Diamond Circle Tour from Akureyri
A full-day journey through Iceland's most dramatic northern landscapes
The Diamond Circle Tour takes you through a striking sequence of natural wonders in northern Iceland, from thundering waterfalls to geothermal fields and ancient volcanic craters. This 10-hour guided route covers highlights that few travelers experience in a single day. The journey departs from Akureyri and follows Iceland's rugged northern interior.
The tour passes through varied terrain including the horseshoe-shaped Asbyrgi canyon, the basalt formations at Hljodaklettar, and the immense Dettifoss waterfall, recognized as one of the most powerful in Europe. Each stop is chosen to represent a distinct chapter in Iceland's geological story. A knowledgeable guide accompanies the group throughout, offering context and photography tips at each location.
Beyond the geological highlights, the route also passes through Husavik, a small coastal town with a distinctive church and harbor, and the Tjornes Peninsula, where puffins can be spotted from mid-June through early September. The return journey follows the shores of Lake Myvatn, offering a scenic close to the day. This tour is also available as a private experience for those who prefer a more personalized itinerary.
Tour Highlights
Godafoss, one of Iceland's most historically significant waterfalls, located along Eyjafjordur fjord with opportunities to photograph rainbows.
Tjornes Peninsula, where puffins nest and can be observed from mid-June to early September against sweeping coastal views.
Asbyrgi, a horseshoe-shaped canyon stretching 3.5 kilometres in length and rising to 100 metres at its cliff edges.
Dettifoss waterfall, 45 metres high and 100 metres wide, pouring into Iceland's most dramatic canyon with raw, unfiltered force.
Hverir geothermal area near Mt. Namafjall, featuring boiling mud pits, steam fumaroles, and vivid mineral colors across the ground.
Viti crater near Krafla Volcano, a volcanic crater filled with aqua-blue water formed during an 18th-century eruption.
Hljodaklettar echo rocks, a striking collection of basalt columns forming arched caves that produce eerie acoustic reverberations.
Itinerary
Approximately 35 minutes from Akureyri, this historically significant waterfall is a fitting opening to the day. The group spends around 40 minutes here, with a small shop and toilet facilities on site.
About 40 minutes from Godafoss, Husavik is known as the whale watching capital of Iceland and gained wider recognition through the film Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga. The group has 20 to 30 minutes to explore the church and harbor.
A 15-minute drive from Husavik leads to Tjornes, known for its geology and birdlife including seasonal puffin sightings. The group then continues to Asbyrgi, a vast horseshoe canyon roughly 35 minutes further, spending around 40 minutes at this impressive natural formation.
The echo rocks at Hljodaklettar are reached about 20 minutes from Asbyrgi, followed by Dettifoss roughly 20 minutes onward. Reaching Dettifoss requires a moderate 10-minute hike each way; the site is not wheelchair accessible. Selfoss waterfall is visible on the return path.
Viti crater near Krafla Volcano, about 40 minutes from Dettifoss, offers views of aqua-blue water and nearby eruption craters. Hverir, 15 minutes further, features boiling mud pits and fumaroles often compared to Yellowstone, with a notable sulfur smell.
The final stop at Lake Myvatn, around 10 minutes from Hverir, allows time to explore the lake and its surroundings. If time permits, a visit to Grjótagjá cave may also be included. The drive back to Akureyri port takes approximately 90 minutes.
What Is Included
Included
- Professional guided tour throughout the day
- Free pick-up from designated location in Akureyri
- Transportation by bus for the full route
- Photography guidance at key stops
Not Included
- Food and drinks
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities for the guide
- Optional private tour upgrade
Important Information
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