Goðafoss Waterfall and Forest Lagoon Tour from Akureyri
A half-day journey through Iceland's north — ancient cascades and geothermal calm in one seamless escape.
This guided half-day tour takes you to two of northern Iceland's most rewarding stops: the historic Goðafoss Waterfall, where the gods themselves were said to have fallen, and the Forest Lagoon, a geothermal spa cradled in woodland just outside Akureyri.
Goðafoss sits along the Skjálfandafljót River and drops 12 meters across a 30-meter-wide crescent arc. The volume and shape of the falls make it one of the most photogenic natural features in Iceland's northern region.
The Forest Lagoon offers a quieter, more personal experience than Iceland's larger geothermal attractions. Surrounded by birch forest and mountain views, the mineral-rich warm waters provide an unhurried place to decompress after the waterfall visit.
The combination of natural spectacle and geothermal relaxation makes this a well-rounded itinerary for travellers based in Akureyri who want to experience the region's highlights without a full-day commitment.
Tour Highlights
Stand beside Goðafoss, Iceland's historically significant crescent waterfall dropping 12 meters over the Skjálfandafljót River.
Learn the story of Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði, who cast his statues of the gods into these waters when Iceland officially adopted Christianity in the year 1000.
Photograph the full width of the falls from multiple vantage points along the riverbank.
Relax in the warm mineral-rich geothermal pools of the Forest Lagoon, set within lush greenery just outside Akureyri.
Take in views of surrounding forest and mountains from the secluded setting of the lagoon.
Explore northern Iceland's interior landscape on a comfortable, easy-rated half-day excursion from Akureyri.
Complete both destinations in just 4 hours, leaving the rest of your day free for further exploration of the Akureyri area.
Itinerary
The tour departs from Akureyri, Iceland's second-largest city and the main hub for exploring the country's northern regions. The drive to Goðafoss takes you through scenic landscapes along the Skjálfandafljót River valley.
Arrive at Goðafoss, one of Iceland's most recognisable waterfalls. The crescent-shaped cascade spans 30 meters in width and falls from a height of 12 meters, producing a constant roar and a fine mist that can be felt from the viewing paths.
Your guide shares the story of the waterfall's name: in the year 1000, the Lawspeaker Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði declared Christianity the official religion of Iceland and threw his pagan statues into these waters. The event marked a turning point in Icelandic history.
Continue to the Forest Lagoon, located just outside Akureyri. This geothermal facility is set within a forested hillside and offers warm mineral-rich pools with views over the surrounding landscape. The atmosphere is calm and suited to both relaxation and quiet reflection.
After time at the lagoon, the group returns to Akureyri, completing the tour within approximately 4 hours from departure.
What Is Included
Included
- Guided transportation from Akureyri
- Visit to Goðafoss Waterfall
- Entrance to the Forest Lagoon geothermal spa
- Local guide throughout the tour
Not Included
- Personal travel insurance
- Food and beverages
- Gratuities for guide
- Any personal purchases at the lagoon
Important Information
Reserve Your Place on This Tour
Secure your spot on this northern Iceland half-day tour combining the Waterfall of the Gods with a geothermal soak at the Forest Lagoon — one of the region's most rewarding short excursions from Akureyri.
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