From Akureyri: Goðafoss Waterfall & Santa Claus House Tour

Iceland’s stunning Goðafoss Waterfall and the whimsical Akureyri Christmas House make for an enchanting tour. Departing from Akureyri, this 3-hour excursion takes visitors to the historical waterfall, followed by a visit to the festive Icelandic attraction. With convenient hotel pickup and flexible booking, it’s an enriching experience for nature lovers and holiday enthusiasts alike. But what makes this tour truly special? Dive deeper to uncover the captivating details.

Key Points

• This 3-hour tour from Akureyri explores the breathtaking Goðafoss Waterfall and the festive Akureyri Christmas House.
• Goðafoss Waterfall is a powerful, horseshoe-shaped waterfall with historical significance related to the adoption of Christianity in Iceland.
• The Akureyri Christmas House is a year-round festive attraction showcasing Icelandic handicrafts, Christmas decor, and folklore.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and is priced from $103.32 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Customers have reported concerns regarding vehicle capacity, so guests are advised to plan accordingly for a comfortable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and festive charm.

Guests will visit the majestic Goðafoss Waterfall and the year-round Christmas attraction, the Akureyri Christmas House.

Discover the majestic Goðafoss Waterfall and the year-round festive charm of the Akureyri Christmas House.

The 3-hour tour is available in English and includes hotel pickup. Priced from $103.32 per person, the tour provides an opportunity to learn about Icelandic folklore and explore both natural and festive wonders.

Travelers should arrive 10 minutes before pickup time, as drivers will wait only 5 minutes.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour is a flexible option for those seeking a unique Icelandic experience.

Exploring Godafoss Waterfall

Nestled in the heart of northern Iceland, Goðafoss Waterfall is a breathtaking natural wonder.

Cascading over a horseshoe-shaped ledge, the waterfall’s height of 12 meters and width of 30 meters make it an awe-inspiring sight. Its historical significance adds to the allure, as it marks the pivotal moment when Iceland adopted Christianity.

Visitors can explore a well-marked trail offering various viewpoints to capture the waterfall’s grandeur. With ample parking and easy accessibility, Goðafoss provides a quintessential Icelandic experience for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Discovering the Akureyri Christmas House

Although located just a short distance from the picturesque town of Akureyri, the Akureyri Christmas House (Jólahúsið) offers visitors a year-round festive experience.

This two-story attraction is filled with Christmas-themed items, including:

1. Decorations, food, music, and artworks

2. Authentic Icelandic handicrafts

3. A tower with a large advent calendar

4. A Christmas Garden featuring a miniature turf church and a wishing well

Guests can enjoy the holiday spirit and learn about Icelandic folklore related to the festive season.

The Akureyri Christmas House is a delightful addition to the Godafoss Waterfall experience.

Historical Significance of Godafoss

Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði, a prominent Icelandic chieftain, made a pivotal decision at Godafoss in the late 10th century.

As Iceland’s leading lawspeaker, he proclaimed the adoption of Christianity, marking a historical religious transition.

To symbolize the change, Þorgeir threw Norse god statues into the waterfall, which has since been known as the "Waterfall of the Gods."

A symbolic act, Þorgeir cast Norse god statues into the waterfall, forever earning it the moniker "Waterfall of the Gods."

Standing at 12 meters high and 30 meters wide, Godafoss captivates visitors with its powerful flow and scenic beauty.

This site’s historical significance underscores Iceland’s evolution from Norse paganism to Christianity, a critical juncture in the island’s cultural and religious development.

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Accessibility and Hiking Trails

Godafoss Waterfall is easily accessible, with a well-marked sign and spacious parking facilities nearby.

The waterfall offers a 1.8-mile hiking trail that provides visitors with various viewpoints:

1. The main viewpoint overlooks the 12-meter-high, 30-meter-wide cascade.

2. Additional trails lead to closer vantage points, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the waterfall’s power and grandeur.

3. The hiking routes cater to different skill levels, from leisurely strolls to more challenging treks.

4. Visitors can explore the natural surroundings and take in the waterfall’s impressive size and historical significance.

Authentic Icelandic Handicrafts

The Akureyri Christmas House (Jólahúsið) not only offers a festive atmosphere but also showcases authentic Icelandic handicrafts.

Visitors can browse through an array of handcrafted items, from decorations and homeware to toys and artworks. These locally-made products reflect the rich cultural heritage and skilled craftsmanship of Iceland.

Guests can find unique souvenirs and gifts that capture the essence of Icelandic traditions. The Christmas House provides an opportunity to support local artisans and take home a piece of Icelandic charm.

Unique souvenirs and gifts that capture the essence of Icelandic traditions. Support local artisans and take home a piece of Icelandic charm.

With its diverse selection of authentic handicrafts, the attraction adds an extra layer of culture to the overall experience.

Blending Nature, History, and Festive Cheer

Although the tour blends stunning natural beauty, rich historical significance, and festive holiday charm, it offers a well-rounded experience catering to a variety of interests.

The tour highlights include:

1. Witnessing the powerful and picturesque Goðafoss Waterfall, known as the "Waterfall of the Gods" for its historical connection to the adoption of Christianity in Iceland.

2. Exploring the Akureyri Christmas House, a year-round festive attraction filled with Icelandic handicrafts, Christmas decor, and holiday-themed entertainment.

3. Learning about Icelandic folklore and traditions associated with the festive season.

4. Enjoying the blend of natural wonders, cultural heritage, and seasonal delights.

Booking and Customer Feedback

Booking for the tour is flexible, allowing visitors to reserve their spot without immediate payment.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can secure their tour with peace of mind.

However, the tour has received some concerns regarding vehicle capacity.

Based on customer feedback, the tour has an overall rating of 3/5 stars, with one review reporting an overload on a vehicle designed for 8 people, with 9 present.

Guests should be aware of these potential issues and plan accordingly to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience at the Goðafoss Waterfall and Santa Claus House.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

The tour appears suitable for families with young children. The attractions offer a mix of natural scenery, festive charm, and educational elements that could engage both adults and children. However, the vehicle capacity concerns may be a consideration for larger families.

Are There Any Food Options Available During the Tour?

The tour does not include any food options. However, the Santa Claus House features a variety of festive snacks and treats that can be purchased during the visit. Travelers should plan accordingly if they want to enjoy refreshments during the tour.

Can We Bring Our Own Snacks and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. There are no food options provided during the excursion, so bringing personal refreshments is recommended to enjoy throughout the experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There is no option to extend the tour duration. The tour is fixed at 3 hours, as stated in the Tour Overview. Any requests to extend the duration would need to be handled directly with the tour provider.

How Strict Is the Pickup Time, and What Happens if We’re Late?

The pickup time is strict, with drivers waiting only 5 minutes. If you’re late, you may miss the tour as the driver won’t wait longer. It’s crucial to be ready in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.

The Sum Up

The "From Akureyri: Goðafoss Waterfall & Santa Claus House Tour" offers a well-rounded experience, blending Iceland’s stunning natural beauty and festive charm. Visitors can explore the majestic Goðafoss Waterfall, learn about its historical significance, and then enjoy the whimsical Akureyri Christmas House. With convenient transportation and flexible booking options, this tour provides an enriching and memorable way to discover the essence of Icelandic culture and tradition.

You can check availability for your dates here: