From Akureyri: Myvatn Lake, Craters, & Waterfall Tour

Getting a taste of North Iceland’s wild beauty doesn’t have to mean a long, exhausting adventure. For just $180 per person, you can enjoy a well-paced, six-hour guided tour that takes you from Akureyri to some of Iceland’s most impressive natural sights. Led by knowledgeable guides who often receive glowing reviews, this trip offers a great balance between scenic highlights and engaging local insights. You’ll visit Lake Mývatn, famous for its pseudo craters, walk through the eerie lava formations at Dimmuborgir, marvel at the powerful Góðafoss waterfall, and experience the bubbling geothermal mud-pools at Námaskarð.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to explore the volcanic landscape in a comfortable setting, with all logistics handled for us—hotel pickup, WiFi on board, and a packed lunch. And, of course, the stunning vistas—the contrast of black volcanic rocks, steaming geothermals, and lush moss-covered craters—are unforgettable. A possible drawback? The tour does pack quite a bit into a single day, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or more time at individual stops, you might find it a tad rushed.

This tour suits travelers eager to see a lot in a short time, especially if you’re on a cruise or limited on days in Iceland. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic landscapes and engaging storytelling from guides who genuinely love sharing their knowledge. Whether you’re a nature lover, geology enthusiast, or simply want to experience Iceland’s volcanic energy up close, this trip offers genuine value.

Key Points

• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple, especially if you’re staying in Akureyri.
• Diverse Highlights: From waterfalls and lava fields to geothermal mud pools, the tour covers a lot of Iceland’s volcanic scenery.
• Expert Guides: Multiple reviews praise guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling, making the experience richer.
• Value for Money: For $180, you get a packed day, transport, WiFi, and a meal—all managed efficiently.
• Authentic Experience: You’ll see iconic sites and hear stories that connect you to Icelandic culture and geology.
• Limited Flexibility: The tour’s timetable is packed, so expect a full, busy day with little free time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Landscape: An In-Depth Review

Starting Point & Transportation

The adventure begins with an easy hotel pickup in Akureyri, a charming town often called the “Capital of North Iceland.” The tour’s bus is identifiable by its orange branding, and guides are visible in orange vests, making it easy to find your group. The ride itself is comfortable, with WiFi on board—valuable for sharing photos or simply catching up on your trip notes. The journey to Mývatn is scenic, often passing rolling hills and patches of farmland before the volcanic landscapes begin to dominate the view.

Góðafoss Waterfall — The Water of the Gods

Our first major stop is Góðafoss, a semi-circular waterfall that plunges about 30 meters wide. The name translates to “Waterfall of the Gods,” and it’s steeped in history, marking a turning point from pagan gods to Christianity in Iceland’s past. The scene is striking: frothing white water crashing over black volcanic rocks, framed by lush moss and surrounding cliffs. Several reviewers have described it as “fantastic scenery,” and many appreciate how accessible it is for photos or just soaking in the power of natural forces.

Lake Mývatn & Pseudo Craters — A Volcano’s Footprint

Next, we head to Lake Mývatn, renowned for its volcanic origins and unique formations. The pseudo craters lining the lake are a highlight. Unlike typical volcanic craters, these grassy mounds weren’t formed by lava flows but by steam explosions when magma met wetlands—an intriguing and distinctive Icelandic feature. Guides explain that no lava flowed out here; instead, the explosive interaction left behind these crater-like formations that are surprisingly lush and inviting despite their volcanic roots.

At this stop, we love how the guide shares fascinating facts—like how these craters are a visual reminder of Iceland’s ongoing geological activity. The terrain around the lake is often dotted with birdlife, adding to its natural appeal.

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Dimmuborgir Lava Fields — A Fairytale Realm

A walk through Dimmuborgir takes us into a landscape of strange, towering lava formations. The name means “Dark Fortress,” and it’s easy to see why—these jagged rocks resemble castles or trolls’ hideouts. Kids and adults alike often spot troll-like shapes in the rocks, making this a playful yet awe-inspiring stop. The guide’s storytelling brings these formations to life, sharing Icelandic legends and folklore.

Námaskarð Geothermal Area — Bubbles and Mud Pools

The next highlight is Námaskarð, a barren, steaming landscape full of bubbling mud pots and sulfurous fumes. This area is a photographer’s dream, with vibrant mineral deposits and boiling pools. Travelers report the smell of sulfur as “really strong,” so be prepared for the distinctive Icelandic geothermal aroma. Staying on the marked paths is vital for safety, as the terrain is hot and unpredictable. The vivid colors and active geothermal features vividly demonstrate Iceland’s volcanic vitality.

The Return & Reflection

After a full day of exploring, we head back to Akureyri, with plenty of opportunities to chat with fellow travelers or mull over the sights we’ve seen. Many reviews mention this trip as “well-organized,” with guides who shared “tons of interesting facts.” The packed lunch, including a chicken or vegan sandwich, is appreciated, though some mention it’s simple—so if you’re looking for a gourmet meal, you might want to bring extra snacks.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For the price of $180, you’re getting a rundown of North Iceland’s volcanic landscape. The inclusion of hotel pickup, WiFi, and a lunch adds convenience and comfort that many other day trips do not offer. The guide’s expertise is a big plus—reviews consistently praise their knowledge and storytelling ability. This makes the experience educational as well as visually stunning.

While it’s a tight schedule—covering Góðafoss, Lake Mývatn, Dimmuborgir, and Námaskarð—the variety keeps the day engaging. If you’re a traveler who appreciates nature’s geological features, you’ll find this trip rewarding. The sense of connection to Iceland’s volcanic activity, combined with the chance to see some of the most photogenic spots, makes it a memorable outing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for cruise passengers, short-term visitors, or anyone who wants a snapshot of North Iceland’s volcanic beauty without spending multiple days on the road. It’s especially suited for those who value guided insight—many reviews mention how guides enhance the experience. If you prefer a leisurely pace with more free time, this might feel rushed, but for most, the itinerary hits the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, including travel time, with specific start times depending on availability.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off, WiFi on board, and a packed lunch with a sandwich, chocolate, and juice.

Are there any additional costs?
You might want to bring bottled water, as it’s not included. Entry to natural sites is generally covered by the tour fee, but be sure to stick to marked paths for safety.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many families enjoy the stops, especially the lava fields and waterfalls. The guide’s stories and the landscape’s fairy-tale feel make it engaging for kids.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers, as Iceland’s weather can change quickly. Waterproof gear is advisable if rain is forecast, and sturdy shoes are a must for walking around lava and geothermal areas.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Availability depends on the day, but it’s often possible to reserve last minute—check with the operator for current status.

How crowded does it get?
During peak season, multiple cruise ships might be in port, leading to busier sites. The guide will do their best to keep things flowing smoothly.

Is the lunch vegetarian or vegan?
The packed lunch can be chicken or vegan, so specify your preference when booking.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour offers flexible booking options.

Will I have enough time at each stop?
Most travelers find the stops just right—long enough to enjoy the scenery and take photos, but not so long as to delay the schedule.

Final Thoughts

This Myvatn Lake, Craters & Waterfall Tour from Akureyri offers a compelling mix of Iceland’s volcanic wonderlands, guided by experts who bring the landscape to life. It’s a carefully curated experience that balances scenic beauty, geological intrigue, and cultural stories—delivered comfortably and efficiently. For those with limited time or looking to get a good overview of North Iceland’s natural highlights, this tour is hard to beat.

Most reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the breathtaking scenery, making it clear that this trip delivers on both education and visual awe. While it is a full day, the variety of sites means you’ll leave with a true sense of Iceland’s volcanic soul—and plenty of photos to prove it.

If you’re seeking value for money, simple logistics, and a guided encounter with Iceland’s iconic landscapes, this tour is a standout choice. It’s perfect for travelers eager to see famous waterfalls, bubbling geothermal pools, and volcanic craters without the hassle of planning each stop themselves. Just be prepared for a busy day, and you’ll likely find it one of the most rewarding excursions of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: