s a short but satisfying journey—ideal for those wanting to see iconic sights and unwind without the logistical hassle of planning independent excursions. While it’s not designed to be an exhaustive exploration, it hits the highlights with style and comfort.

For anyone seeking a manageable, scenic, and relaxing experience in Iceland’s north, this tour hits the mark. Just remember, it’s best suited for those who enjoy easy walks, stunning vistas, and a good soak in nature’s thermal waters.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 10 years old due to the nature of the activities and walking involved.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and a towel for the Lagoon. It’s also wise to wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking around waterfalls and viewpoints.

Are the facilities accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the bus and some parts of the tour are wheelchair accessible, but the tour is not suitable for non-folding wheelchairs or those with significant mobility impairments.

How long is the time spent at each stop?
You’ll have about 45 minutes at Godafoss and Eyjafjordur Viewpoint, and around 1.5 to 2 hours to enjoy the Lagoon.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch and refreshments are not included, so plan accordingly.

What’s the weather like?
Weather in Iceland can be unpredictable; dress in layers and be prepared for rain or wind, especially near waterfalls and viewpoints.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The stops at Godafoss and Eyjafjordur Bay offer excellent photo opportunities, especially if you have a camera with a good zoom or wide-angle lens.

How big are the groups?
The group size is manageable, ensuring a more personal experience, though exact numbers aren’t specified.

What if I want more time in the Lagoon?
The schedule allows roughly 1.5-2 hours here, but additional time is not available, so plan your relaxation accordingly.

In all, this tour offers a lovely sampler of Iceland’s natural wonders with enough comfort and guidance to make your short visit memorable. It’s a straightforward choice for those wanting a taste of waterfalls, mountain views, and geothermal baths—kind of the trifecta of Icelandic charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: