Diamond Circle Myvatn Waterfalls, and Husavik from Akureyri Tour

Experience the Best of Northern Iceland on the Diamond Circle, Myvatn Waterfalls, and Husavik Tour

If you’re visiting Akureyri and eager to see some of Iceland’s most iconic sights without the hassle of driving yourself, this full-day guided tour offers a solid way to tick off a long list of highlights. For around $215 per person, you’ll spend approximately 8 hours exploring Godafoss waterfall, the surreal landscapes around Lake Myvatn, bubbling Námaskarð geothermal area, and the awe-inspiring Dettifoss waterfall. Plus, you’ll get a quick peek at Ásbyrgi canyon and the charming fishing village of Húsavík.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it packages so many of Iceland’s natural treasures into a single day, with comfortable round-trip transport from Akureyri—so you don’t have to worry about navigating tricky roads or organizing multiple tickets. Also, the inclusion of Wi-Fi onboard means we stay connected while enjoying the views, and the packed lunch keeps us energized through a busy schedule.

That said, a consideration for travelers with specific dietary needs or those expecting a longer, more in-depth experience might find some parts a bit rushed. The tour’s length and the number of stops mean a lot of bus time, but if you’re eager to see a broad swath of Iceland’s northern scenery and aren’t looking for a slow, contemplative experience, this is a good fit.

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced overview of Iceland’s geology and landscapes without the stress of self-driving, especially cruise passengers or those with a limited amount of time in Akureyri. Enthusiasts of waterfalls, volcanic phenomena, and charming towns will find plenty to love.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering top sights in Iceland’s Diamond Circle region
• Round-trip transport, removing transportation worries
• Knowledgeable guides provide insightful commentary and local facts
• Scenic stops with photo opportunities of waterfalls, geothermal areas, and canyon landscapes
• Includes a packed lunch for convenience and energy
• Crowd size typically up to 65 travelers, making it lively but manageable

Exploring Iceland’s Diamond Circle in Detail

The Convenience of Guided Travel from Akureyri

One of the biggest benefits of booking this tour is not having to worry about navigation or parking. The bus picks you up in Akureyri, ideally situated for exploring Iceland’s north, and handles all the logistics. This means more time enjoying the scenery and less time figuring out directions or hunting for your next stop.

The group size, capped at 65 travelers, keeps the atmosphere friendly but lively. Our experience indicates that most travelers find the pace manageable—though, as some reviews mention, the bus ride can be long, with plenty of time spent seated. If you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer shorter travel segments, be prepared for some stretches of bus time.

The onboard Wi-Fi is a thoughtful touch, allowing us to share photos or check in with loved ones while crossing Iceland’s rugged terrain. Plus, the round-trip transport means you can relax knowing your day is scheduled and organized.

The Itinerary: A Day of Icelandic Highlights

Stop 1: Godafoss Waterfall

We start with Godafoss, often called the “Waterfall of the Gods.” From Akureyri, it’s a quick 30-minute drive. The multiple viewpoints allow you to get great photos from different angles, and the trail along the falls offers a chance to get close without risking safety. The roar of water and the impressive width make it an unforgettable introduction to Iceland’s power.

Review insights: Travelers love the chance to see both waterfalls and praise guides like Kjartan for sharing fascinating insights into Icelandic life, making the natural beauty come alive.

Stop 2: Lake Myvatn

Next, we circle around Lake Myvatn, an area famous for volcanic craters, geothermal activity, and surreal landscapes. Our guide points out craters and geological formations as we drive around the lake, with a quick photo stop at a viewpoint overlooking the lake itself.

Why it’s special: The landscape here feels otherworldly—craters, steaming vents, and the mineral-stained soil create a landscape that’s hard to forget. Many reviews mention how breathtaking this area is, with some saying it makes for their favorite part of the trip.

Stop 3: Námaskarð Geothermal Area

In Námaskarð, we see bubbling mud pools, steaming hot springs, and sulfur clouds that linger like ghosts across the barren terrain. The mineral deposits paint the surroundings in strange, vibrant colors, giving an alien feel to the landscape.

Authentic experience: The geothermal activity is not just a backdrop but an active display of Iceland’s volcanic heartbeat. Travelers describe the smell of sulfur and the sight of boiling pools as “strange but fascinating.”

Stop 4: Dettifoss Waterfall

Then, it’s time for the biggest waterfall in Europe—Dettifoss, with its thunderous roar and incredible volume of water. The vantage points allow for close-up views of the sheer force of nature, and many find this to be a highlight.

Review perspective: Visitors frequently mention being awestruck by how powerful and imposing Dettifoss is, with some noting that it’s one of the most impressive sights in Iceland.

Stop 5: Asbyrgi Canyon

The horseshoe-shaped canyon of Ásbyrgi offers a different kind of scenery—peaceful, lush, and a haven for birdlife. The towering cliffs, some reaching 330 feet high, frame a tranquil pond called Botnstjorn, which makes a perfect photo spot.

Authenticity: The canyon feels like a secret getaway, and many reviews highlight how it’s a “hidden gem,” ideal for stretching your legs and soaking in the natural quiet.

Stop 6: Husavik

Finally, we visit Húsavík, Iceland’s whale-watching capital, even if we won’t go on a whale tour this time. The town’s lively harbor, colorful houses, and the beautiful church make it a charming close to the day.

Pop culture fun: The town gained fame through the Netflix film “Eurovision”, and many travelers enjoy the brief visit, snapping photos of the harbor and imagining their own whale sightings.

The Return to Akureyri

The journey back takes about 1.5 hours, giving everyone a chance to process the day’s sights and maybe nudge into a nap. The tour ends back at the original pickup point, making logistics simple.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Considerations

What travelers love—and what some point out—are the knowledgeable guides who make the landscape come alive with stories and facts. Harold and others have been praised for their engaging commentary, adding depth to the natural wonders.

The value of this tour lies in how it combines transportation, guiding, and multiple key sights into one package. For the price, many agree it’s a good deal, especially considering the included packed lunch, which keeps you fueled during the busy day.

However, some reviews mention the long bus rides, which can be tiring, and a few note that the lunch could be more substantial or have dietary options—something to consider if you’re especially hungry or have specific needs.

Timing is tight at some stops, especially Husavik, where only about 20 minutes is allocated. If you’re eager to explore a town thoroughly or go whale watching, you might wish for more time, but the schedule does allow you to see the highlights efficiently.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors or those with limited time who want a broad overview of northern Iceland’s stunning scenery. Travel enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse landscapes—from waterfalls to geothermal pools—and the ease of guided transportation. If you’re a fan of waterfalls or volcanic landscapes, you’ll find plenty to love here.

It’s also a good choice for cruise passengers, as the tour is designed with cruise schedules in mind, and reviews note the convenience of pickup and drop-off near the port. However, travelers seeking a more in-depth or leisurely experience might find the pace a bit brisk or the stops shorter than desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transport from Akureyri is part of the package, making the day hassle-free.

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

What sights will we see? You’ll visit Godafoss, Lake Myvatn, Námaskarð geothermal area, Dettifoss, Ásbyrgi canyon, and Húsavík.

Is food included? A packed lunch is provided, but it’s basic—mainly a sandwich. Some reviews suggest bringing extra snacks or fruit.

How crowded does it get? The group size caps at 65 travelers, so it’s lively but manageable.

Can I see whales in Husavik? No, the tour doesn’t include whale-watching, but Husavík is Iceland’s whale-watching hub.

Are the stops brief? Yes, most are about 1 to 1.5 hours, so you’ll get a taste but not in-depth exploration.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues? Most stops are accessible, but some terrain may be uneven, so check if that’s a concern.

What if the weather is bad? The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I book this tour if I’m not on a cruise? Absolutely, it’s available for general travelers, but some reviews note it’s primarily marketed to cruise passengers.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Iceland’s dramatic north, combining scenic beauty with ease and convenience. With knowledgeable guides and a thoughtfully planned itinerary, it suits travelers eager to see the highlights without the fuss of independent travel. Expect a busy but rewarding day filled with waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and charming towns. If you’re after a comprehensive, value-packed experience that covers Iceland’s natural splendors efficiently, this tour is worth considering.

For those craving a taste of Iceland’s wild side without the hassle, this tour delivers plenty of memorable sights and stories in one satisfying package.