Lake Myvatn and Godafoss Waterfall for Cruise Ships from Husavik

Exploring the Wonders of Lake Myvatn and Godafoss Waterfall from Husavik

If you’re cruising into Husavik and eager to see some of Iceland’s most captivating natural sights, this tour offers a balanced mix of waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and geothermal activity—all within a manageable 5 to 6 hours. For $223.40 per person, you get a small-group experience with a knowledgeable local guide, transport, and plenty of opportunities for authentic Icelandic scenery.

What we particularly like about this trip is how it combines breathtaking highlights like Godafoss and the surreal lava formations of Dimmuborgir with the chance to relax in the Myvatn Nature Baths—though note, the entrance fee isn’t included. Another plus? The tour offers a flexible itinerary, allowing some passengers to skip the baths and explore the nearby Grotcaja cave instead, catering to different interests and energy levels.

A possible consideration is the length of the driving times—some reviews mention drives of up to 45-60 minutes between stops. If you’re expecting a very tight schedule or limited patience for long drives, this is something to keep in mind, especially during less-than-ideal weather conditions.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love geological wonders, scenic drives, and small-group intimacy. It’s ideal if you want to maximize your short time in Iceland with a guided overview that balances sightseeing and flexibility, especially if you’re arriving on a cruise ship and want a comprehensive taste of the region.

Key Points

• Authentic Icelandic landscapes: Includes waterfalls, volcanic formations, and geothermal areas.
• Flexible options: Visit the Myvatn Nature Baths or Grotcaja cave depending on your preferences.
• Knowledgeable guides: Local guides are praised for their informative and courteous approach.
• Great value: Small-group tour with transport and pickup included, offering a personal touch.
• Time management: The tour covers multiple sites efficiently within roughly 6 hours.
• Weather considerations: Expect some long drives, with weather potentially impacting sightseeing time.

An In-Depth Look at What This Tour Offers

Starting at Godafoss — The Waterfall of the Gods

The adventure begins with a visit to Godafoss, often called the “Waterfall of the Gods” for its dramatic cascade. This stunning waterfall is a highlight, famous for its horseshoe shape and powerful flow. It’s a perfect first stop, not only because it’s visually striking but also because it sets the tone for the day’s volcanic scenery.

The review from Beth notes, “The day was miserable with rain and high wind, so time was limited at each sight,” underscoring how Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. Still, even in less-than-ideal conditions, Godafoss’s raw power and natural beauty shine through.

Lake Myvatn — A Geothermal Wonderland

Next, we head to the Lake Myvatn area, renowned for its unusual volcanic landscapes and geothermal activity. This stop is the core of the tour, with several sites packed into about three hours.

Námaskarð, with bubbling Hverir mud pools and steaming fumaroles, offers a surreal, almost otherworldly landscape. The swirling mud and steamy vents provide excellent photo opportunities and a real sense of Iceland’s fiery geological activity.

The lava formations of Dimmuborgir—often called the “Dark Castle”—are another highlight. These jagged volcanic rocks, formed by lava during eruptions, evoke images of ancient fortresses and are perfect for wandering and picture-taking.

Greg comments, “The falls were dramatic, and the scenery was beautiful.” His appreciation for the landscape is echoed by many visitors who find the volcanic terrain both dramatic and humbling.

The Myvatn Nature Baths — Relax or Explore Further

The Myvatn Nature Baths offer a chance to unwind in geothermal waters, with views over the surrounding lava fields. We loved the idea of ending the tour with a relaxing soak, especially after a day of sightseeing. However, we advise booking your tickets in advance—the entrance isn’t included in the price and costs around 50 USD.

Some travelers, like Beth, choose to skip the baths and instead visit nearby Grotcaja cave and the rift between continents, providing a more land-focused exploration. This flexibility allows you to customize your day based on your energy and interest levels.

Námafjall and Grotcaja Cave — Geothermal and Geological Marvels

The Námaskarð geothermal area is a quick but memorable stop, with steaming vents and bubbling mud pools. It’s like walking onto another planet, with the smell of sulfur in the air and the vibrant colors of mineral deposits.

Plus, the Grotcaja cave—a historic bathing spot and part of the rift—the next stop offers a glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic past and the Eurasian-American tectonic boundary.

Transportation and Group Size

This tour is designed for small groups—up to 19 travelers—which enhances the experience with less crowding and more interaction with your guide. The modern van is praised for its cleanliness and comfort, making the long drives between sites more enjoyable.

The pick-up and drop-off service at Husavik Port is a real convenience, especially if you’re arriving via cruise ship. It takes the hassle out of logistics, letting you focus on the scenery.

Practical Insights and Traveler Tips

• Timing and weather: The tour can be affected by Iceland’s unpredictable weather. Prepare for rain or wind, and dress warmly with layers.
• Advance bookings: To visit the Nature Baths, reserve your tickets beforehand—recommendation is to do so about three hours after the tour starts.
• Group size: With a maximum of 19 travelers, expect an intimate experience, but it still offers the opportunity to socialize.
• Driving times: Be aware that some legs of the journey may take up to an hour, which is typical for Icelandic landscape tours but might feel long if you prefer more frequent stops.
• Flexibility: The option to skip the baths and visit Grotcaja cave provides added value for those who prefer land-based exploration over soaking.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This excursion is perfect for cruise passengers or travelers with limited time who want a comprehensive Icelandic day trip. It suits those interested in geology, waterfalls, geothermal phenomena, and small-group touring, with guides who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. If you’re after stunning scenery and don’t mind some driving, this tour offers a wonderful way to see the highlights without the hassle of planning each stop yourself.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For the price tag of just over 220 dollars, this tour offers solid value. You’ll cover multiple iconic sites—Godafoss, Námaskarð, Dimmuborgir—and enjoy the comfort of a guided, small-group experience. The flexibility to choose between the Nature Baths and Grotcaja cave, combined with friendly guides, makes it an appealing choice for those wanting a balanced mix of scenery and relaxation.

While long drives between sights are part of the package, the scenery more than compensates. The trip is especially suitable for curious travelers eager to learn about Iceland’s volcanic activity and geological history through a well-organized, personal tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, but Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. The tour will proceed in most conditions, but if the weather is very poor, the operator may offer a different date or a full refund.

How long do we spend at each site?
You’ll typically have around 20-30 minutes at each of the lava formations, the geothermal area, and Grotcaja cave. The stop at the Nature Baths can be about an hour, but that depends on your preference and ticket timing.

Do I need to reserve the Myvatn Nature Baths tickets separately?
Yes, the entrance fee (~50 USD) isn’t included in the tour price. It’s recommended to book your tickets at least three hours after the tour begins to fit your schedule.

What if I want to skip the baths?
The tour offers an alternative to visit Grotcaja cave and the rift instead, which is a great option if you prefer land exploration or want to save on entrance fees.

How big are the groups?
The maximum group size is 19 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience, and the tour is guided by an experienced local.

Does the tour include food and drinks?
No, food and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring a snack or plan to buy something at the Nature Baths’ café.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the modern van is praised for its cleanliness and comfort, making the long drives between sites more pleasant.

This tour balances the thrill of Iceland’s natural wonders with comfort and flexibility, making it a practical choice for travelers eager to get a good overview without feeling rushed. Whether you’re a geology enthusiast or simply love scenic landscapes, it’s a well-rounded way to experience some of Iceland’s most iconic sights from Husavik.