Diamond Circle Day Tour from Akureyri

Exploring Iceland’s Hidden Gem: The Diamond Circle from Akureyri

Taking the popular Ring Road is like following a well-worn path, packed with travelers and busy with traffic. For those looking to escape the crowds and discover a more intimate side of Iceland, the Diamond Circle offers a perfect alternative. This full-day tour from Akureyri, priced at around $320, takes you roughly 8 to 10 hours through some of the North’s most spectacular landscapes, including powerful waterfalls, geothermal baths, and rugged canyons.

What we especially love about this tour is the chance to stroll through less-frequented spots like Hljooaklettar’s basalt columns and Tjörnes peninsula cliffs, offering a more authentic experience away from the busier tourist routes. Plus, the expert guidance—seems to make the stories of Iceland come alive—adding depth to each stop. On the downside, the lack of included lunch might be a drawback if you’re hungry after all that sightseeing, but the tour’s overall value and curated stops make up for it.

This journey suits travelers who value stunning scenery, small-group atmospheres, and insightful commentary. Whether you’re on a cruise or just want a comprehensive day trip that hits the highlights without feeling rushed, this tour will likely be your best bet.

Key Points

• Less Crowded Experience: Avoid the busy Ring Road and explore quieter, equally stunning sites.
• Expert Local Guides: Learn fascinating stories about Icelandic culture and nature from knowledgeable guides.
• Diverse Landscapes: From waterfalls to canyons to geothermal baths, expect a wide variety of scenery.
• Hassle-Free Pickup: Convenient hotel, airport, or port pickup and drop-off in Akureyri.
• Good Value: All transportation and guiding included, with an optional visit to GeoSea baths.
• Limited Group Size: A maximum of 17 travelers ensures a personalized experience.

A Deep Dive into the Diamond Circle Itinerary

Starting at Godafoss, the Waterfall of the Gods

Our day begins at Godafoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. Its name means “Waterfall of the Gods”—a nod to its mythological history—making it an essential photo stop. With about 20 minutes allocated, you’ll have time to snap some shots, feel the spray, and appreciate the dramatic cascade. Tour reviews praise the spectacular views, with one traveler mentioning, “The views of the waterfall are fantastic even in poor weather.” It’s a perfect start that sets the tone for the day—these waterfalls are truly breathtaking.

Lake Mývatn: A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Next, we head to Lake Mývatn, renowned for its volcanic landscape and birdlife. A quick 20-minute stop here gives you a chance for photos and to take in the otherworldly scenery. Although the stop is brief, many travelers comment on how it’s enough to appreciate the area’s unique geology and peaceful lakeside vistas. If you’re lucky, you might spot some puffins on the cliffs at Tjörnes peninsula, a highlight for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Dettifoss: Europe’s Most Powerful Waterfall

No visit to the North is complete without witnessing Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe. With 45 minutes at this site, you’ll get a solid opportunity to stand in awe of the roaring water, feel the spray, and explore nearby viewpoints. The force of Dettifoss is something we can’t quite describe—it’s a sensory overload, and many reviews highlight it as a “spectacular and humbling experience.” Be prepared for potentially muddy or wet footing, depending on the weather.

Selfoss Waterfall and Vatnajokull National Park

After Dettifoss, we visit Selfoss, a more modest but equally scenic waterfall, for about 20 minutes. Its cascading waters over dark volcanic rocks provide another photo-worthy moment. Then, we continue into Vatnajokull National Park—a protected wilderness area that offers a sense of Iceland’s untouched nature. With only 15 minutes here, the emphasis is on appreciating the vastness and raw beauty of the landscape.

Jokulsargljufur Canyon and Hljóoaklettar Basalt Columns

Next, we explore Jokulsargljufur, a canyon with striking basalt formations. The Hljóoaklettar area features hexagon-shaped basalt columns that tower over the landscape—truly a photographer’s dream. A 30-minute stop here allows us to walk among these natural sculptures and enjoy the rugged scenery. Many visitors say that Hljóoaklettar’s geological formations are “a must-see for anyone interested in natural architecture.”

Tjörnes Peninsula Cliffs and Puffins

Continuing along the coast, we stop at Tjörnes, where cliffs meet the ocean. With a 20-minute stop, you can enjoy panoramic views and look for puffins, which are often present on the cliffs. Several reviews note the thrill of seeing these charming birds “up close,” especially if the weather is clear.

Asbyrgi Canyon: The Shelter of the Gods

Our day winds down at Asbyrgi, a horseshoe-shaped canyon reputed to be a ‘shelter of the gods.’ Spending 25 minutes here, you can take a quick walk through the lush forest and marvel at the towering cliffs. The tranquil atmosphere provides a nice contrast to the more dramatic waterfalls earlier in the day.

Optional GeoSea Geothermal Baths and Husavik

Finally, the tour offers an optional visit to GeoSea, a geothermal sea bath overlooking the bay, for about an hour (not included in the base price). Many travelers find this a perfect way to relax after a day of exploring. If you prefer, the tour concludes with a visit to Husavik, a charming fishing town known for whale watching, where you’ll have about 30 minutes to browse or enjoy local treats.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The all-inclusive transport and guiding are what make this tour particularly attractive—your pickup and drop-off in Akureyri are covered, so no fuss there. The cost of the optional GeoSea baths is about ISK6,990, and it’s worth considering if you’d like to unwind in the warm waters while enjoying scenic views. However, food and drinks are not included, so packing some snacks or a lunch is a good idea—many reviews mention bringing food, especially since there’s no designated mealtime during the tour.

Authentic Experiences and Travel Insights

One of the most praised aspects, according to reviews, is the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Many travelers remark how guides like Doorey or Arman add so much color with their stories and insights. For example, one review states, “Doorey was well knowledgeable about the Akureyri Island and a wonderful person,” which really highlights the personal touch that elevates this trip.

Several travelers appreciated the balance between time at each stop—not feeling rushed but also not lingering too long. The small group size (up to 17 people) is another plus, ensuring that everyone feels like part of an intimate adventure, not just a number on a bus.

Some reviewers did note minor drawbacks, such as the lack of included meals and occasional vehicle issues—one mentioned a car needing a pump—but overall, the tour is well-organized and highly rated.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Diamond Circle tour is ideal for travelers who want to see a broad swath of Iceland’s northern highlights in one day without the hassle of self-driving or multiple bookings. It appeals most to those who value guidance, small-group intimacy, and diversity of scenery. If you’re visiting via cruise or have limited time but want a comprehensive look at Iceland’s less-visited northern attractions, this tour ticks many boxes.

Final Thoughts

In essence, the Diamond Circle Day Tour from Akureyri offers a well-rounded, value-packed way to explore some of Iceland’s most stunning and lesser-known sights. You’ll love the expert guides who bring stories to life, the spectacular waterfalls—especially Dettifoss—and the chance to enjoy a geothermal bath with a view. It’s a trip that balances adventure and relaxation, providing a real glimpse of Iceland’s wild beauty.

While the lack of included meals might require a bit of planning, the overall experience—intimate, scenic, and educational—makes it a standout choice for anyone eager to discover Iceland’s north in a day.

FAQ

How early do I need to book this tour?
Most travelers book about 104 days in advance, indicating it’s popular and well-worth reserving early.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel, airport, or port in Akureyri, making it very convenient.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, giving ample time at each stop to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, guided commentary, and hotel/port pickup are included. The GeoSea baths are optional and cost extra.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Less than that, and a full refund isn’t possible.

Is this suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour does involve some walking, and the weather can be unpredictable, so good footwear and layers are recommended.

What if the weather’s poor?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

In the end, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated look at Iceland’s North—perfect if you’re after stunning landscapes, expert storytelling, and a comfortable, small-group experience. Whether you’re a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking a memorable day in Iceland, the Diamond Circle from Akureyri is a journey worth considering.