Goðafoss Waterfall, Lake Mývatn and Nature Mývatn Baths from Akureyri Port
A private journey through Iceland's volcanic north — waterfalls, craters, lava caves, and geothermal waters in one full day.
This private full-day tour gives you direct access to the defining landscapes of northern Iceland, centered on the Lake Mývatn area — a region sculpted by volcanic forces over thousands of years and recognized globally for its geological and scenic diversity.
Departing directly from the Akureyri cruise terminal, the route follows the shore of Eyjafjörður, one of Iceland's longest fjords, before heading into a landscape that changes dramatically every few kilometers. The area around Lake Mývatn was shaped by a large basaltic lava eruption approximately 2,300 years ago, producing a variety of volcanic landforms that remain visible and accessible today.
Because your group travels privately, the guide can adjust pace and time at each stop according to your interests. Whether you prefer extended photography sessions at the waterfall or a longer soak at the geothermal baths, the itinerary has built-in flexibility.
The tour covers six distinct sites: a historically significant waterfall, pseudo craters found in only a handful of places on Earth, an ancient lava field, a geothermal cave sitting on a tectonic boundary, a boiling geothermal landscape, and a natural thermal bathing facility.
Tour Highlights
Goðafoss Waterfall, one of Iceland's most historically significant waterfalls, located along the Skjálfandafljót river.
Skútustaðagígar pseudo craters, a rare geological formation found in only a few locations on Earth and reportedly on Mars.
Dimmuborgir, an extensive field of unusually shaped lava formations rising from the edge of Lake Mývatn.
Grjótagjá cave, a lava cave containing a hot geothermal river, situated directly on the boundary of two tectonic plates.
Hverir geothermal area, featuring boiling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and mineral-colored ground formations.
Nature Mývatn Baths, a geothermal bathing facility where guests can relax in mineral-rich water and steam baths.
Panoramic views across Eyjafjörður toward Akureyri on the return drive, offering a final photographic opportunity.
Itinerary
After a 35-minute drive from the cruise terminal along Eyjafjörður, the tour reaches Goðafoss. Approximately 40 minutes are spent here, and a small shop with food, souvenirs, and toilets is available on site.
A further 35-minute drive leads to the pseudo craters at the south shore of Lake Mývatn, where about 40 minutes are allocated. A visitor center, toilets, and a small shop are located at this stop.
Fifteen minutes from the pseudo craters, Dimmuborgir offers a 40-minute walk through ancient lava formations — or the option to observe them from the Borgir Cafe viewpoint. Grjótagjá cave, reached in about 12 minutes, adds a 30-minute stop at a tectonic boundary where a blue geothermal river runs beneath the rock.
An 8-minute transfer leads to Hverir, where 30 minutes are spent among boiling mud pots, fumaroles, and mineral-stained ground. Guests should be prepared for a strong sulfuric odor common to active geothermal zones.
Six minutes from Hverir, the Nature Mývatn Baths provide approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes for bathing and lunch. Guests are advised to remove silver and copper jewelry before entering the water, as the minerals can cause discoloration.
The return drive takes approximately 80 minutes. If time allows, a brief stop at Eyjafjörður offers a final view across the fjord toward Akureyri.
What Is Included
Included
- Private guided transportation for your group
- Pick-up and drop-off at Akureyri Cruise Terminal
- Professional guide throughout the tour
- Stops at all six featured sites
- Entry to Nature Mývatn Baths facility
Not Included
- Food and beverages
- Personal shopping or souvenirs
- Travel insurance
- Gratuities for the guide
Important Information
Reserve Your Private Tour
Secure your private group experience through the volcanic landscapes of northern Iceland, departing directly from the Akureyri cruise terminal.
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