Lake Myvatn and Dettifoss Day Tour
From the God Waterfall to Europe's most powerful cascade, through the volcanic heart of northern Iceland.
This full-day tour introduces travelers to the raw geological drama of northern Iceland, combining iconic waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and geothermal wonders in a single well-paced journey. The Lake Myvatn and Dettifoss tour takes you from the cascading tiers of Goðafoss to the thundering power of Dettifoss, widely considered the most forceful waterfall in Europe. Each stop offers a distinct encounter with Iceland's living landscape, shaped by lava fields, craters, and ancient flows.
Lake Myvatn sits at the center of one of Iceland's most geologically active regions, where the land is still visibly shaped by volcanic processes. At Dimmuborgir, a maze of hardened lava columns and arches creates a landscape unlike anywhere else on earth, a place that feels genuinely otherworldly. The area around the lake provides context for understanding how Iceland's terrain has been built and rebuilt over millennia.
Dettifoss makes its impression immediately. Dropping 44 meters into a basalt canyon with a flow that can exceed 500 cubic meters per second, it generates a mist and a roar that reach visitors long before they see the falls. A short walk from Dettifoss leads to Selfoss, a broader but gentler falls set against equally dramatic canyon walls.
The tour concludes with an optional stop at the Myvatn Nature Baths, where geothermal waters offer a natural contrast to the day's rugged scenery. Upon return to Akureyri, guests also have the option to visit the Akureyri Forest Lagoon for an additional soak in geothermal waters.
Tour Highlights
Stand beside Goðafoss, the Waterfall of the Gods, one of Iceland's most historically significant natural landmarks.
Explore the lava maze at Dimmuborgir, a field of sculpted volcanic formations on the shores of Lake Myvatn.
Witness Dettifoss in full force, the waterfall recognized as the most powerful in Europe by volume and descent.
Walk to Selfoss waterfall through canyon scenery that appears lifted from another planet entirely.
Optional relaxation at the Myvatn Nature Baths, where geothermal waters provide a fitting end to the day.
Photography opportunities at every stop, from wide canyon panoramas to close-up volcanic textures.
Optional visit to the Akureyri Forest Lagoon on return for an additional geothermal experience.
Itinerary
The tour begins with a stop at Goðafoss, a broad horseshoe waterfall on the Skjálfandafljót river. Visitors have time to walk along the banks and view the falls from multiple vantage points before continuing east.
Arriving at the Lake Myvatn region, the group visits Dimmuborgir, a field of eroded lava columns formed by an ancient lava flow that partially collapsed over water. The area rewards slow exploration on foot.
A stop at a local restaurant in the Myvatn area gives travelers a chance to rest and eat. Meal costs are not included in the tour price.
The route continues north to Dettifoss, where a short walk leads to the edge of the canyon and the full force of the falls. From there, a guided walk leads to Selfoss, a shallower waterfall set in the same basalt gorge.
Travelers have the option to bathe in the Myvatn Nature Baths, a geothermal lagoon fed by naturally warm alkaline water. Entry is at the visitor's own expense.
A final drive around the lake precedes the return journey to Akureyri. On arrival, an optional stop at the Akureyri Forest Lagoon is available for those wishing to extend the geothermal experience.
What's Included and Excluded
Included
- Professional guide throughout the tour
- Transportation by comfortable vehicle
- Visits to Goðafoss, Dimmuborgir, Dettifoss, and Selfoss
- Guided walk to Selfoss waterfall
- Final lake circuit before return
Not Included
- Meals and refreshments at local restaurant
- Entry to Myvatn Nature Baths
- Entry to Akureyri Forest Lagoon
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities for guide or driver
Important Information
Reserve Your Place on This Tour
Secure your spot on one of northern Iceland's most comprehensive day tours, covering volcanic landscapes, canyon waterfalls, and geothermal relaxation in a single journey from Akureyri.
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