From Akureyri: Myvatn Lake, Craters, & Waterfall Tour

On the From Akureyri: Myvatn Lake, Craters, & Waterfall Tour, you get to explore some of North Iceland’s most unique and beautiful natural highlights. This sightseeing tour takes you from Akureyri and leads you through a landscape shaped by volcanoes, including Lake Myvatn and its unusual craters. You’ll see the area’s striking lava fields, stunning waterfalls, and even have a chance to spot birds around the nutrient-rich waters of the lake.

As you travel through northern Iceland, each stop offers something different—from the roar of a powerful waterfall to the quiet beauty of Myvatn’s scenic shores. The tour is designed to show you the best of the region’s wild features in a short amount of time, making it an ideal choice if you want to experience the natural wonders near Akureyri.

Tour Overview and Itinerary

This guided tour brings you from Akureyri to some of North Iceland’s most unique sites. You see stunning nature, impressive waterfalls, and unusual volcanic features, all while learning from a knowledgeable local guide.

Key Tour Highlights

You visit Lake Mývatn, famous for its volcanic landscape and rich birdlife. The area features the Skútustaðagígar pseudo-craters, which are rare natural formations that look like real volcanic craters.

Another main stop is Goðafoss Waterfall, known for its beautiful horseshoe shape and striking blue water. You hear the roar of water as it falls around 12 meters into the river below.

Other points of interest often include the dramatic Dimmuborgir lava formations, where you explore lava pillars and caves. Some tours end the day with a relaxing visit to the Mývatn Nature Baths (entry not always included).

Itinerary and Timings

Your tour usually starts with pick-up at Akureyri port or from select hotels. The journey then heads east to Goðafoss Waterfall, your first main stop. Here, you get time to enjoy the views and take photos.

Next, you make your way to Lake Mývatn, visiting the Skútustaðagígar craters. A typical stop might last 30–45 minutes. The schedule continues to Dimmuborgir for a guided walk among the rock formations. Lunch breaks or restroom stops are included when possible.

After Dimmuborgir, the tour may offer free time at Mývatn Nature Baths if included. The drive back goes through scenic landscapes with a planned return time, often matched to cruise ship schedules. A table of sample timings:

Meeting Point and Departure

The main meeting point is Akureyri harbor/port, making it convenient for cruise passengers joining as a shore excursion. If you travel independently, hotel pick-up is often available by advance request.

Look for clearly marked buses near the cruise ship docking area. Free WiFi is commonly available onboard to help you stay connected. Arrival time before departure is usually 15–30 minutes early, and guides check names before you board.

Be sure to confirm your exact meeting location and time when you book, as it may change based on your travel date or group size.

Local Guide and Languages

Guides share interesting facts about each stop, from the volcanic craters to Icelandic legends. They help you stay on schedule and know the best spots for photos.

If you join as part of a cruise ship shore excursion, guides tailor the tour times to match your ship’s schedule so you don’t miss your departure.

For further comfort, many tour buses offer free WiFi, allowing you to look up information or stay in touch as you travel.

Essential Tips for Your Sightseeing Tour

Planning ahead will help you have a smooth and comfortable experience on your trip from Akureyri to Lake Myvatn. Be ready for changing weather, basic meal needs, and the details of booking your spot.

Recommended Clothing and Walking Shoes

Pack comfortable walking shoes with good grip since the tour includes stops at natural sites like Goðafoss Waterfall and volcanic craters. Trails might be muddy or rocky. Avoid open-toed shoes or sandals, as the ground can be uneven and slippery.

Consider a small backpack for extra socks, a lightweight rain poncho, and sunglasses for sunny days. Dressing right will let you enjoy the views without worrying about the weather.

Packed Lunch and Amenities

Facilities can be limited along the route, especially in rural areas near Lake Myvatn. Bring a packed lunch and snacks because food stops may be scarce or crowded, especially during high season.

Carry a refillable water bottle so you can stay hydrated throughout the tour. Most tours provide bathroom breaks at bigger stops, but it is best to be prepared in case you are away from amenities for a while.

Remember to pack any special dietary items if you have food allergies or preferences, as options in remote locations may be very limited.

Booking, Cancellation, and Policies

Cancellation policies vary by provider. Many companies allow free cancellation up to 24 or 48 hours before departure, but some may charge a fee if you cancel late. Always check the terms before you confirm your booking.

Bring your booking confirmation, either printed or on your phone, for check-in. Arrive at the pick-up or meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure to avoid missing your ride. If your plans change, contact the provider right away to ask about rescheduling or canceling.

Lake Mývatn and Surrounding Attractions

Lake Mývatn is known for its unique volcanic landscapes, rich birdlife, and relaxing hot springs. You can explore natural wonders and enjoy peaceful surroundings while experiencing the best of the Mývatn region.

Discovering Lake Mývatn

The surrounding area features dramatic terrain, shaped by past lava flows and volcanic activity. Dimmuborgir, known as the “Dark Castles,” is a field where lava cooled into bizarre shapes and caves. Each location around Lake Mývatn gives you a new view of Iceland’s volcanic history.

Nearby, you can also visit Goðafoss, just a short drive from the lake. This waterfall, known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” makes for a memorable stop with its wide cascade and colorful surroundings.

Birdlife and Natural Beauty

Lake Mývatn is a haven for birdwatchers. Several duck species nest here during summer, making it one of the richest birding areas in Europe. Among the most notable species are the Barrow’s Goldeneye and Harlequin Duck, which are hard to find elsewhere on the continent.

The thriving wetland environment around the lake supports both birds and lush plant life. In spring and summer, wildflowers bloom along the water’s edge and the air is filled with birdsong.

You’ll also see clear water dotted with lava stacks and small islands, creating scenes ideal for photography. The natural beauty is accentuated by steam vents and mineral deposits, giving the landscape its distinct look.

Hot Springs and Forest Lagoon

The geothermal energy of the Mývatn region gives rise to several hot springs and bathing lagoons. The Mývatn Nature Baths, often called the “Blue Lagoon of the North,” lets you unwind in warm, mineral-rich waters with views across the lava fields.

Just outside the main village, the Forest Lagoon offers another soothing escape. This lagoon is surrounded by natural woodland, making it unique among Iceland’s spas. The area is quieter than more famous hot springs, so you can enjoy a more peaceful soak.

Facilities at these sites usually include changing rooms, showers, and sometimes small cafés, so you can relax after exploring the cratered landscape. The hot springs are especially popular with visitors after full days outdoors.

Geological Wonders: Craters and Lava Formations

The area around Lake Mývatn is home to some of the most unique geological features in Iceland. You can see one-of-a-kind lava fields, unusual craters, and many other natural formations shaped by ancient volcanic eruptions.

Dimmuborgir Lava Fields

At Dimmuborgir, you will find a dramatic landscape filled with large, dark lava formations. These structures formed over 2,000 years ago when hot lava flowed over a wet area, creating steam that shaped these lava pillars and caves.

Many people say these lava fields look almost like crumbling castles or giant sculptures. You can walk on marked trails through the area and see different shapes like arches, towers, and tunnels. The lava here is very rough and broken, so be sure to watch your step.

Dimmuborgir is sometimes called the “Dark Fortress” because of its unusual, gothic shapes. In local legends, the area is said to be home to trolls and elves due to its mysterious appearance.

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Skútustaðagígar Pseudo-Craters

Skútustaðagígar, found on the southern edge of Lake Mývatn, features a set of craters that are not true volcanic craters. These are called pseudo-craters or rootless craters. They formed when boiling-hot lava flowed over the swampy ground, causing steam explosions that made the ground “bubble up” and burst, creating crater-like shapes.

You can walk along the crater rims and enjoy a clear view of Mývatn Lake and the surrounding landscape. The craters are often covered with green grass, making them a good spot for easy, short hikes. Unlike real volcanic craters, these have no vents or lava pipes below them.

These pseudo-craters are rare outside Iceland, adding to their interest. They highlight the special history of volcanic activity in the region.

Volcanic Lava Fields and Eruptions

The entire Lake Mývatn region sits on an active volcanic zone, shaped by eruptions and flowing lava. Many of the fields you see are from ancient lava flows that cooled and solidified into rough, jagged formations.

These volcanic lava fields form a wide, dark layer across the land. Some are flat and open, while others are filled with sharp rocks and cracks. You might notice pillars and cones dotted across the fields, which are created by rising gas and cooling lava.

Volcanic eruptions have changed this landscape over thousands of years. You get a clear picture of how powerful nature can be when you see these features up close. Some of these geological wonders are easy to explore with short walks from the main tour route.

Goðafoss Waterfall and Surrounding Sights

Your journey from Akureyri to Lake Mývatn features several of North Iceland’s most memorable locations. Each stop offers unique scenery and history, providing both natural beauty and cultural highlights.

Waterfall of the Gods

Goðafoss Waterfall, also known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” is a powerful, wide cascade on the Skjálfandafljót River. It stands about 12 meters high and 30 meters wide, with water rushing over ancient volcanic rock.

The waterfall is not just known for its beauty; it is also tied to Icelandic history. Around the year 1000, it’s said that a prominent law speaker threw his pagan statues into Goðafoss to celebrate Iceland’s decision to adopt Christianity. This event gives the waterfall its name and a special significance.

You can view Goðafoss from both sides, with well-marked paths leading to viewpoints. There is parking nearby, along with information boards that share details about the area’s geology and folklore. The falls are striking year-round, with green moss in summer and snowy landscapes in winter.

Quick Facts Table

Eyjafjörður and Grazing Lands

As you travel between Akureyri and Goðafoss, you pass through the fertile Eyjafjörður valley. This fjord is one of Iceland’s longest and is lined with mountains and green fields.

Sheep and Icelandic horses often graze in these open meadows, especially in summer. The flatlands by the river are important for local farming and animal husbandry.

This route is scenic, with views of distant farms and historic turf houses. Birdlife in the area includes swans, ducks, and geese, making it attractive for wildlife watchers. The valley provides a peaceful contrast to the dramatic force of Goðafoss.

Scenery Highlights

Akureyri Botanical Garden

Located in the heart of Akureyri, the Akureyri Botanical Garden (Lystigarðurinn) is a quiet spot worth visiting before or after your trip to Goðafoss. The garden features over 7,000 plant species, including both native Icelandic plants and ones collected from around the world.

Paths wind through well-kept flowerbeds, small trees, and peaceful ponds. In summer, the garden blooms with vibrant colors, and benches throughout the park provide places to rest.

Entry is free, and signs help you identify different plants. The gardens are popular for short walks and photography. If you’re interested in botany or just want a relaxing spot, this is a good place to spend an hour.

Notable Features

Frequently Asked Questions

You will find key details about what you will see on your tour, how long your day will last, and what amenities are included. Information about what to pack, transport, and special stops is also included.

What sights can I expect to see on the Myvatn Lake, Craters, and Waterfall Tour from Akureyri?

You can visit Lake Mývatn, which is known for its scenic beauty, birdlife, and unique volcanic landscapes.
Expect to see the Skútustaðagígar pseudo-craters, Dimmuborgir lava fields, and Goðafoss waterfall.
These locations offer a mix of natural attractions, including lava formations, craters, and dramatic waterfalls.

How long is the duration of the Myvatn Lake and surrounding area tour?

The full tour from Akureyri to the Myvatn region usually takes about 6 to 8 hours.
Travel time includes stops at all main attractions, allowing for exploration, sightseeing, and meal breaks.

Are entrance fees to local attractions included in the tour price from Akureyri?

Many day tours include entrance fees to the main sites, but some locations such as the Nature Baths may have an extra fee.
It is important to check with your tour operator about what is covered in your booking.

What should I bring and wear for a day tour to Myvatn Lake, craters, and waterfalls?

Dress in layers and wear sturdy, comfortable shoes.
Bring a waterproof jacket, as the weather can change quickly.
It’s also helpful to carry snacks, water, and sunscreen.

Is there a pick-up and drop-off service included for the tour from Akureyri?

Most tours will offer pick-up and drop-off service at your hotel or Akureyri cruise port.
Confirm these details with the tour provider before booking.

Can I expect to visit the Nature Baths during the Myvatn Lake tour, and is it suitable for all ages?

Some tours include a stop at the Mývatn Nature Baths, but this may be optional or require an extra fee.
The Nature Baths are suitable for most ages, but young children should be supervised at all times.
Check with your tour provider for specific details on Nature Baths visits.