Akureyri Port: Dettifoss, Goðafoss and Lake Mývatn Tour

If you’re after a day packed with jaw-dropping waterfalls, volcanic craters, and impressive geological sights, this 8-hour tour from Akureyri offers a solid dose of Iceland’s best. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the reviews and detailed itinerary give us plenty of insight into what makes it special.

One of the biggest wins? You’ll get to see Dettifoss, considered Europe’s most powerful waterfall, along with the famous Goðafoss, known as the Waterfall of the Gods. Add in a moderate hike up Hverfjall Crater for panoramic views, and you’ve got a well-rounded adventure for nature lovers. Another highlight is the guided storytelling—expert guides like Peter, who tailor the experience and share fascinating insights into Iceland’s volcanic and cultural history.

The only potential consideration? The tour involves some walking and hiking and isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or heart problems. If you’re comfortable on your feet and want an authentic, immersive day exploring Iceland’s dramatic landscapes, this trip is a winner. It’s especially ideal for travelers who love guided experiences with small groups, offering a more personal touch.

Key Points

• Stunning Waterfalls: See both Goðafoss and Dettifoss, two of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls, with powerful and photogenic scenes.
• Volcanic Landscapes: Climb Hverfjall Crater for panoramic views of geothermal and lava fields.
• Expert Guides: Learn about Iceland’s geology and culture from knowledgeable guides like Peter, who tailor the experience.
• Flexible & Small Group: Limited to 15 participants, ensuring a personalized experience and fewer crowds.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Pickup and drop-off at Akureyri Cruise Port included, with a full refund if your ship doesn’t dock.
• Good Value: The tour covers transportation, guiding, and scenic stops in one package, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point and Pickup

The adventure begins at Laufásgata 1, right at the main port in Akureyri, with guides easily recognizable in red jackets marked “Saga Travel.” If your cruise docks at the secondary port, Oddeyrarbryggja, guides will meet you just outside your ship and lead you to the meeting spot. Pickup starts 30 minutes before the scheduled start, giving ample time to settle in.

First Stop: Goðafoss Waterfall

Your first destination is Goðafoss, often called the Waterfall of the Gods. This horseshoe-shaped cascade offers a dramatic display of glacial waters plunging into the river below. Visitors love the way the water seems to dance and sparkle, creating picture-perfect moments. The guided tour here lasts about an hour, allowing plenty of time to marvel at the falls and learn about their significance. As one reviewer pointed out, watching the glacial water tumble over the rocks is truly mesmerizing.

Second Stop: Hverfjall Crater

Next, you’ll head toward the volcanic landscapes of Hverfjall. This massive explosion crater is a moderate hike, taking around 45 minutes to climb to the top. From this vantage point, the views of geothermal fields and lava formations are breathtaking, giving a real sense of Iceland’s fiery geological past. The guide shares insights into the volcanic activity that created the crater, making the experience both scenic and educational. One guest shared that their guide “tailored the itinerary to the weather and their wishes,” which can mean personalized, flexible sightseeing.

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Final Highlights: Dettifoss

The tour’s climax is Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. The thunderous roar and sheer force—falling 44 meters into a deep canyon—make it an unforgettable sight. Expect to spend about 1.5 hours here exploring and taking photos. The ground vibrates beneath your feet, and the mist from the crashing water adds a refreshing coolness. A reviewer mentioned feeling the ground tremble beneath her, which captures the awe-inspiring power of this natural wonder. The guided hike allows you to get close, but keep in mind it’s a physically active part of the tour.

Return Journey

After Dettifoss, the group heads back to Akureyri, with a stop to stretch and reflect on the day’s adventures. The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day for most travelers.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

Transportation: The tour uses comfortable vans that can accommodate small groups, ensuring a more intimate experience and easier access to each site.

Timing: Starts in the morning (check availability for exact times), with the tour lasting about 8 hours. Expect some short stops and a fair amount of driving across scenic routes.

Group Size: Limited to 15 participants, which means you’ll get personalized attention and plenty of opportunities to ask questions.

Cost & Value: While pricing isn’t explicitly stated, the tour includes transportation, guiding, and all major scenic stops, making it a convenient package. Comparing this to the cost of separate entries and transport, it offers good value for a full day’s adventure.

Accessibility: Not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or heart problems due to walking and hiking involved.

Weather & Clothing: Icelandic weather can be unpredictable. Wear comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and bring a camera and water bottle.

Additional Perks

• Full refund if the ship doesn’t dock shows the tour’s commitment to flexibility.
• Reserve now & pay later option allows for booking without immediate payment.
• Guides like Peter are praised for sharing fascinating stories and adapting the itinerary, making the experience feel tailored rather than cookie-cutter.

Authentic Review Insights

One reviewer shared that they had a private tour, thanks to low numbers, and praised how their guide Peter tailored the trip to their interests and the weather. This flexibility can make all the difference, especially in unpredictable Icelandic weather.

Another point of praise is the knowledgeable guides who share stories about Iceland’s geological and cultural history—transforming a sightseeing trip into a mini-lesson. Travelers also love the stunning views from each stop, particularly the panoramic vistas from Hverfjall and the raw power of Dettifoss.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers who appreciate guided insight and want to see Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls and volcanic features. It’s especially suitable if you’re comfortable on your feet and enjoy scenic hikes, as the crater climb and waterfall explorations involve some physical activity. Families with older children, small groups, or solo travelers looking for a personalized touch will find this tour meets their needs.

If you prefer a relaxed, less active experience or have mobility constraints, this might not be the best fit. But for those craving a full day of Icelandic drama—waterfalls, volcanic craters, and rugged landscapes—it offers tremendous value.

Final Thoughts

This 8-hour tour from Akureyri provides a well-rounded introduction to Iceland’s most striking natural features. From the roaring Dettifoss to the gentle elegance of Goðafoss and the volcanic spectacle of Hverfjall, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Iceland’s geological might. Guided by knowledgeable experts, you’ll gain insights you won’t find in guidebooks, making the scenery even more meaningful.

The small group size and flexible approach add a personal touch that many travelers appreciate. While physically active, the highlights are accessible enough for most fit travelers looking to explore Iceland’s wilderness without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

This tour offers a fantastic blend of awe-inspiring sights, educational stories, and scenic hikes—perfect for anyone eager to see Iceland’s raw beauty up close.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, including stops, hikes, and transportation.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at Laufásgata 1, at the main port in Akureyri, with pickup 30 minutes prior to departure.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
It’s best suited for those comfortable walking and hiking on uneven terrain. Not recommended for mobility-impaired individuals.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, and water are recommended for the day.

Is there a refund if my ship doesn’t dock?
Yes, a full refund is guaranteed if your cruise ship does not dock on the day of your tour.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase food during the stops.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of powerful waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and expert guides who tailor the experience makes it both memorable and insightful.

This guided trip from Akureyri promises an enriching day of Icelandic natural marvels, balanced with practical comfort and expert insights. Whether you’re snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery, you’ll come away with a deeper understanding of why Iceland remains one of the world’s most captivating landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: