Akureyri, Godfoss Waterfall and Forest Lagoon Private Tour
Discover the Waterfall of the Gods, a geothermal forest spa, and the Capital of the North in one private half-day journey.
Private Half Day Tour in Akureyri brings together three of North Iceland's most compelling destinations — the storied Godfoss waterfall, the serene Forest Lagoon geothermal spa, and the charming town of Akureyri — into a single, well-paced private experience. This tour is rated easy, making it accessible to a broad range of travelers seeking both cultural depth and natural relaxation. With private guiding, the itinerary moves at your pace and focuses on what matters most to you.
North Iceland carries a distinct character that sets it apart from the more frequented south. The landscape around Akureyri shifts between volcanic highlands, dense woodlands, and the still waters of Eyjafjordur Fjord, offering a concentrated preview of the country's geographic variety.
Godfoss stands among Iceland's most historically significant natural landmarks. The waterfall's connection to the adoption of Christianity in 1000 AD gives it a narrative weight that few natural sites can match, and its 12-meter drop across a 30-meter-wide cascade is visually striking in any season.
Forest Lagoon represents a newer chapter in Iceland's geothermal spa culture. Set within Vadlaskogur forest just outside Akureyri, the facility draws on naturally heated water sourced during a mountain tunnel project, channeling it into infinity pools that overlook the fjord.
Tour Highlights
Visit Godfoss, the "Waterfall of the Gods," a 12-meter-high cascade with deep roots in Icelandic history and the adoption of Christianity in 1000 AD.
Soak in Forest Lagoon's geothermal infinity pools, fed by natural mountain water and set within a woodland forest overlooking Eyjafjordur Fjord.
Explore the Vadlaskogur forest setting surrounding Forest Lagoon, one of the more unusual spa environments in Iceland.
Discover Akureyri, the largest Icelandic town outside the Capital Area, with its botanical gardens, museums, and lively town center.
Learn about Akureyri's role as Iceland's winter sports hub, just 5 km from Hlidarfjall Mountain skiing facilities.
Enjoy full privacy throughout the tour, with a dedicated guide and a flexible pace suited to your group's interests.
Travel through the Skjalfandafljot River valley and along Eyjafjordur, two of North Iceland's most scenic natural corridors.
Itinerary Overview
1
Godfoss — Waterfall of the Gods
Begin at Godfoss, located on the Skjalfandafljot River, which originates in the Vatnajokull Glacier. The waterfall is 12 meters high and 30 meters wide, and it carries a significant place in Icelandic history as the site where law speaker Thorgeir symbolically discarded statues of Norse gods upon Iceland's conversion to Christianity in 1000 AD.
2
Forest Lagoon — Geothermal Spa in the Woods
Continue to Forest Lagoon, a 1,300-square-meter geothermal spa complex set within Vadlaskogur forest near Akureyri. The facility includes two infinity pools with swim-up bars, a cold tub, a sauna, and a bistro, all heated by naturally sourced geothermal water from Vadlaheidi mountain.
3
Akureyri Town Exploration
Arrive in Akureyri, located at the base of Eyjafjordur Fjord and widely regarded as the most beautiful town in Iceland by locals. Explore the town center, botanical garden, and surrounding cultural sites at your own pace with your private guide.
4
Return to Base
After exploring Akureyri, the tour concludes and you are returned to the designated meeting point. The full experience spans approximately five hours from start to finish.
What Is Included
Included
Private guided tour for your group
Transportation between all tour stops
Visit to Godfoss waterfall
Entry and access to Forest Lagoon geothermal spa
Guided exploration of Akureyri town center
Not Included
Food, drinks, and bistro purchases at Forest Lagoon
Personal expenses and souvenirs
Gratuities for the guide
Travel insurance
Important Information
This is a private tour suited for individuals, couples, families, and small groups. The easy difficulty rating means no physical demands are required beyond light walking.
Duration
Approximately 5 hours from start to finish.
Meeting Point
The tour begins in Akureyri, North Iceland. Specific meeting point details will be confirmed upon booking.
What to Bring
Bring a swimsuit and towel for Forest Lagoon, layered clothing suitable for Icelandic weather, and comfortable walking footwear.
Cancellation
Cancellation terms are provided at the time of booking. Review the policy carefully before confirming your reservation.
Accessibility
The tour is rated easy and involves minimal physical activity. Contact the operator in advance to discuss specific accessibility requirements.
Age Range
This tour is suitable for all ages. Families with children are welcome, and the private format allows for a flexible experience for younger travelers.
Reserve Your Private Tour
Secure your private half-day experience through Akureyri, Godfoss, and Forest Lagoon. Places are limited to your group only, so early booking is recommended.
What is Godfoss and why is it historically significant?▼
Godfoss, meaning "Waterfall of the Gods," is located on the Skjalfandafljot River in North Iceland. It is named for the event in 1000 AD when law speaker Thorgeir threw his Norse god statues into the waterfall after Iceland officially adopted Christianity, as recorded in the Book of Icelanders.
What facilities are available at Forest Lagoon?▼
Forest Lagoon features a 1,300-square-meter complex with two geothermal infinity pools, two swim-up bars, a cold tub, a sauna, and a bistro. The facility operates seven days a week and can accommodate up to 200 visitors at a time.
Is this tour suitable for children and families?▼
Yes, the tour is rated easy and is appropriate for all age groups. The private format allows the guide to adapt the pace and content to suit families traveling with children.
What should I bring for the Forest Lagoon visit?▼
Bring a swimsuit and a towel for use at Forest Lagoon. Layered, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended for the outdoor portions of the tour, including the stop at Godfoss.
What is there to see in Akureyri during the tour?▼
Akureyri offers a botanical garden, local museums, historical sites, and a lively town center. Located at the base of Eyjafjordur Fjord, it is widely considered one of Iceland's most attractive towns outside the capital region.
Is the geothermal water at Forest Lagoon naturally sourced?▼
Yes, Forest Lagoon's pools are heated with geothermal water sourced from Vadlaheidi mountain directly behind the facility. The water was discovered during a tunnel construction project and is now used exclusively to heat the spa pools.
North IcelandAkureyri TourGodfoss WaterfallForest LagoonGeothermal SpaPrivate Tour IcelandHalf Day TourEyjafjordurIceland WaterfallsCapital of the NorthIceland NatureIcelandic Culture
Activity
Availability
You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.
Additional Information
Physical: Wheelchair Not accessible
Duration
5 hours
Languages
Danish - Speaking Guide
German - Speaking Guide
English - Speaking Guide
Spanish - Speaking Guide
French - Speaking Guide
Italian - Speaking Guide
Dutch - Speaking Guide
Additional Information
Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.
Cancellation Policy
Select Date
Meeting Point
Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.
Activity Site
Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.
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This tour is based in Akureyri, the largest town in North Iceland and commonly referred to as the Capital of the North. It covers three geographically distinct stops: Godfoss waterfall on the Skjalfandafljot River, Forest Lagoon within the Vadlaskogur forest outside Akureyri, and the Akureyri town center situated at the southern end of Eyjafjordur Fjord. The region is located in the Nordurland eystra (Northeast Iceland) area, accessible via the Ring Road and Akureyri Airport, which receives direct domestic and select international flights. North Iceland is a growing travel destination known for whale watching in Husavik, the Diamond Circle route, and winter skiing at Hlidarfjall Mountain near Akureyri.
Private Day Tour | North Iceland | Akureyri | Godfoss Waterfall | Forest Lagoon Geothermal Spa | Cultural and Nature Experience | Easy Difficulty | All Ages | Iceland Travel
